The Ten Essentials

Its time for you the ten essentials are items considered necessary for survival in the woods. It began as a list of items and roughly thirty years later it morphed into a system list. While the original essential list is good, the system list is a bit more comprehensive because it lets you build "kits" tailored to your personal needs and taste. Not only should you be carrying these items on overnight backcountry trips, but they should also always be carried on day hikes. Sometimes things go wrong and it is better to plan for the worst and be prepared then to be in a situation where you wish you had brought something and do not have it.

The Original Essential List

1. Map
2. Compass
3. Sunglasses and sunscreen
4. Extra clothing (rain gear)
5. Headlamp and/or flashlight
6. First-aid supplies
7. Fire starter
8. Matches
9. Knife
10. Extra food

The New System List

1. Navigation - Map and Compass
2. Sun Protection - Sunglasses, sunscreen and chapstick
3. Insulation - Gloves, jacket, rain gear and hat
4. Illumination - Headlamp, flashlight, lighter and matches
5. First-aid supplies - Including insect repellent
6. Fire - Matches, flint stick and lighter
7. Repair kit and tools - Knife, axe and duct tape
8. Nutrition - Extra food
9. Hydration - Water
10. Emergency shelter - Tarp and emergency blanket

Whats in my pack?

When it comes to hiking and backpacking I am always concerned about weight so I tend to choose smaller and lighter items. Here are the essentials I carry in my pack..... 

1. Navigation - Map and Compass
2. Sun Protection - Sunglasses, sunscreen and chapstick
3. Insulation - Rain jacket and buff;  gloves and jacket if its cold
4. Illumination - Headlamp 
5. First-aid supplies - Two person kit including insect repellent
6. Fire - Flint stick and lighter
7. Repair kit and tools - Knife and a duct tape roll 
8. Nutrition - Trail mix and/or a protein bar
9. Hydration - Hydration bladder or water bottle depending on the trip
10. Emergency shelter - Tarp 

This probably seems like an awful lot of gear, but honestly it packs down pretty small and I have never had an issue with weight. Now it's time for you to pick your gear and hit the trail! Happy hiking!