Be a smart hiker by being prepared. Knowledge and skills won?t fit in your backpack, but they?re critical to have. Weather can change quickly outdoors, and something as simple as a rolled ankle might mean you?re out longer than expected.

Even if you?re only planning to be out for a few hours on a day hike, it?s important to pack some essential items. The essentials for hiking (or any activity in the backcountry) are often called ?The 10 Essentials" are adapted from Mountaineering: Freedom of the Hills, which groups the essentials into systems.