The New Hampshire (a state near and dear to my heart) Fish and Game Department issued warnings about East Coast ticks this summer and possible trail closures due to heavy rains, says Maine Outdoors Today.

But even those who aren’t lucky enough to live in the tick-ridden, washed-out Northeast can benefit from their list of 10 things to bring on every hike: map, compass, warm clothing, extra food/water, flashlight or headlamp, matches/firestarters, first aid kit/repair kit, whistle, rain/wind gear and a pocket knife.

All items could fit in a small, pack, which is a lot lighter than dragging your hiking buddy out of the backcountry after confronting dehydration, hypothermia, bonking, and the like!