Hiking and trekking
I have made a small guide with tips and tricks that are useful, if not
essential, when living outdoors. Use the guide to choose the right
equipment, to prepare your self for your hike or to know what to do in
the event of an emergency.
By: Admin
Email:
Published: 2007.06.06 - 14:02
Mark: Unrated
Knowledge is important
Hiking, trekking, camping and general outdoors life can be a wonderful
experience given the right equipment and knowledge. Without these essentials
nature can be both harsh and even dangerous. I have had the good fortune of
being able to enjoy the outdoors from a quite early age. I owe my grandparents
a huge thank you for taking me hiking and showing me how magnificent nature can
be.
In northern Norway, where I grew
up, nature can show us its unbelievable beauty but also its extreme
ferocity. Living in nature given these conditions have taught me to
master and enjoy hiking in any type of weather.
Equipment junkies
Some people believe that
if you have a lot of equipment you will be safe. This is a false sense
of safety. Like with many other activities its best to keep it simple.
One of the main ideas behind camping outdoors is to live primitive and
to enjoy yourself without all the luxury you have in your day-to-day
life. At the end of this guide is a list of the basic equipment I
normally carry when living outdoors.
Biouvac [Back to top]
When camping outdoors the need for shelter is one of the primary concerns.
In good weather and warm climates it is possible to sleep under the open
sky. But even under nice conditions it is often more comfortable to have
some kind of housing to protect you from the elements.
In Norway we have a very well developed network of trails and cabins which
are available to the public. But if you want to stay off of the beaten track
you must use other alternatives. In this section I have described other
types of shelters, and discussed the pros and cons of the individual options.
Tents [Back to top]
When I go camping
I almost always use my tent. The reason I like tents is that you
carry your housing on your back, meaning that you do not have to
worry about where you are going to camp for the night. You can
stop almost anywhere you like, no need to reach any destination
before the sun sets. This makes it easier for me to enjoy hiking
the way I like it, without making much plans and routs of travel
before hand.
Tents come in a huge number of varieties, both regarding price and
type. The price can range from €60 / $75 to far above €1000 / $1240.
The price depends of course on brand, size, materials, design and
other things. For normal hiking purposes you hardly need the pricy
extreme tents. They are a waste of money for all but Himalaya and
Antarctica expeditions. But I would not recommend buying the cheapest
tents. They are usually made of unsuited materials and are poorly
constructed for anything but camping in your backyard. I would choose
a tent in the range €300 - €500 / $380 - $610 and from a fairly renowned
manufacturer so that it is possible to get support and service in
the event of equipment failure.
There are many types and styles of tents, each having its own strong
suits. You should try and find a tent you are comfortable with, both
with regards to type and make. There are also a number of hybrid types,
but the most used types are listed below.
Tunnel tent [Back to top]
This is my favorite tent type. Famous for its wind stability,
the tunnel tent has been widely used for extreme trekking and
expeditions. Wind mats and anchoring ropes allow the tent to be
used in the most harsh wind conditions. Most tunnel tents have a
quite large entrance area which is great for storing backpacks
and equipment in the event of rain or snow. With some care the
entrance area can also be used for cooking when the weather is
bad. When camping in the winter time I dig a cold trench in the
entrance area, making the sleeping compartment a bit warmer. It
can be a bit harder to erect than the dome tent in bad weather,
but with practice it is no problem at all.
Igloo/Dome tent [Back to top]
This tent type is widely used because it boasts a large living space
and is quite easy to erect. It is best suited when there are several
people camping, but if you are alone or two people I find that it
is larger than need be. Some models have a tunnel shaped entrance
which can be used to store equipment and as cooking area in bad weather.
This makes it even more spacious and comfortable. For extreme expeditions
it is a perfect choice for base camp tent.
