Why pack the ten essentials
The ten essentials grew out of mountaineering club courses in the United States in the 1930s. The list has since been updated to describe systems instead of specific items. The question behind it: if something goes wrong, can you stay found, stay warm and dry, deal with an injury and get through a night out?
Most of them weigh little. A headlamp, emergency bag, small first aid kit and spare layer together come to less than a kilo, and they're the items people most often wish they'd brought.
How much water to carry on a hike
There's no single figure. A common starting point is about half a litre per hour of moderate walking in mild weather, rising to a litre per hour or more in heat or on steep climbs. Check whether the route has reliable water sources, and carry a way to treat water if you plan to refill.
How to keep pack weight down
- Share group items: one first aid kit, one stove, one repair kit.
- Repackage food and toiletries into smaller containers.
- Leave behind extras that aren't on the list. Every "just in case" item adds up.
For overnight trips, a loaded pack of around a fifth of your body weight or less is a widely used comfort guideline. The multi-day guide has more on cutting weight, and choosing boots and layers covers what to wear and how a pack should fit.
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Hiking packing list FAQ
What size backpack do I need for a day hike?
About 20 to 30 litres is usual for a day hike. Overnight trips usually need 40 litres or more, depending on whether you're staying in huts or carrying a tent.
Do I need the ten essentials on a short, easy hike?
Yes, in most hill and mountain areas. They're light, and they matter most when a short walk turns into a long one because of an injury, a wrong turn or bad weather. See how to plan a day hike for the rest of the preparation.
Are trekking poles worth carrying?
They're optional. Many walkers find them helpful on steep descents.
Where are my checklist ticks stored?
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