Essentials Kit

Our method of packing uses kits. These are essentials that need a kit to live in.

Packing Comments

Extra Key

We carry at least one extra key, plus our regular key.

Wallet

We have recently had two lost wallet situations in which both times some good folks returned the wallets to us. Our new procedures include always attaching the wallets to the packs. When traveling, splitting the wallet into the basic one(drivers licenses, credit card, and a bit of cash), a money cache (trip cash), and the big guy (containing everything else - credit cards, insurance cards, etc.). The basic goes everywhere with me, the other two are stashed in different locations.

Headlamp

We use the Black Diamond Spot. A great little tight that is light, bright, and burns forever. We use rechargeable batteries.

Sunglasses

We each will be bringing several pairs of glasses. I have a primary pair and several older ones as spares. Amy uses several pair. All the glasses have retainer loops. We keep glass cleaner in the car and an emergency wipe in the pack.

Knife

A very small pocket knife. We might carry different knives this year. One would carry a utility knife and one a cutting knife.

Pad and Pencil

Every time I do not carry a pad and pencil I need one and every time I do carry a pad and pencil I do not need it. We are going to carry them with us this summer for taking notes and doodling.

Glasses

We might take our glasses or a small magnifying card to help read the small print on maps.

Post-Trip Comments

Extra Key

We carried it, but did not use it.

Wallet

No issues.

Headlamp

The Black Diamond Spot is a great little light.

Sunglasses

I only used one pair. I did not lose or break them!

Knife

I carried a very small Swiss Army knife that I used regularly.

Pad and Pencil

The one time I did not carry the pencil, I needed it.

Glasses

Did not carry.