Ten Essentials

You've probably seen the credit card commercials with the message "Don't Leave Home Without It."

Well, that concept ought to apply to the outdoors. There are some things you should always have with you when you venture beyond the borders of civilization. Some outdoor organizations have proposed their list of Ten Essentials, but here's my own list.

Actually, this is a list of the Ten essential categories, and you'll notice that I've added the stuff I use to fill those categories. Feel free to modify this list to suit your own situation.


Shelter —

• Tent
• Emergency blanket or bivvy
• Rain poncho

Insulation —

• Appropriate clothing for the season
• Sleeping bag

Fire —

• A Bic lighter (or similar)
• A fire striker
• Prepared tinder and/or accelerant product

Water —

• A canteen or water bladder system
• A water purification system to keep you going when the initial supply runs out

Food —

• Energy bars
• Trail mix, GORP

Navigation —

• Map of the area
• Compass
• GPS and extra batteries

Signaling —

• Signal mirror
• Signal whistle
• Cell phone
• PLB or Spot

Tools —

• Knife
• Flashlight and spare batteries
• Multitool
• Cordage
• Toilet paper

Medical —

• First aid kit and manual
• Personal medications

Environmental Protection —

• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses