Ten Essentials Systems

At the core of every hiker’s kit is the Ten Essentials, a collection of items to help keep you safe on an ordinary hike in expected conditions but that may also come in handyor even save your lifein an emergency situation.

Pangaea’s initial offering of items is focused in on the Ten Essentials Systems. The systems are an elaboration on the Ten Essentials list originally devised in the 1930s by The Mountaineers. The Ten Essentials Systems elaborates on the “classic” list to offer more detail, suggest options, and account for varying hiking styles, weather conditions, and terrains.

Though the Ten Essentials and Essentials Systems were intended for hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering, an essentials kit is useful for any pursuit in the outdoors and is perfect for keeping at home and in the car for emergencies like storms or earthquakes.  

Classic Essentials

  1. Map

  2. Compass

  3. Sunglasses and sunscreen

  4. Extra clothing

  5. Headlamp or flashlight

  6. First-aid supplies

  7. Firestarter

  8. Matches

  9. Knife

  10. Extra food

Essentials Systems

  1. Navigation: map, compass, altimeter, GPS

  2. Sun protection: sunglasses, sunscreen, hat

  3. Insulation: hat, gloves, jacket

  4. Illumination: headlamp or flashlight and extra batteries

  5. First-aid supplies, including insect repellent

  6. Fire: lighter, matches, firestarter in waterproof container

  7. Repair kit: knife, multitool, duct tape, rope

  8. Nutrition: enough extra food for one day

  9. Hydration: water purification, extra water container, electrolyte replacement

  10. Shelter: tarp, bivouac sack, emergency blanket, poncho

Your Ten Essentials will evolve depending on your adventures. For instance, if you are traveling in extreme conditions such as desert or alpine areas, your essentials kit may include more water or avalanche equipment. Though these systems don’t include a section for signaling devices, items like whistles, flares, signal mirrors, or satellite phones can be critical gear for safe travel in the backcountry.

Drop me a line and let me know what other items you never leave behind when you light out.

Till next time...