The Ten Essentials Always take the following items along with you when hiking... 1. Extra food and water - Take more food and water than you think you will need, particularly water. 2. Knife - A simple swiss army type knife is best. 3. Extra Clothing - A warm morning can quickly turn into a wet cold afternoon. Take an extra shirt and some rain gear. 4. Matches and Firestarter - A box of water proof matches and a film container with Vaseline soaked cotton balls will get a fire going most anyplace. 5. Flashlight - Critical equipment if you find you're still on the trail after dark. Make sure to have fresh batteries. 6. Map - This should be a detailed map of the general area you are hiking that shows the specific trail you intent to hike. We recommend taking a topo map with latitude and longitude coordinates on the map. You can print the maps on this site to take with you, although they may come out a bit small. You can also use a topo map to orient yourself to major landscape features, helping to find your current location. 7. Compass - When you reach the trailhead, note on the map the general direction of the trail, then use your compass periodically to make sure you are still heading the right direction. If you get lost, you can also use the compass to find you position on the map by taking bearings. 8. First Aid Kit - This is a must-take item. Many outdoor stores sell well-stocked, compact first aid kits for hikers. For those new to hiking, make sure the kit contains moleskin, an indispensable solution for blisters on the trail 9. Sun Protection - Don't forget a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses 10. Cell phone - If you are hiking in an area close to cell phone coverage, this can be a lifesaving item if an emergency occurs. You may need to move to higher elevation or out of a canyon to get cellular service. GPS - Bonus item... With the cost of a lightweight (4 oz) GPS below $100, there is no reason that frequent hikers should not carry one every time they head into the wilderness. If you get lost and are carrying a GPS and a topo map with coordinates, it's a snap to find your way back to the trail.