A day hunt can turn into a long night if the weather shifts, a trail gets confusing or someone is hurt. A compact pack built around the outdoor Ten Essentials covers most of what goes wrong, and it fits on a belt or in a small bag.
Start with the essentials
- Navigation: a topographic map of the area, a compass and a GPS unit or phone map, plus spare batteries. Carry paper as a backup and know how to use all of it before you go.
- Light: a headlamp is best because it leaves your hands free. Pack extra batteries.
- Fire: waterproof matches or a lighter and a few fire starters.
- First aid: a pre-made kit adjusted to your needs and any personal medication. Check expiration dates each season.
- Shelter: a space blanket, tarp or bivy sack weighs almost nothing.
- Extra clothing: one more layer than you expect to need, plus rain gear.
- Water and food: more than the day requires, with ready-to-eat items that need no cooking, and a way to treat water.
- Sun protection and a repair kit: sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a knife or multi-tool and duct tape.
Add the hunting extras
Hunter education material suggests also carrying a signaling device such as a whistle or mirror, a phone or personal locator beacon, a length of cord and a bandana. The standard distress signal is three evenly spaced blasts, shots or fires. Pack a hunter orange vest or hat as well.
Make a plan and share it
Write down who is in your group, where you will hunt, how to reach the property and when you expect to return. Leave a copy with a family member or friend. A short plan means searchers know where to start.
If you can, hunt with a partner. Two people can handle an emergency far better than one.
Filed under: Washington DC Hunting News
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