Packing the “10 Essentials” whenever you step into the jungle, even on day hikes, is a good habit. True, on a routine trip you may use only a few or none at all. It’s when something goes awry that you’ll truly appreciate the value of carrying these items that could be essential to your survival.
10 Essential Systems for Adventure Travel
- Navigation: map, compass, altimeter, GPS device, personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger.
- Headlamp: plus extra batteries.
- Sun protection: sunglasses, sun-protective clothes and sunscreen.
- First aid: including foot care and insect repellent (as needed).
- Knife: plus a gear repair kit.
- Fire: matches, lighter, tinder and/or stove.
- Shelter: carried at all times (can be a light emergency bivy).
- Extra food: beyond the minimum expectation.
- Extra water: beyond the minimum expectation.
- Extra clothes: beyond the minimum expectation.
Laos Travel Blog 