The outdoor environment is unpredictable, and being prepared for it is key to preventing and treating injuries in an emergency. There is a history of this kind of list of ten essentials for hiking. The first time it was assembled was in 1930 by an organization based in Seattle named ‘The Mountaineers.’

Packing these ten essentials will come in handy in unexpected challenges you might face during hiking, climbing, or paddling. Back then, the list included a map, compass, sun protection, extra clothing, flashlight, first-aid kit, fire starter, extra water,  Knife, and extra food. 

By carrying these essential items, you will feel empowered and confident. Knowing what these items can do for you in your journey is also important. So, we have listed these essential items and their purpose. 

  1. Navigation

Modern navigation includes Map, compass, altimeter watch, GPS devices, and personal locator beacon (PLB). Today, we can easily navigate thanks to modern navigation devices, but back then, it was a challenge.  

Contemporary electronic navigational devices are handy, but still, they can lose power. So always carry a paper map and compass as a backup. You also must have basic knowledge of using paper maps and compasses. Pack your navigational devices where they are easily accessible because you will need them often. 

  1. Nutrition

Pack non-cook food items with good nutritional value, which will keep your energy high during the hike. For example, granola bars, dried fruits, trail mix, and whole grain crackers. Unlike fats and protein, carbohydrates provide quick bursts of energy, which we need during intense activities like hiking. 

Having food for an extra day will play a vital role in case of unforeseen events (such as an injury or bad weather).  

  1. First-aid kit

A first aid kit is one of the most essential for hiking. It is useful to reduce the risk of complications from injuries that could happen during hiking. Minor injuries like cuts, sprains, insect bites, or other small mishaps. 

A basic first-aid kit should include the following items. 

  • Adhesive bandages and gauze pads
  • Antibiotic ointment and antiseptic wipes
  • Tweezers and scissors
  • Tablets (e.g. ibuprofen, Aspirin) 
  • Elastic bandage for sprains
  • Safety pins and medical tape
  • Safety pins goods for fastening splints and lancing blisters
  • Nitrile gloves

It is also important to know how to use the items in the first aid kits. Having some guide that tells you how small injuries can be treated is also a good option.

  1. Fire starter

Firestarter, as the name implies, helps you to ignite the fire. Having fire starters on your hike trip is also an essential item. You may need fire as a heat source or as an emergency signal on the trail. The ideal firestarter ignites immediately and sustains flame for a few seconds to ignite wood or other fuel. 

These include matches 

  • Dry tinder stored in a plastic bag
  • Candles
  • Cotton balls soaked in oil
  • Dryer lint
  • Lighter

If you are outing on the snow trail where firewood would not be easily available, a stove is recommended as an emergency heat source.

  1. Repair kit

A repair kit would help you tackle minor tool breakdowns while hiking. A repair kit can address issues such as patching torn gears, fixing leaky gears, repairing footwear, and mending zippers or straps. It also gives you a sense of comfort and safety so that you can focus on the journey.  

The repair kit includes the following items:

  • Duct tape
  • patches
  • Zip ties
  • Multitools
  • Multitools, Knife, and screwdrivers
  • Extra batteries
  • Needle and thread 
  • Extra buckle and clips
  • Super glue 
  1. Emergency shelter

If you get injured, lost, or stuck due to unforeseen weather conditions, emergency shelter becomes life-saving. If you want to spend a night, you can also do so in a shelter. Emergency shelter gives you protection from wind and rain in an emergency. 

​Emergency shelters may include the following items:

  • Bivy sack
  • Tarpaulin
  • Emergency space blanket
  • Plastic trash bag
  1. Layers

While going hiking, you should be prepared for sudden changes in weather. Having an extra layer of clothing for extreme weather conditions is unavoidable. There are four layers of clothing: base layer, mid layer, insulating layer, and shell layer. Generally, layers include underwear, an insulating hat, extra socks, extra gloves, and a jacket. For winter outings, you need extra insulation for your body and legs.

Things to remember while choosing clothing for your trip. Always pack clothes made of non-cotton materials. As cotton traps moisture, it can make you cold. The clothing material could be nylon, polyester, wool, and silk.

  1. Lighting

Lighting becomes necessary to navigate your way in the wilderness. Potential lighting options include flashlights, lanterns, and headlamps. Among these lighting sources, a headlamp is the preferred choice as it keeps your hands free. Also, make sure your lights are working before heading towards your trail. Carry extra batteries with you in case your lighting batteries get dead on the journey. 

  1. Hydration 

As extreme physical activity can dehydrate you, having extra water on your trip is also an important item to keep. Especially in hot weather, being hydrated will keep you calm during your journey. Find out if there are any water sources on your journey from where you can collect water.

Remember to keep iodine tablets in the water to treat the water. On average, people need half a liter per hour during moderate-temperature activities. So calculate how much water you would need on your trip. 

  1. Sun protection 

It is necessary to protect your skin and eyes from harsh UV rays. Exposing your skin to the sun can cause skin cancer and sunburn. So always remember to pack sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to reduce the risk of exposing your skin to harsh UVA and UVB rays. 

As the atmosphere is thinner at higher altitudes, it absorbs less UV rays from the sun. So, the intensity of these rays increases by about 10 to 12 percent for every 3000 feet of increase in altitude.

Having essential items for hiking ensures your safety, preparedness, and enjoyment. You can rely on these essential items in case of any emergency. From navigation tools and first-aid kids to extra food and water, these items make the hikers reliable and calm. Items like illumination, first aid kits, and emergency shelters can help hikers mitigate the risks posed by extreme weather conditions. 

Summary: Essentials of hiking

Hiking can be an exhilarating adventure, but it comes with its own set of challenges. The ten essentials of hiking are more than just a checklist—they are crucial tools that ensure your safety and comfort in the great outdoors. From navigation aids like maps and compasses to emergency shelters and first-aid kits, each item plays a vital role in preparing you for unexpected situations.

Having the right gear, such as a fire starter and repair kit, can make a significant difference in maintaining warmth and addressing gear malfunctions. Proper hydration and nutrition keep your energy up and help you stay focused during your hike. Sun protection and layering ensure you’re prepared for varying weather conditions, keeping you safe from sunburn and hypothermia.

By packing these essentials, you not only enhance your hiking experience but also empower yourself to handle emergencies with confidence. Whether you’re driving a rugged trail or a scenic route, being well-prepared allows you to enjoy the adventure while staying safe.

For more reading on safe hiking: https://www.nps.gov/articles/hiking-safety.htm