I never leave home, no matter the reason, without a quality knife of some kind in my pants pocket. The one I always carry is about 40 years old and has seen plenty of action. I have a much larger one in my pack or dangling from my belt if I go off the beaten path. However, should you need to escape from wildlife or lose your other blades, the one in your pocket can help you survive. You won't be risking a blade with rediculous "batonning" for kindling with this pocket gem, but shaving up a couple of feather sticks will go huge distances to help get a fire going for light and warmth. Don't forget, the ABSOLUTE greatest tool you can ever have is a well trained and practiced mind full of skills and information! The more you know and can do, the less stuff you need to carry. Cheers from an old, grumpy forest wanderer up here in Alberta, Canada.
Always have a beanie/knit cap -- cheap, light, keep you warm. Always have warm gloves, microfiber type, let your hands work when cold/wet. Even in summer: it can get cold, dark, wet. And agree: bic lighter and other firemaking stuff, compass, whistle, map,
Some kind of direction finder (compass, GPS), bear spray, light gloves, change of socks, hat, oh and a piece of ensolite-type closed cell foam, cut to fit the inner back wall of my pack - this is of no weight, and I always have a bit of insulated material to sit on when wanted! I use all 3 of your ideas too! 😊
Always fire starter kit. My favorite includes a ferro rod, and petroleum jelly saturated cotton balls in a waterproof sack. Otherwise this is an excellent list. I would add that a headlamp is more versatile than a flashlight.
Good video, thanks. In addition to your nonnegotiables, I also ensure I have a lighter, matches, tinder, and a metal cup for boiling water or melting snow. Oh, and a whistle and a compass.
I learned a lesson the hard way with rechargeable flashlights mine went dead walking out of my deer stand i spent the night in the ink black woods of the upper peninsula in the morning I was 20 yards from my truck. Now it's two lights head lamp and proteck using same batteries
I agree with you. A rechargeable EDC pocket flashlight is alright I guess but if you're heading out for several nights and need something dependable, take a couple of battery powered lights (that use the same size batteries) and at least enough battery back up for one of them.
I can understand for a military application rechargeable options would not be ideal. Get back from an operation and need to quickly reset with guaranteed performance. For weekend warriors, it doesn’t make sense to be swapping out new batteries after a bit of use, but I want a full charge at the start of every outing. From a cost and waste perspective it’s prohibitive for me but not the military. I’ve been using rechargeable lights exclusively for ~4 years and it’s perfect. That being said I have a spare light in my car that runs on AA, with a fresh set stored with the light.
Thanks for the video. I like your choices. Those three items would make a big difference if you were stranded. For my rain gear I carry a military poncho. They are lightweight and don’t take much space. They are also affordable and durable. If it rains I can cover myself and a backpack. If need be I can use it as a tarp for cover. Two additional items I do carry are fire and a water container. For fire I carry ferocerium rod and a lighter. For a container I carry a single wall metal container. A one liter titanium bottle with lid is very light. It can be placed in your fire to boil and purify questionable fresh water. Also it will carry, well it will carry one liter of water 😂. Thanks again for the educational video.
Completely agree on those other items when you go further into the backcountry. I carry a full kit for those situations: th-cam.com/video/paocMFNpZrQ/w-d-xo.html
I carry some various keychain-sized tools on a locking carabiner in my pocket: a bicycle multitool, a AAA flashlight, a couple of keys, a spare day's prescription medicine, a tape measure, a drum key and earplugs (I play drums), and my ubikey 2fa devices. In my wallet, I have a SwissCard with a small pair of scissors, a ballpoint pen, a small knife, a nail file, some tweezers, and a straight pin. Usually everything gets touched at least once a week. Probably not going to need most of this in the outdoors, but it doesn't take up much space, and a lot of it is useful anywhere. If I leave the knife out, it's airplane-safe as well (though they might not care). It's surprising how many things these days use metric Allen screws--my bike multitool (Topeak Mini 9) gets a ton of use.
Yes, a Bic lighter with a bread tie wrapped around near the top under the lever. This prevents accidentally letting the fuel out. I also keep mine in a small plastic jeweler's bag to stay dry.
