Bring the necessary equipment so you can help yourself and others

By Christian Jensen - 11.02.2026

The Mountain Code has been part of Norwegian outdoor culture for decades. Originally created after a series of tragic mountain accidents in the 1950s and later updated by DNT and the Red Cross, the rules are designed to help everyone travel safely in the outdoors. In every season, with modern equipment, and across all types of terrain. Each rule reflects a mindset of awareness, responsibility and continuous evaluation before, during and after a trip.

The Rule

“Bring the necessary equipment so you can help yourself and others.”

Key Points

• On winter trips, bring a windsack, sleeping bag, insulation and a shovel.
• Carry something that makes you easy to locate, like a headlamp or reflective gear.
• Always bring first‑aid equipment.
• Use avalanche transceivers, probes and shovels in avalanche terrain.
• Pack smart — DNT provides packing lists for different trips.
• Phones are useful but unreliable; don’t depend on them.
• In an emergency, call 112 or seek help by other means.

My Experience With This Rule

Equipment is one of the most important parts of any trip. It is just as important to limit what you bring. On my shorter rides, I usually carry a few tools and spare parts for the bike, along with a small chocolate bar and a couple of simple extras. On longer trips, it becomes essential to pack enough food and clothing. Imagine having to stop because of weather, or in the worst case, because of an injury. In those situations, having something that keeps you warm can make a big difference.

When you are moving, you can manage with very little clothing. The challenge comes when you stop. Standing still for hours in cold, wet or windy conditions drains heat quickly, no matter how active you were before. This is why you should always pack with the worst‑case scenario in mind.

I also keep a small first‑aid kit in my pack. It is not extensive, but it is enough to stop a major bleed and handle the small things, such as blister plasters. I have handed out blister plasters to several people I have met along the way, and it reminds me that the equipment you bring is not only for yourself. Sometimes it is exactly what someone else needs.