What should you bring on a hike?
I’ve always heard that there are “ten essentials” of hiking – the items you must bring on a hike to stay safe and warm. That list seems to vary a lot, though, depending on who is doing the listing. So here is what’s usually in my backpack, even on a short day hike :
- Water – plenty of it
- Food – plenty of it (and I usually manage to eat it all!)
- Extra clothing – socks, a fleece jacket and a waterproof shell, a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection and a warm hat. (Yes, I usually bring a winter hat with me, even on summer hikes. Years ago, in the middle of May, I went on a quick overnight camping trip in the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area just outside of Boulder. We got snowed on that night, and spent several hours trying to find our way back to our car with no trail, and the snow still coming down. My friend fell in a creek and got drenched up to his thighs. And I wore on my very cold head not a hat, because I hadn’t brought one, but a pair of shorts. Really.) [Read on…especially to the suggested #19 in the comments!]
- Camera (okay, not essential, but always fun)
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- First aid kit (including a flat roll of duct tape and a mirror)
- Pocketknife
- Whistle
- Map, compass (GPS unit – I don’t have one, but it would be nice)
- Cell phone – don’t rely on it to get you out of trouble though!
- Trash bag
- Space blanket or extra large trash bag
- Pen and paper
- Bug spray
- Field guide
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Matches or lighter
- Disinfectant gel
Have I missed anything? What’s in your backpack?
Here’s more on the Ten Essentials from REI
I think I even still have those shorts! They were Patagonias, as I recall. Light blue. Great shorts.
Love the story about wearing your shorts on your head for warmth! Live and learn!
Mirror for signaling or contact reinsertion, etc.
Epi pen for bee stings
Kill the pocket knife and swap in a multi-tool (leatherman) which can be much more useful
Extra boot laces, which can be used in boots or to tie something to you day pack or assist with many first aid applications
Caribbeaner to attach whatever to ur pack or belt
Batteries if u bring gps
Great ideas, PittCaleb! How could I have forgotten batteries for the GPS? Thanks for visiting.
What an excellent idea, Cathy!
I would throw in two things: dental floss, because it’s quite strong and it’s amazing what you can do with it in a pinch. And, since my fear of being totally without reading material trumps my fear of spending an unplanned night outdoors, a very lightweight book!
Salley, I have to say I NEVER would have thought of dental floss, but that’s a great idea! Tiny, and useful. Thanks for visiting. Cathy
What a wonderful idea to create this “essentials” list! I hope you and your fellow hikers will promote this list — with your name and website, of course. You could save lives!
Thanks Joan!
Signaling a plane if you are lost…or fixing your hair. 🙂
I guess then I’d add a comb to the list as well! 🙂
Great list! What’s the mirror in the first-aid kit for?
Wow, how did 10 become 18!?
I would list another essential: a husband or devoted friend to carry it all for you!
Now, that is a great #19!