The 10 Essentials of Hiking and Backpacking
When you go hiking or backpacking there are 10 things that are accepted as things you should never go without. These are the 10 essentials. Having these items may seem like overkill when you’re first starting but there will likely be a time you unexpectedly need one of these items.
Navigation- This can be a map and compass if you know how to properly use them, an app such as AllTrails or other apps, or GPS. Whatever you are choosing as your primary method, this is one place where redundancy is good. If you’re using an app, print out the map as well in case your phone dies.
Headlamp- A headlamp is awesome for hands-free light if you’re trying to hike in the dark. It can also be used to help signal in case of an emergency. A flashlight would work too but is less convenient than a headlamp. Whatever you choose, make sure you have spare batteries as well.
Sun protection- the sun dehydrates you as well as burns you so you want to be protected. Sun protection includes sunglasses, sunscreen (make sure it’s sweatproof!!), and a hat. Sun protective clothing exists and I opt for shirts with built in UV protection because I burn like crazy. UV protective clothing would be a good option if you are fair skinned but is not necessary.
First aid- this is a whole topic and I’m sure I’ll do a post later on First Aid, but it is important to have something with you. A basic kit will do just fine as you progress and enter more remote areas. As you go further from populated trails you should extend your kit.
Knife- pretty self explanatory as it is a good tool in many situations. You don’t need a machete, a small knife is fine.
Fire- while you may not use this frequently, you’ll be happy you have it if you get lost. Flint, matches, and a lighter are options for fire. I prefer lighters and flint because matches are useless when they’re wet.
Shelter- when you’re backpacking you’ll have a shelter but when you’re on a day-hike you’re likely not carrying your tent with you. An emergency bivy is a good option for this essential and it doesn’t take up much space.
Extra food- bring some extra snacks with you. If you think you’ll only eat one granola bar, bring a second or third. Things happen when hiking and backpacking and it’s easier to get lost than you might think. When a 3 mile hike turns into a 10 mile hike you’ll be happy you have the extra food with you.
Extra water- bring enough water! To have access to water in an emergency situation I bring my water filter as most of my hiking has access to streams. If you’re heading out into a desert-like area take an extra liter with you because the sun is exhausting and you don’t want to be dehydrated.
Extra clothes- this is a bit more discretionary as you need to match your climate. I always have a jacket, socks, a light beanie, and a light pair of gloves. I have the hat and gloves because of the night temperature and if I get lost and need to stay the night, staying warm is essential.
Having some form of each of the 10 essentials is important for safety in the outdoors. The few times I’ve had to use one of these when I wasn’t expecting to I was quite happy to have them handy.
