If it's time to take a break from the mountaineering and cold weather hikes this season, you might find yourself exploring a desert oasis or heading off on a tropical rainforest adventure. The lure of the forbidden forests continues to attract thousands of intrepid outdoor enthusiasts each year, but you need to follow some key principles of survival to get through the jungle successfully.

Those exotic birds and animals look plenty friendly at first sight, but steering clear of the wildlife and plants will help you make it to the end of the trek. If you're heading right into typhoon season, you'll need to protect yourself from nature and build a sustainable shelter to make it through those tough days ahead.

Here are a few survival essentials to take on the wilderness adventure into the tropical rain forest:

Reliable Hydration Pack

You won't have access to your favorite bottled water during the trip, and you'll need plenty of crisp, cool and refreshing water every step of the way. Load up your backpack with a hydration pack, a low-profile and lightweight pack that gives you access to clean and fresh water when you need it. It can hold up to 2 liters of water, and is one of the easiest ways to stay hydrated in a tropical climate.

Protective Tent

Increase your chance of survival with a sturdy tent. Hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones and heavy downpours can put your trekking schedule on hold and require you to pitch a tent to stay safe from the storm. Pick up a windproof and waterproof tent that will shield you from the elements and protect you from rainforest bugs and insects after the sun goes down.

First Aid Kit

Poisonous plants and bug bites can leave you in need of some emergency first aid, so make sure to take along a first aid kit packed with essentials. At the very least, you'll need a disinfectant, splinter picker, antihistamine and painkillers to manage any minor accidents. Making sure the kit is filled with bandages and dressing tools is another priority. You can't prevent cuts and scrapes along that jungle hike, and having a kit with all the essentials for wound care will help you stay on course.