The Ten Essentials
The Ten Essentials are the items every Scout takes with them on every outing. Combined with knowledge, skill, and common sense they help keep a Scout comfortable, safe, and prepared.
A Pocketknife
In skilled hands a knife may be the useful tool you carry. Use it to cut cord or food, whittle a stake, process firewood, tighten a screw, and more. Always keep your knife sharp and clean. To carry a knife Scouts must first earn their Totin’ Chip.
Personal First-Aid Kit
A first aid kit can save your life—or someone else’s. Everyone has different preferences as to what to carry. Yours will evolve over time, so it’s always a good idea to build your own rather than just buy one off the shelf. Start with a few items to treat scratches, blisters and other minor injuries and build from there.
Extra Clothing
Temperatures and conditions can change during a trip. Bring the clothing you’ll need for warm days and cooler nights. Multiple layers will help you adapt to a wide range of temperatures. Extra socks are never a bad idea.
Rain Gear
Rain can come in a hurry, even if it’s not forecast. Wet clothes aren’t just uncomfortable, they can lead to dangerous conditions such as hypothermia. Have your rain gear easily accessible.
Flashlight
A lightweight but rugged flashlight is important for finding your way in the dark. Always pack one, even for day hikes. A quality headlamp will keep your hands free. Opt for LED lights rather than ones that use bulbs. They’re brighter, much more durable, and last longer. Pack extra batteries.
Trail Food
High calorie trail snacks will help you keep your energy and morale up. Make your own trail mix and pack some energy or meal replacement bars. Avoid things that melt (like chocolate) and remember that whatever you pack in you have to pack out. Avoid things that create messy/sticky trash.
Water
Water is your best defense against dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Drink plenty of fluids, even in cold weather. Use a lightweight, unbreakable container or bladder system. When hiking under average conditions drink at least 1/2 liter of water per hour.
Matches & Fire Starters
Firs is can be a lifesaver. Build one for heat, for cooking, or for signaling for help. Store matches or lighters in resealable plastic bags. Always carry at least two different ways to light a fire, and know how to use them.
Sun Protection
Sun protection includes sunblock, sunglasses, lip balm and a wide-brimmed hat. Look for an SPF of at least 30. Apply early in the day, and reapply often.
Map & Compass
With a map and compass (and the knowledge to use them) you’re ever truly lost. A topographic map will help you identify landmarks along the way. You might also choose to carry a GPS device in addition to (but not instead of) your map and compass. Your phone is not a map or a compass