A-frame tent [Back to top]
This is one of the simpler tent types. It's easy to erect and
is often quite light. But it is not especially wind stable and has
normally no designated entrance area, so equipment has to be stored
in the living space. They are often low and not very spacious. It
is more of a short range camping tent and is not very suitable for
longer and more extreme trekking.
Lavvo/Tipi [Back to top]
A lavvo is the equivalent to the Native American tipi. It is a pyramid
shaped tent made from different types of materials, but with the same
basic structure. Lengths of poles are grounded in a circle shape and
erected so that they are joined in a common apex. Some sort of fabric
is then wrapped around the poles, making an enclosed space in the
middle.
Due to its shape and high ceiling an open fire can be placed in
the center. This bivouac type is most suited for larger groups of
people because of its size and weight.
Recently tent manufacturers have developed lighter nylon lavvos,
but even they are quite heavy and bulky.
Snow cave [Back to top]
For obvious reasons this shelter type in for the winter season only.
It is also kind of hard to transport to new bivouac sites. As an emergency
shelter it is perfect as you get away from the cold and bad weather.
Snow caves are also ideal as a stationary base camp. They are very
comfortable and quite warm if constructed properly.
Gapahuk/Lean-on [Back to top]
The basic structure is a side roof leaned against a rock, a cliff,
trees or poles made from branches. This is a crude but effective shelter
for keeping the rain or snow of your head. Its open sides makes it
windy, but improvements can be made to counter this somewhat. As it's
not very transportable it is more of an emergency and base camp shelter.
Making a fire pit in front makes it warm, and it is very nice to get
the open air camping experience.
Food [Back to top]
Keeping you body supplied with food is very important when hiking. If you
don't get food you will quickly loose energy and become sluggish and lazy.
Always pack enough food for the period you plan to stay in the wilderness,
plus a little extra just in case.
When going on long hikes it might be desirable to supplement the carried
food (often freeze dried rations) with food found in nature. Some times
it is also a necessity as your carried food supplies might get depleted.
Hunting, fishing and harvesting roots, plants and berries can produce large
amounts of nutrition. But it is important to have the necessary knowledge
on how to gather and prepare the food. Some plants might be poisonous, and
ill prepared fish and game can also make you sick.
Incase of an emergency situation you should also have equipment to enable
you to gather food from nature. In such a situation you should remember
to preserve your energy by doing things in a relaxed pace. When you are
cold you need more food as energy is burned quicker, so keep warm and dry.
Hiking food [Back to top]
Many brands of special hiking food exist. Most of them are seriously
overpriced. But they are often light and portion packed which makes
them desirable for long hikes. With a little preparation you can make
your own portion packed food so that you don't have to use too
much heating fuel to prepare it while you are hiking.
Freeze dried rations [Back to top]
Since most of the water has been removed in the freeze drying process
these rations are very light to carry. All you have to do is add some
boiled water and stir it a bit and it is ready to eat. They come in
many flavors with fish, meat and even as desert. The trouble is that
it is not suited to eat dry which is a problem when the weather is
bad or you for other reasons don't have fire or water. Price
is another drawback
Pre-made rations
[Back to top]
Conserving cooking fuel is quite important. By preparing your hiking
food at home you can save both fuel and time when you are on a hike.
You can semi-fry your meat and vegetables and boil your rice or potatoes
a short while. Making fast serving portions will make it much easier
for you when you are out in the wild and get hungry. But you need
to consider that cooked food will faster go bad, so its not smart
to use for long hikes.
Hunting [Back to top]
Hunting is a good way to get food, given the right tools and know-how.
For trekking it is most suitable to hunt for small game as the weight
of large animals such as elk and deer is too big to carry. The usual
way to hunt is by means of a weapon. Proper training is vital when
handling weapons and guns. Shotguns and small-bore rifles are preferred
when hunting small game.
Traps and snares [Back to top]
Traps and snares are also effective tools for hunting. When the traps
are properly constructed you can catch much game this way. A positive
aspect of trap and snare hunting is that you do not have to mind them
constantly. When they have been set you just return to check for game
at some intervals.
