Gear Lists

A Basic Searcher Pack must be ready to go at a moments notice in case of an unexpected callout. This pack should contain the following:

  • Identification
  • Boots
  • Weather-appropriate clothes (including hat/toque, warm gloves, rain jacket)
  • Safety glasses
  • Work gloves
  • Compass (recommend Silva Expedition S compass - available at Overlander; or Suunto MC-2 )
  • Light source (headlamp, flashlight)
  • Spare batteries
  • Notebook with pencil/pen
  • Pocket knife and/or multi-tool
  • Flagging tape
  • Personal First Aid Kit
  • Whistle
  • Bear spray
  • Small ruler or tape measure
  • Water (minimum 1L)
  • High-energy snacks (e.g., trail mix, protein bars, jerky)

Optional/group items:

  • Walking stick(s)
  • Bug spray
  • Bug shirt
  • Sunscreen
  • Toilet paper
  • Cordage (rope)
  • 6-meter tubular webbing
  • Tarp – 10’x12’

An Extended Day Pack is generally used for longer duration operations and exercises expected to last all day or having the potential to unexpectedly require sheltering in place overnight. This pack should contain the following:

  • Basic Searcher Pack items 
  • Emergency Survival Kit
  • Change of clothing (e.g., base layers, socks, etc.)
  • Small towel
  • Signal mirror
  • Large plastic garbage bag (orange preferred)
  • Toilet paper
  • Survival blanket (insulated & one side red or orange recommended)
  • Tarp - 10'x12'
  • Waterproof matches
  • Fire starter
  • Emergency rations
  • Utensil (e.g., spork)
  • 2x bottles of water (minimum 1L each)
  • Electrolytes
  • Cordage (rope)
  • 6-meter tubular webbing
  • Duct tape
  • Folding saw

 Optional:

  • Binoculars
  • Hunting knife
  • Additional spare batteries
  • Snare wire

A Multi-Day Pack is used for prolonged callouts where overnight stays are expected. Searchers can prepare a duffle bag or bin that will be left at base camp. This pack should contain the following:

  • Sleeping bag (appropriate to temps)
  • Sleeping pad
  • Ground sheet
  • Several changes of clothing
  • Additional spare batteries
  • Toiletries
    • Toothbrush & paste
    • Deodorant/anti-perspirant
    • Hand soap/hand sanitizer 
    • Baby wipes
    • Feminine hygiene products (if applicable)
    • Medications

Optional / group gear:

  • Small axe
  • Mini shovel
  • Cooking equipment and utensils
  • Stove & fuel
  • Tent

The following should be worn or carried as an augmentation to a Searcher's regular gear during winter conditions:

  • Insulated/waterproof jacket
  • Snow pants/bib
  • Fleece top
  • Thermal underwear/wool base layer
  • Warm gloves/mittins
  • Toque
  • Neck gator
  • Winter boots
  • Thick wool socks

Optional

  • Balaclava
  • Thermos with a hot drink (tea, hot chocolate)
  • Fire starters
  • Sleeping bag/insulated blanket
  • Extra toque/balaclava/mitts for casualty
  • Hand warmers

NO COTTON