What to pack in your gear bag.

· 3 min read

Backcountry NewfoundlandBackcountry SnowmobilingGros Morne National ParkGear

Trail Riding Snowmobile Pack

(Groomed trails, closer to services, higher traffic)

Top 10 Essentials

  1. Multitool or Compact Knife
    Quick fixes, cutting rope, tightening loose parts.
  2. Basic Tool Kit (sled-specific)
    Wrenches/sockets, spare belt, spare spark plugs.
  3. Tow Strap
    For stuck sleds or helping another rider.
  4. Headlamp or Small Flashlight
    Darkness comes early—must be hands-free.
  5. Cell Phone + Power Bank
    Trails often have spotty service—battery backup matters.
  6. Trail Map or GPS App (offline maps)
    Helpful in intersections, poor visibility, or reroutes.
  7. First Aid Kit (compact)
    Blister care, bandages, pain relief.
  8. Emergency Fire Starter
    Lighter + waterproof matches.
  9. Extra Gloves / Neck Gaiter
    Wet hands end rides fast.
  10. High-Energy Snacks & Insulated Water Bottle
    Cold burns calories quickly.

Nice-to-Have Add-Ons

  • Duct tape & zip ties
  • Goggles lens wipe
  • Small shovel (especially after storms)

Deep Backcountry Snowmobile Pack

(Ungroomed terrain, no services, limited or no traffic)

Top 12 Essentials (Non-Negotiable)

  1. Avalanche Beacon, Probe & Shovel
    Mandatory in avalanche terrain—no exceptions.
  2. Satellite Communicator (Garmin inReach for example)
    SOS, tracking, and messaging when cell service is gone.
  3. Full Tool Kit + Spares
    Belt, plugs, throttle cable, hose clamps, duct tape, zip ties.
  4. Navigation System (GPS with Offline Maps)
    Plus paper map & compass as backup.
  5. Emergency Shelter
    Bivy sack, space blanket, or ultralight tarp.
  6. Fire-Starting Kit (Redundant)
    Lighter, waterproof matches, ferro rod, fire starter tabs.
  7. Tow Strap + Pulley or Soft Shackle
    Deep snow recoveries often need mechanical advantage.
  8. First Aid Kit (Trauma-capable)
    Compression bandage, SAM splint, meds, blister care.
  9. Headlamp + Spare Batteries
    Getting delayed is common in the backcountry and extra light might be critical.
  10. Extra Insulation Layer
    Puffy jacket or dry base layer—hypothermia prevention. Typical layers; base, mid and outer shell
  11. Food & Water for a Full Extra Day
    Calorie-dense food; insulated bottle or thermos.
  12. Snow Shovel (metal blade preferred)
    For stuck sleds, shelters, or avalanche rescue.

Strongly Recommended Extras

  • Snow saw (for avalanche assessment & shelter building)
  • Whistle (audible signal in wind)
  • Hand & foot warmers
  • Spare goggles or lens
  • Small repair wire & JB Weld

Arluk Rule of Thumb

  • Trail riding: Plan for delay
  • Backcountry riding: Plan for overnight survival

If you think you need further assistance with packing your gear bag, the Arluk Team will be more than willing to walk you through it.

If you’re interested in booking the Arluk Chalets at the Arluk Village (2 KM point on Taylor’s Brook Road – Drive up access) or one of the three Remote Arluk Lodges this winter, send a Booking Request to Bookings@ArlukOutfitters.com