Skip to content

0.3 The Ten Essential Systems

10Essentials-4

Ten Essential Systems

• Navigation (map & compass)
•Sun protection (sunglasses & sunscreen)
•Insulation (extra clothing)
•Illumination (headlamp/flashlight)
•First-aid supplies
•Fire (waterproof matches/lighter/candle)
•Repair kit and tools
•Nutrition (extra food)
•Hydration (extra water)
•Emergency shelter (tent/plastic tube tent/garbage bag)

In 2003, the essential list was revised as part of the 7th edition of “Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills” to keep up with modern equipment. The current edition, 8th edition continues with the new essentials list with no major revisions. The new list takes a “systems” or functional approach.