Ten Essentials Checklist

They’re called “essentials” for a reason. Every packing list starts with these 10 items.

• A pocketknife or multitool can be handy in a wide variety of situations. It’s useful for tasks as large as building an emergency shelter or lighting a campfire with poor fuel, or as small as repairing a damaged backpack. Don’t forget to first earn your Whittling Chip (for older Cub Scouts) or Totin’ Chip (for Boy Scouts).
• A first-aid kit can be a lifesaver. Literally.
• Bring extra clothing to match the weather. Multiple layers are better than a single massive jacket, because layered clothing is adaptable to a wide range of temperatures.
• Rain gear is very important. Being wet from rain may result in hypothermia, a potentially fatal condition.
• A flashlight is important for finding your way in the dark.
• Trail food is good for maintaining your energy.
• Water can prevent dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
• Matches and/or a fire starter may be used to light fires for heat, or for signaling for help.
• Sun protection might include sunblock, sunglasses, lip balm and a wide-brimmed hat.
• A map and compass are probably the most important tools you can carry in case you get lost.

Here are some additional items you may want to pack, depending on the outing:

Keeping Clean

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Dental floss
• Soap
• Comb
• Waterless hand cleaner
• Small towel
• Washcloth
• Toilet paper
• Trowel for digging cathole latrines

Cooking and eating

• Large plastic cereal bowl or kitchen storage bowl
• Spoon
• Cup or insulated mug
• Water treatment system
• Backpacking stove with fuel
• Large pot and lid (2.5- or 3-quart size)
• Small pot and lid (1.5- or 2-quart size)
• Lightweight frying pan (10 to 12 inches in diameter)
• For melting snow, add 1 large pot and lid (6 to 10 quarts)
• Hot-pot tongs

Extras

• Watch
• Camera
• Notebook
• Pen or pencil
• Sunglasses
• Small musical instrument
• Swimsuit
• Gloves
• Whistle
• Nylon cord
• Insect repellent
• Repair kit
• Hiking stick or trekking poles
• Binoculars
• Fishing gear
• Animal identification books, plant keys, geological studies, star charts or other guides