---
title: The 10 Basic Essentials
description: "The Outdoor (Ten+) Basic Essentials: (p. 120 Trailman Handbook) Any time a Trailman goes on a camping trip or hike, he should always be prepared by carrying the following basic essential items in his pack. These essentials will allow a…"
url: "https://nig.bfk.mybluehost.me/docs/camping/the-10-basic-essentials/"
updated: "2023-04-24"
category: Camping
---

# The 10 Basic Essentials

The Outdoor (Ten+) Basic Essentials: (p. 120 Trailman Handbook)

Any time a Trailman goes on a camping trip or hike, he should always be prepared by carrying the following basic essential items in his pack. These essentials will allow a Trailman to survive in the outdoors in most emergency situations.

- Pocketknife
- First aid kit
- Extra clothing
- Water bottle (1 liter)
- Trail food (granola bars, dried fruit, beef jerky, etc…)
- Matches/Fire starter
- Hat (should also include “beanie cap”)
- Sun protection (i.e. sunscreen – at least 30spf)
- Rain gear (PLUS small tarp or “military” poncho)
- Flashlight or headlamp (with extra set of batteries)
- Map and compass (\*\* Map should be of where you are hiking)
- Trailman’s Standard or hiking staff
- Emergency contact information (in a waterproof Ziploc bag or laminated card)

\* - Although not part of the “Basic” essentials, these items are very handy to have and should be included.

- \*100ft 550 paracord
- \*Water treatment (Iodine, water filter, chlorine tabs)
- \*Whistle (pea less) / Signal mirror

Recommendation beyond the “Basics”:

- Toilet paper (small/partial roll)
- Insect repellent
- Trowel (for digging cat-hole latrines)
- Small Towel or Washcloth
- Work Gloves
- Pen/Pencil & small notebook

Compare this list with other lists:

REI - [http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/ten-essentials.html](http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/ten-essentials.html)

BSA – BSA Handbook, pg. 207

BSA (Boys Life) - [http://boyslife.org/outdoors/outdoorarticles/6976/scout-outdoor-](http://boyslife.org/outdoors/outdoorarticles/6976/scout-outdoor-) essentials-checklist/