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Ready your gear quiver for a for a full day outing.
ON YOUR BODY
IN YOUR PACK

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An essential in every hiker's pack should be a compass! A compass doesn't need a signal or batteries and works in all types of weather but you need to know how to use it and this book "Felix the Sugar Glider Be Safe Hike Smart." makes learning how to use a compass easy. Felix! explains how to orient yourself using a compass, a compass and a map, a map and no compass, no compass and no map. Look for it on Amazon, "Felix the Sugar Glider Be Safe Hike Smart". Anyone wanting to know direction and especially for those who want teach these skills to children might enjoy learning from this book. To feel more confident about orienting ourselves outdoors, we read thru this book before every hike - it's only about 34 pages and illustrated. The ability to know your way and know where you are is something we all need in any survival situation not just while hiking. Learn to stay found by using a compass and paying attention to your surroundings. Felix! teaches the reader what to pack, trail ethics, what to do if you get lost or scared, how to get rescued, and survival packing (for the car and for the trail) just incase you end up unexpectedly spending the night outdoors.
This video might help answer KY boy scout's question: http://www.survivalistboards.com/showthread.php?t=167087
This video might help answer KY boy scout's question: http://www.survivalistboards.com/showthread.php?t=167087
Could somebody please tell me how to get the most sparks out of a firestarting kit (just a flint rod and a knife)?
Could somebody please tell me how to get the most sparks out of a firestarting kit (just a flint rod and a knife)?
You really should add a knife to the list. A knife is an essential tool for survival.
Only you know how you'll react in an emergency. Your brain is your best weapon, and these are just ideas to help you survive buy adding some helpful tools. Some need more help- others need less. Not sure?? pack for the worst case scenario and lighten up as you learn. just a thought....
Here's a great online interactive checklist and pack-weight calculator app:
http://www.weighmygear.com
I will also say that no matter what fabric you choose, a shirt that fully buttons is going to be cooler in summer than a pullover shirt, even a T-shirt. Also, a longsleeve, lightweight, light color button shirt is better than a shortsleeve shirt, as the long sleeves protect you from the sun and actually keep you cooler, and you can roll em up if you want.
I agree that "never wear cotton" is too rigid a commandment. Never wear cotton socks, that's for sure, because they are a perfect recipe for blisters, but in the heat of the summer down South here a cotton shirt is just fine. Even the lightest wool and synthetic shirts aren't going to be as comfortable, and there is no risk of hypothermia in the flatland south in the summer.
Anyone have any fvaorites for boots. I live in Kentucky and hike the knobs. Short hikes 4 to 13 miles. Keep in mind snakes.
I like to use a lightweight fishing vest as my daypack. It has lots of pockets and room for my camel. As it warms up latter in the year I switch to my day pack as the vest gets to warm. The vest is great for winter hikes as it fits nicely under my heavier coat.
I carry an Altoids container in my shirt pocket with water proof matches, 4 very small doggie waste bags (to collect & carry water, Iodine tablets, 2 bandaids, 4 small saftey pins, and a whole container of dental floss (removed from the dispenser). This is in addition to the clothes, trail fooe and junk in my camelback. Just think... Fire, and water
Ditto to Jerry's comment:
"...add category "IN YOUR POCKET: Spare light source, spare fire-starter, pocketknife, bandanna."
I learned in the military that you cannot assume your pack will stay with you during an emergency. There is a subset of survival aids that must remain on your body--at least when you're on the move.
Rick
Posted: Aug 31, 2010 ~jerry
I carry a $10.00 tarp tent. This item is small, light, and great if you need a quick shelter or ground cloth to sit on.
Everyone is diff. No two ppl carry the same exact things BUT since batteries fail, I always carry old school compass and glow sticks. Rain poncho and at least 10' of cord. I always have trekking pants and tshirt in my daypack no matter how long/short of a trip Im going to be on. Being able to change into dry clothes can brighten any situation.
Cotton in the summer, synthetics in the cooler climate and fall. To the one guy: it's the two hour hike alone people you see on I shouldn't be alive.
Cotton wet is the most miserable feeling in the backcountry...stretches, will not return to form, hangs like three sizes too big...just what you need to kill the mountain buzz. Get a clue...wicking wear, period! Cotton is for the three "B's"...briefs, blue jeans & bandanas...keep on trucking...'nuff said.
All of these comments exemplify that our list of needs is subject to the conditions, our objectives, and our personal preferences. In my opinion, if there is nothing else you remember when packing for any excursion, short or long, cold or hot, remember the Ten Essentials and adapt accordingly. Navigation, Sun Protection, Insulation, Illumination, First-aid, Fire, Repair, Nutrition, Hydration, and Shelter.
All of these comments exemplify that our list of needs is subject to the conditions, our objectives, and our personal preferences. In my opinion, if there is nothing else you remember when packing for any excursion, short or long, cold or hot, remember the Ten Essentials and adapt accordingly. Navigation, Sun Protection, Insulation, Illumination, First-aid, Fire, Repair, Nutrition, Hydration, and Shelter.
