1. Water:

Two (2) Quart minimum. More is better, particularly during hot weather and the winter months when fluid loss is heightened.

2. Food:

Lunch and Snacks. Extra goodies are a good idea on longer/more strenuous outings when there could be a delay in returning to the trailhead.

3. Extra Clothing:

Rain shell (gore-tex or coated nylon) and synthetic shirts, sweaters and/or vests that fit underneath the shell.

4. Map:

Use a tyvek version or enclose your map in a zip lock bag. Know how to read the map and know where you are on the map at all times.

5. Compass:

A simple protractor (base plate) model such as the Silva Polaris Type 7 with a neck cord. Additionally, the neck cord is a good place for a whistle.

6. Light:  

A flashlight is good but a small, lightweight headlamp is better particularly during the winter season. Don’t forget extra batteries and bulb.

Tip: A compromise is the new version of the Princeton Blast flashlight which clips onto the bill of your hat to function like a headlamp. Otherwise it fits easily in your hand.

7. First Aid Kit:

Keep it simple, compact and weatherproof. Obtain the know how to use all the components properly. Purchase a commercial model or assemble basic components yourself and store in a freezer strength one-zip quart size bag. Your first aid knowledge is the single most important component.

8. Matches:

Strike anywhere matches in a waterproof container or a box of waterproof matches in a plastic bag to keep the striker surface dry.

9. Fire Starter:

A commercial product or just one or two candles off your last birthday cake stored in a zip lock bag.

Tip: A two-ounce naglene bottle makes a good container to store both matches and small candles in. The side of the bottle is just the right size to wrap duct tape around.

10. Knife:

A small single blade knife, like the Victorinox classic, is sufficient. Larger Swiss Army knives and leatherman type tools are more practical for your winter pack when repairs to snowshoes, crampons, and ski binding are encountered.

11.Common Sense:

The willingness to turn around when the weather turns on you, the group’s energy level wanes or darkness threatens. Choose a hike length and level or difficulty that is within your ability. Carry food and clothing appropriate for the seasonal climate and not just according to the weather forecast.

12. Duct Tape:

The Number One repair item that can do double duty as the tape in your first aid kit.

13. Heavy Duty Trash Bag:

Use a 3-millimeter contractor grade trash bag (Home Depot) as a pack liner, pack cover, emergency bivy sack and even for collecting trash along the trail.

14. Sun Protection:

Hat with brim, sunglasses, sun block and lip balm. These become more necessary when snow cover reflects the bright sun, you’re traveling above timberline, or you’re paddling.

15. Foam Pad:

A small scrap of an old ensolite pad makes a nice butt pad during lunch breaks, particularly when sitting on wet rocks/logs or in snow. Additionally it is quite useful in first aid situations such as immobilizing an injured ankle

16. Attitude:

A positive attitude is the ultimate essential.