It doesn’t matter if you are going on a 3-hour hike or a multi-day backpacking trip; here is a list of ten essential items that should always be in your pack, as well as a few extra thrown in for good measure.

Keep this list near your gear, or pack a “go-box” with all the essentials for easy packing before a hike.

1. Map. They tell you where you are and how far you have to go. You may have hiked the trail a dozen times, but it always helps to take a trail map with you. Blazes may fade or erosion caused by heavy rainfall can fool your eye, leading to confusion—a problem that can be solved by a reference to a map.
2. Compass. It will help you find your way, especially if you are in unfamiliar terrain or foul weather is upon you—but know how to use it! (Check back for a future article on how to use a compass.)
3. First aid kit. There are two options here: assemble your own or purchase a pre-packaged first aid kit (found in most outdoor retail stores). A few important items to have in a first aid kit are adhesive bandages, sterile gauze, medical tape, ibuprofen or acetaminophen, whistle, antiseptic wipes, an antihistamine (for bee stings or allergic reactions), and a space blanket.
4. Headlamp. Even if you planning on returning before sunset, pack a headlamp. You never know when bad weather or injury will prevent you from safely returning before nightfall.
5. Water (or a way to purify more). Always carry enough water for your trip. If you can’t carry enough water for your entire journey, make sure to pack a way to purify more along the way.
6. Pocketknife or multi-tool. A pocketknife can be useful for first aid, food preparation or making repairs, as well as a multitude of other uses. If you are looking to buy a multi-tool, make sure to evaluate all the tools on the knife—do you really need that fold-out USB flash drive in the backcountry?
7. Extra food. It can be just a few energy bars or some trail mix, but always make sure to pack extra food—those calories might help keep your energy up when you out for longer than planned.
8. Rain gear. Pack a lightweight rain jacket and pants for sudden downpours—the weatherman isn’t always right! Plus, this extra layer is helpful if the temperature dips and you need to layer to stay warm.
9. Waterproof matches. It’s always a good idea to prepare for the unexpected. You’ll never know when you need to stay warm if caught in a storm.
10. Sunglasses and sunblock. It’s bright out there! Protect your eyes and skin from harmful UV rays. After a long day on the trail, the last thing you want is a sunburn and a headache from squinting all day.

And a few extras:

• Trekking poles. While not in the top-ten list, trekking poles can make your hike a lot easier by taking weight and pressure off your knees.
• Camera. Capture those beautiful vistas! Whether it’s a lightweight point-and-shoot or a dSLR with multiple lenses, it’s up to you to decide what you want to pack.
• GPS. This tool is great for placing waypoints and recording great viewpoints to remember for the future or share with friends. A GPS can also be a great tool to help you if you get lost, but it’s always good practice to not rely on technology to get you out of trouble in the backcountry—batteries die and satellite tracking can’t always be acquired.

Last, but not least—common sense and a good attitude! This will be more important than you think. Just remember, this list can be tweaked to fit your own personal needs, but your experience, attitude, and good judgment will always be the best tools for a successful and fun adventure.