I am always curious about what people carry in their packs. I love looking for new ideas of outdoor necessities or what hikers carry for fun. Over the years I have worked hard at researching and finding the right gear. Ok, maybe I should be honest. I tell my husband what I want and he does all the research to make sure I am getting a good product. That is what makes us a good team. We are by no means survival experts, but enjoy looking for gear that works well and supports us if needed. Living in New Hampshire we have a variety of weather. Being prepared in the winter months is very important. Below are the items that you will find in my pack during the winter months.
My pack: When I was an ambassador for the 365 Mile Challenge I got a Deuter Speed Lite 22 Hiking Backpack. This pack has been perfect for all my hiking needs in all the New England seasons and variety of activities my family and I participate in. it is comfortable and fits everything I need to bring with me.
Enjoying the views of Mt. Monadnock with my Deuter Pack on my back.
Kahtoola Microspikes: These are one of the first things to go in my pack. The last few winters have been very icy and these have been a must on the trails from easy walking to hiking mountains. We have even bought our daughter a pair. I have been with people who use YakTraks or other cheaper brands on the trail and it can be very dangerous. This is one area you should not try to save money.
Fire Starting Tools: I enjoy starting a fire on the side of the trail or on a frozen body of water to make a lunch or heat up a drink. Besides the fun factor of having a fire in the woods in the winter, it can also be an important part of survival. Knowing how to make a fire and having the right tools can be a life saver. Thanks to spending a lot of my life in the woods. I can make a decent fire, most of the time. I carry a Point Below Lighter, a ferro rod, and Gofire Fire Starters which are water proof and have a 10 minute burn time to help get a fire started in wet conditions.
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Survival Tools: I also have a knife, compass and more recently an emergency blanket . I attended a Winter Talk that discussed the importance of having an emergency blanket incase you need to spend the night on the trail. I hope I never have to use it, but I feel good knowing I have one if needed..
Cooking supplies: I also carry a a MRS Pocket Rocket Ultralight Stove and a large stainless steel cup. This works well for making a meal or having some hot chocolate on the trail.
Additional items: First Aid kit, Flashlight, Deuter Trash bag, water bottle, Animal Tracks Guide, extra gloves, sunscreen, chapstick and snacks. For something fun I bring my sleds, that I like to call butt sleds to slide down some of the hills when hiking. Other recommendations a camping mat so you have something dry to sit on and a solar charger. I do not carry all of these items all of the time, it depends on distance of hike and how strenuous the hike.
I hope this post helps give you some ideas of items to have in your pack during the winter to make your journey fun and safe.
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