The 10 Essentials for a HIKE Prepare a stuff sack or other easy to pack container with the following 10 items. This container can be a day-pack. If it is a day-pack (backpack) be sure it is big enough to carry anything else that you might want to for your day hike (for example: your lunch!).
1. Extra Clothing – a light-weight warm jacket and dry socks will protect you in unexpected weather and help if you get blisters on your feet. 2. First Aid Kit. Place these items in a small pouch or zip-loc. This may be a readi-made kit, or something made from supplies you have. Basic kit should include: Bandages in several sizes (including one very large 5”x9”), antibiotic cream, tweezers, adhesive tape, several gauze pads, germicidal hand wipes, small scissors, 3” cohesive bandage, pain reliever 3. Flashlight and Batteries. Sometimes hikers end up in the dark – even when they don’t expect to. 4. Food. Light weight, high energy foods like granola bars, or dried fruit are a great backup for your picnic lunch (packed the day of the hike). 5. Map and Compass. Be sure and pack these. Even if you haven’t learned how to use them yet – another hiker could use yours to help both of you. 6. Fire Starter and Strike ANYWHERE Matches. Store these in a small waterproof container, and only use them in a true emergency with the help of an adult if at all possible. 7. Pocket Knife. Use this carefully so you don’t end up testing out your first aid kit. 8. Rain Gear. This includes a hat and a poncho. 9. Sun Protection. Even in the winter you will want sunscreen for your face and other exposed skin and a pair of sunglasses. In the summer add a hat to shield the sun from the part on your scalp and extra protection for your face. 10. One of the most important is WATER. Never drink untreated water from a lake or stream. Bring enough water from home to last the day. For a long trip it is also a good idea for someone to carry iodine tablets or a water filter to treat natural water sources along the way.