Fishing [Back to top]
If you are trekking close rivers, lakes or by the sea you should try
to find out if they contain fish. Fish is one of the most dependable
sources for food when you are living outdoors. Of course this depends
if you are skilled in the art of catching fish. There are many books
written on the subject of fishing and fishing equipment. But in my
experience simple is better. I'm not going to stop you from buying
a fishing rod worth €1000 / $1240 or more, but I doubt it will make
you a better fisherman.
Poles/Rods [Back to top]
Fishing poles are my preferred choice of tool for fishing. They are
light to carry and are usually easy to operate. As with all fishing
some practice is needed to fully master fishing and be able to catch
enough to live of.
Casting rod [Back to top]
The most used fishing rod is the casting rod. It uses bait (artificial
or live) that is a bit heavy so that you are able to throw it some
distance from the shore. The rod is quite short which makes it easy
to carry. You get lures and tackle in all shapes and sizes. You just
have to try out what type of tackle is most effective. You can also
use a weighted float together with smaller bait hooks, which I use
quite often on small fish.
Fly-fishing rod [Back to top]
Fly-fishing takes some time to master. If there is much vegetation
you will need waders and plenty of experience to effectively use this
type of rod. In my opinion fly-fishing is more of a sport activity.
If you are fishing as a food gathering task you should choose equipment
that is more effective and easier to handle.
Telescopic rod [Back to top]
Telescopic rods are extendible rods which are used for river fishing
on small sized fish. Their length is around 5 meters (15 feet) and
they are usually used with small bait hooks and floats or floating
line. They are not very useful for lake or sea fishing, but attractive
because of their small size in folded state.
Ice-fishing rod [Back to top]
For obvious reasons presence of ice is required for this type of fishing.
You will also need an ice drill to make a hole in the ice which adds
weight to your equipment. But with the right experience you can catch
much fish using ice-fishing.
Fishing nets [Back to top]
Fishing nets are very effective as they can catch large amounts of
fish. You can set the net then check it the nest day, which means
you have time for other chores. But for effective fishing with nets
you need a boat of a canoe which makes it unsuitable for regular trekking.
Emergency foods [Back to top]
Nature is full of different types of food if you know where to look.
Such food can be used both as supplement and as emergency food. Some
alternatives look more appetizing than others, but in an emergency
the need for nutrients are vital. If you get hungry enough most people
will eat anything.
Plants [Back to top]
Depending on where you are hiking you might be able to find fruits,
vegetables, roots, berries and mushrooms that could be a great source
of nutrition. But there is many poisonous plants in nature, so care
and knowledge are important when gathering such foods.
Shellfish [Back to top]
If you are hiking close to the coast you might be able to find mollusks
or shellfish in the surf. They are good eating when cooked. But be
careful not to eat dead shells. Throw away shells that are open before
cooking as well as shells that remain closed after cooking.
Insects [Back to top]
In most of the western world we do not think about insects as food.
But in most parts of the world they are considered a delicacy. They
are loaded with proteins and other nutrients.
Heat and cooking [Back to top]
Along with food, keeping warm is one of the most important issues when hiking
in the wilderness. Hypothermia is very dangerous and will kill you quick
if the temperature is low. Keeping your clothes dry is also fundamental
in that respect. So heat is paramount when living outdoors
A hot meal and drink is a good way to get some warmth in your body, but
also as a comfort element. Some foods such as meat, fish, shellfish and
roots should be cooked before eating. Besides tasting better, they can contain
bacteria and parasites that can make you ill.
Bonfire [Back to top]
Making a fire is something everybody have tried at one time or another.
