When embarking on a hiking adventure, every outdoor enthusiast would agree that having the proper gear for safety and emergency preparedness is absolutely essential.
With some thoughtful planning and packing of key items, you can create a hiking survival kit that will give you confidence and peace of mind on the trails, even in unexpected situations.
In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover the fundamental components that belong in every hiker's survival backpack. From navigation tools and shelter options to first aid supplies, specialized clothing, and more, you'll learn exactly what gear is vital for staying safe on your hiking excursions.
Introduction to Hiking Survival Essentials
Having the right gear and supplies can make all the difference when facing an emergency situation on the trails. A well-stocked hiking survival kit provides critical resources to enhance safety, sustain energy, navigate challenges, and summon help if needed. The key is packing light yet packing right - carrying only the essentials tailored to the specific hike without overloading your backpack.
When assembling your hiking survival kit, focus on these key categories:
- Navigation - Map, compass, GPS device to pinpoint your location if lost
- Illumination - Headlamp, flashlight to navigate trails at night or in low-visibility
- First Aid - Bandages, medications, tools to treat injuries
- Shelter - Emergency blanket, bivy sack for warmth and protection
- Fire - Matches, lighter, fire starters to generate warmth and boil water
- Nutrition - High-energy food rations, electrolyte tablets to maintain strength
- Hydration - Water purification tools, bottle to avoid dehydration
- Communication - Whistle, signal mirror, satellite communicator to call for emergency help
Prepare for the specific demands of your hike by packing gear that aligns with the trail conditions. Your survival kit should evolve just like the outdoors around you.
Understanding the Hiking Survival Kit List
The recommended contents of a hiking survival kit depend on the nature of the trail and expected conditions. Key factors that impact your gear selection include:
Distance - Longer hikes require more food/water, while day hikes call for lightweight supplies.
Duration - Overnight trips mandate greater shelter/warmth tools than short afternoon treks.
Difficulty - Choose navigation aids, first aid, and communication devices suited for beginner or advanced routes.
Weather - Pack rain protection, insulation, and fire helpers aligned with seasonal shifts.
Hazards - Prepare for wildlife encounters, avalanches, or medical events by carrying safety/survival equipment.
Assess your route to customize the hiking survival essentials for your reality in the outdoors.
Day Hike Survival Kit Basics
For short daytime hikes close to civilization, the focus is on conveniently packing vital protective/sustaining gear without overloading yourself:
- Map/Compass - Don't rely solely on phone GPS, have backup navigation aids
- Whistle - Compact and loud way to signal for emergency help
- Sun Protection - Shield skin with hat, sunglasses, UPF-rated clothing, sunscreen
- First Aid Supplies - Bandages, medications, tools tailored to your medical needs
- Knife/Multitool - Cut, pry, tweak gear or make shelters from nature
- Water/Snacks - Trail mix bars and electrolyte tablets to stay fueled and hydrated
- Rain Jacket - Maintain core warmth and safety if surprised by storms
- Headlamp - Illuminate trail if hike unexpectedly stretches past sunset
- Lighter/Firestarter - Spark flames for warmth and boiling water if needed
Choose quality gear that’s durable yet lightweight so your small survival kit doesn't weigh you down.
The Expanded Version of the 10 Essentials
While the original Mountaineers’ 10 Essentials list set a foundation for safety-conscious hikers decades ago, modern advancements call for an upgraded version:
- Navigation - GPS devices like the Garmin inReach Mini 2 provide two-way communication, interactive SOS alerts, precise location-sharing
- Sun Protection - Look for high-quality UPF sun-protective clothing and zinc-based water-resistant sunscreen
- Illumination - LED headlamps like the Black Diamond Spot run on AAA batteries to shine bright, long-lasting light
- First Aid - Customize your kit with medications you need plus tools like QuickClot gauze, nitrile gloves, and trauma shears
- Fire - Waterproof stormproof matches and Peanut lighters spark flames in the most extreme conditions
- Shelter - Emergency bivy sacks like the SOL Escape Light Bivy provide lightweight, wind/water-resistant cocoons for survival situations
- Nutrition - Pack calorie-dense foods like protein bars plus electrolyte drink powders to replenish nutrients
- Hydration - Filters like the Lifestraw Go let you sip water safely from lakes, rivers, streams
- Communication - Devices like the inReach Mini 2 transmit GPS coordinates and text messages via satellite
- Safety - Always carry essentials like extra layers, pocket knife, duct tape, parachute cord, whistle
Choose gear aligned with your route’s distinct conditions to prepare for the unexpected. With the right hiking survival kit, you can venture into nature with confidence.
