K100 Prep

In a few days I’ll be setting out on the annual 100 mile pilgrimage with my tribe from our reservation to our sacred site. Members run, cycle, paddle or walk through various terrain that gets increasingly desolate. There are many different methods and paces we leave at different times, but everyone will meet at the base of Mt. Katahdin in the end.

I’ll be backpacking alone and approximating that it will take me five days. Five days where weather, temperatures will vary. Five days where amenities will be intermittent, cell service will be spotty and I won’t be able to rely on the support of anyone else. Here is my packing list for anyone that might attempt a similar journey.

1. -70 Litre backpack
2. Rain cover for backpack
3. Rain Poncho
4. Frameless Tent/Stakes – Framless packs smaller/No tent poles to break
5. 40 degree sleeping bag
6. Closed cell foam sleeping pad
7. .01 Micron water filter – This baby can filter the dye out of a sports drink
8. 3 Litre water bladder
9. 1 Litre Nalgene – For powdered beverages
10. Trekking Poles
11. MRE’s menu 8, 11 and 12 – Purely for convenience, note that I didn’t pack cookware.
12. 3 day emergency ration bars
13. Sutures – If calling 911 isn’t an option. Can also be handy for sewing/repairs.
14. Syringe
15. Saline
16. Gloves
17. Iodine
18. Tweezers
19. Scissors
20. Gauze
21. Bandages
22. Adhesive Tape
23. Tourniquet – remember the 111 minute rule
24. NSAID
25. Anti Allergen
26. Anti-Diarrheal
27. Lighter
28. Stormproof matches
29. Flint
30. Compass
31. Pepper Spray
32. Rope Saw
33. Emergency Blanket
34. Dry Bag
35. Soap
36. Deodorant
37. Toothbrush and Toothpaste
38. Spare contact lenses
39. Knife
40. Solar Battery Bank
41. Phone/charger
42. 4 Days clothes – 5 day trip… I know. It’s the woods.
43. Hooded Sweatshirt – Keeps the mosquitos mostly out if sleeping without the tent
44. Watch Cap
45. Wool Socks
46. Union Suit – Yes. The old timey pajamas.
47. Harmonica – Entertainment to keep sane.
48. Eagle feather – For guidance
49. Rock – Carried for a special friend
50. Pocket Survival Guide

Everyone will have there own preferences and skill sets. Many of these items may not be necessary, but I’m taking them for added security and comfort. The key points are to stay warm, dry, well hydrated, well fed and mentally fit. Have fun and travel well.