Summertime: Long days, great weather, and more opportunities for outdoor pursuits. We feel the urge to dig up that old mountain bike out of the shed or lace up your hiking boots and just go!

Whether you’re racing your mountain bike down Idaho’s gorgeous trails, taking a nature walk, or climbing Mt. Borah, there needs to be an awareness of preparedness while recreating. As an outdoor recreator of any outdoor activity, it's your responsibility to make sure you come prepared to recreate responsibly and wisely.

How do we recreate wisely? We come prepared for the worst, with an adventure pack filled with the Ten Essentials.

It’s easy to hop in the car and get outside out of spirit of spontaneity. It’s fun, it's light, nothing can go wrong in your mind. Until you’re lost on the trailhead, and it's starts raining, then it gets dark and your lost.

Luckily, a list named the Ten Essentials was created by The Mountaineers, a group based out of Washington for climbers and hikers. Their mission is to help these recreators be prepared for emergency situations in the outdoors. In the last few years it has been updated to the Ten Essentials “Systems” List.

Here's the link: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/ten-essent...

Below are items you should always carry in your adventure pack, regardless of your location, or activity.

1. Navigation.

Two words come to mind: map and compass. However, these skills seem to be a lost art, a device like a GPS would also be helpful. Note: Do not rely on a cellphone as a helpful map. It only works if cell phone is fully charged and has service. Never fully rely on a cell phone to help you.

2. Sun protection.

Did you know Idaho has the highest risk state for skin cancer? Throw on a hat, some sunglasses and slather on that sunscreen.

3. Insulation.

This can be often overlooked in summertime. Always pack an extra layer, like a light fleece or a rain jacket.

4. Illumination.

Don’t get caught in the dark. Bring a headlamp or flashlight in your bag. Do not rely on your phone as a flashlight, for it can die quickly.

5. First-aid supplies.

Run over to the store and pick up a self-assembled first aid kit. Quick and easy and totally worth it. Don’t want to be stuck walking barefoot back to the trailhead because of blisters

6. Fire.

One of the main necessities: warmth. Pick up some waterproof matches, a lighter or candles. Test them before you go out.

7. Repair kit and tools.

Always carry a knife or multi-tool. Can be used for various things like fixing gear, food prep, first aid needs or making kindling.

8. Nutrition.

Always carry extra food with you. Doesn’t have to be gourmet, just throw in a couple extra Clif Bars. They seem to do the trick and give you enough energy to help you finish your escapade.

9.Hydration.

Regardless of the weather, always bring extra water. You can go 3 days without water, making it a necessity. Also consider having a water purificator with you, in emergency cases you run out of water. If you’re not looking to drop copious amount of cash on a water purifier, pick up a LifeStraw, they work for emergencies and are fairly cheap ($20 at REI).

10. Emergency shelter.

In this field, I always carry an emergency blanket with me. It is compact and cheap. It can be used as a shelter. You never know what’s going to happen out there and having a sense of protection in case you have the spend the night will help.

I love the spontaneous urges I have to go out and explore. But I have learned it's worth it to invest to assure you come prepared. You never know whats going to happen out there, so install a sense of attention to being prepared and make an adventure pack filled with the ten essentials!

Happy trails!