Hiking 10 Essentials

1. Map

2. Compass

3. Water

4. Extra Food

5. Rain Gear/Extra Clothing

6. Firestarter

7. First Aid Kit

8. Knife or Multi-Tool

9. Headlamp/Flashlight

10. Sunscreen & Sunglasses

Hiking 10 Essentials by Topic

1. Navigation: Hikers should carry a map of the area they intend to hike in. The hiking map should be waterproof or carried in a waterproof bag such as an Aloksak. A hiking compass should also be carried. Compasses that have adjustable declination are easier to read, therefore reduce the risk of a navigational error. Compasses are especially important in bad weather when your visibility is limited. Knowing how to use a map and compass are as important as the map and compass tools. A good book and how to use and map and compass is Be Expert with Map and Compass. A hiking altimeter and GPS are also useful navigation tools. Uses: staying found, not getting lost, knowing direction of travel, bearing to a distant landmark.

2. Hydration: Hydration is essential to enjoyable hiking and safety. A person can go several days without eating, but not long without water. Dehydration reduces the body’s ability to function properly and cope with stress. Hikers should carry hiking bottles or a hydration reservoir, and a way to purify water from outdoor sources. Hiking water purification can be completed with chemicals or a hiking water filter. Uses: carrying water, staying hydrated, purifying water.

3. Nutrition: Carrying extra hiking food that requires no cooking and stores well is always a good idea. Carry more food than you will eat for your intended length of hiking time. Uses: comfort, increasing warmth, biological functions.

4. Insulation: Hikers should carry extra clothes that provide rain and cold protection. Unseen storms can move in quickly and catch hikers off guard. Hiking clothing should not be made of cotton. Synthetic or wool fabrics are much better for outdoor activities. Uses: comfort, protection from hypothermia.

5. Fire: A fire can provide hikers with essential warmth, psychological comfort and the ability to cook food and purify water. Hikers should carry a way to produce fire from either a lighter, matches or sparker. Matches should be carried in a waterproof container. Hikers should also carry fire starter fuel such as Esbit Fuel Tablets. Uses: comfort, heat, protection from hypothermia, cooking food, purifying water, signaling help.

6. First Aid: Hikers should always carry a hiking first aid kit. First aid supplies should be kept in a waterproof bag or container. You may need to add items to your kit for your personal needs. First aid knowledge and training is also extremely important. Uses: treating injuries and medical emergencies.

7. Repair: Repair and survival tasks are made considerably easier with a pocket knife or multi-tool and a repair supplies such as duct tape. Hiking repair kits contain a variety of items for quick hiking repairs. Uses: repair of clothing and equipment.

8. Illumination: If it gets dark, it is vital to have illumination for even the most basic tasks. Hiking headlamps are easier to use than a flashlight because they provide hands free lightning. LED bulbs are ideal for hiking because of their long burn times and durability. Flashlights and even keychain lights are often adequate lighting. Carrying extra batteries is always a good idea. Uses: seeing trail, map and equipment, staying found, signaling for help.

9. Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hiking sunglasses and a hiking hat are essential for protection from the sun. The higher in altitude, the more important sun protection is. Snow and water reflect the sun and increase the chances of serious sunburn. Uses: protection from harmful solar rays.

10. Emergency Shelter: All hikers should carry a space blanket or space bag, unless they are already carrying a hiking bivy bag or hiking tent. Uses: protection for hypothermia, cold, rain, snow and sun.

*This list is a basic list that doesn’t include everything that you may need to hike safely. Please consider your personal special needs and the environment that you will be hiking in.