The Ten Essentials: Expert Advice from REI.

This list put together by the folks over at REI is very descriptive as is the video. Carrying these items is crucial when exploring the back-country. It’s better to always be prepared. Most of these things can remain in your day pack all the time with the exception of the food.

• Turn the batteries in your flashlight around so it doesn’t accidentally turn on
• carry a writing tool and paper in a ziplock bag
• always tell someone where you are going and when to expect you back