Outdoor safety checklist: For Hiking in the backcountry.

Pack the "Essentials" and be prepared for "Worse", sudden weather changes or delays. The following are items you might want  to include in your pack:

Candle

Clothing (always bring something warm, extra socks, and rain gear)

Compass

First aid kit

Food (bring extra)

Flashlight

Foil (to use as a cup or signaling device)

Hat

Insect repellent

Map

Nylon filament

Pocket knife

Pocket mirror (to use as a signaling device)

Prescription glasses (an extra pair)

Prescription medications for ongoing medical conditions

Radio with batteries

Space blanket or a piece of plastic (to use for warmth or shelter)

Sunglasses

Sunscreen

Trash bag (makes an adequate poncho)

Water

Waterproof matches or matches in a waterproof tin

Water purification tablets

Whistle (to scare off animals or to use as a signaling device)