I've had backpacking trips that included rain, snow,
lightning, rockslides, altitude sickness, and twenty-mile days - all on a
summer weekend. Wilderness trips can be dangerous, but you can make then less
so, by having the following ten essentials in your backpack.
1. Knowledge
What good is a compass if you don't know how
to use it? Play with matches if your fire-making skills are shaky. Learn what
to do when you see a bear. Read a little, practice a little - knowledge is more
likely to save you than gadgets.
2. Map and compass
These are together because that's the
way you need to use them.
3. Matches and lighter
Bring both, or waterproof matches
and a fire starter of some sort. Having two ways to start a fire is much safer.
4. First aid kit
Buy a pre-packaged one or build your own.
Make sure it has pain relievers, bandages, disinfectant, and notes on basic
first aid procedures.
5. Foot care
Your first aid kit needs moleskin, and maybe a
pin, to treat blisters. Your feet have to be well cared for when you're hiking
miles from the nearest road.
6. Water purification
A filter works, but they clog and
break so often that you should have a small bottle of iodine tablets or other
water purification as back up.
7. Rainwear
One of the biggest killers in the woods is
hypothermia, and it often starts when you get wet. Try to stay dry.
8. Shelter
This can be a tent, tarp or bivy sack. Just be
sure you know how to use it.
9. Sleeping bag
Down bags are the warmest for their weight,
but be sure you know how to keep it dry or bring a synthetic bag.
10. Specific trip items
For backpacking trips in Michigan
in May, bring insect repellant. In June in Arizona, bring sunblock. Think about
the specific conditions for the time and place of your trip.
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