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Field notes — I write these in first person, from how I actually pack. Photos go in when I have them.

Photo slot — A real trip photo goes here. I will drop a picture in when I have one that is not a stock shot.

I do not light the outside of a wet log and hope

I split. Dry wood is inside. I start with stuff I could break in my fingers. Fatwood or a fire starter cube if I have it. Stormproof matches in a case. A ferro rod when matches get cute.

I collect tinder before I need it. I check fire restrictions before I look clever.

Restrictions beat technique

If the park says no fires, I cook on a stove and I do not debate the ranger. A $12 match kit plus a cheap ferro rod covers almost every legal fire I have started.

What I actually link when I mention gear

UCO Stormproof Match Kit

View on Amazon

Light My Fire Swedish FireSteel 2.0 Scout

View on Amazon

Quick answers

Is this a complete packing list?

No. This is what I actually do for this situation. Use a full checklist for the boring essentials, then add or subtract from this note.