The day hike... a chance to escape the routines, breathe some fresh air, move your body and ignite your brain! Whether you're after a quick hour to clear your mind or a full day and a spectacular summit, being prepared is ALWAYS more fun!
The original Ten Essentials list was assembled in the 1930s by The Mountaineers, a Seattle-based organization for climbers and outdoor adventurers, to help people be prepared for emergency situations in the outdoors.
Ten Essential Systems... with a few of our own tips thrown in!
Navigation: map, compass, altimeter, GPS device We LOVE the GAIA and TopoMaps apps!
Headlamp: plus extra batteries on longer hikes Better safe than sorry!
Sun protection: sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, hat
First aid: All the basics, including foot care Leukotape P!, (don't forget bug spray!)
Knife
Fire: matches, lighter, tinder Vaseline-covered cotton balls in a pill bottle!
Shelter: a light emergency bivy or emergency space blanket. Handwarmers are easy and light on those winter hikes!
Extra food: Beyond the minimum expectation Extra candy is always a crowd-pleaser!
Extra water: Beyond the minimum expectation 2 cups per hour, more on a hot day! Also, properly hydrate BEFORE your hike! A LifeStraw personal water filter is always a bonus! Water bottles or reservoir of your liking.
Extra clothes: Beyond the minimum expectation. An ultralight rain jacket is money well-spent and you'll NEVER regret packing your light-weight hooded down! A lightweight pair of gloves can change your life on cold mornings or unexpectedly cold or wet adventures!
Things we may add to this list include toilet paper, a whistle, mace/pepper spray, and a credit card and ID. Adjust your pack according to the weather, terrain, and the distance you will be from help. ALWAYS tell someone where you are going. Hope for the best, prepare for the worst!! Happy Hiking!!