Michael Easter says it best in his blog posts: “Gear, not stuff.” In the spirit of this, I’m writing this post to share my gear in my ruck during training and events. I also have crowdsourced the 2025 Green Beret Fitness ambassadors for their favorite and most important gear. Everyone has their opinions, so what works best for me might not be your best option. I’ll outline each item’s general idea and highlight specifics that have worked for me and others.
Personal Safety/Care Items
Whether going out for a 5-mile training run or an unsupported 50k, I always pack the following if I’m on the trails:
- Personal First Aid Kit – I use the Uncharted Supply Triage Kit and add a few items, such as an extra hair tie, KT Tape, shoe laces, wipes, contacts, and Benadryl.
- Whistle—Many running vests have whistles built-in; rucks do not. Get one you can clip somewhere easily accessible.
- Compass – Yes, your phone should have one, but what happens when it dies?
Gregg (@gsmgbf)
“If the worst-case scenario happens and I’m injured, a whistle is great for attracting attention over a far larger distance than being able to shout. Plus, it weighs next to nothing.”
Satellite Communicator (Garmin InReach)
The Garmin InReach has been one of the best investments I’ve made (and continue to make as it’s subscription-based). Specifically, the Garmin InReach allows others to track you and will enable you to communicate with others, even when you don’t have service. You can send preset messages through the Garmin InReach, or you can use it to text via your phone and the Garmin Explore App. You can also call Search and Rescue. Yes, iPhones now have an SOS feature, but I’ve found that InReach if within budget, is the best tool for the job.
“I always have my InReach attached to the outside of my ruck. Since I go to many places without cell service, my wife can text me and see that I am still moving with the map tracking.”
Clint (@carrving_trails)
Headlamp or Similar Lighting System
Even if I’m going out in the morning for a few hours and the sun is already up, I try to remember to pack a headlamp. Headlamps are often one of those “just in case” items, but they are something you would rather have than not. I also carry a chem light that can be cracked if I need to be found.
“Definitely a headlamp.”
Kelly (@kellysully21)
There are tons of options out there, but I’ve grown to love my UltrAspire Waistbelt. Charlie (@capt_charlie) recommends a spotlight that easily attaches to your ruck (Nebo Work Light).
A “Good” Knife
I don’t always carry a “good” knife as Charlie recommends, but I do have a leather-man multitool knife on me more for survival reasons (fire starter,
I will add a pocket knife to my pack in less familiar areas. Realistically, I don’t think a knife will necessarily protect me from wildlife – let’s be real if that big kitty wants you, there’s a good chance it’s got you. But, as a female, this is something that makes me feel more protected from a shitty human.
Foot/Skin Care
This category includes extra socks, KT Tape, anti-chafe stick/lotion, and blister prevention/care kits.
“Anti-chafe stick (I use Squirrels Nut butter), great on a sports bra or pack areas that “rub” a bit more as the distance grows.”
Jenn (@jenntillard)
I don’t always carry extra socks, though they’re light and easy to pack, so there’s no real reason other than sometimes I don’t. But they are a hot ticket item for the GBF crew.
“Definitely extra socks”
Kelly (@kshoresdeathracer)
Honorable Mentions
We don’t always need these items, but they are valuable on specific routes, longer distances, weather/terrain pending, and knowledge (or lack thereof) of the area.
- Bear Spray (that you know how to use!)
- Water Filtration System
- Downloaded Maps (see more here)
- Battery Pack & Charger
- Weather-Specific Gear
- Hard Shell or Bivy System
- Bug Spray
“The shell for hunkering down traps and insulates heat well due to its non-breathability. If a system moves in and wants to hang out on top of you, a good one can double as a windbreaker and a dedicated rain shell (Pit Zips et al.).”
Sean (@seanfnb)
“Bug spray. Although not as critical as other items it never leaves my bag. Yosemite this year was a great reason why. There are enough external factors to deal with during these events. Mitigate/minimize a small one (pun intended) and pack yourself some bug spray.”
Shane (@shanedog365)
Final Thoughts
There is no mention of nutrition or hydration on this list because that is its own topic. I would recommend, though, having additional rations (more than what you need) and salt tabs in your pack. Additionally, I don’t cover gear that is not in your pack (e.g., shoe type).
Whatever you do, make sure the gear you’re carrying has a purpose, that you know where it is, how to access it, and how to use it.
Is there gear you won’t leave home without, and I forgot? Comment with it below!
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