What to Bring
How what you do (or don't) bring impacts your Timp hike
- Nature is unpredictable & you may find yourself in an emergency situation
- You need to be prepared to prevent & treat injuries
- Always pack these 10 items - they are essential to your survival if things go wrong
- Rescue can take hours - these items can help protect you while rescuers get to you
The Ten Essentials
- When hiking you are responsible for your own safety, and any one of these ten items may help to save your life
Hydration
We've got more info about how important enough water is here
Insulation
Extra clothes for the coldest weather possible
Navigation tools
If you're using your phone, bring a portable charger
Illumination
Headlamp or flashlight (not your phone flashlight!)
First aid kit
Make your own or buy a pre-packed one
Nutrition
You need fuel to keep going, more so in case of an emergency
Sun protection
Sun block, sunglasses, hat
Tools & repair kit
Multi tool, knife, small roll of duct tape
Fire
Waterproof matches, lighter in case you need heat in an emergency
Emergency shelter
Emergency bivvy - insulated usually mylar bag, packs down to the size of a can of soda. Helps prevent loss of body heat.
Sources
Learn more by visiting these pages:
- National Park Service - Ten Essentials
- American Hiking Society - Ten Essentials
- The Mountaineers - What Are the Ten Essentials?
- Colorado Search and Rescue Association - Why Are Backcountry Search and Rescue Teams Always Harping About the Ten Essentials?
- Appalachian Mountain Club - The Ten Essentials - What to Pack for a Backcountry Hike
- Washington Trails Association - Ten Essentials