Backpacking Merit Badge: Requirement 2 a

2) Do the following:

a. List 10 items that are essential to be carried on any backpacking trek and explain why each item is necessary.

Updated Ten Essential "Systems"

1. Navigation (map and compass)
2. Sun protection (sunglasses and sunscreen)
3. Insulation (extra clothing)
4. Illumination (headlamp/flashlight)
5. First-aid supplies
6. Fire (waterproof matches/lighter/candles)
7. Repair kit and tools
8. Nutrition (extra food)
9. Hydration (extra water)
10. Emergency shelter

The original Ten Essentials list were developed over 80 years ago by a Seattle-based organization for climbers and hikers. It has since been updated to use a 'systems' approach and modern gear. The purpose of the list is to give you an idea of the absolutely essential equipment for not only an emergency, but simple night out on the trail.

Its a good idea to put together a small rucksack or bag with the 10 essentials in that. For a longer backpacking trip they should be packed in an easily accessible area of your backpack.

1. Navigation System

A Map and compass are the two basic components of the navigation system. They tell you where you are as well as well as assist you in getting where you need to go. However, both require a learned skill set to use and without learning wilderness navigation, they won't do you much good. Therefore, be sure and learn, review and re-review map and compass skills from such source as the scout handbook. There is a very good online manual at

http://www.princeton.edu/~oa/manual/mapcompass.shtml

The ideal map for backpacking is a United States Geological Survey topographic map. They are often available through state geological survey organizations. They may also be available through national forest and national park offices. Finally, most guidebooks of major trails will contain excerpts of topographic maps. These maps are better than handout maps and simple trail maps because they have a set distance scale, show topographic details (all hills and valleys), show information such as water sources, and show where other roads and trails are located (and more importantly- where they come out).

Its best to make a copy of the map for your trip and have it laminated as a printing service (like Kinkos). Make sure that the laminated maps are small enough to fit it your pack, and that they retain the original maps scale.

While GPS systems are a tempting alternative to the compass, a compass has several advantages over a GPS sysem. They are lightweight, don't require batteries, are waterproof and cost considerably less. A simple baseplate compass is the still the best for backpacking.

2. Sun Protection System

Sunscreen is at the heart of the sun protection system. This involves sunglasses, sunscreen (for skin and lips) and, for optimized protection, lightweight, skin-shielding clothing. When choosing sunscreen , you should 1) find a formula that offers a sun protection factor (SPF) of least 15, though SPF 30 is recommended for extended outdoor activity and 2) one that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.

Apply sunscreen thickly! All most an entire palmful is needed to cover your body. That's a lot more than most people apply. You should reapply sunscreen every 2-4 hours depending on such factors as time of day and how much you're sweating. Also, don't overlook SPF-rated lip balm.

Sunglasses may also be part of the sun protection system. Wraparound shades are particularly helpful in reducing eyestrain during the brighter parts of the day. Be sure to find a pair that blocks UV rays.

Finally, consider lightweight, synthetic sun-protection clothing as part of your sun protection system. Using clothing to shield your skin is a good sun-protection strategy. If you wear long sleeve shirts and pants, remember that you still need sunscreen for your face, neck and hands.

3. Insulation System

One of the greatest risks in outdoor activities is exposure. Conditions can quickly turn wet, windy or cold, so it's best to carry an additional layer of clothing in case something unexpected (you get hurt or lost, for example) leaves you exposed to the elements.

In order to determine what extra clothing you should take, consider what the worst conditinos that you would have to survive in would be during your trip. Then simply pack accordingly.

Common options include a layer of underwear (tops and bottoms), an insulating hat, extra socks and a fleece jacket. A hat is the one essential for this system. You loose a great deal of heat through your head, and a hat provides more warmth for its weight than any other article of clothing.

4. Illumination System

In the last 10 years, flashlights have radically changed. With their High-output LED bulbs, they are much brighter and much lighter than the older incandescent models. They also are much sturdier (since they don't have a filament that can break). Headlamps are the ideal light source since they allow you to work with your hands free. They are also compact and have a log battery life.

Since LED flashlights are not foolproof, its wise to buy a small, cheap backup light. Places like Harbour Freight sell these for only a buck or two. The only warning is to make sure that they work before you buy them.

