Here is a quick list of “must haves” when you are winter touring in the backcountry. Some equipment requires practice in order to use it properly, especially avalanche beacons. Make sure you are skilled at using these items beforehand. Repair kit items should be simple and relevant. Items that have multiple uses (straps, cord, zip-ties, and duct tape) are great and have numerous applications.
Always carry:
- Properly fitted backpack or lumbar pack (loaded weight less than 35 lbs.)
- Energy bars (2 each) and/or power gel packets, MREs (2 each)
- Water (2 quarts)
- Extra clothing (w/extra socks, gloves)
- Radio (w/spare battery)
- Flashlight or headlamp (w/spare batteries)
- Fire starter kit (w/waterproof matches, flint and steel, and dry starter material)
- Light weight stove/fuel and small light-weight cook pot
- Signal kit (w/mirror, chem-light, flagging, whistle)
- Navigation Kit (w/GPS, compass, altimeter)
- Repair kit with the following:
-
- 2 Nylon straps
- 8 each, Zip-ties (12 inches)
- 30 feet of parachute cord
- 12 feet of thin high strength stainless steel-wire
- 6 feet of duct tape
- First aid kit w/extra meds (relevant to the season, terrain and number of persons)
- Space bag-blanket and/or bivy shelter
- Multi-tool (w/#3 Screwdriver tip to fit bindings)
- Non-clogging all-temp ski wax (spray, stick, gel, etc.)
- Handkerchief and/or baklava
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Goggles and sunglasses
In avalanche terrain, always carry:
- Snow shovel (aluminum or carbon-fiber material blade construction)
- Avalanche beacon
- Avalanche probe
Optional items:
- Snow saw
- Ice axe
- Extra skins and/or cramp-ons
