WHAT TO BRING ON A DAY HIKE

GNHA encourages hikers to check with the leader to be prepared for the conditions of the hike. Suitable clothing, footwear, and a day pack are necessary for most club hikes. The hike leader is responsible for planning and navigation but all hikers should be familiar with the hike description and are welcome to bring navigation systems. ​The list below can be used as a guide for items to bring and may be modified to suit the hike event.

The Ten Essentials:

1. Navigation. Topographic map and assorted maps in waterproof container plus a magnetic compass, GPS unit or cell phone with GPS app.
2. Sun protection. Sunglasses, sunscreen for lips and skin, hat, clothing for sun protection.
3. Insulation. Hat, gloves, jacket, extra clothing for coldest possible weather.
4. Illumination. Headlamp, flashlight, batteries. LED bulb is preferred to extend battery life.
5. First-aid supplies. (see recommended list)
6. Fire. Butane lighter, matches & fire starter in a waterproof container.
7. Tools, signal device. Knife, multi-tool, duct tape, whistle, mirror.
8. Nutrition. Food for the day. Additional food in case of an emergency
9. Hydration. Two liters of water or sports drink.
10. Emergency shelter. Space blanket, jumbo trash bags.          

    Source: Mountaineering, The Freedom of the Hills. 

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Additional items to consider:

• Hiking Poles
• ​Gloves
• Hat with brim 
• Bandanna
• Sun Protection
• Water Filter
• Cell Phone / GPS Navigation
• 2 Large Plastic Bags (30 Gallon Trash Bags, all kinds of uses)
• Toilet paper
• Sunglasses
• Creative hikers often bring other items that pertain to particular hikes, for example: a book on wildflowers.

HIKING FIRST AID KIT