10 Hiking Essentials To Be Prepared (The Cub Scout 6 Essentials and Scout 10 Essentials)
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If you were lost outside with just 10 items, what 10 things would you want to be carrying?
I would answer with these 10 hiking essentials based on the Cub Scout 6 Essentials and Scout 10 Essentials.
“Be prepared” may be the scout motto, but that doesn’t mean it’s just for scouts. Anyone who spends time outdoors has to be prepared.
Be Prepared
Since then, there have been many lists of 10 essentials for hiking and camping-most notably from the Cub Scouts and Scouts.
I use the scouting essentials lists because they do a fantastic job transitioning from beginner to advanced adventurer. And that way, you’re only carrying what you’re experienced enough to handle.
So here are my 10 hiking essentials based on the Cub Scout 6 Essentials and Scout 10 Essentials.
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Why Should You Carry These Hiking Essentials?
Whether hiking, camping, climbing, or just walking in the woods, the great outdoors is a beautiful way to unwind. However, anytime you escape civilization, you must take responsibility for your safety.
Outdoor adventures require a more proactive approach to preparedness than other activities. For example, dehydration, injury, and wild animals are a few risks.
That’s why you need the 10 hiking essentials (also known as the Cub Scout 6 Essentials and Scout 10 Essentials). Of course, you may never need any of these items. Or, you may only use one or two.
However, if anything ever goes wrong, you will be thankful you have them. Because, as the adage goes, it’s better to have it and not need it than to not have it.
What To Consider When Choosing Your Gear?
When packing my gear for an outdoor activity I use the following four principles:
Quality Matters
Quality gear is the only way to go with emergency kits! But especially as you start limiting things, like the 10 essentials for hiking, quality becomes critical.
You can’t afford to find yourself in an emergency with unreliable gear. So you should always pack quality products that you can count on in the rigors of the wild.
Size and Weight Matters
Since you will carry your hiking essentials on your body or in a backpack, their size and weight are significant. That’s why you should always look for the smallest and lightest gear that can do the job.
Prioritize
The 10 essentials for hiking are a baseline for being prepared. However, eventually, you’ll probably need more gear.
But not every trek is the same. You’ll pack differently for a weekend of hiking in the mountains than camping in the desert.
Unfortunately, space is often limited to only what you can carry. So that’s why you should prioritize your gear based on where you’re going and what you’re doing.
Redundancy
Have you ever heard the maxim, “Two is one, and one is none?” It highlights the reality that sometimes things happen, and you need a backup plan.
So how do you apply this to your hiking essentials? First, determine your most critical supplies, then make sure you have a backup.
For example, in addition to bringing water, bring a portable water filter like a water straw. Or, make sure you pack extra batteries for your flashlight.
What Are The Beginner Hiking Essentials? The Cub Scout 6 Essentials
The beginner hiking essentials, also known as the Cub Scout 6 Essentials, are perfect for starting your outdoor adventures.
But they’re not just for young Cub Scouts. Every hiker and camper benefits from carrying these items.
1. Water
Water is at the top of the Cub Scout 6 Essentials whenever you head outdoors. Otherwise, dehydration could quickly ruin your fun.
There are many great options available for carrying your water on the trail.
Water Bottles
If you are a beginner, a good-quality water bottle should handle your needs. I like all of the ones listed below.
- Nalgene's Tritan wide mouth bottle is free of BPA, BPS, and phthalates, virtually indestructible, and completely leakproof
- Suitable for both warm and cold beverages (-40-°F to +212-°F)
- Wide-mouth opening accommodates most water filters is easy to clean and dishwasher safe
- Nalgene's bestselling water bottle for more than 30 years
- Durable, reusable, BPA-free water bottle filters water using the award-winning LifeStraw hollow fiber membrane water filter
- Removes 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria and 99.9% of waterborne protozoan parasites to ensure safe, clean drinking water
- 2-stage activated carbon filter reduces odor, chlorine and leaves zero aftertaste
Hydration Packs
Once you start taking longer treks, you should consider upgrading to a hydration pack.
Hydration packs look like small backpacks and include a 2 to 3-liter water bladder that you can sip through a tube that runs along the shoulder strap.
Carrying enough water with you is critical, so it’s one of my hiking essentials. And I recommend all of the hydration packs listed below.
