Backcountry Trips: The 10 Essentials

No doubt you've at least heard of "The 10 Essentials" or the standard 10 items to bring with you into the backcountry.  If you google search it you'll come up with a list that looks a little like this:

The 10 Essentials:

1. Map/Compass
2. Sun Protection (Hat/Sunglasses/Sunscreen)
3. First Aid Kit
4. Pocket knife
5. Firestarter/matches
6. Emergency blanket/shelter
7. Headlamp
8. Extra Clothing layers (think unexpected overnight/warm layers suitable for the season)
9. Extra Food
10. Water container and purification (tabs/pump/Steripen/Lifestraw)

Of course there are all kinds of reasons to add/change and adapt the backcountry gear listed in the 10 essentials.  These are simply guidelines to help you to survive for an unexpected/extended stay in the backcountry.  Winter trip lists will certainly add a few more details (solo-stove/kitchen/fuel and extra thermal layers and even avalanche gear) than summer lists.  Depending on the terrain you expect to find yourself in, the list might also be further adapted.  

The point is, just be prepared.  An ounce of planning and preparation can positively impact your trips into the backcountry.  

Do we carry all of the Backcountry Essentials gear at The BackCountry Collective?  At this time, no.  But over time we do expect to be able to offer options to fulfill these lists as well.

Play safe out there :)

Jenn ~ Nikki ~ Dex ~ Kelly @  The Backcountry Collective