The Safety Gear You Need
The safety gear you really need for outdoor adventure sports depends on the sport, terrain, and season, but here's a streamlined list of essential safety gear by category, focusing on real-world needs, not just nice-to-haves.
Core Safety Essentials (Nearly Universal)
Use these for hiking, climbing, trail running, biking, and backcountry skiing:
Gear and | Why You Need It |
Navigation (map + compass or GPS) | prevents getting lost |
First Aid Kit | treats injuries, blisters, and emergencies |
Headlamp + spare battery | key for visibility, even on day trips |
Whistle | light, loud, and can signal distress |
Multitool/knife | for gear repair, food, and emergencies |
Extra insulation (gloves, puffy) | hypothermia protection |
Shelter (emergency bivy or tarp) | for unexpected overnights or storms |
Firestarter (lighter + backup) | warmth, signaling, or cooking |
Sunscreen + lip balm | UV protection (esp. high altitude or snow) |
Water treatment (filter, tablets) | prevents Giardia and other waterborne illnesses |
Activity-Specific Gear
Choose what's appropriate based on your sport:
Hiking / Backpacking
Trekking poles (prevent falls)
Satellite communicator (e.g., Garmin inReach for remote areas)
Climbing / Mountaineering
Helmet (rockfall, slips)
Harness + belay device
Climbing rope + anchor systems
Avalanche beacon, shovel, probe (for snow-covered terrain)
Mountain Biking
MTB helmet (or full-face for DH)
Knee + elbow pads
Repair kit (tube, pump, tire levers, chain link)
Gloves (protection + grip)
Backcountry Skiing / Snowboarding
Avalanche beacon, shovel, probe (non-negotiable)
Helmet + goggles
Snow saw (for snowpack analysis/emergency)
Ski repair kit + skin wax
Paddling (kayak/SUP/rafting)
PFD (personal flotation device) — required
Dry bag with essentials (first aid, food, comms)
Throw rope
Helmet (for whitewater)
When to Bring a Satellite Communicator
Bring a PLB (personal locator beacon) or satellite messenger (e.g., Garmin inReach or ZOLEO) if you’re:
Out of cell service
Going solo
In avalanche terrain
Doing a multi-day remote trip
Leading a group
Minimalist “Always Carry” Kit for day trips
If you're packing light but still want safety:
Small first aid kit
Headlamp
Whistle
Emergency bivy
Firestarter
Navigation (phone + paper map backup)
Water treatment
Satellite beacon (if remote)
A Review of Essentials
Navigation: map, compass, altimeter, GPS device, personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger
Light: headlamp + extra batteries
UV protection: sunglasses, sun-protective clothing and sunscreen
First aid: including foot care (ie. moleskin) and insect repellent (depending on zone)
Repairs: Knife/Multi-tool + a gear repair kit
Fire: matches, lighter + tinder. Or a stove
Shelter: even a light emergency bivy
Extras: food, water, and clothing!
