Ten Essentials Systems
At the core of every hiker’s kit is the Ten Essentials, a collection of items to help keep you safe on an ordinary hike in expected conditions but that may also come in handy—or even save your life—in an emergency situation.
Pangaea’s initial offering of items is focused in on the Ten Essentials Systems. The systems are an elaboration on the Ten Essentials list originally devised in the 1930s by The Mountaineers. The Ten Essentials Systems elaborates on the “classic” list to offer more detail, suggest options, and account for varying hiking styles, weather conditions, and terrains.
Though the Ten Essentials and Essentials Systems were intended for hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering, an essentials kit is useful for any pursuit in the outdoors and is perfect for keeping at home and in the car for emergencies like storms or earthquakes.
Classic Essentials
Map
Compass
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Extra clothing
Headlamp or flashlight
First-aid supplies
Firestarter
Matches
Knife
Extra food
Essentials Systems
Navigation: map, compass, altimeter, GPS
Sun protection: sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
Insulation: hat, gloves, jacket
Illumination: headlamp or flashlight and extra batteries
First-aid supplies, including insect repellent
Fire: lighter, matches, firestarter in waterproof container
Repair kit: knife, multitool, duct tape, rope
Nutrition: enough extra food for one day
Hydration: water purification, extra water container, electrolyte replacement
Shelter: tarp, bivouac sack, emergency blanket, poncho
Your Ten Essentials will evolve depending on your adventures. For instance, if you are traveling in extreme conditions such as desert or alpine areas, your essentials kit may include more water or avalanche equipment. Though these systems don’t include a section for signaling devices, items like whistles, flares, signal mirrors, or satellite phones can be critical gear for safe travel in the backcountry.
Drop me a line and let me know what other items you never leave behind when you light out.