It is nice and comforting and will keep you warm and dry. One drawback
is that it is difficult to use inside a shelter, unless you are staying
in a cave or something. Making a fire is easy enough when you have
a good supply of dry wood and when the weather is clear and dry. In
bad weather, when you need warmth the most it can be quite hard to
get a fire burning. It requires experience and know-how. If you plan
to trek in bad weather it can be an idea to try and build a fire in
bad weather close to the safety of your home, in order to gain some
knowledge.
Multifuel cooker [Back to top]
This is the cooking tool of choice for most outdoors women and men.
They are very effective and fuel economic cookers (depending on the
fuel type). They can normally operate with gasoline (unleaded!), alcohol,
kerosene, lamp oil and other fuels. It is important not to use fuel
types that develop toxic fumes when burning. Personally I prefer to
use lamp oil or kerosene. This is because they need to be heated before
they ignite. This is a safety issue which makes it harder to inadvertently
setting fire to spills. With some care it is possible to use this
cooker inside a tent when the weather is bad. But be careful!!
Alcohol burner [Back to top]
These small burners are very light and easy to operate. They are easily
ignited, but are sensitive to wind. They are perfect for use inside
tents and other shelters. But as with multifuel cookers, be careful
with spills. The most prominent drawback is that they consume a lot
of fuel, requiring amounts of refill. They are also not so efficient,
meaning that they do not heat that well compared to other cookers.
Gas cooker [Back to top]
These cookers use compressed gas in the form of propane or butane.
They are very effective burners. The gas bottles are quite light,
which is positive. Amongst the negatives is that the gas is extremely
flammable and the bottles can ignite if sparked, so careful packing
and operation is required.
Emergency situations [Back to top]
Usually you do not have cookers in emergency situations. Even if you
do fuel would be an issue and would often become depleted quite quickly.
You can almost always make a bonfire in such circumstances. Remember
these tips if such a situation should arise.
Matches are very priced possessions. Making fire the Stone Age way
is very difficult. To prolong the life of the matches it can be smart
to split them down the middle, thereby doubling your supply. You should
also take great care when building the fire so that you are certain
it will ignite with the first match.
When you are done with your fire for a time you can preserver the
glowing charcoal so that you can use them to ignite your next fire.
Keep them in a low oxygen environment so that they keep alive until
you need them. Moss and sea weed can be used to enclose the coals.
Navigation [Back to top]
It is easy to get lost in the wilderness if you don't have the proper
navigational know-how. Finding your way when you are out walking requires
knowledge and experience. Even though you have experience you might still
get lost. It is therefore very important to let someone know when and where
you go hiking, and when you suspect to return. Never walk blindly if you
are unsure of your location or bearing. Search parties will have a much
more difficult time finding you if you venture too far from your suspected
location.
If you are surprised by fog or bad weather so that you have very poor visibility
you should never walk further! Stop, make camp and continue when it has
improved. Even with navigational aids you can get lost or possibly walk
of a cliff and injure your self.
Map and compass [Back to top]
This proven system has been around for a very long time and is the
navigational tool of choice for most experienced hikers. It requires
some practice to master navigation in all types of terrain, but the
technique behind it is simple. What takes time to learn is reading
the map correctly. Translating what you see in the terrain to what
is drawn on the map, and visa versa can be tricky. But if you practice
in familiar surroundings you will soon be able to understand how maps
are constructed.
When choosing maps you need to consider what scale to use. The most
common types are 1:50000 and 1:100000. The 1:50000 maps have a lot
of detail but can limit your overview, just as the smaller scale maps
have the opposite qualities. It is also nice to have a map series
that has overlapping map sheets. This means that you don't have to
have 2 or maybe 3 maps open when you are at the boundaries of the
map.
The basic operation of a compass is the same for all types. But they
come in a wide variety of makes and price ranges. It's no point
in buying an expensive make but don't buy the cheapest one either.
Make sure it is transparent for better reading, a magnifying glass
for details, a ruler for distance measurement and maybe also a mirror
aim for easier bearing acquisition.
