Backcountry Essentials: What’s in My Pack?

There’s nothing quite like heading into the backcountry—the freedom, the adventure, and the untouched terrain. But before you drop in, it’s crucial to be prepared. At Telos, we believe that safety and fun go hand in hand. Here’s a breakdown of what’s in my pack for a safe and successful day in the backcountry.

Know Before You Go

Preparation starts long before you step into your bindings. Before heading out:

• Take an avalanche course – Understanding snow science and rescue techniques is essential.

• Read the avalanche report – Conditions change daily; stay informed.

• Choose your crew wisely – Your group is only as strong as its weakest link.

• Observe the terrain – Watch for signs of instability like recent slides, rapid warming, or fresh wind loading.

• Dig a pit – Assess snowpack stability before committing to a line.

The Essentials: Safety First

Before anything else, your safety gear should always be top priority:

• ABS airbag backpack – A must-have for avalanche safety.

• BCA two-way radio – Stay connected with your crew and confirm channels before heading out.

• Helmet – Protect your head with a solid burn helmet.

• Avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel – Keep your beacon on your body at all times, and ensure your group knows how to use these tools.

• Snow saw – Helps analyze snow stability and plan routes.

• Crampons and ice ax – Depending on conditions and objectives.

• Emergency blanket – Essential for unexpected situations.

• Firestarter and lighter – Waterproof fire starter for emergencies.

• Compass with whistle attachment – Navigation is key.

• Extra ski straps and a multi-tool – Because you never know what you’ll need to fix.

• First aid kit – A must-have for any backcountry outing.

Layering & Comfort

Backcountry conditions can change fast, so layering is key:

• Under layers – Base layer top and bottoms to keep warm.

• Socks – Dry feet are happy feet.

• Gloves and beanie – Extra Candy Grind gloves and a warm hat for backup.

• Fingered gloves over mittens – So you can access lifesaving tools without exposing your hands to the cold.

• Airblaster glacier shades & goggles – Protection against snow glare and wind.

• Verts – Depending on the objective, these can be game-changers for deep snow travel.

Fueling the Stoke

You burn serious calories in the backcountry, so keep the energy levels up:

• Clif Bars & high-sugar snacks – Quick, easy energy boosts.

• Tupperware-packed sandwich – A solid meal keeps you fueled for the day.

• 40 ounces of water – A plastic bottle keeps weight down as you drink.

• Solstate Original sunscreen – Protect your skin from harsh mountain sun.

Gear for the Mission

Your board and bindings matter just as much as your safety gear:

• Telos Lumerian splitboard & custom skins – Designed for deep exploration.

• Spark R&D bindings and lightweight tool – Reliable and efficient.

• Splitboard crampons and collapsible poles – Essential for efficient touring.

The Final Check

Before heading out, always:

1. Make a plan – Know your route and objectives.

2. Check the avalanche report – Conditions change fast, so stay informed.

3. Know your crew – Ride with people you trust.

4. Make smart decisions – No line is worth unnecessary risk.

5. Consider a satellite radio – If something goes wrong, it could be a lifesaver.

6. Have fun – That’s what it’s all about!

Backcountry riding is one of the purest forms of snowboarding, but it demands respect. Gear up, plan ahead, and ride smart. See you out there!

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