Backcountry 10 Essentials Emergency Kit

Carry the ten things that turn a bad day on the trail into a story, not a rescue.

Beginner

5 min

BACKCOUNTRY 10 ESSENTIALS EMERGENCY KIT
[ ] Topo Map
[ ] Headlamp
[ ] Firestarter
[ ] Knife
[ ] First Aid

Topo Map: a topographic map shows hills, valleys and water. Practice reading one before you go.
Headlamp: look for a fresh battery set and a red light mode.
Firestarter: dry tinder, ferro rod or waterproof matches. Practice in your yard first.
Knife: a small fixed or folding blade is enough for most trips.
First Aid: adjust your kit to your trip length and group size, and learn how to use it.

Stop, then think. If you feel lost, stop moving. Drink water, eat something and look at your map. Why it matters: panic leads to wandering, and wandering makes you harder to find.
Stay warm and visible. Add layers, get out of the wind and rain, and use your whistle in sets of three blasts, the widely used distress signal. Check the current guidance at nps.gov.
Call for help when you need it. Call 911 if you have a signal. If you do not, stay put, signal and wait. Make sure someone at home knows your plan so they can call for you.

Gear types only.

Waterproof map case
Compass
Headlamp with spare batteries
Compact first-aid kit
Fire kit with a lighter and tinder
Multi-tool or folding knife
Emergency bivy or space blanket
Whistle

Fire rules, knife laws and permit rules vary by park and state. Check current local rules and fire restrictions with the managing agency: nps.gov, fs.usda.gov or your state park website.

The gear you hope you never use is the gear that matters most. Pack it, practice with it and go. A Wild Dirt hat keeps the sun off while you navigate.

The Ten Essentials is a long-standing outdoor safety system. Check the current list at the source you trust, such as REI or The Mountaineers, and compare it to what you carry.

Navigation

Topo Map of your route, in a waterproof sleeve
Compass, and know how to use it
Phone with an offline map downloaded (a backup, not your only tool)

Light

Headlamp
Spare batteries

Fire and heat

Firestarter
Lighter and waterproof matches
Extra insulating layer

Tools and repair

Knife
Duct tape wrapped around a water bottle
Cord

Health and protection

First Aid kit
Sunscreen, sunglasses and a sun hat
Emergency shelter such as a space blanket or bivy

Fuel

Extra food for at least one more day than planned
Extra water or a way to treat it

Signals

Whistle
Mirror or bright piece of clothing