- Features a large 30-liter (1,831-cubic-inch) gear capacity, breathable shoulder harness, magnetic sternum buckle, zippered soft touch liner pocket, front & dual side stretch mesh pockets, and comfort-grip molded zipper pulls
- Designed with a dedicated zippered hydration sleeve for the included 3D Hydro quick-drying, soft-molded 3-liter reservoir with SpeedClip hydration hanger allowing a single-handed, snap-and-go connection
- VaporSpan ventilated suspension features a perimeter alloy frame and moisture-wicking mesh to help your back stay cool and dry
- Features a large 24-liter (1,465-cubic-inch) gear capacity, breathable shoulder harness, magnetic sternum buckle, zippered soft touch liner pocket, front & dual side stretch mesh pockets, and comfort-grip molded zipper pulls
- Designed with a dedicated zippered hydration sleeve for the included 3D Hydro quick-drying, soft-molded 3-liter reservoir with SpeedClip hydration hanger allowing a single-handed, snap-and-go connection
- VaporSpan ventilated suspension features a perimeter alloy frame and moisture-wicking mesh to help your back stay cool and dry
- Features a large 22-liter (1,343-cubic-inch) gear capacity, load-bearing hip belt with pockets, organizer pocket, stretch side pocket, and stretch overflow pocket
- Includes a 2-liter water reservoir to keep you hydrated on the go
- Air mesh construction ensures breathability
Water Backup Options
Since water is vital, you’ll want a backup option on your hiking essentials list. By packing one of the small water filters listed below, you can also turn the water you find outside into clean drinking water.
- The microfiltration membrane removes 99.9999% of bacteria (including E. coli and Salmonella), 99.999% of parasites (including Giardia and Cryptosporidium), and the smallest microplastics down to 1-micron
- The microbiological filter will provide 4,000 liters (1,000 gallons) of clean and safe drinking water with proper use and maintenance
- All claims are verified with laboratories using standard testing protocols set by the US EPA, NSF, and ASTM for water purifiers
- High-performance 0.1-micron absolute inline filter removes 99.99999% of all bacteria (Salmonella, Cholera, and E. coli), 99.9999% of all protozoa (Giardia and Cryptosporidium), and 100% of microplastics
- The filter fits in the palm of your hand, weighs just 2 ounces, and is rated up to 100,000 gallons
- Attaches to the included drinking pouch, standard disposable water bottles, and hydration packs, or it can be used as a straw to drink directly from your water source
2. Trail Food
The last thing you want on an outdoor activity is to run out of energy. That’s why the Cub Scout 6 Essentials includes trail food.
But not just any food will do. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics at EatRight.org, you want “non-perishable foods that are relatively lightweight and nutrient dense.”
- ALOHA bars are a seriously great-tasting protein bar with 14-grams of USDA organic plant-based protein
- Made for a healthy lifestyle with 100% natural whole food ingredients that are vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, kosher, soy-free, dairy-free, stevia-free, high-fiber, and paleo friendly
- Enjoy quality ingredients like almonds, peanuts, and dark chocolate that are gluten-free, with a low glycemic index, and no genetically engineered ingredients
- These individually wrapped bars are easy to take with you for quick nutrition, with 5-grams of sugar and 6-grams of protein
- Each pack includes 18 survival bars of 200-calories each for 3600-calories total per pack
- Coconut flavor made from natural ingredients, no preservatives, and non-thirst provoking
- USCG approved with a 5-year shelf life
3. First Aid Kit
No outdoor activity should begin without packing an individual first aid kit. It’s a critical part of the Cub Scout 6 Essentials, even if you are just near home.
An individual first aid kit shouldn’t be massive. Instead, it should be compact and light enough to carry with you.
At a minimum, it should be able to treat minor injuries such as cuts, burns, and blisters. However, the best kits include trauma pads and a tourniquet to treat more significant injuries.
- The Ready Mini First Aid Kit comes equipped with high-performance supplies organized with a color-coded folding page design
- Features everything you will need for day-to-day minor injuries in a sleek, compact, water-resistant carrying case
- Designed for one person, it measures 7.5-in. x 7.5-in. x 4-in. and weighs 1-lbs. 3.1-oz.
