The Ten (Plus Two) Essentials: Standard Recommendations

Not sure what to buy? Start here.

  1. Navigation: topographical map, Suunto A-10 NH, Garmin eTrex Solar
  2. Lighting: Petzl Tikka or Black Diamond Deploy 325
  3. Sun protection: Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap or Outdoor Research Helios, SPF 50 or better sunscreen
  4. First aid kit: Adventure Medical Kits Hiker or Ultralight/Watertight .5
  5. Repair kit: Victorinox Classic ‘Swiss Army’ knife, Patagonia Field Repair Kit
  6. Fire kit: Bic lighter, UCO Stormproof Match Kit, Survive Outdoors Longer Tinder-Quik
  7. Emergency shelter: Survive Outdoors Longer Escape Lite Bivy
  8. Extra food: extra energy bar for ½-day hike, ½-day of extra food for a day hike, 1 day of extra food for multiday hike.
  9. Extra water: more water than usual, Aquatabs, Katadyn BeFree AC 1L
  10. Insulating clothing: MEC Northern Lite hoody (or REI equivalent), MEC x AQUANATOR rain shell jacket (or REI equivalent)
  11. Signalling: Fox 40 Mini whistle, Survive Outdoors Longer Rescue Flash mirror, SOS beacon-equipped Apple iPhone 14 or later
  12. Bug protection: The Original Bug Shirt Company Original Bug Shirt, Natrapel 37mL (No DEET if you're wearing synthetic clothes!)