Excellent video! My 3 must-bring-items are: a poncho/shelter: either the jerven bag original (camo) or the Särmä Rain Poncho (orange), both included cordage and 4 tent pegs a knife: Bark River PSK or Victorinox Rangergrip 55 ( blade & saw) a comb fire/first aid pouch: mini bic, ferro rod, waxed cotton pads, bandages, pain medication, allergy relief, water purification, etc yes, I have multiple setups and select/repack depending on season
I've worked really hard on my pack contents and weight using your channel, Justin's and Stevens from MLO. I've cut out all the crap, improved the quality of my gear, got outside more to learn and dial in my pack and improved my fitness. Thank-you. Everything in my pack is non-negotiable now but it's light enough to take anywhere. If anything happens I have the resources to deal with it. Interestingly, in the process, there have been times when I was tempted to drop that tool or it's going to be too warm for that mid-layer or I don't need the strapping tape ... and then run into broken tent poles (thanks Samaya), unexpected cold, and multiple people on a hike with sprained ankles. But for the exercise, in Oz, I wouldn't go anywhere without a protective shell, sat comms and a bic lighter (plus sneak in some snake bandages, plus something for the Funnel Webs, the box jelly fish, all the other poisonous jelly fish, the blue ringed octopus, the salty crocs, ooh and that poisonous tree we've got, plus the stone fish... I NEED A GUN MATE
I can go without a torch but won’t head into the bush unless I have a whistle. I there’s no mobile phone reception, a whistle is a reasonable backstop, especially if your predicament has reached the point that a search party’s been deployed. A blade and waterproof shell is also mandatory, as per your list. I’m in Australia; we’re probably not as cold as your climate is.
On my person, always, I have a mini rechargeable flashlight, a good lighter and a blade, usually a folder and a multitool with a mini woodsaw. The idea of an edc rain shell is very good. Thanks for sharing.
@@jhonyermo Matches can get wet or not work in poor weather. Lighters can run out or even break. Ferro rods won't run out and they work even when wet. Besides, I can make a fire as fast with a ferro rod as with matches. My question to you is, why not just carry a ferro rod?
@@BrokenChains77 agreed i have a ferro rod with wax starter in a tiny container i can start 10 fires with 1 fire wax cotton easy and it doesnt soak water.
A thin mil 55 gallon trash bag folded up in your back pocket will always be there when you need it! That's #1 on my edc list because of the multiple ways it can be used. Hypothermia is the most dangerous thing in the woods!
My EDC light is the NiteCore Tip 2. Really light weight, compact, and powerful. It also has a clip so I can put it on the bill of my baseball cap and have a hands free light anytime I need one. A knife or Leatherman's tool and a butane torch are also frequent carry items. In SoCal it doesn't rain very often so the jacket is more of an option. 😀
I carry at all times more than one way to light a fire. I spent an unplanned night out in winter once, I didn’t have a tent or sleeping bag with me but I actually did have quite a bit of gear. A way to light a fire was absolutely the most important thing I had.
I always have a fresnel lens and a buff. I wear eyeglasses and if they're lost or broken it is real difficult to see close up. The pocket fresnel lens helps for reading and close work and it is also a survival fire starter on sunny days. The buff can be used for so many things, ( hat, mask, scarf, bandage, tote, etc...), everyone should carry one. Not necessarily for wild camping, but on long drives and in unpredictable circumstances, especially as you age, a disposable pocket urinal bag can be a real good thing to have with you too.
Small emergency blanket, super reflective it can help first responder find you faster just in case, plus if your stuck over night it can help keep you warm.
I slept in an emergency blanket (actually a bag style, like a sleeping bag) in the Mulchatna in Alaska. We had downed more caribou than we could pack out before dark and a pack of wolves came in on us. Two guys carried the last two loads back to camp and two of us stayed at the kill site to keep the wolves off. We took shifts sleeping and walking among the downed caribou. It was below freezing, frosty morning, but we slept just fine in those bags. They seem silly, but they work!
In addition to what you take I add the following 1. Compression bandage ( to slow down the effects of a snake bite, I live in Australia. 2 a small foil emergency blanket 3 a means to start a fire
For coat, I prefer one made of paclite if I'll use it lightly (in case). Much more durable than those less expensive coats which some coating inside. The latter always dry up and fall appart sooner. For light, I prefer a headlamp. If you walk with sticks it's much better. Sticks are not a must have for backpacking but going downhill in some situations it was quite valuable... Also, I always use quality rechargeable batteries (enloop, ikea, etc.). Always have an extra pair I recharge before going. That way you're headlamp batteries are always fully charged. For multitool, I prefer the Victorinox large knife with lockable blade and a saw (never had the need of pliers but one can buy it with both saw and plier). While a bit more heavy and bulky than the standard Victoprinox, lockable blade is a must in the wild IMHO. A "large" saw is better (compared to the one on the standard Vicrorinox). BTW, when I go for a serious dayhike, I just grab my pounch with many small survival items and typically my standard Victorinox. For multiday trips, I just swap the knife and medical kit for larger ones. Takes
I regularly admit to being a wimpy camper, as in, only use for want of a better expression, proper campsites. to choose three items is a little tricky, but one of them would definitely be a flashlight. My second choice would be a large mobile phone. My third would probably be a lighter.
Love the Fenix lights, but be careful of the heat from stronger lumens. I had one turn on in my jacket pocket, now have a hole burned through to the outside.
Tyvek 6x8 groundcloth (folded up most of the time for a sitting on, but will double as a bodywrap or overhead tarp; a windjacket (patagonia dragonfly for last 19 years); rain pants and jacket; O-light headlamp; lightweight fleece top, beanie, mittens, and finally a 1/2 size road flare. All other items are change out dependent on trip but these go on every single trip for the last 19 years. No exceptions.
