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Whenever
you head into the woods for longer than a few hours, you’ll need to gear
up. Base your equipment selection on the season, region and length of your
trip. And remember, in mountainous areas, weather can change quickly and
dramatically. Regulatory agencies at your destination will be more than
happy to answer your questions and provide advice. |
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Don't hit the trail - even for a day hike - without these items |
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All necessary licensing (stamps, tags, permits
for access to private land, etc.) |
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Compass and maps |
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Whistle or
signal mirror |
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Food |
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Water bottles and water |
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Water filter
or purification tablets |
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First aid kit |
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Waterproof matches |
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Flashlights – Always take more than one |
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Extra
batteries - make sure they are new |
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Pocketknife
or multi-tool |
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Repair and
spare-parts kit |
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String or parachute cord |
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Watch |
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Rope |
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Trowel or shovel |
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Sunscreen - use a high SPF for optimum
protection |
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Sunglasses |
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Insect repellent – one with DEET works best |
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Clothing |
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Layered clothing |
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Quick-drying
nylon pants or shorts |
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Short-sleeved T-shirts |
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Lightweight, long-sleeve wool or synthetic
shirt |
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Fleece or wool pants, sweater, pullover & vest |
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Two pair
wicking long underwear (one light, one dark) |
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Underwear |
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Outerwear |
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A poncho or
other rain gear |
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Wide-brimmed
sun hat |
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Bandanna |
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Stocking cap |
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Fleece
gloves |
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Glove liners |
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Footwear |
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Wool or
synthetic socks |
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Synthetic or
silk sock liners |
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Hiking boots |
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Extra laces |
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Gaiters |
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Camping Gear |
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Backpack |
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Pack cover |
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Compression
sack |
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Assorted
stuff sacks for clothes, food and other items |
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Tent, rainfly, poles and stakes |
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Ground cover or tarp – keeps everything
cleaner |
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Sleeping bag rated for the nighttime
temperatures you expect to find |
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Blankets |
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Air mattress with pump or a camp pad – This
will smooth out the ground and let you sleep better |
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Cook stove
and fuel |
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Cooking and
eating utensils |
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Plates, cups, bowls |
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Bottle and
can openers |
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Thermal
containers for hot and cold beverages |
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Plastic
garbage bags |
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Plastic
freezer bags |
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Biodegradable soap |
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Pot scrubber |
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Backpacking
lantern |
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Fuel for lanterns, stoves, grills, and other
outdoor appliances |
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Fuel funnel
(if using a liquid fuel lantern or stove) |
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Headlamp |
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Personal Items |
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Bath
towel |
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Brush or
comb |
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Toothbrush
and paste |
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Lip balm |
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Toilet paper |
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Other
Stuff |
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Camera and
film |
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Binoculars |
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Field guide |
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Journal |
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Book |
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Camp chair |
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Playing
cards or other games |
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Fishing
license and tackle |
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Additional Items |
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