What should be in an emergency hiking kit?
An emergency hiking kit is essential for staying safe and prepared on the trails. At a minimum, your kit should include:
Essential Survival Items
- Emergency blanket: A lightweight, heat-reflective emergency blanket can help prevent hypothermia if you get stranded overnight. The SOL Emergency Blanket packs down small.
- Fire starters: Having multiple ways to start a fire, like stormproof matches, a ferro rod, or a lighter, can be critical for signaling rescuers, purifying water, and keeping warm. The UCO Stormproof Matches and a ferro rod like the Light My Fire Swedish FireSteel 2.0 are reliable options.
- Signaling tools: A rescue whistle, signal mirror, and bright flagging tape help rescuers locate you. The Fox 40 Classic safety whistle can be heard over long distances.
First Aid Supplies
Carrying a well-stocked first aid kit can treat injuries and allergic reactions. The Adventure Medical Mountain Series Hiker Medical Kit covers essentials like bandages, ointments, medications, and an emergency blanket.
Severe Weather Protection
Pack adequate insulation, waterproof layers, and shelter in case you get stranded during a storm. The Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack keeps gear dry, while an emergency tarp like the Kammok Kuhli Ultralight Camping Tarp provides overhead shelter.
The above items, combined with proper preparation like packing extra food/water and leaving a detailed trip plan with someone, can equip hikers to safely handle emergencies on the trail. Adjust your kit based on factors like trip duration, weather, and potential hazards. But having these fundamental survival tools is key for every hiker's emergency preparedness.
What do I need in my survival backpack?
When heading out on a hike, having the right gear in your backpack can make all the difference in an emergency situation. The key is being prepared with a few essential items to handle the most likely issues you may face.
Basic Hiking Survival Kit Essentials
Here are some of the most vital items every hiker should have in their survival kit:
- Water - Pack at least 1 liter per person for a day hike. Bring water purification tablets or a filter in case you need to treat water from natural sources. A LifeStraw Go Filter Bottle is a great option.
- Food - High protein and calorie dense snacks like protein bars, trail mix, and jerky are good choices. Also pack a lightweight Nuun hydration tablet for electrolyte replenishment.
- First Aid Kit - A comprehensive kit like the Adventure Medical Mountain Series has essentials for wound care, blisters, sprains, and allergic reactions.
- Headlamp + Extra Batteries - Don't get caught after dark without light! A Petzl Actik Core headlamp provides 350 lumens of hands-free lighting.
- Fire Starters - Stay warm and be able to purify water with stormproof matches, a ferro rod, or a mini Bic lighter.
- Signaling + Navigation - Have a Fox 40 whistle, mirror, and either a map + compass or GPS like the Garmin inReach Mini 2 satellite communicator.
Additional Recommended Items
While not absolutely necessary, here are some other useful items to include:
- Sun protection like UPF-rated clothing, hat, and high-quality sunscreen
- Rain jacket and pack cover in case of sudden storms
- Emergency blanket, like the SOL Escape Bivy, for retaining body heat
- Backup battery pack to recharge devices
Having the right hiking survival kit can give you peace of mind while out on the trail. Customize your gear based on the conditions you expect to face.
What do you need in a survival kit?
When heading out on a hike, carrying the right gear can make all the difference between an enjoyable trek and an emergency situation. At a minimum, every hiker's survival kit should include:
Water and Food
Having enough water and food is critical when hiking. Pack at least 1 gallon of water per person per day as well as high-energy non-perishable snacks like protein bars, nuts, and dried fruit. This will help prevent dehydration, hunger, and fatigue if you get lost or injured on the trail.
First Aid Supplies
A comprehensive first aid kit can treat injuries and ailments until you are able to get medical care. Be sure to include bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment, pain medication, safety pins, scissors, and any personal medications.
Navigation and Communication
Stay found and call for help with a map and compass, GPS device, satellite communicator, signal mirror, and whistle. Know your route beforehand and regularly check your position. Being able to pinpoint your location and ask for assistance is invaluable during an emergency.
Fire and Shelter
Stay warm and dry with waterproof matches, a lighter, tinder, emergency blanket or bivy sack, and a tarp. These items allow you to start a fire, craft basic shelter, and protect yourself from wind, rain, and cold temperatures if forced to unexpectedly camp out overnight.
Tools and Light
A multipurpose knife, flashlight or headlamp, and cordage equip you to construct shelter, filter water, open food packs, harvest natural resources, and navigate trails after dark. Choose durable and reliable products that won't fail when you need them most.
