As you start to research vital packing items for hiking and backpacking trips, you’re sure to come across what’s referred to as “the 10 essentials”. You might be wondering what these are, who developed the lists, and why you should care. The original list was developed by The Mountaineers, a nonprofit outdoors community established in 1906. They published the original 10 essentials in 1974, which through the years has been evolved from a list of individual items (map, compass, matches, etc) to a list of functional systems like you see below (navigation, fire, etc).
The purpose of the list is to answer the following two questions:
- Can you respond positively to an accident or emergency?
- Can you safely spend a night (or more) outside?
As with any packing list – it should be customized depending on your planned hike based on variables such as forecasted weather, terrain, complexity, etc.
1. Navigation
Map, compass, altimeter, GPS device, personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger. These tools will prevent you from getting lost, and help you get back to safety if you do lose your way. A detailed topo map and quality compass are really the key here – with GPS and PLB devices as handy supplements and added security. Not well versed on using your compass? There are some great tutorials offered through REI: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/navigation-basics.html
2. Headlamp (with extra batteries)
Even if doing a morning hike where you plan to be back by noon, it’s always recommended to bring a headlamp with extra batteries. If the unexpected hits you don’t want to find yourself stuck in the dark.
3. Sun Protection
Sunglasses, clothing items like a good hat, and sunblock. Even if you’re heading out with cloudy skies or rain – it’s vital to bring (and use) proper sun protection for your skin and eyes. A painful sunburn can quickly ruin an otherwise awesome day or night on the trail. Take care of yourself and avoid a blistery situation.
4. First Aid
A first aid kit including foot care and insect repellent (as needed). No matter the trip duration, you’ll want to have a properly stocked first aid kit in case of emergency or injury. You can make your own, or can purchase a conveniently pre-packaged kit like this ultralight waterproof kit.
5. Knife
It’s recommended to bring a knife plus repair kit. We recommend a multi-tool like this Leatherman, which provides 19 tools in 1, including a fire starter and emergency whistle.
6. Fire
matches, lighter, tinder and/or stove. We recommend a high quality lighter, some weatherproof matches, and fire starts. You should also practice your fire-starting skills, as this could save your life if you get stuck in frigid conditions.
7. Shelter
An emergency shelter should be carried at all times (can be a light emergency bivy). An emergency blanket or bivy should be kept on you at all times. If you are backpacking, you’ll already have a shelter, but if once the main shelter is up you plan to explore beyond camp, the emergency shelter should be with you. You want to avoid a situation where you get lost or injured and have to spend a night with no shelter.
8. Extra Food
Beyond the minimum expectation. In case your trip goes longer than expected, it’s worth packing at least 1 extra days’ worth of calories.
9. Extra Water
Beyond the minimum expectation. Similar to food – and especially if you are in an area with limited water sources – extra water is key. Plan accordingly, and especially if on a multi-day trek make sure you have a water purification method on hand so you can refill as you go. Water is heavy, so it’s worth the investment to have a quality filtration system. We like the Sawyer Micro Squeeze system because for it’s affordability and ease of use.
10. Extra Clothes
Beyond the minimum expectation. Think layers of quick-dry clothes here. Even in warmer regions, nighttime temperatures can quickly become uncomfortable if you’re not prepared.
Before heading out on any hike, backpacking, or camping trip, we recommend running through the 10 Essentials to make sure you have the items needed to be prepared for the unplanned. Also see our comprehensive Beginner Backpacking Checklist.
