The Peaks of the Balkans trail is one of Europe's most pristine and remote hiking experiences, taking you through the rugged mountains of Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro. When tackling such an adventure, every gram counts.
Pack Light, Hike Happy
The golden rule of multi-day trekking is to carry only what you need. A 30L-40L backpack should be sufficient for the 10-12 day hike if you are staying in guesthouses along the way.
Essentials to bring:
- Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots
- Lightweight rain jacket
- Base layers (merino wool is ideal)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Trekking poles (crucial for the steep descents into Theth and Valbona)
- A reliable map or GPS device
What to Do With the Rest of Your Luggage?
Most hikers travel through the Balkans as part of a longer European trip, meaning they arrive in Shkodra with a large suitcase or a secondary backpack filled with city clothes, laptops, and souvenirs. Taking these on the trail is impossible, and leaving them in an unsecured location is risky.
This is where Store & Go comes in.
Our 24/7 automated smart lockers in the center of Shkodra are the perfect basecamp for your extra luggage.
1. Centrally Located
Located at Rruga Studenti 10, our lockers are just a short walk from the main bus station where the minibuses (furgons) depart for Theth and Valbona.
2. Free Bus Station Pick-Up
If you are catching an early morning bus, we offer a free luggage collection service right at the Hotel Rozafa bus station. Simply hand your bags to our staff before you board, and we will secure them in our lockers while you hike.
3. Fully Automated
You book online, and when you arrive you tap "View your order" in your confirmation email to choose a locker. Your online payment is applied as prepaid, and you can access your belongings 24 hours a day. Whether you return from the mountains late at night or early in the morning, your luggage will be waiting for you.
Don't Forget Insurance
Packing light is easy to get right; insurance is where most hikers slip up. Make sure your policy covers mountain search & rescue and evacuation — many cheap policies don't. Our adventure insurance for Albania is built for the Peaks of the Balkans and Theth–Valbona.
Don't Forget Your Gear!
Need trekking poles or gas canisters for your camping stove? You can reserve these directly through our platform. Our team places your gear in an assigned locker a few hours before you arrive, and you open it with the "View your order" button in your confirmation email.
Book your locker and gear today and start your Peaks of the Balkans adventure hands-free!