Outdoor Supplies List

Every good player is only as good as their equipment. So let's take a look at things you should pack in order to be safe in the outdoor adventures we'll go on.

Water, food and shelter - are the human essentials.

For water get a backpack or a hip pack that has a place to put a water bladder or at least two water bottles. It's a bummer to be stuck out in the middle of "nowhere" without any water to drink, so make sure you bring plenty of it. I haven't tried the water purification tablets as of yet, but packing them wouldn't be a bad idea, just in case. I recommend a Camelbak or a Coleman hydration back pack. They are easy to drink from and they have extra pockets for storing your gear.

As far as food is concerned I bring as much relative to the time I'll be out. I bring a sandwich and/or snacks (trails mix, fruit or beef jerky) to help with keeping up energy when feeling a little lightheaded from being hungry. Also, it's nice to have when you take a break at a top of a mountain or by a stream on a hike.

Shelter doesn't mean pack a tent everywhere you go. It means, pack something that can protect you from the elements in case the weather turns bad or you need to spend the night. I have a waterproof windbreaker or rain poncho always! There are sometimes man-made shelters on many hiking trails like the Appalachian Trail, which are neat places to stay.

Depending on the size and the weight of your pack, you should carry more than just the basics to enjoy your adventure. Other supplies I highly recommend you include are: a map of the area, cell phone, flashlight or head lamp, gloves, ski hat, pair of socks, compass, waterproof matches or working lighter, first-aid kit, insect repellent, sunscreen, multi-tool, whistle, signal mirror and sunglasses. Have a good pair of waterproof hiking boots or trail shoes too. Some "nice to have" supplies are: a bandanna, extra batteries, hand warmers, camera, lip balm, hunting knife, emergency blanket, rope, cash & ID, a road flare, toilet paper, plastic bags, an extra vehicle key and a GPS unit.

You can never plan for what will happen outdoors but you can plan on being prepared. I pack this stuff in my pack EVERY TIME I head out. I like to be prepared. You'll feel a little weighted down at first when you start out with these supplies, but the first time you have to use any of it you'll be glad you have it.

Just a side note: It's a good idea and practice to tell someone where you are going, when you're going and when you'll be returning.