10 Essentials for Hiking and Adventuring

What are the 10 Essentials for Hiking and Adventuring?

The 10 Essentials is a list of items for outdoor adventurers to keep on hand in case of an outdoor emergency. This list originated in the 1930s by The Mountaineers, a Seattle-based adventure group. It contained specific supplies to bring in your pack to increase your odds of survival should an emergency arise. The list included a map, compass, sunglasses and sunscreen, extra clothing, headlamp/flashlight, first-aid supplies, fire starter, matches, knife and extra food. The original list has evolved over the years but the basic systems needed for survival remain an important part of outdoor emergency preparedness.

Options for outdoor gear are endless and as such vary in quality and price. Whenever possible I like to support local northwest companies such as Leatherman, Columbia Sportswear and Hydro Flask.

**Disclaimer: I have included product links under the main photo to make the 10 essentials easier for you to track down. As an Amazon Associate, I may receive a small commission when you use my links and make a purchase. There is no additional cost to you. I hope you discover something great for your next outdoor adventure.

 

Why You Should Carry the 10 Essentials on Every Hike

Packing the 10 essentials whenever you hike in the back country seems obvious. On the other hand, maybe not as obvious on a more simple, well-traveled day hike. However, you just never know. These ten items could help save your life.

In the past I didn’t really see the practicality of hauling extra items on an easy day hike. In my 25+ years of hiking, I’ve primarily hiked with just water, a snack and my camera. That all changed in 2017 when I learned about the 140 hikers in the Columbia River Gorge who were forced to spend the night on the trail after the Eagle Creek fire broke out. Typically the Eagle Creek trail is an easy hike and nothing to cause concern. I’ve hiked this trail dozens of times and not once did I think I would be out more than a couple of hours. This is likely the mindset of most hikers. Watch this video to hear stories from the stranded 140 hikers. After realizing how quickly a fun hike could turn into a potentially life-threatening situation, I now bring the 10 Essentials on all hikes.

 

 1 HYDROFLASK |  2 GEARLIGHT HEADLAMP | 3 QUEST BAR | 4 FIRST AID KIT | 5 LIGHTER | 6 SUN BUM SUNSCREEN | 7 LEATHERMAN KNIFE | 8 BLACK COLUMBIA SPORTSWEAR RAIN JACKET | 9 EMERGENCY SHELTER | 10 MT HOOD MAP, COMPASS

10 Essentials for Hiking and Adventuring

When deciding what to pack, keep in mind factors like weather, difficulty, duration, and distance from help.

1. HYDRATION Water and or a Water Purification System are probably the most valuable item to pack. Even on a short hike it’s important to say hydrated. Hydro Flask, a company from Bend, Oregon offers containers in many sizes and colors. In addition, be sure to keep extra water in the car for after the hike, especially in the summer months. Some hikers prefer to use a bladder hydration system to carry water. Be careful to completely dry out your tubing before you store it away. You can store the tubing in the freezer to prevent mold from growing.
2. ILLUMINATION Headlamps are the perfect hands-free way to illuminate the path if you should find yourself hiking after dark. They are also great for setting up camp in the dark. Extra batteries for your headlamps are also useful.
3. EXTRA FOOD You may not need extra food, however, you’ll be glad you have something handy if you do need to eat. Items like protein bars and beef jerky are light weight and keep you feeling full longer. This Tillamook Beef Jerky is made here in Tillamook, Oregon and is sugar free. Here is a great list of snacks that are perfect for hiking and road trip adventures.
4. FIRST AID This is a great starter kit that you can add to as you see fit. Keep one in your pack and one in the car for any emergencies that may arise.
5. FIRESTARTERS The ability to start a fire may not be needed on most hiking trips, but if you are ever in a situation where you need to stay warm it’s good to have the following on hand: Matches | Lighter | Waterproof Lighter Case.
6. SUN PROTECTION Sunglasses are a personal preference. Look for a pair that offers glare reduction as well as UV protection. Consider a sunscreen that is reef safe, especially if you plan to go swimming in an ocean, lake or river.
7. KNIFE Leatherman is an industry leader in the world of multitools. They have a wide range of products made here in Portland, Oregon. In addition, this Leatherman Camping Multitool, has some great features and is offered at a lower price point. A Leatherman Knife will come in handy for slicing food, opening packages, first aid tape, cutting kindling, rope etc. Their 25 year warranty insures you will have a quality tool that lasts. 
8. EXTRA CLOTHING A Rain Jacket or Fleece like these from Columbia Sportswear not only serve to keep you warm, but also double as added padding for sitting or sleeping. Gloves, a hat and extra socks are other good items to bring.
9. EMERGENCY SHELTER A basic lightweight Emergency Shelter is designed to keep you warm and dry against harsh weather conditions such as rain and wind This shelter fits two adults and has a reflective interior that reflects your own body heat to keep you warm. If you have space, consider packing one of these light weight emergency sleeping bags.
10. NAVIGATION Maps and a compass are especially essential for backwoods hiking. Green Trails, located in Seattle, Washington makes maps that are waterproof and tear-resistant. Here are some popular maps for the Pacific Northwest region: Mt Hood | Columbia River Gorge | Mt Rainier | Compass

 

Beyond the 10 Essentials

Here are 13 more products to make your experience even better:

HIKING SHOES | HIKING POLES | BACKPACK | DOG BAGS | BIODEGRADEABLE WET WIPES | COLLAPSIBLE WATER DISH | PHONE BATTERY CHARGER |HAND SANITIZER | LIP BALM | BUG SPRAY | SOCKS | CAMERA | HAT