Today we are going to talk about the “ten essentials” that you should always have in your pack while you are out enjoying nature. This list might seem a little over the top, but it is always better to be prepared and not need it, then need it and not have it. Note that I would recommend carrying all of these items plus some additional items as well on long day hikes in remote locations and especially for any backcountry exploring. But having some of these items even when enjoying your local city or state park is a good idea as well. Feel free to tailor what items you take for each trip based on the type, location, length, and your experience level. You never know when you might take a wrong turn or someone else might need your help. Again, being prepared will be your best friend.
The idea of the “ten essentials” first appeared in the third edition of Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills (January 1974). But The Mountaineers, a Seattle-based organization for climbers and outdoor adventurers, started assembling this list back in the 1930’s and has evolved with time. Case in point when it was first released it was a list of items and now it has involved into a “system” approach. Their main goal has been to help people prepare for emergency situations in the outdoors.
The ten categories or systems include:
- Navigation
- Sun Protection
- Insulation
- Illumination
- First-Aid Supplies
- Fire
- Repair Kit and Tools
- Nutrition
- Hydration
- Emergency Shelter
Below we will discuss each category and what items fall into each. Remember some items are good to have on every adventure outdoors while some might be for certain occasions. Having all these items in your outdoor supplies is essential (no pun intended) to recreate with confidence and safety in all the amazing wild places.
Navigation
Map, compass, GPS device, satellite communication device, personal locator beacon
Knowing where you are going and how you are going to get there is key. But even more important is to understand how to find your way back should you get off course.
- Printed map so you have a hard copy as reception is not guaranteed.
- Download maps using apps such as AllTrails.
- Know how to read topographic maps.
- Understand how to use a compass.
- Have a GPS device you know how to use and can read it.
- Level Up: Owning satellite communication device or personal locator beacon is an investment but if you are spending time in remote places and the backcountry (and note many of our national parks even the most travel trails fall into this in my opinion) these are a must. They can literally be the difference between life and death if something goes wrong. The investment is worth every penny.
Sun Protection
Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, and sun-protective clothing
Exposure to the sun is one of the fastest ways for things to go wrong. You need to protect yourself from the harsh UV rays.
- Apply sunscreen early and often.
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.
- Use a hat to help keep cool and keep the sun off your face.
- Wear light weight wicking clothing, that could include UPF fabrics, such as long sleeves and pants.
Insulation
Extra clothing; jacket, hat, gloves, rain shell, thermal underwear, socks, top, and bottoms
You never know when the weather could turn or if you end up spending more time on the adventure then planned. You need to prepare for what could be the most extreme conditions you could encounter.
- Find packable items that will take minimum space and weight.
- Recommend packing inside a waterproof bag inside your pack, because weather.
- Carrying a second outfit of what you are wearing is essential if you get wet and need dry clothes as hypothermia can set in easily.
- Layers are key for changes in temperature.
- Most important is to keep your core, hands, and feet warm and dry.
Illumination
Headlamp and flashlight
When out in the wild and night falls all you will have is the moon and that is if there isn’t any clouds. You need a light source to travel carefully over the terrain.
- Headlamps are best since they are hands-free.
- Make sure the lumens are bright enough.
- Pack extra batteries and/or a portable charger; depending on your version.
- Chest / waist lighting options are also gaining popularity.
First-Aid Supplies
First-Aid kit with the core essential and some additional addons.
The hope is you will never need to pull it out but for you to be ready in case of an accident. Which could be another person you encounter on the trail.
- Start with a pre-made kit and then modify to your needs.
- Make sure to check expiration dates on items.
- Replace items once used as soon as you get home.
- Key items include treatment for blisters, bandages, gauze pads, adhesive tape, disinfecting ointment, OTC pain medication, itch cream, marker, paper, and gloves.
Fire
Fire starter, matches, lighter, and dry tinder.
You should only create a fire in case of an emergency. If this happens having reliable supplies will be important.
- Keep your fire tools in a waterproof location.
- Understand how to use the fire starter tool.
- If buying matches make sure to get the waterproof version.
- If carrying dry tinder keep that separate from the other fire items.
