Gear I take for the outdoors. General gear for all outdoor activities lists the gear I take on every trip. Photography lists the gear I take especially for taking photos. Hiking lists the gear I take especially for hiking. Kayaking lists the gear I take especially for kayaking. Safety lists the gear and reminders that help keep a trip safe.
General gear for all outdoor activities
This is a general list of what I take.
- water and a way to carry it
- first aid kit
- map
- compass
- charged phone
- whistle
- sunscreen
- insect repellent
- sun hat
- extra layers
- rain jacket
- flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
Photography
Items needed especially for this activity:
- camera
- telephoto zoom lens
- chest mount
- tripod
- ND filter
- polarizer
- remote release or 2 second timer
- extra memory cards
- extra batteries
Hiking
Items needed especially for this activity:
- sturdy hiking shoes or boots
- backpack
- snacks
Kayaking
Items needed especially for this activity:
- kayak
- paddle
- life jacket
- dry bag
- communication device for emergencies, kept in a dry bag or a box that floats
- water shoes
- bilge pump or sponge
- throw bag
Safety
- emergency blanket
- emergency GPS device
- extra battery
- dress for the weather
- gear for a possible night spent without shelter
Important note
An emergency GPS device uses satellite communication. Many newer cell phones now support this technology. However, keep in mind that your cell phone could become broken, lost, or the battery dead. So having a spare kept in a different location of the pack or a different dry bag might make a difference.
Remember to always tell a friend or family member where you are floating or hiking before you go out. Give them an expected time back, and information that can be used by search and rescue if you do not return in time.