Preparing your hiking survival kit takes some time and effort upfront, but can save your life in an emergency. Focus on the essential elements of water, food, first aid, navigation, fire, shelter, tools, and light for a comprehensive portable safety net.
What is a survival bag for hiking?
A survival bag is an essential piece of emergency gear that every hiker should carry. Designed to retain body heat in cold weather emergencies, a survival bag serves as a personal shelter to protect against hypothermia.
The key features of a hiking survival bag include:
- Bright orange exterior that can double as a distress signal if lost
- Reflective interior to retain radiant body heat
- Waterproof and windproof materials to stay dry and block windchill
- Lightweight and compact so it easily fits in a backpack
Having a survival bag is especially critical for hikers traversing remote areas or extreme conditions. If you become injured or lost, crawling into your survival bag can be a lifesaving measure to avoid the threats of exposure. The bag creates a microclimate to shield you from the elements while search and rescue efforts get underway.
Though small, survival bags play an outsized role in keeping hikers safe. Having one readily accessible in your pack can give peace of mind while exploring the backcountry. Choose a reputable brand meeting industry safety certifications to ensure reliability when you need it most. With your survival bag, you'll be ready to handle an emergency should the unfortunate need arise on the trail.
Essential Gear for Staying Safe on the Trail
Having the right gear can make all the difference when it comes to staying safe while hiking. Here are some of the most essential items every hiker should carry.
Navigation Tools: Maps, Compasses, and GPS Devices
It's critical to know where you are and where you're going when hiking, especially in unfamiliar terrain. Carry multiple navigation tools as backups, such as:
- Maps and compasses: Useful even when cell service is unavailable. Recommended options include the Suunto A10 compass for accuracy. Bring multiple maps showing trails, landmarks, and topography.
- Satellite communicators: Devices like the Garmin inReach Mini 2 allow 2-way text communication via satellite when beyond cell range. They also have SOS functions and can share your location.
- GPS devices: While helpful, GPS units can fail or lose battery. Use them to augment other navigation methods. Models like the Garmin inReach Explorer+ offer detailed topographic maps, navigation features, and satellite connectivity.
Shelter: Tents, Tarps, and Bivy Sacks
If forced to spend the night outdoors due to injury or other issues, having emergency shelter is vital. Useful options include:
- Tarps: Extremely lightweight and packable, tarps like the REI Quarter Dome SL provide overhead protection. They can be rigged between trees, poles, etc.
- Bivy sacks: The SOL Escape Light Bivy is a highly portable tube tent just big enough for your body. It helps retain warmth and provides water resistance.
- Tents: More substantial than tarps or bivys, tents offer bug protection and space to sit up. The Kammok Kuhli is one quality lightweight backpacking tent.
Illumination: Headlamps and Backup Lights
Don't get caught in the dark! Hikers should have multiple light sources, including:
- Headlamps: Allow hands-free operation and are safer for hiking. The Petzl Actik Core and Black Diamond Spot offer long battery life and brightness adjustment.
- Backup lights: A small flashlight or glow stick serves as an emergency backup if your headlamp fails. The Anker 10,000 mAh Power Bank can recharge devices.
Fire: Matches, Lighters, and Fire Starters
The ability to start a fire provides warmth, a morale boost, and a way to sterilize water or signal rescuers. Carry:
- Waterproof matches: UCO Stormproof Matches will light even when wet. TinderQuik and cotton balls make excellent tinder.
- Lighters: Simple and reliable, Bic Mini Lighters work even in wind and cold. Bring 2-3 as backups.
- Ferro rods: Strike ferrocerium rods like fire steel against the included scraper to generate sparks for igniting tinder.
Staying safe outdoors requires proper preparation. This hiking gear helps ensure you can handle emergencies and challenges encountered on the trail.
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First Aid and Emergency Preparedness
Having a well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any hiking trip. Be prepared for injuries and medical situations by packing the necessary supplies.
Recommended Wilderness First Aid Kits
Carrying a purpose-built wilderness first aid kit ensures you have the right tools to treat injuries in the backcountry. The Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Hiker Medical Kit is a top choice, containing supplies to handle issues like wounds, blisters, and sprains. Consider the duration and location of your hike when choosing a kit. Those venturing deep into bear country may opt for more robust options.
Managing Allergic Reactions and Common Ailments
Allergic reactions and stomach issues can arise unexpectedly on the trail. Prepare for this by packing Benedryl tablets, Ibuprofen, and Imodium in your first aid kit. These can provide relief for symptoms until you are able to exit the backcountry safely. Always confirm you are not allergic to any medications before carrying them on a hike.