Depends on the context. If I’m close to my vehicle or not etc determines if I carry fire starting items, which are in my essentials kit: th-cam.com/video/paocMFNpZrQ/w-d-xo.htmlsi=USG7_a3CA8cm2Xcd
These are good things, and folks had good comments on additional items too. In reality you can put together a compact kit with the basics, whether it’s the 10 essentials, the 10 C’s, but I never go into the woods without my ACR PLB. Best insurance you can buy period!
100% agree - I have a complete kit for when I'm in the backcountry: th-cam.com/video/paocMFNpZrQ/w-d-xo.html The items from this video are on hand anytime I'm outside, even if my vehicle is only a few minutes away.
Plus 2 on your stuff. For me the only other items I would consider a must if I am hiking or even a walk of more than an hour away from the truck would be a small first aid kit. Normal stuff, pain killers, bandaids, steristrips and lukotape. Once this time of the year hits, toque and gloves aren't far away.
shell layer, light, fire, first aid, knife/tool, navigation, and some sort of metal cup/water bottle go with me in some form everywhere in the outdoors.
I always carry a whistle. Especially if I’m alone you might get injured or lost. And if you’re with a buddy, separated with no cell service or walkie talkies fast way to meet up.
Ha ben , je ne savais pas que tu étais aussi un pêcheur , ma passion! I also bring a rain or wind shell , but also something to start a fire and an emergency blanket .
Not counting, a phone, keys and wallet, a flashlight, and a water bottle, is a must for me, then a pocket knife and i hav a small bag i carry, it have water a multi tool, snacks and a small first aid kit, that bag save me when i was in the hospital
For sure! If I'm in the backcountry the inReach is always with me. Learned that lesson in 2009 with a dislocated shoulder exactly here: 44.12385, -73.88177. Luckily I met a guide with wilderness first aid training who popped it back in, or it would have been a miserable trek out. I've carried a sat messenger ever since.
@@KaneDoesOutdoors oh yikes! Did you fall and dislocate it? Luckily I haven't had to use mine for a rescue but it provides peace of mind. Thanks for sharing!
@@BackcountryKiwi Ya, it was raining and I was crossing the top of a low angle slab. Foot slipped and I went for a tumble equivalent to a flight of stairs. Somewhere in all that my elbow caught the rock and pop. Very scary to be in the backcountry and feel completely f'd. I got lucky in the long run, but it was an eye opening experience.
@@KaneDoesOutdoors yeah I bet. That'd make the backcountry feel a whole lot more vast and lonely. Glad you were able to come out the other side and learn from it! Cheers
Do you mean pinch between the back of the blade and drip? I have an original Charge TTi, and that thing is brutal if you slip off whatever you're gripping with the pliers. There is a huge pinch zone that has got me a few times. Hasn't happened with the skeletool yet...
2 lighters, one on me and one in my medkit/ oh shit bag. a good light and knife is a must for sure i think alot of folks try to save too much weight on those particular items.
Three essentials is just not enough. How can you hike for a few hours without water, Swiss army knife, minimal first aid kit, cell phone and bic lighter? Sure add in that flashlight and a rain coat or umbrella and some trail snacks for extra comfort. For longer hikes you need a compass/map/GPSnavigator, emergency blanket, emergency reflector, food ration of toilet paper, 25 ft paracord and extra pair of socks. And if overnight, backpack full of your choice of sleeping stuff, more food, cooking pot, head light and hatchet.
Listen to the first 15 seconds of the video again. I never say these are the only items I bring with me all the time. I say that these are three items I always bring regardless of what I'm doing. There's a big difference. There are over 120 videos on my channel that include multiday winter trips in sub -30C temperatures. Some solo, some with other people. I tailor my gear choices to the conditions and hazards. Eg in avalanche terrain we carry beacons, shovels and probes, repair equipment for skis, satellite messengers, repair items for ski bindings etc etc etc. That is outside the scope of this video and obviously overkill for a local trail run.
Take is when an object moves away from something while bring the object moves towards something. So I bring my gear in this case because our reference is the backcountry which is what I’m moving towards. Whereas I would take 20$ with me as I leave my house.
@@Sometungsten Nope. You don't bring anything anywhere. You take things everywhere. People bring things TO you. They don't take things to you. You can say, "Bring it here." But you cannot say, "take it here." You can say, "I will take it with me." But you cannot say, "I will bring it with me."
Added the link. Mine is 6.7 oz in size large. It's not the jacket I would want to wear for a week of rain in Alaska, but gets you out of a pinch. Very light and stretchy.
