What's in your pack?

Day hiking can be very relaxing and enjoyable as long as you're prepared, and a little prep goes a long way on the trail. There are ten essential items that you must have in your pack before you go:

1. compass/map/trail guide
2. flashlight
3. extra food
4. extra clothing
5. water/filter/bottles
6. matches
7. whistle
8. first aid kit
9. knife
10. sunscreen/ bug repellent

Every hiker must have a compass/map/trail guide, and know how to use the compass. A cell phone is also an option, but use it as a backup, remote areas might not have service.

A simple hand held flashlight is all you need. Use fresh batteries and bring extra.

Extra food can be as simple as energy bars. Depending on the trail difficulty, you might be burning more calories than anticipated. Jerky and trail mixes are also good snacks for a day hike. I like to add bagels or rolls.

Extra clothing isn't half your wardrobe; socks, pants, raincoat will do for a short outing.

Most hikers bring bottled water, but what about filter tablets and extra bottles? If you lose the trail or become dehydrated, it's better to have a backup plan.

Waterproof matches, good for fire. Pretty primal. If you want to go modern, add a fire starter to the list, most can be found for under $5.

Whistles are good for signaling if lost or finding someone who is lost. Warning: if hiking mountaintops or winter hiking, choose a plastic whistle. Lips and freezing metal do not mix.

A first aid kit doesn't need to be fancy. Bandages, cleansing towelettes, pain relievers and alcohol pads should do it. I add a bandanna as well. You can find a basic kit now for about $5 all ready to go.

Nothing beats a Swiss Army knife, nothing! There are some pieces that I have never used nor am I sure what they would be used for...but oh so cool.

You can't keep all the bugs away with repellent, after all, you are a guest in their home, but you can keep them from pushing you off of the mountain. And the whole reason you're hiking is to be outdoors in the sun. I'm a light packer, so I use Repel Sun & Bug. It has a 15 SPF and a 20% DEET mix, best of both worlds.

That's the essentials, it's up to you to add the rest. My personal list is a bit longer, to me, a camera is a must. Adding to the list is easy based on what kind of hiking you are doing. Unfamiliar territory might warrant a portable GPS. Trekking uneven terrain, you might find the use of poles necessary. Try to think worse case scenario and pack your bag. Remember, you have to carry it, so leave the kitchen sink at home.