Advanced Supplies: Quick Clot, Sam Splint, and More
For ambitious hikes where external help may be far off, consider carrying advanced supplies like Quick Clot and Sam Splint. Quick Clot can quickly stop bleeding from major wounds. Sam Splint allows you to create a split for broken bones or strains. Have the knowledge to use these items properly beforehand.
Protection Gear: Gloves, Masks, and Sterile Wipes
Round out your hiking first aid kit with protective gear to prevent further injury or infection. Nitrile gloves, masks, and sterile wipes help keep both the injury and treating hands clean. High quality gear specifically designed for the outdoors will stand up to the rigors of the trail.
Clothing for Protection Against the Elements
Choosing the right clothing is critical for comfort and safety while hiking. The gear you wear can protect against sun, wind, rain, and cold.
Choosing UPF-Rated Clothing for Sun Protection
UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing provides excellent sun protection. UPF-rated shirts, pants, and hats prevent harmful UV rays from reaching your skin. This greatly reduces the risk of sunburn, skin damage, and skin cancer. Aim for UPF 50+ clothing. Lightweight, breathable fabrics will keep you cool while blocking UV rays.
Insulation: Layering for Warmth
Layering clothing allows you to adjust your level of insulation. Start with moisture-wicking base layers that keep skin dry. Add insulating mid-layers like fleece jackets and pants. Top it off with a waterproof-breathable outer shell. This system allows you to vent or add layers to maintain comfort in cold weather. Synthetic and wool fabrics retain warmth even when wet.
Waterproof Gear: Rain Jackets and Pants
Quality waterproof-breathable rain gear is vital for hiking comfort. Look for a rain jacket and pants made of durable fabrics like three-layer Gore-Tex. Fully taped seams prevent leaks. Pit zips help vent body heat and moisture. If hiking in dense brush, consider more rugged fabrics like thick polyester with a DWR finish. Packable rain gear folds small when not needed.
Footwear: Socks and Boots for Hiking Comfort
Proper hiking socks and boots prevent painful blisters while providing arch support. Look for mid-weight wool or synthetic socks that wick moisture and insulate feet. Well-fitted waterproof boots with aggressive tread provide stability, protect ankles, and grip slippery trails. Break boots in before longer hikes to mold to your feet. Apply moleskin or bandages to hot spots before they blister. Carrying extra dry socks is wise in case your hiking socks get wet.
Hydration and Nutrition on the Trail
Staying properly hydrated and fueled while hiking is critical for both safety and enjoyment. Here are some key gear and strategies to consider.
Water Filtration: LifeStraw Go Filter Bottle and Iodine Tablets
When hiking in the backcountry, it's essential to have methods for purifying found water. The LifeStraw Go Filter Bottle uses a two-stage filtration system to remove bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and improve taste. Iodine tablets like Potable Aqua are another lightweight choice that kill harmful organisms when added to water. Consider packing both for redundancy.
Keeping Hydrated: Lightweight Water Bottles and Hydration Systems
Carrying water is easier with durable, BPA-free bottles like Nalgenes or collapsible options from Platypus. Hydration packs with bladders and drinking tubes, like those from Camelbak, allow constant access to water without stopping. Choose the system that best fits your needs and hiking style.
Energy Foods: Snacks and Electrolyte Replenishment
Pack high-energy snacks to power miles on the trail. Good options include protein bars, trail mix, jerky, and fruits like apples. Prevent muscle cramps by using electrolyte tablets like Nuun or carrying coconut water, which replenishes sodium and potassium. Staying fueled and hydrated prevents fatigue, headaches, and other issues that can ruin a hike.
Tools and Technology for Emergency Situations
Emergency communication devices and signaling tools can be invaluable for hikers facing dangerous situations on the trails. This section will overview some of the latest gadgets and gear designed to call for help and improve safety in the backcountry.
Emergency Communication: Garmin inReach Explorer+ and Mini 2
Satellite communicators like the Garmin inReach Explorer+ and Mini 2 provide a vital lifeline for hikers in emergency scenarios where cell phones lack coverage. These compact devices connect to the Iridium satellite network, allowing two-way text communication and SOS alert triggering from virtually anywhere on Earth.
Key features that make the inReach models well-suited for the trails include:
- GPS navigation and location sharing
- Pre-set message transmission
- Weather reports access
- Long battery life (weeks or months depending on usage)
- Rugged, waterproof construction
With an inReach communicator clipped to your pack or vest, you can call for emergency assistance if injured, lost, or stranded. You can also let contacts follow your progress on an interactive map. For ultimate peace of mind far off the grid, these high-tech gadgets are worthwhile investments.
