Help me with my gear list....

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Jun 8, 2014
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So, I recently traded on this forum for a Maxpedition Neatfreak. I am going to use this as a replacement to my old lumbar pack with shoulder strap. This will ride in my trunk and be used for some very mild hiking and when I stop to fish while out and about. I have transferred all my stuff from the old pack to the new. Here is where I need help.... Along with all my fishing tackle (I think I have this under control), what else should I put in there?

Here is my list so far-
Pliers
Bandana
Light my fire knife/firestarter
Zip-ties
Baby wipes
Mini Bic lighter
Paracord
Bandage wrap
Band aids
Allergy med
Pain killers
Burn cream
Bug repellent wipes
SAK Classic
Flashlight
Carabiners

Items suggested and will be added shortly-
Sunscreen
Whistle
Signal mirror
Emergency blanket
Socks
Duct tape
Sawyer mini filter

Thanks in advance,
Bruce
 
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The only thing I would add is some sort of shock management blacket, bivy or poncho. Think worst case, it starts raining, you slip and fall and do a knee or ankle. A fire is a good start, but a little bit of additional shelter would be good too. I like the AMK ones and they have a reflective poncho that I think would be a good choice for this kit since it gives you lots of options. What would it take to sit out the night while help comes?
 
The only thing I would add is some sort of shock management blacket, bivy or poncho. Think worst case, it starts raining, you slip and fall and do a knee or ankle. A fire is a good start, but a little bit of additional shelter would be good too. I like the AMK ones and they have a reflective poncho that I think would be a good choice for this kit since it gives you lots of options. What would it take to sit out the night while help comes?

Added to shopping cart! I would have never have thought about an emergency blanket/shelter.
Thanks
Bruce
 
I'd add small roll of duct tape. That stuff comes in handy for gear repair and other things. Also, a compass could be useful as well. Emergency signaling mirror and whistle could be added in the event something happens.
 
You are missing a few ESSENTIALS:

-map and compass
-sunscreen
-extra clothing (socks at a minimum --- an insulating hat if season other than summer)
-food (couple of power bars at a minimum)
-water
-emergency shelter

If I had to give up something to gain space for the above, I'd give up the carabiners, pliers, baby wipes, zip ties, paracord in that order.
 
I'd add small roll of duct tape. That stuff comes in handy for gear repair and other things. Also, a compass could be useful as well. Emergency signaling mirror and whistle could be added in the event something happens.

Yep, it's funny because duct tape is something I always include in this type thing and I completely forgot! Signal mirror and whistle, check! Unfortunately, a compass would be of no use to me. I have tried many times to figure out proper use of a compass/ map and I cannot wrap my head around it. I have read about it, both in books and online, and nothing....I think I need to find someone to teach me in person.

As a side note- I have my own tip for carrying duct tape that I read about a few years ago. I wrap the tape around a plastic card ( usually an old store "rewards" card) and it makes for a much slimmer package.

Thanks
Bruce
 
You are missing a few ESSENTIALS:

-map and compass
-sunscreen
-extra clothing (socks at a minimum --- an insulating hat if season other than summer)
-food (couple of power bars at a minimum)
-water
-emergency shelter

If I had to give up something to gain space for the above, I'd give up the carabiners, pliers, baby wipes, zip ties, paracord in that order.

Ok, I should have said, food and water were a given and would be added according to what I was doing. Map and compass, I address in my last post. Sunscreen, living in Florida, this should have been at the top of my list, but of course I forgot. A pair of socks is not a bad idea either.
Thanks,
Bruce
 
Unfortunately, a compass would be of no use to me. I have tried many times to figure out proper use of a compass/ map and I cannot wrap my head around it. I have read about it, both in books and online, and nothing....I think I need to find someone to teach me in person.
Navigation aids and the ability to use them are in the ESSENTIAL category. There are likely orienteering clubs near you. They'll be more than glad to teach you.

http://www.floridaorienteering.org/

http://www.us.orienteering.org/
 
Water treatment tablets and some sort of container (canteen cup, or similar). You can always nest other gear in the cup so it takes up little room, or 'biner it to the outside.
 
[video=youtube;inmlJpCWZss]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inmlJpCWZss[/video]
Problem with that is the failure to even consider magnetic declination which is ~6°W where the OP is located. Some people are hand-on (kenetic) learners. The OP can find a competent group to teach him for free.
 
As for water containers you can buy water bags. Take very little space empty. Platypus or Vapur.
 
You are missing a few ESSENTIALS:

-map and compass
-sunscreen
-extra clothing (socks at a minimum --- an insulating hat if season other than summer)
-food (couple of power bars at a minimum)
-water
-emergency shelter

If I had to give up something to gain space for the above, I'd give up the carabiners, pliers, baby wipes, zip ties, paracord in that order.

As above^

No SAK Pioneer and a Mora
If you will need mechanical then a simple Leatherman
Lump your gear in bags for system
Rain gear
Clothes
FAK, Hygiene,
Fire making, a metal cup for drinking
only in emergency, like cover and emergency food
 
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