Anything can happen on a hike. Most of the time, you are unlikely to be in danger but you still need to prepared in an emergency. You can be prepared by carrying the 10 essentials of hiking in your backpacks. To be completely honest, this general 10 Essentials list is only a starting place. Depending on where you hike and how long you are hiking for, you may need more gear. Suggestions will be offered of additional items you may need at the end.
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10 Essentials of Hiking
1. Food
It is recommended that you take enough food for at least one extra day. Dry food like protein bars or nuts are a good choice and take up very little space. If you carry a small stove or Jetboil with you, you could also opt to carry some extra dehydrated food with you as well.
2. Water
Bring more water than you need. If you cannot carry extra water, you can bring a method for purifying water if you know there will be a water source on the trail. Always purify water you find on the trails! Even if it appears to be clean, it could still be contaminated. There are a couple of options for filtering your water. You can get little purifying tabs that disolve in the water but using an actual filter will make your water taste good as well as be free of contaminates.
Katadyn Be Free Water Filter (this is my favorite water filter!)
3. Navigation
Make sure you have a navigation device other than your cell phone. A topographic map of the area, compass and/or GPS device. Also be sure that you know how to properly use a topographic map and compass together. You can take a free course at MEC if need be. *See more information at the bottom of this post.
It is worth investing in a GPS device like a Garmin. Especially because there are other features you can use such as, sending text messages offline and calling for help. We all like to think nothing will go wrong on the trails but devices like these have helped save lives.
4. Light
Always carry a flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries in case you are out longer than expected. Do not rely on your cell phone for light. I recommend a headlamp. You’re likely going to want to have your hands free while you’re hiking.
Black Diamond Astro 300 Headlamp
5. First-aid kit
For obvious reasons, you should carry a first-aid kit on every hike. Make sure you know how to use the items in the kit as well.
6. Fire starter
Matches, lighter, and/or commercial fire starters. Being able to have a fire if you get lost and need to spend the night on the trail is important for staying warm, as well as, helping search and rescue find you. These fire starting survival kits are good option to consider.
7. Emergency Shelter
In case you suddenly need to stay the night in the forest. Be prepared with an emergency shelter. These are super small to pack with you and will protect you from the elements and keep you warm.
8. Multi-tool/ Repair Kit
A multi-tool or pocket-knife is recommended. Knives are handy for a variety of reasons: food prep, cutting kindling for fire, first-aid, etc. A repair kit of some sort to repair hiking or camping gear such as duct tape, rope, and safety pins.
I personally carry a good knife, duct tape and safety pins for this category.
9. Sun-protection
Keep yourself protected from the sun with Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
10. Warm clothing
Be sure you have extra warm clothing packed, even on those nice sunny days, as weather temperature can be significantly different at higher elevations and when the sun sets. Down coats are usually a good packable option for an extra layer. Toques, gloves, and fleece shirts are some other examples as well. Make sure you have waterproof gear on hand as well.
*I personally enjoy a down jacket because it packs well and is so warm.
* Check out my post Winter Hiking Essentials if you are looking for more information on suggested clothing items for those cold months of the year!
There are several other items you may want to add to your 10 essentials of hiking. Some furthur recommendations are a signaling device (whistle, flare, bear bangers, etc.), pain medications, electrolytes, ice axe, bear spray, and many others. Your added items will also depend on weather conditions and the length of your hike. Be prepared and have fun!
*If you would like to learn more information on how to be safe in the backcountry check out MEC’s free classes that are held every month (including how to use a map and compass).
>>Feel free to share what you carry in your packs in the comments section below.<<
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