The Ten Essentials

The Ten Essentials are designed to build awareness of the critical gear needed to survive an emergency on the trail. Carrying these items can help you make informed decisions under stress, signal or call for help, prevent hypothermia, perform a self-rescue, and, in some cases, save your life.

    • Appropriate footwear that provides traction, support, and protection from elements; either waterproof or fast drying

    • Extra pair of dry socks

    • Cell phone with apps using GPS

    • Stand-alone GPS devices
      Paper map & compass

    • Download apps & maps ahead of time, have extra battery back-ups, and learn to use a compass and map

    • Plenty of water. Approx. a half liter per hour and adjust for temperature, intensity, terrain, personal needs, etc

    • Refillable container with a water filter or purification tablets

    • Electrolyte drinks, electrolyte concentrate to add to water, or salty snacks

    • Rain gear

    • Seasonally appropriate clothing

    • Avoid wearing cotton - it does not dry quickly or provide warmth when wet

    • Warm wicking & insulating layers

    • Warm hat or hood, gloves, etc

    • Snacks & meals for energy

    • Extra food beyond your immediate needs in case of emergency

    • Sun hat or baseball cap

    • Sunglasses

    • Sun shirt

    • Sunblock

    • First Aid Kit

    • Emergency communication device

    • Whistle, airhorn, or personal alarm siren

    • Pepper spray or bear spray

    • Take a Wilderness First Aid and / or CPR class, if possible

    • Flashlight, headlamp

    • Extra batteries or charger

    • Fire starting: matches, lighter, tinder

    • Repair kit: sewing kit, self-adhesive repair patches, duct tape

    • Knife, multitool

    • Poncho

    • Emergency blanket or emergency bivy

    • Tarp and cordage

    • Large trash bag

The '10 Essentials of Survival' was originally published by The Mountaineers, based in Washington State in the 1930s. The list above has been adapted by Girls Who Hike Virginia for the modern hiker. This not a comprehensive list for all outdoor activities or environmental conditions.