What is a “10 essentials” and what does it do?
It’s a starter list of things you should always carry with you when you go hiking. It’s part emergency gear and part supplies that you’ll be glad you have.
Why is this important on a photography page?
It’s not relevant to photography, but it is important if one is inspired to go on a hike or take an outdoor excursion to get the shot (or just escape into nature).
These are the 10 basic essentials:
- Navigation Aid: a physical map and / or digital map. Other items include a compass, trail markers, altimeter, and / or GPS device. It’s good practice to have options in case one format fails while you’re out.
- Headlamp: or a flashlight or both. It’s always a good idea for it to be waterproof. Carry extra batteries or a charger if you’ll be gone for awhile.
- Protection from the Elements: whatever you need to combat things like the sun, mosquitos, ticks, bears, changing weather, etc.
- First aid kit: bandaging materials, Tylenol, Neosporin, alcohol wipes, alcohol free wipes, gauze, important medications for more days than you’re planning to be out, and tampons.
- Knife and multi-tool: for in case and protection
- Fire: waterproof matches are great
- Emergency Shelter: an emergency sleeping bag and tent
- Food: always beyond the minimum expectation, just like important medications
- Water: if you’re carrying all your water then always bring extra. You can also carry a water filter system or purification tablets.
- Extra clothes (especially for kids): because shit happens
Some Other Items to Consider:
- PLBs and/or a Satellite Messengers: A PLB doesn’t have subscription fees but it can only send an emergency signal or SOS to Search and Rescue (SAR). A satellite messenger usually comes with a subscription cost, but it allows you to communicate via satellite in text form (cost, number of people, and type of messages varies by provider).
- Rope / paracord and some carabiners: if you get something with a weight score, it can double as a rescue rope in case of an emergency. Ropes and carabiners are useful for more than just rescuing.
- Bathroom Kit: Learn more: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/hygiene-sanitation.html
- A whistle: in case you need to be loud and found
- Meal Kit (aka mess kit)
A word of caution to this tale: I do not recommend relying on my word alone prior to starting a hike, backpacking, or venturing into the woods. Please take all precautions to do the activity safely and knowledgeably.
Nac Snap Photography 
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