Being Prepared

cluttered camp spot, trying to dry out damp gear after a humid night

I am not going into detail here, there is a plethora of information on the web, check the links on the bottom of this post if you would like to know more.

Not that much is needed to enjoy and experience the outdoors:

It comes down to equipment, food, fitness and preparation. But skills and experience are needed to succeed:

• even the best gear won't work, unless one knows how to use it
• choose to right gear for the right conditions
• the right food is required to stay fit and happy
• know your limits
• be confident, but not overconfident
• be prepared
• your feet are you best friends, keep them in good shape
• KISS (keep it stupid and simple)
• hike your own hike
• leave intentions with a friend and let them know that your are back
• consider taking a personal locator beacon (plb) or a sat phone on solo or challenging trips with you
• hike with experienced people if you don't know yet what you are doing
• last but not least: common sense!

Going lightweight or ultralight can help to enjoy hiking. Taking less unnecessary stuff is liberating; note that it is up to the reader's experience and skills to decide what is necessary and not. Furthermore the emphasis should be on gear that does the job and doesn't compromise on safety. Not having to deal with too much clutter is a relief as well. Keeping things simple and practical can add more comfort.

Take the right food for you, stuff that doesn't weigh too much, is easy to eat / prepare and keeps you satisfied. Chocolate does help a lot on hiking trips for example. Do not underestimate how much it can boosts one's morale as well.

Know your limits and accept the fact that one might have to bail out or return / change a trip under certain conditions, e.g. bad weather, flooded rivers or injuries. One is not fully prepared if this hasn't been taken into consideration. Something can always go wrong, but one can always come back another time.

And don't forget common sense, most incidents can be prevented.

Links to detailed advice and suggestions from experienced people:

Francis Tapon  advice about travelling, backpacking, and life from the author of "hike your own hike"

Justin Lichter  general advice from someone with over 15,000 miles under his foot, has hiked the Great Himalaya Trail in a fast style

Andrew Skurka  has hiked over 30,000 miles so far, has been named "Adventure of the year" by National Geographic

Hiking Life  really detailed advice about gear, preparing, skills, ... by Cam Honan, who has travelled and hiked for years

Journeyman Traveller  detailed advice on gear, techniques & travelling by a freelance writer & photographer

backpackinglight.com is a great source as well, I learnt a lot reading the forum and the wonderful articles

Disclaimer:

The author of this site is not responsible for any damage, injuries or death as a result of the use of any advice, gear or techniques discussed on this blog. All outdoor activities are carried out at the person's own risk. Please use common sense, seek out professional advise and instructions if you are unsure. Generally speaking: just be prepared and enjoy your adventures!