- The MyFAK Mini First Aid Kit comes equipped with high-performance life-saving supplies organized with a color-coded folding page design
- The MyFAK Mini offers all its first aid power in a compact, portable-sized, water-resistant carrying case with extra space to customize to your needs
- Designed for one person, it measures 8.5-in. x 6-in. x 2.7-in. and weighs 2.5-lbs. to 2.7-lbs
- Organizes contents into clearly-labeled pockets by injury
- Stop bleeding quickly using the trauma pad
- Provide relief from allergies, pain, fevers, and upset stomachs with a variety of medications
4. Whistle
Even with modern technology, getting lost in the woods is not hard. That’s why the Cub Scout 6 Essentials includes an old-school whistle.
The best part about a whistle is that you don’t need batteries, WiFi, or a cell signal. Instead, it just takes a few short blasts to let anyone nearby know you need help.
- Shrill-sounding safety whistle with magnifier, compass, and two-scale thermometer
- Includes a clip for attaching to a jacket or backpack
- Made from strong and durable stainless steel, the double-tube whistle can produce up to a 150-decibel sound
- The whistle has no built-in pea, so it is less likely to mold or breed bacteria
- Includes two whistles, carabiners, and lanyards
5. Flashlight
Flashlights aren’t just for telling scary stories around a campfire. Instead, they are one of the Cub Scout 6 Essentials with several uses.
Of course, you’ll need one to see at night. But even during the daytime, you may explore a cave or dense brush and need extra light.
But it doesn’t stop there. You can also use a flashlight to signal to others. And you could even use one for self-defense if necessary.
Lastly, when picking a flashlight for your hiking essentials kit, I suggest a pocket-sized one with a powerful LED. And I recommend one that uses disposable batteries and carrying extra batteries.
- Constructed from Type II Military Spec anodized aluminum making it durable, abrasion-resistant, water-resistant, and impact resistant to 1-meter
- Compact single-AAA battery-powered LED flashlight delivers a bright 45-lumen beam up to 41-meters
- Measures 3.6-in and weighs only 1.10-oz
- It uses a CREE XP-L2 LED to output a 500-lumen beam up to 93-meters and a well-placed cycle button to choose between five modes (firefly, low, medium, high, and strobe)
- Constructed from an aerospace-grade aluminum body with military-grade Type III hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish and powered by two AA batteries (not included)
- It measures 6-inches long, less than an inch wide, and weighs only 1.69-ounces, making it highly portable
- It delivers a max output of 550-lumens up to 87-meters using two AA batteries
- The anti-slip tail switch allows quickly turning the light on/off or shifting modes (15-lumens/550-lumens)
- It measures 5.71-inches and weighs only 3.14-ounces
6. Sun Protection
A bright sunny day is a beautiful opportunity to enjoy nature. But it can also be dangerous for your skin without proper sun protection.
That’s why high-SPF sunscreen is one of the Cub Scout 6 Essentials. And if you want to be even safer and take it a step further, you can include a hat, shirt, or pants with built-in SPF protection.
- Twenty-four 0.4-oz travel packets of broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen lotion
- Dermatologist-recommended broad-spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 50+
- Mineral active Zinc Oxide provides broad-spectrum protection
- Paraben-free and fragrance-free making it ideal for sensitive skin
- Water-resistant and sweat-resistant so you stay protected longer
- Crushable hat with a classic 3-in brim
- 100% cotton and SPF 50+
What Are The 10 Essentials For Hiking? The Scout 10 Essentials
The 10 essentials for hiking, commonly known as the Scout 10 Essentials, are the best way for more experienced hikers and campers to stay prepared while enjoying their outdoor activities.
Without repeating those items I’ve already covered in the Cub Scout 6 essentials, I’ll move on to the Boy Scout 10 essentials I haven’t discussed yet.
7. Knife
A dependable knife is a must-have in the outdoors. And it’s arguably the most versatile of the Boy Scout 10 Essentials.
With a knife, you can clear brush, cut rope, open a can, hunt, cook, dig a hole, and defend yourself, to name only a few ways you can use one.
That’s why I recommend carrying a good-quality knife by your side, like the ones I recommend below.
- One of the most popular knives on the market today, the Para Military 2 distills the world-class performance of Spyderco's legendary Military Model into a more compact, pocket-friendly package
- Forged from CPM-S45VN stainless steel with Spyderco's signature round hole opener and washer pivot system for a smooth opening
- The fine-textured G-10 handle features Spyderco's excellent Compression Lock for maximum safety and accessibility.
