The 13 Essentials by The Spokane Mountaineers

THE 13 ESSENTIALS

EXTRA FOOD & WATER 

Emergency packet of high-energy food and minimum of one quart of water 

EXTRA CLOTHING 

Having dry and weatherproof clothing to protect against adverse weather 

MATCHES or LIGHTER 

Stored in a waterproof container with striker; lighter with plenty of fluid 

FIRE STARTER 

A small candle or other packable commercial starter 

MAP 

A paper topographic map of the area 

COMPASS 

The best compass has 2° markings, base plate, and knowledge of how to use it 

HEADLAMP 

Don’t forget spare batteries! 

SIGNALING DEVICE 

A whistle and/or mirror 

POCKET KNIFE 

Something small and light with a locking blade 

EMERGENCY SHELTER 

A small tarp, space blanket, or bivy to escape the elements 

FIRST AID KIT 

A small kit tailored to your chosen outdoor pursuit 

TOILET PAPER & TROWEL 

When nature calls, be prepared and leave no trace; “blue bags” in snow 

SUN PROTECTION: 

Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, and UPF clothing plus a hat 

(Note that while modern devices like cell phones or GPS units can provide some level of safety, they are no substitute for these essentials.) 

Founded in 1915, the Spokane Mountaineers have been the region’s leader in outdoor education and conservation for over 100 years! Initially founded as the women’s only Spokane Walking Club, the club quickly expanded to include outdoor recreationalists of all types and have only grown in the many years since. 

The Spokane Mountaineers have the largest and most affordable outdoor educational programs in the PNW and are a completely volunteer-led organization. Backpack School, Mountain School, Wilderness First Aid, and Backcountry 101 are just a sampling of the many programs offered to our members. Not just for mountaineers, the club is home to groups of hikers, bikers, paddlers, and skiers, as well as a committee dedicated to local conservation efforts. 

Recreating safely and responsibly in the outdoors is one of the most important teaching points from the Spokane Mountaineers. This list comprises what we consider the “13 Essentials” of outdoor gear. These 13 items belong in your pack as insurance against the unexpected and can be lifesavers in an emergency.  SPOKANEMOUNTAINEERS.ORG