Signaling Devices: Whistles and Mirrors
While less flashy than satellite communicators, simple signaling tools like safety whistles and signal mirrors have proven efficacy to alert others and call for assistance on the trails.
The loud, shrill blast of Fox 40 Classic Safety Whistle can be heard over long distances and penetrates background noise. Weighing less than an ounce, every hiker should have one clipped or tied to their pack.
UST Starflash Mirror allows you to reflect sunlight and create a bright flashing beacon. Made of unbreakable acrylic, it takes up barely any room in your kit. With practice, you can use it to signal planes flying overhead from miles away in open country.
Though less thrilling than space-age tech, tried-and-true whistles and signal mirrors deserve a spot in your hiking survival kit.
Survival Gadgets: Multi-Tools and Power Banks
In addition to dedicated signaling and communication gear, some universal gadgets provide useful survival capabilities on the trails.
Leatherman Free P4: This compact multi-tool packs 18 tools including pliers, screwdrivers, knife blade, scissors and more into a 4-inch body. It can tackle repairs, gear adjustments, first aid, food prep and all manner of essential tasks.
Anker 10,000 mAh Power Bank: Keep your phone, GPS and other electronics charged with this lightweight power bank. Its 10,000 mAh capacity can fully charge most phones over three times. With rugged construction, it's built for the outdoors.
Don't overlook the versatility and convenience these gadgets add to your hiking survival kit!
Special Considerations for Various Hiking Environments
Tailoring your survival kit to the specific challenges presented by different hiking environments is crucial for safety and preparedness.
Winter Hiking Emergency Kit: Insulation and Heat Sources
When hiking in winter conditions, carrying extra insulation and portable heat sources can be lifesaving. Useful items include:
- Sleeping bag: A lightweight, compact sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures provides crucial insulation if forced to spend the night outside or if injured.
- Emergency blanket: Pack a foil emergency blanket to retain body heat.
- Hand warmers: These air-activated pouches provide several hours of warmth for hands and feet.
- Fire starter: Include waterproof matches, a ferro rod, or other reliable fire starter to build a warming fire.
Mountaineering Survival Kit: Specialized Gear for High Altitudes
Due to the remote and dangerous nature of high-altitude mountaineering routes, specialized gear is required:
- Avalanche transceiver: Allows locating a buried person after an avalanche.
- Rope and carabiners: For building anchors and belays on technical terrain.
- Crampons and ice axe: Provide traction and self-arrest ability on snow and ice.
- Lightweight stove: Allows melting snow for water and warming food at high altitudes.
Precautions for Hiking Through Bear Country
When hiking in bear habitats, special care should be taken:
- Bear spray: An EPA-approved bear deterrent spray that should be kept accessible.
- Bear canister: Required in some areas to store food away from bears.
- Odor barriers: Seal food in odor-proof bags before packing in your backpack.
- Make noise: Alert bears of your presence by talking or singing on the trail.
Protection Against Ticks and Insects
Exposure to disease-carrying ticks and bothersome insects can ruin a hike. Bring:
- Insect repellent: High-quality repellents with DEET or picaridin keep insects away.
- Permethrin treatment: Treat clothes and gear to repel ticks and mosquitoes.
- Tick removal tools: Fine-tipped tweezers allow safe tick removal if bitten.
- Anti-itch cream: Apply topical creams to soothe insect bites and stings.
Conclusion: Preparing for the Unexpected
Being prepared for unexpected situations when hiking can make all the difference in staying safe and minimizing risk. Having the right gear and supplies in a hiking survival kit provides peace of mind when venturing into the outdoors.
Final Checklist: Hiking Survival Kit Essentials
A comprehensive hiking survival kit should include:
- First aid supplies like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers
- Navigation items such as map, compass, GPS device
- Shelter gear including emergency blanket, tarp, cord
- Fire starters like matches, lighter, tinder
- Signaling devices like whistle, mirror, flare
- Nutrition items including food, water, water purification
Tailor your kit based on factors like hike distance, weather, terrain. But these basics will help you handle most outdoor scenarios.
The Importance of a Detailed Plan and Route
Having a detailed plan of your hiking route and sharing it with others are vital safety steps. Your route plan should include:
- Exact trail being hiked
- Start point, end point, intersections
- Expected pace and duration
- Contingency plans if delayed
Share your route details with friends/family before starting. Consider bringing a satellite communication device to call for help if needed. An ounce of preparation is worth a pound of cure when exploring the great outdoors.