- Before going on your adventure familiarize yourself with fire regulations in the area.
- Make sure to follow Smokey’s rules about Preventing Wildfires.
Repair Kit and Tools
Multi-purpose tool, knife, duct tape, cordage, scissors, etc.
Used to help repair any of your equipment or clothing but can also be used for other things as well.
- Pack what is needed for your exact adventure each time.
- Your knife and multi-purpose tool will probably be your most valuable items.
- Duct tape can fix anything in a pinch.
- If carrying gear that could break, make sure you have items to repair said items.
Nutrition
Snacks and whole foods
The hope is you have too much food with you, and you don’t need it. But if things turn south having this additional food can help you make it to the next day. Also, it might not just be for you, you may need to help someone else on the trail if they are in need.
- Pack enough for your planned trip plus at least an extra day’s worth of food.
- Salty snacks that are easy to digest.
- Whole food options that have good nutritional value.
- Make sure to have protein options.
- Stay away from items you must cook, in case that is not an option.
Hydration
Water, electrolytes, water treatment options
Always bring way more water than you think you need. Your body can surprise you when you are out in nature and need more than you think. You can go a while without food but water that is not the same story. If things turn south this could be the difference between life and death.
- Most people need about a half a liter per hour during moderate activity in moderate temperatures.
- You will need to more than the above if factors like increase temperatures, humidity, desert environment, altitude, or increased level of exertion are at play.
- Always have a way to treat water should you need to get it from a source in nature.
- Treatment options include filter/purifier, chemical treatment, or stove boiling it.
- Keep multiple ways you can get water. Examples bladder, water bottle, collapsible cup, etc.
- Don’t forget your electrolytes. Water alone isn’t enough.
Emergency Shelter
Tent, space blanket, tarp, and bivy
If you must spend additional time not expected in the outdoors due to injury, weather, or getting lost having a shelter is of utmost importance.
- Depending on where you are going, and the type of trip would advise which of the above items to bring.
- I always recommend carrying a space blanket and/or bivy with you. They are lightweight and take up very little space.
- If going into the backcountry a tent could be worth it.
- A trap can help make a makeshift tent if needed, but you will need to get creative and understand how to structure it correctly.
- Bright colors are best so if you are lost or hurt you can be spotted easier.
I know you are probably now overwhelmed and think you have so many things you need to buy. In the grand scheme of things, you will be thankful you have it all. Let’s say our motto one more time “better to be prepared and not need, then need and not have.” Going out into nature it is our responsibility to recreate safely and to be ready for anything. You should always have the mindset that you will need to self-rescue yourself. Don’t let this scare you from getting into nature. But you must be prepared for anything. The more you know, the more you learn, the more you understand the better prepare you will be.
PS: Don’t forget to check your items regularly to make sure you restock items used and make sure nothing has expired or become broken. In the outdoor community we like to check out items on the 10th of each month. Why? Ten essentials, tenth of the month. Just makes it easy to remember. So set a reminder on your calendar to do your monthly check.
Here’s the good news. That’s where I come in. Let me help you understand the ins and outs of getting out on the trail in nature. I want to take all the knowledge and experiences I have had and share them with you so you can hit the trail with more confidence. Ready for whatever comes around the next turn. I would be honored to be your Trail Coach. We can go anywhere from city parks to state parks to national parks to blm land to national forests and everywhere in between. If there is some amazing nature to be seen, we can do it together one adventure at a time.
Get my Trail Checklist now to make sure you are prepared to head outdoors. This list is a great starting point and has my top items for both hiking and trail running. Grab it here!
Follow me on Instagram at @fabandfitwithrj for more education, motivation, and inspiration.
Until the next trail,
Coach RJ
References:
National Parks Service. (2023, July 19). Ten Essentials. https://www.nps.gov/articles/10essentials.htm
REI. (n.d.). The Ten Essentials. https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/ten-essentials.html?srsltid=AfmBOorcrr6cmY4YlLkSrgmR46ZTTzUBZvl6hyJPnaauj7FZRKuTjeXu
Photo Credit:
Photo by cottonbro studio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-holding-a-map-5994385/
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