The Ten Essentials, created by the National Park Service, help people prepare for a fun and safe outdoor adventure. This list is adaptable to whatever adventure you plan to take, whether that’s a short day-hike or a 10-day backpacking excursion.

1. Navigation: Well-established hiking trails are easy to follow, but it is always good to carry a secondary form of navigation. Good options include a map and compass or a trail app if cellular service is available. Try AllTrails, Gaia GPS or offline Google Maps.
2. Illumination: If plans change and you need to spend the night in nature, some sort of lighting is invaluable. A headlamp is preferred, as you may need both hands to assemble shelter or prepare food, but a standard flashlight or even your phone can work in a pinch.
3. Sun Protection: Using sunscreen and sunglasses is a great way to protect against skin or eye damage. Professionals recommend SPF 30+ and make sure to reapply!
4. First Aid: You will need a good first aid kit to patch up any injuries on the trip. A simple kit could include some bandages, disinfectant, tape and blister care. Research your trip for specific hazards you should prepare for, such as poison oak rashes or insect bites.
5. Fix-It Kit: Things break in the outdoors—a fix-it kit helps with minor repairs for any gear you may bring. Duct tape and a knife are useful for repairs, cooking and first aid.
6. Fire: Carrying a lighter is typically enough to make a fire, but make sure it doesn’t get wet, as this will often cause them to fail.
7. Food: Plan to bring an extra day’s worth of food. Calorie dense protein bars are great. If you have water and a stove, dehydrated backpacking meals are helpful, too.
8. Shelter: Tarps or emergency space blankets are essential to protect from the elements should extreme weather appear.
9. Water: Plan for around 0.5 Liters/Hour of hiking or moderate activity. Consider more in extremely hot weather.
10. Clothes: Multiple layers allow you to adapt to changing weather conditions throughout a trip. We recommend avoiding cotton in the winter due to its ability to retain moisture.

Tools for illumination, cooking, shelter and water filtration are all available for rent at the SRWC Outdoor Shop. We have knowledgeable staff members who can help you figure out what you need!