Ten essentials plus…
Most hikers know about the ten essentials and how important they can be for everyday trail activities or to get you out of a fix. I thought that it would be good to highlight what exact items I use, or have replaced with something I can double up uses for. Also, I feel that the basic list is not complete, therefore I have included other specific items that can be depended on. A map (not GPS) is the best idea for foolproof back country use, no batteries or weird solar chargers to carry, simply put in a plastic bag and go. When on trail, take out the map when at a pass or peak to get a better idea about where you are, prominent topography ect. A compass is also an essential tool, take a class or read a book on them to get better acquainted, no batteries needed. Here are the basic ten essentials for folks who don’t know, and finally my updated items.
- Map
- Compass
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Extra clothing
- Headlamp/flashlight
- First-aid supplies
- Firestarter
- Matches
- Knife
- Extra food
1. Duct, Mcnett’s Repair Tape, cuben tape- I don’t usually use duct tape any more because it leaves behind that lame resadue on your gear, but if that is all you have then bring it. I always carry about a half of a foot of the Repair Tape and have found many uses along the way for it, sadly it does not stick to sil nylon which sucks. Also, over the years I have been carying more cuben items so I always bring a half foot of that stuff as well. Check Z Packs for all their cool patches and tape options for the best fit for your gear.
2. Rubber bands- I use them for all kinds of uses, from holding tent poles and stakes together so they don’t rattle around, to a small net that I use in conjuntion with a inline water filter. Plus, I always bring a couple of extra in case one breaks or for a quick repair.
3. Sleeping clothes- There is nothing more gross to me than after a long day of hiking (sweating, bug replant ridden, sun screened) and then to crawl into your clean sleeping bag. For god’s sake, bring extra long johns and a t shirt to sleep in, and remember no cotton.
4. A multi tool- Do yourself a favor and get a lightweight Leatherman like the Mica, all those tools will come in handy and plus they have a knife to boot!
5. Extra food items- I like to have an extra bar or two, just in case I am stranded, but I don’t go overboard. Also, I use a powder multivitamin that I take in the morning with my breakfast to replace the ones I lost from heavy excursion. It is important to bring some olive oil too, to add extra hard to get fats, you will feel better in the end. Put some garlic or herbs in the oil for a bit of extra flavor at night in your freeze dried meals.