Tools:
* Ships: Erik the Red would have used longships, sturdy wooden vessels with a shallow draft, ideal for navigating the treacherous waters of the North Atlantic. These ships were equipped with sails for open water and oars for maneuvering in narrow channels or calm conditions.
* Weapons: For defense against wild animals or potential conflict with other Norse groups, Erik likely carried axes, swords, and spears.
* Navigation tools: Though the details of their methods are debated, Vikings used a combination of celestial navigation (using stars, sun, and moon), land-based landmarks, and knowledge of sea currents and winds to navigate. They probably used a simple sun compass and a rudimentary form of map-making.
* Farming and building tools: To establish settlements in Greenland, Erik would have needed basic tools for farming, such as axes, shovels, and hoes. He may have also carried tools for building houses and shelters.
* Fishing gear: Nets, lines, hooks, and perhaps harpoons would have been essential for catching food.
Food:
* Dried and salted meats: Preserving meat through drying and salting was a common practice, allowing for long-term storage and transportation. This would have been a vital food source.
* Dried fish: Similar to meat, dried fish was a staple for Viking voyages, providing a readily available source of protein.
* Grain: While some historians suggest the Vikings may have taken grain with them, this is debated. It's more likely that they focused on dried and preserved foods that required minimal care during the journey.
* Berries and roots: Wild berries and roots would have provided additional sustenance and vitamins.
* Honey and dairy products: These items were likely part of their diet, though their availability would depend on how long the journey was.
Other necessities:
* Clothing: Warm woolen clothing and furs would have been essential for surviving the harsh climate of Greenland.
* Tents: For temporary shelter, especially during the journey, tents would have been important.
* Fire-starting equipment: Vikings used flint and steel to create fire, crucial for cooking, warmth, and light.
* Tools for repairing ships: They carried tools for mending sails, repairing leaks, and making other necessary repairs to their vessels.
Overall: While it's impossible to know exactly what Erik the Red brought with him, his supplies would have reflected the ingenuity and practicality of Viking culture, enabling them to survive and thrive in challenging conditions.