@@KaneDoesOutdoors Thank you! If it keeps you dry in a decent day rain, its worth a shot. I use the sea to summit poncho in the green tunnel here out east but need something better for above treeline
@@DDF1408a poncho serves double duty, as ur rain shell that covers ur pack & back again, or ur shelter or ground sheet, or gather water from a still or form a stretcher, or wind shield for ur fire 🔥
For me, in Aus, it's sunblock. I always have a chapstick style lip balm with spf 50. I use it on my lips and nose at least, even paired with a sun hoodie. Even in the winter here you get burned. Great tips. I'm ordering a new micro torch for my day pack!
Those are not scissors they are forceps used to remove fishhooks from the fish. They have blunt ends. I carry mine the exact same way. My 3 items I always carry are a knife, different type depending on where I'm going and what I am doing, a small flashlight, and my pistol.
3.4 mile walk with the dog in the November rain yesterday. got home warm and dry. When I walk the dog at night I carabiner the light to my hip belt loop, it illuminates me, because I'm more concerned with being seen than seeing the sidewalk. But that's in town. Today left the house with light gloves and a thin balaclava. At the two mile mark those came of and went into the pack and out came the ball cap. The dog took me for four miles this morning. Live is good. When I started walking the dog 4 years ago the pack was two half liter bottles and a dog bowl. Over the past 3,900 miles I've added adjustable wrench, multi-bit screwdriver, pliers, cord, strap, poncho, light, lighters, knife, mylar blanket, and the water varies between three and five liters. There's seasonal clothing, hats, gloves and socks in there as well.
Author states 3 top carries. Agree to disagree. A 1 pound or slightly heavier pyramidal tarp tent will keep me alive for the night from wind and driving rains.
Of course! Anytime I'm in the backcountry I have a full kit that includes fire starting material: th-cam.com/video/paocMFNpZrQ/w-d-xo.html These are three items are that I always have on hand outside, even if my vehicle is relatively close. It might be a local trail run or day on the river.
Who brings a map and compass everywhere? I know my way back to my car from my favourite fishing spot, trail run that I do every week, and training peaks. I have other videos covering gear for what I bring to the backcountry that are essential and supplement these three items for more serious objectives.
I would also consider a change of socks, some snacks, a good first aid kit and a compass and map. If you’re in Bear Country, you might want to carry some bear spray and just in case, a Glock 29. Rs
For trips into the backcountry check out my essentials kit: th-cam.com/video/paocMFNpZrQ/w-d-xo.html
I’m going to add a rain shell to mine. I’ve carried the same 4 things for over 30 years- flashlight, knife, tool, and lighter. Can’t go wrong.
Thank you for being able to make a video on three items without taking 27 minutes to discuss it.
hahahah
I never leave home, no matter the reason, without a quality knife of some kind in my pants pocket. The one I always carry is about 40 years old and has seen plenty of action. I have a much larger one in my pack or dangling from my belt if I go off the beaten path. However, should you need to escape from wildlife or lose your other blades, the one in your pocket can help you survive. You won't be risking a blade with rediculous "batonning" for kindling with this pocket gem, but shaving up a couple of feather sticks will go huge distances to help get a fire going for light and warmth.
Don't forget, the ABSOLUTE greatest tool you can ever have is a well trained and practiced mind full of skills and information! The more you know and can do, the less stuff you need to carry. Cheers from an old, grumpy forest wanderer up here in Alberta, Canada.
Nice!
Always have a beanie/knit cap -- cheap, light, keep you warm. Always have warm gloves, microfiber type, let your hands work when cold/wet. Even in summer: it can get cold, dark, wet. And agree: bic lighter and other firemaking stuff, compass, whistle, map,
Some kind of direction finder (compass, GPS), bear spray, light gloves, change of socks, hat, oh and a piece of ensolite-type closed cell foam, cut to fit the inner back wall of my pack - this is of no weight, and I always have a bit of insulated material to sit on when wanted! I use all 3 of your ideas too! 😊
I always carry something to start a fire, an emergency bivy, a light, and a small pocket knife.
What's a bivy? If you don't mind me asking
Short for bivouac. Could be a tent or poncho that could be a shelter or it could be a sleeping bag/sack of a lightweight design.
@@homeofinventions the lightweight sleeping bag, ok thanks for the information
Always fire starter kit. My favorite includes a ferro rod, and petroleum jelly saturated cotton balls in a waterproof sack. Otherwise this is an excellent list. I would add that a headlamp is more versatile than a flashlight.
Good video, thanks. In addition to your nonnegotiables, I also ensure I have a lighter, matches, tinder, and a metal cup for boiling water or melting snow. Oh, and a whistle and a compass.
More videos to follow for specific situations ;)
Dear @OldMountaineer this is exactly what I was going to say. Happy Trails.
I learned a lesson the hard way with rechargeable flashlights mine went dead walking out of my deer stand i spent the night in the ink black woods of the upper peninsula in the morning I was 20 yards from my truck. Now it's two lights head lamp and proteck using same batteries
I agree with you. A rechargeable EDC pocket flashlight is alright I guess but if you're heading out for several nights and need something dependable, take a couple of battery powered lights (that use the same size batteries) and at least enough battery back up for one of them.
