Basic Field Kit

  These are just some basics, but that may be just what you need
Food- Carbs, Protein, Fats
Water- 2 liters
Shelter Making- Tarps, Garbage Sack, etc...
Signaling- mirror, tape
Orienteering Tools- compass, GPS, local map.
Flashlight w/ extra batteries- LED's last a long time
Fire making- matches, lighter, etc...
Good sharp knife
Basic First Aid Kit

 !!!Check for classes taught in your area to learn more about these skills!!!

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First Aid:

Wilderness first aid is classified as being 1 hour from definitive medical care and may be the difference between life and death in a remote area.   SCSAR recommends taking a WFA class before venturing out on any    back country excursion.  
Check with local outdoor schools or SAR agencies to see what
courses they may offer.

Local links
Rocky Mountain Response

Aerie Backcountry School of Medicine

www.glacierinstitute.org

Communication:

Communication in the back country can always be a challenge.  Many people rely on cell phones, but these can require high elevation to work, and have a habit of running out of battery.  A better option in the woods is the use of a handheld radio.  These FRS or GMRS radios can be purchased at most stores, and run on replaceable batteries.  Search and Rescue also has the ability to monitor and use these frequencies, making it much easier to communicate while we are trying to find people. (No, we do not monitor these all the time.) 

If you are lost, and Search & Rescue is responding, change your handheld FRS or GMRS radio to Channel 1, with no "Privacy Code".  This will allow Searchers to communicate with you.

Amateur Radio (Ham) is also a viable means of communication, particularly in rural areas.