In the backpacking world, the ten essentials are considered to be the 10 items that anyone should have before going out into the wilderness. The list has evolved since it was first proposed back in the 1930’s and there is still ongoing debate of what is considered essential. But the ten essentials can be considered those items which you can’t find of easily fashion in the wild and are considered necessary for survival. My favorite interpretation of this list is the updated 10 essentials listed on the REI site:
- Navigation
- Sun protection
- Insulation (extra clothing)
- Illumination
- First-aid supplies
- Fire
- Repair kit and tools
- Nutrition (extra food)
- Hydration (extra water)
- Emergency shelter
I’ve been searching for a good list of essential items for Emcomm and ARES members to have as the foundation for their go bags or jump kits. Most go bag lists take the ‘kitchen sink’ approach with the expectation of a three day deployment. To carry this much equipment may be a good thing If you where traveling to a disaster area to provide communications as part of a recovery operation, but I think it actually creates a disservice to the average communicator.-Michael KB9VBR