Lucky 13

We’ve all read or seen those lists of “must have” things to survive a night in the woods…things like matches, a compass, and a do it all knife are kind of no brainers. As snowmobilers who think outside the box, here is our list of 13 additional items you should always have in your pack that can either get you home in a pinch, or help your prolonged stay outdoors. FROZEN BRATS OR HOTDOGS:

We really don’t want to know what’s in them either, but what other “meat” stays fresher longer? Cold or hot, they have been bouncing around in our trail pack for as long as we can remember.

SINGLE-ENDED CINCH STRAP:

This mundane looking piece of fabric and pressed steel buckle has gotten us out of more “jams” than practically anything. From holding together a broken rear torque arm to attaching a busted spindle to an A-arm, a little ingenuity and this little strap can get you home.

BAILING WIRE:

Some of our dads carried this stuff around the farm as if it were gold. This roll of steel can take the place of a hose clamp, a fishing hook, tourniquet, windshield retainer, jumper cables, and way more.

SHOVEL:

Even if you don’t ride in the west, these little avalanche shovels are better than scooping snow with your hands. Use it to get yourself un-stuck, build an overnight snow fort or a campfire hole.

TRAIL MAPS:

We know real riders don’t use maps, but when you’re lost and the fancy electronics are not receiving a signal, nothing tops an old-school map. Plus, they make a great fire starter when you can’t figure out your location.

RICE KRISPY BAR:

You’re gonna need sugar when ya get stranded in the bush, and you can pack a Krispy bar at the bottom of your pack and in 7 years it’s still going to taste better than trail side roadkill.

HOT PACKS:

When it gets cold, really cold, you need to keep your digits flexible. Bust these out long before your fingers turn pale white. Better yet, burn the trail map and start a fire.

RUBBER GLOVES: HANDLEBAR GAUNTLETS:

Don’t let your ego get in the way with this one, because when it -32-degrees Fahrenheit you’ll be singing a different tune. They work, and we always have a set stashed at the bottom of our gear bag.

LED FLASHLIGHT OR HEADLAMP:

Your buddies are gonna laugh at you, but if you have to work on something oily or greasy in the cold, these rubber gloves are the ticket. Yeah your fingers still get cold, but they stay clean, especially when you slide your hands back into a warm set of gloves when the repair is completed.

ZIP TIES:

Don’t go cheap here…get the good ones, both big and small. If you can’t fix it with zip ties, duct tape and wire; build a fire and chow down a frozen hotdog. While a little flashlight is a no brainer, we like to pack a little headlamp too, especially if you are on a short solo trip.

FIRE LOG:

Hey we don’t proclaim to be boy scouts so why act like one? A fire log will have that fire going in no time.

VISA:

Who are we kidding? Everyone knows the best sledders always come prepared. We may pack light, but we also pack right and support the local economy.