7.

Flashlight - or headlamp, with spare bulb and

batteries. For finding you’re way in the dark and
The Ten Essentials for signaling for help. I like to bring a very small, spare
Hiking/Backpacking flashlight instead of spare bulb and batteries. This
way you don’t have to try and change a bulb in the
by John Klebes
dark, and if you lose your main light you have a spare.
8. Pocketknife - A pocketknife is the most useful tool

T
he "Ten Essentials" is a list of items that can save
you can own. It can cut strips of cloth into bandages,
your life in the event of an outdoor emergency. In
remove splinters, and perform a whole host of repairs
the 1930s, the Mountaineers, a Seattle-based
on malfunctioning gear — not to mention cut cheese
hiking, climbing, and conservation organization, came up
and open cans.
with a list of 10 essential items that no climber should be
9. Waterproof Matches - and Firestarter. The warmth of
without. The list started showing up in training programs in
a fire and a hot drink can help prevent an encounter
the 1940s and 1950s, and has since become the standard
with hypothermia. And fires are a great way to signal
starting point for hikers to guard against the unexpected.
for help if you get lost.
Over the years this list, and many similar lists, have
10. Sun Protection – such as sunscreen, lip balm, and
been passed on to new hikers as an essential insurance
sunglasses. Especially above treeline when there is a
policy against the unexpected. You will not use these
skin-scorching combination of sun and snow, you'll
items on every trip but at some point during your hiking
need sunglasses to prevent snowblindness, and
adventures you will be glad you have them along.
sunscreen to prevent sunburn.
1. Map - A map not only tells you where you are and how
Other Essentials - As with any list, everyone has their
far you have to go, it can help you find campsites,
favorite additions. Here’s mine:
water, and an emergency exit route in case of an
• High intensity whistle
accident or foul weather.
2. Compass - and the ability to use it. A compass can • Insect Repellent
help you find your way through unfamiliar terrain— • Note pad and pen or pencil
especially in bad weather where you can't see the • Emergency blanket or a few plastic garbage bags
landmarks. Of course, it will not do much good if you • 50’ of cord
don’t know how to use it so take the time to learn • Toilet Paper
some map and compass skills.
3. Water - and a way to purify it. Without enough water, Hike Participant's Responsibilities:
your body's muscles don’t perform as well: You'll be In addition to the “Ten Essentials” each participant
susceptible to hypothermia and altitude sickness, not must take the responsibility of assessing his/her own
to mention the misery of raging thirst. Bring a abilities against the intended activity. Proper clothing,
minimum of 2 quarts and it’s a good idea to carry a footwear, gear, etc. must be used to ensure adequate
purification system such as iodine tablets or a filter to safety and comfort for all. If you have any questions about
re-supply should you run short. a trip, please call the trip coordinator for further
4. Extra Food - Any number of things could keep you out information. Your preparation will ensure a safe and
longer than expected: a lengthy detour, getting lost, an enjoyable trip for all. Enjoy the great outdoors safely.
injury, difficult terrain. A few ounces of extra food will
help keep up energy and morale, and feed your
internal furnace to ward off hypothermia.
5. Rain Gear and extra clothing - Because the weather
can change at anytime, especially above treeline,
bring along extra layers. You should avoid cotton, and
always carry a hat.
6. First Aid Kit – and the knowledge to use it. In
addition to the basics you should also include moleskin
or blister care kit, and include an extra day’s worth of
any medications you are taking or might need in an
emergency. Also, allergy and bee sting kits if you
need them. At least one person in the group should
have a larger kit that includes a SAM split to
immobilize a broken bone. Remember to replace
anything you use during a trip so you have it again for
the next trip. (Some people also include things like a
little rope, safety pins, needle and thread, and duct
tape to make emergency repairs)

Pioneer Valley Hiking Club Rev 12/02