Trail Checklists
Before leaving home, review the equipment, food, water, navigation tools, and emergency supplies you need for your route and expected conditions.
The Ten Essentials
Use these ten categories as a starting point for packing. Adapt your supplies to the route, weather, trip length, and needs of your group. Learn how to use your equipment before relying on it outdoors.
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Navigation
Carry a map and compass and know how to use them. Download offline maps if using a GPS device or phone, and do not rely on cellular coverage.
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Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and clothing suited to the expected sun exposure.
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Extra Clothing
Pack additional layers and rain protection for changing weather or an unexpected delay. Keep spare clothing dry.
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Illumination
Carry a headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries or adequate backup power. Do not depend on your phone as your only light.
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First Aid
Bring an appropriate first aid kit, personal medications, and supplies you know how to use. Consider first aid training.
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Fire Supplies
Carry suitable emergency fire-starting supplies. Follow fire restrictions and never start a fire where conditions make it unsafe.
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Repair Tools
Bring a small repair kit and suitable tools for your equipment, such as a multi-tool and repair tape.
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Extra Food
Pack more food than you expect to need. Include ready-to-eat items for unexpected delays.
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Water and Treatment
Carry sufficient drinking water and appropriate treatment supplies if you may need to collect additional water.
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Emergency Shelter
Carry an emergency blanket, bivy, tarp, or other shelter appropriate to your outing, even when you do not plan to camp.
General Hiking Tips
Before You Leave
- Choose a route suited to your group’s abilities and the time available.
- Check the weather forecast, trail conditions, closures, and property regulations.
- Use familiar, comfortable footwear suited to your route. Avoid testing new footwear on a long outing.
- Carry a detailed map and identify your starting point, destination, and possible exit routes.
- Tell a reliable person your route, who is going, when you expect to return, and when to seek help if you are overdue.
- Charge your phone and carry backup power when appropriate. Remember that service may be unavailable.
- Carry a whistle and review your emergency plan with the group.
- Check your keys before locking your vehicle.
Water and Food
- Plan your water supply around the weather, exertion, route length, and availability of reliable refill points.
- Carry extra water for delays. Do not assume a stream, fountain, or seasonal water source will be available.
- Do not drink untreated water from streams, lakes, or other natural sources.
- For water collected from natural sources, follow authoritative treatment guidance: boiling or filtering and disinfecting. Follow the instructions for your treatment equipment and supplies.
- Bring food for your planned outing plus extra supplies in case you are delayed.
On the Trail
- Stay on designated trails and obey posted signs and closures.
- Keep track of your location and remaining daylight. Turn around before your group runs short of time or supplies.
- Stay away from slippery edges and fast-moving water. Do not attempt a flooded or uncertain stream crossing.
- Adjust your plans when weather or trail conditions deteriorate.
If You Become Lost
- Stop, stay calm, and assess your situation rather than continuing to wander.
- Check your map, compass, GPS, and visible landmarks to determine your location.
- If you cannot confidently and safely identify your route, stay in a safe location. Move only as needed to avoid an immediate hazard.
- Call 911 if you need emergency assistance. Describe your location, coordinates if available, condition, and supplies. Follow the dispatcher’s instructions.
- Use extra clothing and your emergency shelter to protect yourself from the weather.
- Make yourself noticeable with a whistle, bright clothing, or a light.
- If someone is injured, provide first aid within your training and seek help. Keep the person as warm and dry as possible.
- If a hiker is overdue, contact emergency services or the responsible land-management agency and share the person’s trip plan and last known location.