@ericpatterson5792. Special Operators don't like rechargeable lights. Somethin' to be said about that...
I can understand for a military application rechargeable options would not be ideal. Get back from an operation and need to quickly reset with guaranteed performance.
For weekend warriors, it doesn’t make sense to be swapping out new batteries after a bit of use, but I want a full charge at the start of every outing. From a cost and waste perspective it’s prohibitive for me but not the military. I’ve been using rechargeable lights exclusively for ~4 years and it’s perfect.
That being said I have a spare light in my car that runs on AA, with a fresh set stored with the light.
Thanks for the video. I like your choices. Those three items would make a big difference if you were stranded. For my rain gear I carry a military poncho. They are lightweight and don’t take much space. They are also affordable and durable. If it rains I can cover myself and a backpack. If need be I can use it as a tarp for cover. Two additional items I do carry are fire and a water container. For fire I carry ferocerium rod and a lighter. For a container I carry a single wall metal container. A one liter titanium bottle with lid is very light. It can be placed in your fire to boil and purify questionable fresh water. Also it will carry, well it will carry one liter of water 😂. Thanks again for the educational video.
Completely agree on those other items when you go further into the backcountry. I carry a full kit for those situations: th-cam.com/video/paocMFNpZrQ/w-d-xo.html
I Don't go nowhere without raingear, fire and a light.
light not so much of a big deal during summer, but winter it's dark most of the time here.
I carry some various keychain-sized tools on a locking carabiner in my pocket: a bicycle multitool, a AAA flashlight, a couple of keys, a spare day's prescription medicine, a tape measure, a drum key and earplugs (I play drums), and my ubikey 2fa devices. In my wallet, I have a SwissCard with a small pair of scissors, a ballpoint pen, a small knife, a nail file, some tweezers, and a straight pin. Usually everything gets touched at least once a week. Probably not going to need most of this in the outdoors, but it doesn't take up much space, and a lot of it is useful anywhere. If I leave the knife out, it's airplane-safe as well (though they might not care).
It's surprising how many things these days use metric Allen screws--my bike multitool (Topeak Mini 9) gets a ton of use.
Totally agree with those 3 but also a bic lighter.
I thought the same thing!
Yes, a Bic lighter with a bread tie wrapped around near the top under the lever. This prevents accidentally letting the fuel out. I also keep mine in a small plastic jeweler's bag to stay dry.
Excellent video!
My 3 must-bring-items are:
a poncho/shelter: either the jerven bag original (camo) or the Särmä Rain Poncho (orange), both included cordage and 4 tent pegs
a knife: Bark River PSK or Victorinox Rangergrip 55 ( blade & saw)
a comb fire/first aid pouch: mini bic, ferro rod, waxed cotton pads, bandages, pain medication, allergy relief, water purification, etc
yes, I have multiple setups and select/repack depending on season
I think you're good to go!
I've worked really hard on my pack contents and weight using your channel, Justin's and Stevens from MLO. I've cut out all the crap, improved the quality of my gear, got outside more to learn and dial in my pack and improved my fitness. Thank-you. Everything in my pack is non-negotiable now but it's light enough to take anywhere. If anything happens I have the resources to deal with it. Interestingly, in the process, there have been times when I was tempted to drop that tool or it's going to be too warm for that mid-layer or I don't need the strapping tape ... and then run into broken tent poles (thanks Samaya), unexpected cold, and multiple people on a hike with sprained ankles. But for the exercise, in Oz, I wouldn't go anywhere without a protective shell, sat comms and a bic lighter (plus sneak in some snake bandages, plus something for the Funnel Webs, the box jelly fish, all the other poisonous jelly fish, the blue ringed octopus, the salty crocs, ooh and that poisonous tree we've got, plus the stone fish... I NEED A GUN MATE
Definitely some good resources with Justin and MLO!
I can go without a torch but won’t head into the bush unless I have a whistle. I there’s no mobile phone reception, a whistle is a reasonable backstop, especially if your predicament has reached the point that a search party’s been deployed. A blade and waterproof shell is also mandatory, as per your list. I’m in Australia; we’re probably not as cold as your climate is.
I always have a whistle. No weight at all. Easy to carry. Always have a way to signal for help.
On my person, always, I have a mini rechargeable flashlight, a good lighter and a blade, usually a folder and a multitool with a mini woodsaw. The idea of an edc rain shell is very good. Thanks for sharing.
I had 2 out of 3 - a fixed-blade knife and a light. My 3rd is a ferro rod.
Why not just carry some matches?
@@jhonyermo Matches can get wet or not work in poor weather.
Lighters can run out or even break.
Ferro rods won't run out and they work even when wet. Besides, I can make a fire as fast with a ferro rod as with matches.
My question to you is, why not just carry a ferro rod?
@@BrokenChains77 agreed i have a ferro rod with wax starter in a tiny container i can start 10 fires with 1 fire wax cotton easy and it doesnt soak water.
