Packing: Day hike

Everything to keep in your small daypack to bring on every trip (well, except pocket knives on Washington, D.C., city trips).

The Ten Essentials

Combustion (carry at least two: lighters, waterproof matches, flint-and-steel; also: tinder)

Hydration (1–2 quart/liter-sized water bottles or Camelbak-style reservoir)

Nutrition (2–3 granola bars, energy bars, candy bars, GORP, whatever)

Navigation (compass, copy of map)

Illumination (headlamp or flashlight)

Insulation (extra clothing, fleece, warm hat, and rain jacket under “clothing” all count)

First-aid kit (the crew brings a kit, but carry a small one of your own, including personal medications—and you must advise adult leaders about any meds)

Tool and repair kit (pocket knife or Leatherman multitool; needle and thread; dental floss; duct tape wrapped around hiking pole or pencil)

Emergency shelter (space blanket/poncho)

Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, UPF lip balm, hat with an all-around brim, long pants and long sleeves)

Other personal gear

Day pack

50 feet of thin rope

Pencil and paper

Trash bag/pack cover

Whistle and mirror/CD (for signaling)

Bandana (this can be cotton)

Personal toilet paper (in zip lock bag)

Gold Bond (for feet and other chafing)

Clothing

Most of this you will be wearing (plus extra insulation layers in the day pack). Remember: COTTON KILLS! All clothing should be polyester or wool (that includes socks and underwear). No jeans. No cotton T-shirts. No cotton socks.

Shorts or zip-offs (in cold weather: long pants)

Short sleeve shirt

Socks

Underwear (optional)

Fleece or wool sweater (yes, even in summer)

Rain jacket (waterproof)

Brimmed hat (all-around brims offer more sun protection)

Waterproofed hiking boots/shoes (no sneaks, slides, Keds, etc.)

Long underwear (if appropriate)

Skull cap/warm knit hat (if appropriate)

Optional

Rain pants

Hiking poles

Insect repellent

Cellphone (but you cannot use it to call, text, play games, or use Internet; it is for emergencies only—or as a camera)