Hiking Tip of the Week - The Four Essentials
The debate over hiking gear systems is never ending. Some people go by the ‘10 Essentials’ which lists the most important gear for the trail. However these 10 items will change depending on whom is asked or where you’re trying to go. Another way to identify the needs of your kit is to divide that gear into four categories: Fixing People, Fixing Gear, Communication, and Navigation. Plan for items specific to your trip. Depending on the discipline, the gear will inevitably change. For example hiking boots may not be necessary on a canoe trip, and hiking in the desert may not require a super heavy duty rain shell or gaiters. Adjust your kit to the needs of your trip while following the system below.
Fixing People
Clothing
Insulated Clothing
Weatherproof Clothing
First Aid Kit
Food
Water
(add more to your own list!)
Fixing Gear
Patches
Wire
Duct Tape/ Electrical Tape
Multi-tool/ knife
Cord/ paracord
Dental floss
Zip ties
Flexible epoxy
(add more to your own list!)
Communication
Headlamp (extra batteries)
Whistle
Mirror
Phone
Something to charge your phone with
(add more to your own list!)
Navigation
Map and Compass
GPS
Phone
Extra Batteries of something to charge phone/GPS with
(add more to your own list!)