The 10 Essentials of Hiking and Camping

Sandra Cunningham

When I first started hiking I would head out into the woods with only my phone and wallet, without making plans ahead of time or packing any gear. I figured that the trails I was hiking were safe and near town, so I could always simply leave the trail if anything went wrong.

It wasn't until I managed to get lost on a short 3 mile loop that I realized how reckless this was. I made a wrong turn, following a well-traveled deer path which I thought was an extension of the marked trail. By the time I realized what had gone wrong, the forest seemed to have swallowed me up and I couldn't find my way back. I wandered between the trees, growing more panicked and thirsty, the sun falling lower in the sky and my phone battery falling dangerously low. Finally, I managed to use the gps on my phone to push directly through the brush onto the highway and follow the road back to my campsite.

If I hadn't been so close to civilization this story could have had a very different ending. I had gone out on an unfamiliar trail with no map, phone charger, first aid kit, or even water bottle. If it had grown dark enough that I was forced to hunker down for the night, I would have had no way to make a shelter or snack to tide me over. From then on, I've always made sure to pack a simple day pack with at least the 10 hiking essentials.

The "10 Essentials" is a widely recognized list of items that hikers should carry to ensure their safety and preparedness while exploring the outdoors. These essentials can help hikers handle emergencies and unexpected situations, such as bad weather or a health crisis. While there may be some variation in necessities depending on where you are hiking, the following items are commonly seen as essential:

1. Navigation: A map of the area, a compass, and a GPS device. This can be a specially designed GPS device or simply a hiking app on your phone that works offline. For longer trails, a physical map and personal locator beacon (PLB) are highly recommended. It's surprisingly easy to get lost, and then to forget what to do if you get lost in your anxiety. Being prepared can ensure that you know where you are and how to find your way to your destination, and are able to call for help if need be.
   

2. Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, sunglasses to protect your eyes, and a hat or bandana to shield your face and neck from the sun. If you will be hiking for several hours or in the snow, long sleeves and pants will also be a good idea to protect your arms and legs.
   

3. Insulation: Wear extra clothing appropriate for the weather conditions. This may include layers that can be added or removed as needed to regulate body temperature, as well as rain gear to stay dry.
   

4. Illumination: While most phones have a flashlight function, it can be hard to use in an emergency situation, in the rain, or while holding trekking poles. This is why it's important to bring a headlamp with extra batteries in case your hike takes longer than expected and you find yourself still on the trail after dark.
   

5. First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit containing items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, pain relievers, blister treatment, and any personal medications you may need. If buying a pre-assembled first aid kit, it is important to know what is inside and how to use the items. You can also personalize your kit according to your individual needs.
   

6. Fire: Carry waterproof matches, a lighter, or another fire-starting method. It is also a good idea to bring a firestarter to kick start your fires, such as dry tinder, candles, lint trappings from a clothes dryer, or commercial firestarting nuggets. Fire can be useful for warmth, cooking, and signaling for help in an emergency.
   

7. Repair Kit and Tools: Carry a multi-tool or knife, along with any specific tools needed for your gear or equipment. Knives are handy for gear repair, food preparation, first aid, and emergency needs while other tools will help you make repairs to clothing, gear, or equipment while on the trail.
   

8. Nutrition: Bring extra food that is easy to prepare and doesn't require refrigeration. High-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, or jerky can provide essential fuel during your hike. I'm particularly partial to packing peanut butter sandwiches.
   

9. Hydration: Especially if you are on a thru-hike, it is important to scout water sources ahead of time. For shorter hikes make sure to bring sufficient water to stay hydrated throughout your hike, as well as a way to treat any water that you gather. The amount needed will vary depending on factors like temperature, exertion level, and individual hydration needs.
   

10. Emergency Shelter: Keep an lightweight emergency shelter on hand, such as a space blanket, bivy sack, tarp, or trash bag. This can provide protection from the elements in case you get lost, injured, or stranded overnight.

Tips

• Some examples of good navigation apps are Alltrails for short trails and FarOut (previously known as Guthook Guides) for long trails.

• Always bring your bag or at least your navigation device with you when you step off trail, even if it is just a short bathroom break.

• Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to be back so they will know if you don't get back on time. Consider investing in a Garmin InReach or other satellite communicator, which allows you to contact loved ones or get help even without cell service.

• A whistle can get you help if you get lost and people cannot hear you calling for help. Some packs come with a whistle, but for a day pack you will likely need to buy one.

• Keeping your first aid kit in a waterproof container can help maintain the integrity of these important items, especially if carrying prescription medication.

• Practice using your emergency shelter system beforehand so you can properly benefit from it - you will get the most benefit if you know where and how to set it up.

Carrying the 10 essentials can help ensure a safer and more enjoyable hiking experience by preparing you for a variety of situations that may arise on the trail. These items are just the basics - it's important to tailor your gear and preparations to the specific conditions of your hike and the environment you'll be exploring. The more you do it, the more you'll get a sense of what you need to bring with you. So do your best, and happy hiking!