Taking the Essentials
Page 7 of 29
• Navigation/communication aids - Carry maps and a compass at minimum. A Global
Positioning System (GPS) receiver, cellular phone, satellite phone, handheld radio or
other alerting devices—all with fully charged batteries—are also valuable tools. Know how
to use these items, but don’t over-rely on them and carry extra batteries. A lot of gadgets
have been found on bodies.
• First aid kit (Know how to use it) - Outdoor travelers are well advised to take a first aid
course. There is no ‘911’ in the wilderness, and self-reliance is important. Courses that
teach wilderness first aid teach this self-reliance when far from help.
• Signaling device (whistle or horn) - A whistle or a signaling mirror can increase your
chances of being heard. It takes much less energy to blow a whistle than it does to yell,
and the sound carries farther.
• Emergency Shelter - Always bring an orange tarp and/or emergency shelter. These can
also be used as signaling devices and can be very useful in creating a makeshift shelter
to keep a person dry. It may be the difference between getting hypothermia or not.
• Pocketknife / Rescue Knife - A knife is an important survival tool, and can be used to
help in shelter building, making a fire and a number of other things.
• Sun Protection - Sun protection includes glasses, sunscreen, and a hat. Sun exposure
can lead to hyperthermia, dehydration, and burns. In bright environments like snowfields,
it can also lead to snow blindness. These conditions can be painful, dangerous and
debilitating.
• Throw bag or Dry Bag - To ensure that all the essentials are kept dry and stored
properly.
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