So, you've started playing Pokémon GO, and you're probably super excited (as you totally should be!) It's exciting to fill up your Pokédex and adventure to be the very best like no one ever was, and there's nothing like the thrill of being stacked when it comes to the items in your trainer's bag. There's a certain rush that comes with having over 100 Great Balls. But there's something Professor Willow neglected to mention: you should really have a trainer's bag outside of the game too. Here are 10 necessities every Pokémon trainer should consider bringing with them on their Pokémon adventure:
1. A Backpack
This one sounds fairly obvious as you will need something to carry most of these items in, but a backpack is honestly the perfect bag for it. It distributes the weight between both shoulders during those long walks, preventing bad back pains.
2. Water
Stay hydrated, trainers. Some are lucky to have found Poké Stops near public water fountains, but it's better to bring your own as well to make sure you have enough water throughout your day's adventure. I normally bring at least two bottles with me.
3. Snacks
Like water, I consider snacks a necessity. The heat and humidity have been seriously high recently, and snacks help combat heat exhaustion. Try bringing light snacks that will quickly boost blood sugar levels. I recommend granola bars, various kinds of nuts (I prefer almonds,) or Pop Tarts.
4. Sneakers:
This probably also sounds obvious, but sneakers could save your feet. Pokémon GO promotes being active so much that trainers are bound to be walking for long periods of time, so wearing the right shoes is key. The first day I played I made the mistake of wearing flip flops. I got three blisters. Save yourself from making the same mistake and wear some comfy sneaks instead.
5. Flashlight
If you're going out at night, it's extremely important to be safe. If you don't want to use the flashlight on your phone to save battery life, bring an actual flashlight! Not only will it prevent falling over rocks and into hard to see holes, it will make you seen to people driving by. (I also suggest wearing bright clothing for night Pokémon GOing to be seen by drivers.)
6. Blanket
This is the most excessive item on this list, yet some would deem it a wonderful asset to a trainer's bag. Blankets are great if you want to lure and sit in the same spot for a while without sitting on the grass.
7. Bug Spray and Sunscreen
It's important to keep your skin safe from nasty bug bites and sunburn. Forgetting these on a long walk in the wrong setting could be absolutely terrible. Avoid it by just bringing them along!
8. Portable Battery
This one is a must! Don't let your journey be cut shorter than you desire because your phone dies; bring a portable battery to charge on the go. I know people who have bought external batteries just for this game, and while it may sound excessive, it's completely worth it.
9. Car
If you have access to a car (or a friend who's willing to drive you around,) you'll be able to find many more cool spots to catch Pokémon as well as new Poké Stops. Because let's face it, not everyone is lucky enough to live within walking distance of important places within the game. Depending on where you live, a bike will work too!
10. Friends!
It's not as fun to play alone! Bringing a friend along for the party is what makes it a party. And if you don't have friends who play, it's very easy to meet people who are also out playing. The game builds camaraderie and turns strangers into acquaintances. So don't go alone if you don't have to. After all, where would Ash be without Misty and Brock?
Happy Pokémon hunting, everyone! Go catch 'em all!