A thin mil 55 gallon trash bag folded up in your back pocket will always be there when you need it!
That's #1 on my edc list because of the multiple ways it can be used. Hypothermia is the most dangerous thing in the woods!
Yes, all these, & spare spectacles and drinking water
My EDC light is the NiteCore Tip 2. Really light weight, compact, and powerful. It also has a clip so I can put it on the bill of my baseball cap and have a hands free light anytime I need one. A knife or Leatherman's tool and a butane torch are also frequent carry items. In SoCal it doesn't rain very often so the jacket is more of an option. 😀
I carry at all times more than one way to light a fire. I spent an unplanned night out in winter once, I didn’t have a tent or sleeping bag with me but I actually did have quite a bit of gear. A way to light a fire was absolutely the most important thing I had.
I always have a fresnel lens and a buff. I wear eyeglasses and if they're lost or broken it is real difficult to see close up. The pocket fresnel lens helps for reading and close work and it is also a survival fire starter on sunny days. The buff can be used for so many things, ( hat, mask, scarf, bandage, tote, etc...), everyone should carry one. Not necessarily for wild camping, but on long drives and in unpredictable circumstances, especially as you age, a disposable pocket urinal bag can be a real good thing to have with you too.
Small emergency blanket, super reflective it can help first responder find you faster just in case, plus if your stuck over night it can help keep you warm.
I slept in an emergency blanket (actually a bag style, like a sleeping bag) in the Mulchatna in Alaska. We had downed more caribou than we could pack out before dark and a pack of wolves came in on us. Two guys carried the last two loads back to camp and two of us stayed at the kill site to keep the wolves off. We took shifts sleeping and walking among the downed caribou. It was below freezing, frosty morning, but we slept just fine in those bags. They seem silly, but they work!
In addition to what you take I add the following 1. Compression bandage ( to slow down the effects of a snake bite, I live in Australia.
2 a small foil emergency blanket 3 a means to start a fire
I have the same Leatherman. It comes on every trip.
For coat, I prefer one made of paclite if I'll use it lightly (in case). Much more durable than those less expensive coats which some coating inside. The latter always dry up and fall appart sooner.
For light, I prefer a headlamp. If you walk with sticks it's much better. Sticks are not a must have for backpacking but going downhill in some situations it was quite valuable... Also, I always use quality rechargeable batteries (enloop, ikea, etc.). Always have an extra pair I recharge before going. That way you're headlamp batteries are always fully charged.
For multitool, I prefer the Victorinox large knife with lockable blade and a saw (never had the need of pliers but one can buy it with both saw and plier). While a bit more heavy and bulky than the standard Victoprinox, lockable blade is a must in the wild IMHO. A "large" saw is better (compared to the one on the standard Vicrorinox).
BTW, when I go for a serious dayhike, I just grab my pounch with many small survival items and typically my standard Victorinox. For multiday trips, I just swap the knife and medical kit for larger ones. Takes
Fire is #1 Always!
I regularly admit to being a wimpy camper, as in, only use for want of a better expression, proper campsites. to choose three items is a little tricky, but one of them would definitely be a flashlight. My second choice would be a large mobile phone. My third would probably be a lighter.
Love the Fenix lights, but be careful of the heat from stronger lumens. I had one turn on in my jacket pocket, now have a hole burned through to the outside.
Tyvek 6x8 groundcloth (folded up most of the time for a sitting on, but will double as a bodywrap or overhead tarp; a windjacket (patagonia dragonfly for last 19 years); rain pants and jacket; O-light headlamp; lightweight fleece top, beanie, mittens, and finally a 1/2 size road flare. All other items are change out dependent on trip but these go on every single trip for the last 19 years. No exceptions.
Garmin InReach GPS. First Aid Kit. Plus the things you mentioned.
I would add a fire rod/starter, and your three item kit is very good
i would add 20 must haves 3 is a very short list lol but this is youtube and internet pump out the content
Depends on the context. If I’m close to my vehicle or not etc determines if I carry fire starting items, which are in my essentials kit: th-cam.com/video/paocMFNpZrQ/w-d-xo.htmlsi=USG7_a3CA8cm2Xcd
These are good things, and folks had good comments on additional items too. In reality you can put together a compact kit with the basics, whether it’s the 10 essentials, the 10 C’s, but I never go into the woods without my ACR PLB. Best insurance you can buy period!
100% agree - I have a complete kit for when I'm in the backcountry: th-cam.com/video/paocMFNpZrQ/w-d-xo.html
The items from this video are on hand anytime I'm outside, even if my vehicle is only a few minutes away.
This is Excellent advice ! I love Fenix lights another brand that is very good at a bit lower price point is FiTorch.
Good job! Keep it going!
Nice FYI! Thanks for sharing 👍 😊
Plus 2 on your stuff. For me the only other items I would consider a must if I am hiking or even a walk of more than an hour away from the truck would be a small first aid kit. Normal stuff, pain killers, bandaids, steristrips and lukotape. Once this time of the year hits, toque and gloves aren't far away.
