The Radical Edge Adventure: Optimize, Not Accessorize!

When you walk into a gear shop, you are bound to find little doodads and watyamacallits that make you smack your buddy and say "I gotta have this!" Don't worry, it's perfectly normal. You are suffering from a very common condition known as "gear envy."
The outdoor adventure market is huge and more than twice a day, we at the shop hear "wow, they make everything now, don't they?" Well yes, they do. But the important thing, is if you are backpacking not to get caught up in all the small accessories that may not be essential to your hike. However, there are some accessories that it is very important that you take put in your pack (or pocket), even though you think it's probably easy enough (and light enough) to leave them behind.

D'you feel like him trying to pack up for a hike?

Make sure that you have enough room in your pack to carry these must-have accessories even after you've packed your tent, sleeping bag and clothing and whatever else you need. Packing these little items are sure to defy Murphy's law, and your hiking pole won't be forever broken, or your skin scalded from the sun. They are:

PocketKnife:
A Swiss Army knife or multitool is a backpacker's best friend. Try to pick up something with a single blade and tweezers for cutting fabric or pulling splinters. We always suggest keeping the knife or multitool in your pocket, because you never know when an emergency arises and you may have to ditch your pack.

Matches/Tinder:
Always store your matches in a waterproof bag or container. You can also buy tinder, like WetFire, which is a compressed magnesium that lights even if it is damp. Keeping these on hand will keep you safe if the weather turns on you.

Make great meals using two hands!

Headlamp:
Even if you aren't a camper you should have a headlamp! Headlamps are just so handy - no pun intended - to allow you to be hands free while setting up a tent, starting a fire, or even just reading at night. They come in various brightness and battery sources. One of our favorites is the Tikka XP Core which we blogged about previously. Click the link to hear our praises.

Whistle:
If you are in trouble, use your whistle. Many packs now come equipped with a whistle on its chest strap, but always keep one with you just in case of emergency (plus, they tend to be louder). It is a cheap accessory that can easily save your life. Note, that in Canada, the video might not show the most common whistles for purchase, but it does show the difference in decibels between them.

Compass/Trail Map:
Always be sure you know where you are going. This comes down to pre planning your trip. Register with park rangers and know what routes you are taking. Be sure that you know how to read a compass before your trip. Carrying these two things (and knowing how to use them) protects you from the Blair Witch....and just generally being lost.

Nalgene or Other Water Containers:
Don't leave home without something to carry water in. As a human, you know that you need to hydrate - do not leave home without something that holds water. Also important to remember that if you are going to an area where you aren't sure of it's drinking water, to take purification tablets, drops or a pump. Never drink from a still water source, like a puddle.

Sunscreen/Sunglasses/Head Coverage:
The sun is getting hotter. Make sure that you protect yourself from its extremely damaging rays. You can always check out the tons of Oakley models in store. A bandana or hat is great protection for you head, which many hikers forget to bring. Make sure you use a sunscreen that will protect you - we like to suggest Kinesys.

First Aid Kit:
Go prepared with a simple first aid kit. It is always best to go hiking with a partner who knows basic first aid (or if you are soloing, make sure YOU know first aid). Make sure you have alcohol swabs, bandages, advil, blister medics and needle & thread. A great company is Adventure Medical Kits, who provide lightweight waterproof medikits based on how many people on a hike and what type of hiking.

Repair Kit:
Again, this is a Murphys law. Many people leave this one out thinking that nothing will happen to their boot, or their tent, or hiking pole - make sure you have a simple repair kit. Bring with you a mesh patch, a fabric patch, duct tape, and a sealant like McNett SeamGrip. *If patching a hole, make sure to swab the tent with alcohol to clean it, the patch will stick better*

Bring with you the accessories that make the most sense to your survival. Sure, the luxuries are great to have, but if you are serious about packing a lighter bag, the frills can stay on the sidelines. Of course there are cooking tools you need to have like a stove, pot and eating utensils (the stove also comes in handy for warmth). Day hikes and car camps are more likely to be able to afford little accessories. Of course these are just the accessories that are most needed, things like rope, tape and garbage bags are also a great idea.