Staying safe outdoors is within your control

What are the Ten Essentials and why should I carry them?

 

The Ten Essentials are important items you should carry on every hike, and it’s a good thing to get in the habit of carrying them from the get-go! These items will help keep you safe should you, someone in your group, or another hiker on the trail be injured.

Pack Your Ten

  1. Navigation: map, compass, GPS

  2. Head lamp: with extra batteries

  3. Sun protection: sunscreen, glasses, UVA/UVB protective clothing

  4. First aid: bandaids, tensor, foot care, bug spray, etc.

  5. Knife

  6. Fire: waterproof matches or lighter, tinder

  7. Shelter: light weight emergency blanket

  8. Extra food: more than you think you will need

  9. Extra water: more than you think you will need, or bring a purifier

  10. Extra clothes: something that will help you survive overnight

While it may be tempting to skip a couple of these items because the weather looks like it will be nice, or it is a short hike and should not take you long, SAR recommends you still carry them with you. No one is injury proof, and being prepared means staying safe. It may also mean staying alive. Also, please note that this list is simplified for beginners. If you would like a more in-depth list on these items, I recommend checking out MEC’s website or REI’s website. They also have excellent product recommendations linked for your convenience.