- It measures 8.25-inches when unfolded with a 3.44-inch blade and weighs only 3.75-ounces
- Features exceptional CPM-S35VN steel, which is very tough and durable, highly corrosion resistant, and able to take and hold a fine razor-sharp edge
- A tough and durable G-10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip in all conditions
- It has an overall length of 9 3/8-inches when unfolded with a 4-inch blade and weighs 5.3-ounces
- Features a strong and versatile drop-point blade constructed from American-made CPM-S30V steel known for first-rate edge retention and corrosion resistance
- The handle has an ergonomic textured grip and is molded from glass-filled nylon for superior durability.
- It has an overall length of 7.46-inches when unfolded with a 3.24-inches blade and weighs only 1.8-ounces
8. Map and Compass
Have you ever had trouble using your cellphone’s GPS in the woods? If so, you know precisely why a map and compass are part of the Scout 10 Essentials.
Whether you use a compass with a map or not, a compass is always an invaluable tool for outdoor navigation. Especially ones that allow you to make declination adjustments and take bearings.
- The A-10 is an excellent recreational compass that is balanced for the northern hemisphere, with inch/cm scales, and a fixed declination
- Features include a high-grade steel needle with a jewel bearing and liquid-filled capsule for stable operation
- Suunto compasses are fast, stable, and simple to use
- This professional mirror compass is balanced for global use and designed for precise directional measurements with metric and imperial scales
- Features include a sighting hole and notch for taking accurate bearings, a declination adjustment tool, and a clinometer
- Suunto compasses are fast, stable, and simple to use
9. Matches and Fire Starter
It doesn’t feel like camping without a campfire. And it’s a lot easier to get your campfire going when you’re carrying matches and a fire starter.
But they’re part of the Scout 10 Essentials because fire can be so helpful. You can use it to stay warm, cook, or signal for help.
- Stores and protects 15 typhoon matches
- 4-in long matches burn up to 30 seconds
- Matches can survive submersion in water or rain
- Start fires in any weather condition by scraping magnesium off with a striker and igniting it with sparks from the flint
- 3-in x 1-in solid magnesium fuel bar with flint
- Includes two fire starters that can be used thousands of times
10. Rain Gear
The weather is unpredictable! That’s why rain gear is the last of the Scout 10 Essentials.
While waterproof pants, jackets, boots, and umbrellas are great for staying dry, they aren’t the easiest to carry around. But a rain poncho is an easy solution.
Typically made of lightweight waterproof materials, a rain poncho folds into a small, easy-to-carry package when you aren’t wearing it.
But when the rain starts, it’s easy to throw it on and keep you and your gear nice and dry. So no matter where you live, I think a rain poncho is a hiking essential you should keep in your outdoor bag.
- Made from 0.035-mm thick PE plastic, this heavy-duty waterproof rain poncho fits in your pocket so you can pack light without worrying about unpredictable weather
- The lightweight poncho fits almost any adult, even over a backpack, and its unique design will keep you cool during those hot days, eliminating the sauna effect
- Made from 0.035-mm thick PE plastic, this heavy-duty waterproof rain poncho fits in your pocket so you can pack light without worrying about unpredictable weather
- The lightweight poncho fits almost any kid, even over a backpack, and its unique design will keep you cool during those hot days, eliminating the sauna effect
Additional Hiking Essentials To Consider
Once you’ve collected your 10 essentials for hiking, you can start individualizing your list. Here are some additional hiking essentials to consider.Â
Multi-Tool
Carrying a multi-tool is like bringing an entire toolbox with you. That can be especially valuable if you find yourself outdoors when the unexpected happens.
Some tools that you’ll find in a good multi-tool are a straight and serrated knife, pliers, scissors, bit drivers, a saw, and a can & bottle opener.
Here are some of my favorite multi-tools. Any one of them would make a perfect addition to your hiking essentials kit.
- Swiss-made stainless steel pocket knife is compact, agile, and ready to face any adventure head-on
- Packs 15 functions into a slim profile that easily slips into your pocket
- Measures 3.6-in. long, 0.8-in. wide, and weighs only 3.5-oz.