100% agree. All depends on what you're doing, how far from civilization etc.
shell layer, light, fire, first aid, knife/tool, navigation, and some sort of metal cup/water bottle go with me in some form everywhere in the outdoors.
I always carry a whistle. Especially if I’m alone you might get injured or lost. And if you’re with a buddy, separated with no cell service or walkie talkies fast way to meet up.
Ha ben , je ne savais pas que tu étais aussi un pêcheur , ma passion! I also bring a rain or wind shell , but also something to start a fire and an emergency blanket .
Je suis pas tres bon pecheur hahaah
@@KaneDoesOutdoors 😅
I agree those are 3 non negotiable. I have a fourth non negotiable :firemaking capability.
Not counting, a phone, keys and wallet, a flashlight, and a water bottle, is a must for me, then a pocket knife and i hav a small bag i carry, it have water a multi tool, snacks and a small first aid kit, that bag save me when i was in the hospital
The best thing you can take is knowledge. It travels light and goes with you everywhere
Knowledge is good, common sense is better.
I made up a two tin set modeled after the hot wet survival packs I carried in RVN. I don't think there is a better mix of edc gear any where.
Good advice. Do not forget the duct tape and zip ties mate.
Gotta love the Canadian accent.
Haha my house is a linguistic mess, a mix of English, French and Spanish.
Great video Kane.
I also always carry my Garmin mini inreach.
Cheers!
For sure! If I'm in the backcountry the inReach is always with me. Learned that lesson in 2009 with a dislocated shoulder exactly here: 44.12385, -73.88177. Luckily I met a guide with wilderness first aid training who popped it back in, or it would have been a miserable trek out. I've carried a sat messenger ever since.
@@KaneDoesOutdoors oh yikes! Did you fall and dislocate it?
Luckily I haven't had to use mine for a rescue but it provides peace of mind.
Thanks for sharing!
@@BackcountryKiwi Ya, it was raining and I was crossing the top of a low angle slab. Foot slipped and I went for a tumble equivalent to a flight of stairs. Somewhere in all that my elbow caught the rock and pop. Very scary to be in the backcountry and feel completely f'd. I got lucky in the long run, but it was an eye opening experience.
@@KaneDoesOutdoors yeah I bet. That'd make the backcountry feel a whole lot more vast and lonely. Glad you were able to come out the other side and learn from it!
Cheers
I carry the skeletool and I love it. It can really pinch though.
Do you mean pinch between the back of the blade and drip? I have an original Charge TTi, and that thing is brutal if you slip off whatever you're gripping with the pliers. There is a huge pinch zone that has got me a few times. Hasn't happened with the skeletool yet...
@@KaneDoesOutdoors it’s when it slips while using the pliers.
2 lighters, one on me and one in my medkit/ oh shit bag. a good light and knife is a must for sure i think alot of folks try to save too much weight on those particular items.
If I'm in the backcountry, 100% agree.
1. Knife
2. Fire
3. Rope/line
Three essentials is just not enough. How can you hike for a few hours without water, Swiss army knife, minimal first aid kit, cell phone and bic lighter? Sure add in that flashlight and a rain coat or umbrella and some trail snacks for extra comfort.
For longer hikes you need a compass/map/GPSnavigator, emergency blanket, emergency reflector, food ration of toilet paper, 25 ft paracord and extra pair of socks. And if overnight, backpack full of your choice of sleeping stuff, more food, cooking pot, head light and hatchet.
Listen to the first 15 seconds of the video again. I never say these are the only items I bring with me all the time. I say that these are three items I always bring regardless of what I'm doing. There's a big difference.
There are over 120 videos on my channel that include multiday winter trips in sub -30C temperatures. Some solo, some with other people. I tailor my gear choices to the conditions and hazards. Eg in avalanche terrain we carry beacons, shovels and probes, repair equipment for skis, satellite messengers, repair items for ski bindings etc etc etc. That is outside the scope of this video and obviously overkill for a local trail run.
Poncho. Multiple ways to make fire. A cutting tool.
One of my favourites is a poncho hybrid called the “packa”, that thing is amazing sustained wet weather.
@@KaneDoesOutdoors the most multipurpose thing you can carry outside of a multi-tool.
Love your videos. 👍👍
You don't "bring" your gear with you. You "take" your gear with you.
What’s the difference?
@@Danceswithelves Take a ride on the Reading with your favorite grammar book and find out.
Take is when an object moves away from something while bring the object moves towards something. So I bring my gear in this case because our reference is the backcountry which is what I’m moving towards. Whereas I would take 20$ with me as I leave my house.
@@KaneDoesOutdoors No, no. You take your gear with you wherever you go with it.
@@Sometungsten Nope. You don't bring anything anywhere. You take things everywhere. People bring things TO you. They don't take things to you. You can say, "Bring it here." But you cannot say, "take it here." You can say, "I will take it with me." But you cannot say, "I will bring it with me."
