The 10 Hiking Essentials

The 10 Essentials were developed by The Mountaineers in 1930 as a guide for hikers. In 2003 they updated their list to a newer 10 "systems". The 10 systems are:

1. Navigation
2. Sun protection
3. Insulation
4. Illumination
5. First-aid supplies
6. Fire
7. Repair kit and tools
8. Nutrition
9. Hydration
10. Emergency shelter

It is a good habit to bring these whenever you go hiking or camping for any length of time.

A navigation system should include at least a map and compass. You could also include a GPS and/or an altimeter.

Your Map should be a topographic map, current, and of the area, you plan to visit. You should also know how to read it.

Sun protection is especially important in the summer and the winter. Sunscreen should be at least SPF 15 but higher is better. It should also block both UVA & UVB rays.

Insulation is largely dependent on the weather. But you should always include an extra pair of socks. If it looks like it will be cold then you would want to include gloves, coat, extra shirt, etc. Bring items according to what the weather looks like.

One item I have found very useful is shemagh. It's very warm and it works well as sun protection. As well as many other things. I am planning on writing an Instructable on it later.

Flashlights are a major part of the illumination system and typically they are more powerful than headlights. Headlights are easier to use though, as they don't require you to hold them. Always bring extra batteries along as you don't want to be without light. Also, you could include a chem light they glow for quite a while.

I don't have a background in medicine so take my advice with a grain of salt and check out what others say, but I carry:

• Medical Gloves
• Gauze Pads
• Roller Bandage
• 1st aid tape
• Alcoholic Prep Pads
• Band-aids
• Antibiotic Ointment
• Moleskins
• Super Glue
• a Needle
• a CPR Mask

Again don't carry anything you don't know how to use.

The five main fire starting methods are:

• Matches- best idea is waterproof with a case, tinder, and strikers
• Lighter- you can get a gas or an electric version
• Flint and Steel- this takes some skill and practice
• Friction- this also can be challenging one example is the bow drill
• Magnification- this takes the sun, skill, and a way to magnify the sun (magnifying glass, clear water bottle)

Whatever method you use make sure you know how to start a fire using it also it would be a good idea to bring multiple ways to start a fire and extra tinder

The tools you bring and your repair kit will depend on what you pack. If you bring a tent then you probably need a repair kit for that. Some items to include in your repair kit are duct tape (fixes everything) needle and thread (for tears in clothing, backpacks, tents, etc.).

The main tools are knives and Multi-tools. A multi-tool should be simple and robust. You can find a more detailed buying guide here.

Always pack a day's worth of food. Freeze-dried food can be good but no-cook food items are also good to bring as you can eat them on the trail. Just don't leave any around for animals.

Water is one of the most important things to have and you should bring more than you think you need. It is a good idea to get a method of purification such as a life straw. A metal water bottle is a good idea as you can boil water in it.

Emergency shelter is more for if you are day tripping and you aren't bringing a tent. But you could still bring some shelter even if you have a tent (in case your tent gets lost). Emergency shelter can include a tarp, tube tent, space blanket, or bivy sack. Whatever you bring, make sure it will keep you warm.

I hope this helps you. Remember to always bring these with you when you go hiking. Stay safe, have fun, good luck and thank you.