EQUIPMENT FOR HIKING

Matches and Fire Starters
With wooden strike-anywhere matches or a butane lighter, you can kindle a fire in any weather. (For more on when and how to build fires, see pages 248-252)

Sun Protection
Too much exposure to the sun's rays can be harmful, especially if you have a fair complexion. Guard your skin with a sunscreen that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. A broad-brimmed bat, lip balm, and sunglasses will give added protection.

Map and Compass
Carry a compass and a map whenever you travel in areas unfamiliar to you. Of course, they won't do much good unless you know how to use them, so take the time to learn. (For more on maps and compasses, see pages 66-74 and pages 118-125.)

OTHER HIKING GEAR
Day Pack
A small pack will hold everything you need for a day of hiking. You might already use this kind of pack to carry your books to school.

Fanny Pack
Zip your hiking gear into a fanny pack and strap it around your waist. Fanny packs ride comfortably against your lower back as you walk, and won't throw you off balance when your adventures include cross-country skiing or mountain biking. Many troops stow their first aid supplies in a fanny pack that goes on every outing.