In an emergency, a flashlight can be used as a signaling device. Some even have a strobe or flashing mode for this particular purpose.

5. First-aid System

Pre-assembled first-aid kits are often the most cost-effective way of putting together a first-aid system. However, its a good idea to think about what specific needs need to be met and modify your first aid-kit around these needs. All kits should include treatments for blisters, adhesive bandages of various sizes, several gauze pads, adhesive tape, disinfecting ointment, over-the-counter pain medication (tylenol or ibuprofen) and latex gloves. A small compact first-aid guide is also helpful.

6. Fire Starting System

There are two essential parts to a fire starting system. Matches as the mainstay to starting fires, and some sort of tender that can easily be lit and can provide enough heat to get bigger chunks of wood lit

Storm-proof matches are ideal for backpacking and hiking. You can strike them anywhere, they're waterproof and its hard for the wind to blow them out. The downside is that they're expensive and not widely available. If you don't have storm-proof matches, 'strike anywhere' matches stored in a waterproof medicine bottle will also work. Storing them with a strip of fine grit sandpaper (makes striking easier) is a good idea.

While people often overlook it, some sort of fire-starting tender (kept dry in a plastic bag) is another essential part of the firestarting system. It should be material that ignites quickly and sustains heat for more than a few seconds. A mixture of drier lint and paraffin wax can be made and poured into cardboard egg carton indentations works well, as does the dry inner bark of ceder trees.

7. Tool System

There are three parts to the tool and repair system. A knife, a bit duct tape and some sort of strong, lightweight cordage. With these three items, an endless array of things can be built or repaired.

A basic knife fold-out pocket knife is lightweight and flexible. With a blade, a screwdriver head and a can-opener, the pocket-knife balances the demands of weight and functionality. Multi-tools are also useful, though heavy, alternatives to the pocket knife. Tactical knives, sheaf knives and single bladed pocket knifes tend to be heavy and have less functionality than many of the smaller knives.

Duct tape is, of course, invaluable in repairing all manner of fabrics (like panchos, rain coats, tents, backpacks, etc). Its best to take about half of a roll and wrap it around a smaller item (like a pill bottle full of matches) so that its more compact.

Finally, some sort of cordage is invaluable for erecting shelters, lashing camp items or repairing pack frames. Nylon paracord istrong and lightweight. Look for 550 paracord that has 7 inner core strands. Carry about 20-30 feet if you can.

8. Nutrition System

Some sort of small, light weight food items that don't require cooking are ideal for keeping your energy and your spirits up in an emergency. Energy bars are ideal as they're lightweight, compact and don't require preparation. Two things to remember about food in your essential bag. Keep it in its factory wrapper so that critters can't smell it (and hang your bag at night in bear country) and remember to trade it out every 6 months or so, so that it stays fresh.

9. Hydration System

Keeping hydrated is essential when engaged in any outdoor activity. Always pack an extra liter of water, above and beyond what you figure that you're going to need. Pack it in a water bottle that is proven to not leak, and keep it where its readily accessible.

You might also consider a water purification system, such as a filter or halozone tablets in addition to packing water. Boiling is still the cheapest way to purify water, though it is time-consuming and may not purify polluted water. Halozone is easy and cheap, though the water usually smells and tastes terrible. Water filters are usually expensive and a bit heavier, though nothing beats them for convenience.

10. Shelter System

Overnight packers usually carry some sort of emergency shelter as a matter of course. However, its a good idea for a day trekker to carry some sort of small, lightweight shelter. Tarps, tube tents, and space blankets can be very light and temporarily protect a person from the elements. A heavy-weight trash bag can also be used and keep wind and rain off a person in an emergency.

11. The most important 'essential' system.

The most important 'essential item' is knowledge. Without some know-how and experience in using the above listed items, they will do you little good. Practice using a map and compass, lashing items with paracord, erecting a tarp-tent, reviewing first aid, etc. And always remember that your most important essential is right between your ears.

Byron Kerns has a very entertaining website devoted to survival and using the essential equipment at:

http://www.byronkernssurvival.com/prioriti.htm

I strongly recommend checking it out.