All of these comments exemplify that our list of needs is subject to the conditions, our objectives, and our personal preferences. In my opinion, if there is nothing else you remember when packing for any excursion, short or long, cold or hot, remember the Ten Essentials and adapt accordingly. Navigation, Sun Protection, Insulation, Illumination, First-aid, Fire, Repair, Nutrition, Hydration, and Shelter.
my 2 cents worth (only 40 years of trail experience)
add category "IN YOUR POCKET:
Spare light source, spare fire-starter, pocketknife, bandanna."
add to category IN YOUR PACK:
Multi-tool w/ knife, 25' of cord, space blanket or tarp, signal mirror AND whistle.
I always carry a pocket knife and will toss in a short length of cord (8' or so). Also, many times I opt for a trusted wool Pendleton shirt. They are light weight, take less space than some fleece jackets, comfortable in a wide range of temps, and give me that warm fuzzy feeling.
These comments are funny; one person has a perfectly rational reason for wearing cotton in the summer and another uses bold print to say 'never wear cotton' as if it's a commandment from (whichever god you choose).
It's a gear recommendation checklist no one is going to be checking and obviously use common sense and use what works for you.
Personally, I like to get a flask of sipping whiskey into my pack, even better if it's locally made, but that's not mandatory either. ;)
Bandana, waterproof matches or disposable lighter, whistle. Signal mirror? Stick in an old CD if you must.
Not compass or GPS - compass AND GPS
Why no mention of wool shirt or underwear on your body? Wool is much more comfortable, cooler, and doesn't stink as bad as synthetic IMO.
Wow! All good ideas, but I'd say some are a bit too much. Your first item to pack is common sense which implies "Plan Ahead and Prepare". I went for a hike in the frontcountry Saturday. I was only going two hours (an out and back hike)All I really needed was water. I knew there was a 0% chance of rain and the trail was easy and I would encounter several bikers and hikers. All I took was water, an extra shirt (to change into when the other was all sweaty), extra socks, my driver's license and a first aid kit. My point here is that what I bring all depends on where I am, the season and how long I will be out. When I did an all-day hike in the Colorado mountains last winter I brought nearly all the things listed plus an ice axe and crampons.
I used to always use synthetics, even in summer. But, sometimes you want the cooling properties of cotton. Bring an extra t-shirt and take the advantage of how much cooler a wet cotton t-shirt will make you feel.
I have many allergies including wool and all petro based synthetics. I wear 2 layers of silk longies for warmth and wicking.I never feel sticky in silk,it is light weight, cheaper than many wool or synthetics and feels great on the skin.
I carry all of the above mentioned and more. My pack weighs 20lbs and that is for just a day hike. I always feel a little self conscious marching out from the trail head with a all this gear. But I have to say that I use every bit of it. I often pass fellow hikers a couple of hours into the trail at 6000 ft or more with nothing, just a bottle of water. Still at least I am prepared for anything and could help someone if they where stuck on the trail.
Mole skin is always a great item to carry along on hikes.
Along with the excellent suggestions my list adds treking poles, camera, binocs, flower book, pencil, 50' p-cord, trash bags, bug repellant, bear spray. No wonder my pack is so heavy.
YOU SHOULD ALWAYS HAVE A "SIGNAL MIRROR" IN ANY TYPE OF KIT. VERY SMALL, CAN SIGNAL FOR MILES AND COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE!!
What are you supposed to do if you're allergic to wool *and* synthetics??
ALWAYS brind an old school compass in addition to GPS. ALWAYS!!!
Since I hike in the Rockies, where bad weather can come in quickly I add a space blanket and a poncho. They can provide warmth and shelter in a pinch.
I'm gonna pass on the sythetic bra, I prefer cotton.
I'm gonna pass on the sythetic bra, I prefer cotton.
Don't forget the whistle.
For those wondering about synthetics:
the advantage of "wicking" comes as much after a workout or hike as much as during it. Sweat is moved away from the skin, which keeps you cooler during your workout. The wicking process helps facilitate the part of the sweating process that actually keeps you cool: evaporation. And, after your workout, as the sweat is in the air and not on your skin, it isn't there to rob your body of its heat.
So, NEVER WEAR COTTON, it does neither of the things that synthetics do and, especially, it won't dry when you get it wet.
Wool is a popular substitute for some synthetics (backcountry.com makes many marino wool pieces) and I would advise that, though it may be an ugly process, find out which synthetic you are allergic to, there are many kinds!
Local conditions vary widely and even daily. Inquire about local conditions and always read any trail warnings. (EX: Flooding in Canyons can occurr w/o warnings). Tides ? Always have a current map and check with authorities on seasonal closures and on trail conditions. I always bring a flashlight and extra batteries.
I'd take a GPS AND a compass. This may be old school, but a GPS doesn't yet seem like a substitute for a compass to me. . . .
I would also add to the list a good multi tool or knife and,I find rope can always come in handy
I'm new to the synthetic T shirts.... my first experience was that they were hot and they itched. I'm not sure what the advantage of "wicking" is when you sweat more than normal.
An extra pair of pants is always a good thing to carry.
If you have a GPS, carry at least 1 set of extra batteries. If you are low on power, turn it off until needed, use battery saver mode if you have it.
Silk is also a good option, especially for underwear.
I'd try wool if allergic to synthetics.
Great list...only one problem...what is your advise for people allergic to synthetics?
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