No matter how easy the hike, the key is to always over-prepare because you never know when you might get lost while hiking.
Regardless of how easy I think the hike will be, the items listed below are always present in my backpack as my hiking survival kit.
Backpack with built-in hydration pack
I utilized the CamelBak H.A.W.G Hydration Pack with 100oz (3.0L) Mil-Spec Crux Reservoir during my Camino de Santiago trek and appreciated its additional attachment points on the exterior for rain-gear pouches, flashlights, and other items. When I returned home, I gave back the backpack to my father but consequently bought my own after a frightening hiking experience in Arizona, which served as the inspiration for this post. Ever since then, it accompanies me on every hike I take.
Lightweight, waterproof fire starter
Ensure this compact addition to your hiking survival gear has the capability to remain lit for an extended duration, allowing sufficient time to ignite your tinder pile. These Sweetfire cubes, derived from sugarcane byproduct, have a burning duration of six to seven minutes, providing an added sustainability advantage.
A device for navigation and communication
) allow you access to those same maps and the topography in your area, digitally. On one trip in the Jemez mountains in New Mexico I took one turn on my route that quickly made my hike a full-on bushwacking experience: I was way off trail. I pulled out my Garmin, pulled up a map of the area, and found the right trail within minutes. The Explorer also allows you to send and receive messages from friends and family, even without cell service.
Sun protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunblock
Exposure to harmful UV rays outdoors over an extended period can result in sunburn, eye damage, and potentially skin cancer. Utilizing UPF clothing and appropriate sun protection gear, such as sunglasses and sunscreen, not only enhances the enjoyment of outdoor activities but also prevents the adverse effects of prolonged exposure. Personally, I am fond of the Black Diamond hoodie, which I wore continuously for almost ten days during a climbing and camping expedition in Yosemite last summer. Its ability to keep my skin cool and protected while also wicking away sweat was greatly appreciated.
A light source and a backup power source
To be able to see around you and get your bearings when the sun sets, it is recommended to have a headlamp. I recommend the 75-gram headlamp from Petzl as it emits 450 lumens on its highest setting. Additionally, it has a red light setting which is perfect for reading and doing tasks around other campers at night without being too harsh on the eyes. Most camping headlamps usually range from 200 to 400 or more lumens, and it is ideal to have a lumen setting of around 300 to see the trail.
In order to stay prepared for emergencies, I always carry an additional power source, such as the Goal Zero flip power bank, to recharge my GPS device or headlamp. If my headlamp, like the Actik Core, has a rechargeable battery, I ensure to bring extra batteries if not. The presence of extra power is essential for ensuring my ability to reach a safe location.
First-aid supplies
The size and contents of first-aid kits may vary, and the medications and medical equipment you decide to carry will be determined by the number of individuals in your group. I personally store a compact kit in my climbing and hiking backpacks, and recently utilized the blister-care pack from it to treat my injured heel caused by the strain of wearing new climbing shoes.
Stormproof matches
To ensure you have everything you need, consider purchasing a waterproof match kit that comes with strikers. The UCO waterproof survival kit is a great option as it includes a striker on its side and three additional replacements inside the kit.
Fast-drying towel
I became accustomed to taking this item with me while walking the Camino de Santiago. It is considered more of a comfort than a necessity during a hike. However, my towel is something I always bring along, so I am mentioning it here.
When I have lunch or take a dip in the lake, I lay out my Rainleaf Microfiber Towel on the ground. It dries quickly, especially if you utilize the towel’s small hook with a carabiner and attach it to your backpack while hiking.
A mini roll of duct tape
It is difficult for me to even describe the usefulness of a small roll of duct tape during my journey on the Camino de Santiago.
When it came to keeping bandaids on our feet, preventing socks from chafing against the skin, and preventing blisters from forming on our hands from walking sticks, we relied on duct tape. We would use duct tape for any problem that arose! I felt extremely disappointed when we ran out of duct tape during our journey on the Camino. Hence, I now carry a new small roll of duct tape at the bottom of my backpack as a precautionary measure.
An emergency whistle
When attaching your emergency whistle to your backpack, ensure that it is easily accessible by using a carabiner. Initially, I used an emergency alarm with a button, but the button was accidentally pressed multiple times. After experiencing the alarm going off in a packed train car (scary!), I eventually switched to using the whistle.
Tools and wildlife protection
Swiss Army knives are popular among Boy Scouts because they provide a variety of tools for outdoor activities in one convenient device. Although my stainless-steel Leatherman is a bit heavy at 8.6 ounces, it is still worth carrying due to its numerous useful tools. When going on day hikes or camping trips, having extra paracord can be beneficial for various tasks like replacing damaged shoelaces, creating shelters, or setting up a clothesline. Additionally, it is essential to bring bear sprays and bear horns to specific locations, particularly in the mountain West, so it is important to research the potential wildlife in your area. If you will be spending time in an area with a high insect population, it would be wise to consider bringing bug sprays or a bug protective layer to guard against mosquitoes and ticks.