- Equipped with 14-tools, including knives, pliers, screwdrivers, wire cutters, bottle & can openers, a file, a saw, and a ruler
- The one-handed opening provides quick access to the tools you use most
- Made in the USA with a 25-year warranty
- Compact, lightweight, and durable multi-tool opens with the flick of the wrist
- Includes needle nose pliers, wire cutters & crimper, serrated knife blade, Fiskars scissors, cross point screwdriver, can & bottle opener, small, medium, and large flat blade screwdrivers
- Overall length measures 5.63-in. when open and 4.37-in. when closed
Paracord
Paracord is as versatile as it is functional. And this makes it a perfect addition to your hiking essentials list.
It’s exceptionally strong, yet it can be deconstructed into a fine thread when necessary. And because it’s nylon, it will withstand the elements.
There are so many things you can do with paracord. Just a few of its uses are making shelters, traps, tourniquets, fishing lines, thread for sewing, and weapons for self-defense.
But you have more options than just stuffing a wad in your bag. There are some fantastic bracelets, necklaces, and lanyards made from paracord.
Many of these have additional survival tools added, making them even more helpful outdoors. Below you will find some of the various paracord gear that I recommend.
- Type IV Military 750 Paracord
- Tensile strength of over 1,000-lbs
- American veteran-owned business with a lifetime guarantee
- Be prepared for any outdoor emergency with this paracord lanyard made from military-grade 550 paracord bundled with fire cord, cotton, and fishing line
- Designed for survival with a built-in ferro rod, scraper, and emergency whistle
- Be ready to survive with five survival gear essentials in one bracelet
- Includes a fire starter, compass, whistle, Ferro rod striker, and 12-feet of military-grade paracord
- Adjustable size to fit both small and big wrists
Watch
A watch isn’t just for telling time anymore. There are now watches designed for outdoor adventures with features like GPS, a compass, an altimeter, a barometer, a thermometer, and sunrise & sunset data.
There are also brands of watches that market themselves as shock-resistant, mud-resistant, temperature-resistant, and water-resistant, making them perfect for the harshest environments.Â
- Packed with intelligent features like a storm alarm, altimeter, barometer, compass, sunrise and sunset prediction, and a depth meter
- Tracks your daily activity and sleep to help you keep life in balance
- Suunto combines Scandinavian design with ultra-durable materials and brings over 80 years of high-quality heritage craftsmanship, relentless accuracy, and pioneering innovation
- From G-Shock, the innovators of tough timekeeping comes the Master of G Mudmaster watch, designed to endure the most demanding environments
- This watch is shock-resistant, mud-resistant, water resistant (up to 200-meters) with a carbon core guard structure, grey resin band, and Neobrite double LED light
- Features include a compass, altimeter, barometer, thermometer, step count, world time, sunrise & sunset time display, and can connect via Bluetooth to a special G-Shock app
- The rugged GPS smartwatch is constructed to U.S. military standards for thermal, shock, and water resistance and uses solar charging to extend battery life
- Built-in 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter plus multiple global navigation satellite systems tracks in more challenging environments than GPS alone
- Help understand your health and wellness better by tracking your activities, heart rate, stress, pulse ox, and sleep estimates
Weatherproof Pen & Paper
Even outside, sometimes you need to make a note. Whether you’re jotting down directions, taking compass bearings, or exchanging information, you’ll need pen and paper eventually.
Any pen and paper might be enough most days. But what if you’re writing something vital during a storm? That’s why I recommend including a weatherproof pad and pen like the ones below on your hiking essentials list.
- The permanent ink writes through water, grease, and mud without clumping or smearing
- The all-weather cartridge is pressurized and will write at any angle, underwater (30 ft.), and in temperatures from -30-°F to +250-°F
- The all-weather paper will repel water, sweat, grease, and mud
- 100-pages / 50-sheets per pocket notepad
- Needs a standard pencil or an all-weather pen
Conclusion
When embarking on any outdoor adventure—whether a short day hike or a week-long camping trip—it’s vital to equip yourself with these hiking essentials beforehand.
By outfitting yourself with the Cub Scout 6 Essentials and Boy Scout 10 Essentials, you can rest assured that you will have everything you need no matter what terrain or weather conditions you encounter on your journey!
Did I miss anything? Feel free to post any thoughts or suggestions in the comments. For more helpful tips, check out my other articles in the links below.
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