Not too long ago, I was involved with a little organization called the Boy Scouts of America.  For those of you who don't know, here’s a quick description of the BSA.

Camping is an integral part of Scouting, and a fundamental part of camping was each scout’s “Top 10 Kit.”  The Top Ten, as we called it, was theoretically supposed to be the ten must-have survival items that you should take with you when hiking, all conveniently located in the same bag.  If you get lost or separated from a group, these items will help you get through the day and night without considerable trouble.  Even though they’re labeled as survival items, no camper should be without them, no matter how rugged (or not) the camping is.  Remember, “be prepared.”

1) First Aid Kit

This is of incredible importance.  Sure, a first aid kit will not save you if you are attacked by a bear, but it sure comes in handy when keeping all that dirty dirt out of that cut with a simple Band-Aid.  No infections please!

The ideal kit includes:  

1. several Band-Aids
2. sterile gauze
3. adhesive (to attach gauze to skin!)
4. latex gloves
5. scissors / tweezers
6. antiseptic
7. CPR mouth barrier device
8. pen (or pencil) and paper
9. elastic bandages

Mine’s not that perfect, and yours doesn’t need to be either, but it’s something to strive for.  These items should be kept in a separate bag/container where they will be kept clean.

2) Flashlight

It gets dark at night.   In fact, if you haven’t been away from civilization in some time, you may not realize just how dark it gets in the wilderness.  Starlight and moonlight will help you not walk into trees, but they aren’t good for much else.  If it’s overcast, you’re in trouble.  Rather than be severely handicapped, please take a flashlight.  It is not only necessary if you get lost, but it is invaluable around camp as well.  A headlamp is preferred, as it keeps your hands free, but others will work.  It’s best to have an extra bulb, or at least extra batteries.

3) Food

Not candy.  Not something perishable.  MREs (meals ready-to-eat), energy bars, or something similar work well.  It’s important to maintain your calorie intake, but you also need to keep your pack light, and you do not want spoiled food.

4) Water Bottle (with water)

Immensely more important than food.  If I’m not mistaken, the body can last weeks without food, but only three days without water.  If you have a water purification kit and a nearby water source, you’re in good shape, but don’t rely on it.  Always make sure you have water with you.

5) Rope

This one may not be as immediately convincing, but some good rope (or parachute cord, or similar) can really come in handy.  Even if you don’t know any fancy knots, rope can help you make a shelter, or in worse case scenarios, help with a rescue.  If you want to read up on some useful but simple knots, I recommend the square knot and the bowline.  Taking a carabineer or two with you wouldn't hurt either.

6) Matches / Fire Starters

Preferably waterproof and “strike anywhere” matches if you can get them.  Starting a (controlled) fire may not only get you rescued, but it can be lifesaving in a harsh climate.  Scary survival scenarios aside, camping trips simply aren’t complete without a campfire.  Mmm, I want s'mores.

7) Self-Rescue Aids

What I mean by this is a whistle and a small rescue mirror.  Ok, I’m cheating and putting two items into one point.  Shhh!

Whistle

If you are lost or become separated, this is one of the best tools for a quick recovery.  You can yell into the woods for help all you want, but chances are you won’t be that loud, and you will likely lose your voice rather quickly.  A whistle, on the other hand, is very loud, and you can whistle to your heart’s content before you tire.  The universal call for help is three distinct blasts on a whistle.

Rescue Mirror

In all likelihood, a whistle will be more useful to you than a rescue mirror, but in the instance that you’ve been reported missing and there are aircraft looking for you, that whistle simply won’t cut it.  Reflecting sunlight back at a plane (or even distant people if you have no voice/whistle) is the expected way to get attention.  That type of glimmer doesn’t occur in nature, and should someone see you, rescue will be on the way.

8) Compass

And a topographical map of the area if you have one.  If you’re actively orienteering on a hike, then you probably will not get lost in the first place.  In the event that you do, getting yourself un-lost should be a piece of cake (well almost, maybe a half piece?).  Orienteering can actually be a lot of fun.  Anyone who’s done an orienteering course can attest to that.  If you don’t have a topographical map, the compass can at least help point you to civilization (considering you know which direction civilization is…). 

9) Pocketknife

This is really the all-around camping tool.  It's useful for whittling around the campfire, cutting some of that rope you brought, or even for killing wild boars. (Joke)  Just remember that it is a tool, not a toy.  Always cut away from yourself, and remember to keep your knife clean and sharp.  A dull knife is far more dangerous than a sharp knife.  (Chefs, you know what I’m talking about, right?)

10) Appropriate Clothing

Don’t take a ton of clothes with you because you need to keep your bag light, but make sure to dress appropriately.  For instance, rain gear is always a plus, or you may need something heavier if you are snow camping.  Remember also to dress in layers, whether you’re staying in a campground or in the wilderness.  It will make your life a lot easier to put on or shed layers when the temperature changes.  Sweating in something that’s too warm can easily lead to hypothermia.  The sweat that was trapped in your heavy coat during the day can leave you drenched and freezing at night.  Keep your clothes dry!

Another thing to mention here (I'm cheating again) is a survival blanket.  I've never used one, but they're small and lightweight, and supposedly work wonders.

These aren’t the only things to think about when planning a hike or camping trip.  Another nearly essential point: sun protection (i.e. sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm).  And there are plenty of other logistics to think about as well, both essential and recreational.  (What are you eating, and how are you cooking it?  Did anyone bring a deck of cards?? etc.)  However, you never want to forget your Top Ten.  These items will not only make your camping trip more enjoyable, but they may even save your life.