The Modern Ten Essentials, 1-5
The modern approach to the Ten Essentials is to view each item on the list
as a "system" rather than an individual object. Each system is included to
address a specific need or situation.
- Navigation
Your Navigation System can be as simple as a map and compass, or as
high-tech as a
GPS
and a wristwatch with barometer, altimeter and compass features.
But even if you do have the fancy electronics, I recommend also
carrying a compass
and a topographical (topo) map. Why? They
don't weigh much, they don't need batteries, and they can perform other
functions. The sighting mirror on the compass can be used as a rescue signal
mirror and the back of the map can be used for taking notes. Whatever you
decide to take, make sure you know how to use it!
- Sun Protection
Your Sun Protection System should protect your whole body, so it should include
sunscreen, lip protection, sunglasses and the right kind of clothing.
It's surprising how little sun protection some fabrics give. Use
clothing with rated sun protection
or put sunscreen on all over before you get dressed. For
sunscreen, I prefer using a sunblock with at least SPF 45 that blocks both UVA
and UVB. But both of my parents had skin cancer, so I may be paranoid.
If you're lucky enough to not need prescription glasses, get yourself some
decent sunglasses
that block 100% of UVA and UVB, and that give your eyes good
protection from wind and side glare. If you wear prescription lenses,
either get good prescription sunglasses or consider wearing the kind of
sunglasses that fit over regular glasses. Fashion follows function.
- Insulation
Weather conditions can change quickly. You should take the
right type and quantity of clothing to help you survive the worst weather (
cold,
wet
or
both)
that you could realistically experience.
Layering
is a great strategy. Unlike
cotton, synthetic fabrics insulate when wet. We lose up to 70% of our body heat
through our heads, so
a good, warm hat
can give you more warmth for its weight than any
other article of clothing you could take.
- Illumination
I prefer
LED headlamps
for outdoor illumination. Why? They leave
both hands free for other tasks. Their light is always pointing where you
are looking. They are compact and light weight. Batteries last a
long time with LED bulbs. LEDs don't burn out or break easily, so you
don't need to carry spare bulbs. Most have an emergency flashing signal
mode that conserves batteries even more and can be seen at a great distance.
But even with an LED headlamp, I always carry spare batteries.
- First-aid
If you're a medical professional, you are competent to assemble your own
first-aid kit. The rest of us should rely on a
pre-packaged kit
that is intended for the type and length of our trip, and the size of our group.
Most kits are extremely well equipped, well organized, and include the little
necessities that we wouldn't think of, like a medical emergency guide.
Click here for Essentials #6-10
Hiking & Camping