Can you please add a link to the jacket Kane? First Light's web site says 12 oz is their lightest rain shell. Thanks.
Added the link. Mine is 6.7 oz in size large. It's not the jacket I would want to wear for a week of rain in Alaska, but gets you out of a pinch. Very light and stretchy.
@@KaneDoesOutdoors Thank you! If it keeps you dry in a decent day rain, its worth a shot. I use the sea to summit poncho in the green tunnel here out east but need something better for above treeline
@@DDF1408a poncho serves double duty, as ur rain shell that covers ur pack & back again, or ur shelter or ground sheet, or gather water from a still or form a stretcher, or wind shield for ur fire 🔥
Water, Something to make fire and some type of first aid kit
Knife, fire making equipment, 50’ of 550 cord, flashlight, and a light rain jacket.
what is the bag/pouch or fannypack he is holding up on the thumbnail? ?
Rain jacket
I bring my headphone with me. That is my gps, my compass, my light source n my rescue line. My other items are knife n saw.
Water, everything else is a luxury
Fire starting capabilities and a basic first aid kit are both non-negotiable items for me.
Victorinox Handyman + Shegmagh + small flashlight + tissue paper.
For me, in Aus, it's sunblock. I always have a chapstick style lip balm with spf 50. I use it on my lips and nose at least, even paired with a sun hoodie.
Even in the winter here you get burned.
Great tips. I'm ordering a new micro torch for my day pack!
Good point!
A source of fire. ALWAYS have a source of fire. Even if it's just a Bic lighter wrapped in duct tape which is a very good fire starter.
Why do you have scissors pointed so close to your neck/face? Make a kydex sheath it'll stay lightweight
Those are not scissors they are forceps used to remove fishhooks from the fish.
They have blunt ends. I carry mine the exact same way.
My 3 items I always carry are a knife, different type depending on where I'm going and what I am doing, a small flashlight, and my pistol.
@@AC-er6vzwhew...good to know thanks!
While I carry more, those items are all highly accessible to me.
3.4 mile walk with the dog in the November rain yesterday. got home warm and dry. When I walk the dog at night I carabiner the light to my hip belt loop, it illuminates me, because I'm more concerned with being seen than seeing the sidewalk. But that's in town.
Today left the house with light gloves and a thin balaclava. At the two mile mark those came of and went into the pack and out came the ball cap. The dog took me for four miles this morning. Live is good.
When I started walking the dog 4 years ago the pack was two half liter bottles and a dog bowl. Over the past 3,900 miles I've added adjustable wrench, multi-bit screwdriver, pliers, cord, strap, poncho, light, lighters, knife, mylar blanket, and the water varies between three and five liters. There's seasonal clothing, hats, gloves and socks in there as well.
Author states 3 top carries.
Agree to disagree. A 1 pound or slightly heavier pyramidal tarp tent will keep me alive for the night from wind and driving rains.
Got to have a lighter for starting a fire too.
Bic lighter, Timex watch, Nalgene water bottle
#1. A CELL PHONE. Never go out of range. You ain't DANIEL BOONE!
Never go out of range? All the wild places are out of range, that's the point.
fixed blade , light & lighter !
There was no picture of the first item. I have no idea what he was talking about.
It's a rain jacket.
I would swap out your multi tool and include a way to start a fire.
Of course! Anytime I'm in the backcountry I have a full kit that includes fire starting material: th-cam.com/video/paocMFNpZrQ/w-d-xo.html
These are three items are that I always have on hand outside, even if my vehicle is relatively close. It might be a local trail run or day on the river.
Not one mention of a map and compass. Wow.
Who brings a map and compass everywhere? I know my way back to my car from my favourite fishing spot, trail run that I do every week, and training peaks. I have other videos covering gear for what I bring to the backcountry that are essential and supplement these three items for more serious objectives.
$280 for all three! Wow! Less than $100 but has the same functionality with an AI search of the web of a visit to the local Army/Navy store.
Garmin mini.
Number one is tactical pen, instantly at hand. For when you have microseconds to protect yourself. We can debate all else.
Mini bic lighter.
fire, and water filtration.
Lighter
When it comes to lights, one is none and two is one!
Dude, hope you don’t face plant on the trail…no telling where those scissors would end up…
They are blunt forceps, the pack is designed to hold them there.
I carry a pocket knife.
Non-negotiable...Snacks!!! god for morale, but less useful that the list you gave LOL
@@BACKPACKERish Did I get you to try nerds gummies? I’m converting everyone.
@@KaneDoesOutdoors oh they’re definitely coming on my next trip.
357 or 44 revolver. You don't want a bear or mountain lion staring you down licking his chops without a weapon.
chapstick
I would also consider a change of socks, some snacks, a good first aid kit and a compass and map. If you’re in Bear Country, you might want to carry some bear spray and just in case, a Glock 29. Rs