Native Coloradoan here. I always have the following in my coat pockets, and stow it someplace nearby even when we're having a deceptively warm day like today. (72F/22C)


*Modified Bic lighter, regular size, in tiny ziploc bag (modded for frozen, fumbling -- or in my case, small -- fingers. See this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKhDr3XonOM

*Chemical footwarmer packets, i.e., Hothands (2) I bring footwarmers instead of handwarmers in case I need to warm up someone's feet. (Although I've used duct tape on handwarmers in a pinch)

*Extra gloves

*Extra cash

*EDC/mini emergency kit: http://forums.equipped.org/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showgallery&Number=241840 (It's been updated quite a bit since I posted this version, but you get the idea.)

*Lip balm

*Fox40 whistle -- NOTE: The other day when I was hiking to Dream Lake, I was extremely glad I wore my whistle around my neck instead of in my coat pocket, as I wasn't wearing snowshoes and suddenly the snow crust on the trail broke through, leaving me stuck in snow up to my elbows while my unknowing friends traipsed on ahead. I managed to get out on my own, but it was nice to know that I could've whistled for help.

*iPhone, fully charged. Not always great for getting calls out in the mountains, but useful for e-books and other info.




--M