Positioning systems [Back to top]
GPS and similar satellite based position systems are extremely accurate
and comes with maps and route info. Even inexperienced hikers will
be able to find their way with ease. But it is advisable to have map
and compass as backup since the positioning systems might run out
of batteries or get damage to the point that they stop working.
The stars [Back to top]
The orientation of the stars in the sky is dependent on time of year
and time of day. One star that remains in an almost fixed position
is the Northern star. It is located nearly directly above the artic
pole, and as a result it only moves slightly due to the tilt of the
earth axis. But it is sufficiently accurate to determine direction.
To find the Northern Star you can use the Big Dipper (Plow or Karl's
wagon). If you think of that constellation as a wagon (as we do in
Scandinavia), trace a line through the front stars of the "wagon",
then count approximately five lengths of that spacing up from the
"wagon" to find a very bright star, that is the Northern
Star.
The Sun [Back to top]
The time zones of the earth have been organized so that the sun will
be at its highest at noon. For the northern hemisphere this will mean
it will be in an azimuth due south. If you have a clock that is accurate
you can use this fact to find the cardinal points.
Signs in nature [Back to top]
Most things in nature revolve around the cycles of the sun. The different
seasons control plants and animals, the same does night and day. This
creates structures and signs that can be used to find your way.
Moss, marsh and swamps like moist and wet conditions. If they lie
in direct sunlight they will dry out quickly. For the northern hemisphere
you will find a much larger concentration of these plants on the north
side of trees and rocks.
If you walk in terrain with rivers or creeks you can use them to navigate.
Because all rivers end up in the sea you might at least be able to
determine in which direction the sea lies.
Bearing [Back to top]
When you have found a bearing toward you destination it can often
be difficult to walk in a straight line there. This might confuse
and disorient by the terrain. It can often be smart to identify objects
like mountains or hills in the horizon in front and behind you so
that you can easily see that you are steering along the correct azimuth.
Equipment [Back to top]
Many people go berserk in the sports store and buy lots of equipment that
often is un-useful and redundant. Some luxury items is important in order
to enjoy your hike, but every piece of equipment adds weight and will in
the end make the hike less enjoyable. Choosing the right type of equipment
is important. Insufficient and wrong equipment can be hazardous if dangerous
situations arise. Some people like to hike with only the bare essentials
while others like to have a bit more. You have to consider time of year,
distance to civilization, if you are alone or with others, weather forecast,
food supply and terrain when you choose what equipment to carry.
Clothing [Back to top]
To wear layers of clothes is an important aspect of hiking wear. This
is especially true in cold conditions but is smart for any time of
year. This way you can add or remove layer by layer to adjust for
your body temperature. When you start your hike you should have as
few layers as possible. It is better to add layers if you get too
cold, but it is not so smart to have a lot of clothes on and get sweaty.
When you then remove some clothes you will get cold fast. Many new
synthetic materials are used in hiking clothes nowadays. They are
anatomically sewn, they "breathe", they repel water, and
they are maintenance free and whatnot. Nevertheless it seems that
experienced hikers still choose the proven natural materials like
wool, cotton and leather. Looking from core to shell these are the
important aspects when choosing clothes.
Underwear [Back
to top]
The underwear is a very important part of the clothing. When the weather
grows cold it is also smart to have some long underwear to put on.
The underwear is closest to your skin, so the total comfort greatly
depends on it. If the going is hard you will get sweaty, so it is
important that the underwear stay warm when it is wet. This is a problem
with cotton, but wool has this quality which is why it is often used
in both winter and summer underwear. There is also underwear made
from various synthetic materials. The positive side of these is that
they usually do not get too wet and thereby doesn't get as cold
as cotton.
Mid layer [Back
to top]
Outside the underwear it is smart to have a sweater or jumper which
should be a wind breaker. This is important as it is the warm air
close to your body which is the true insulator. You will get cold
quickly if you have to warm up new air every time a gust of wind blew
through your clothes. Wind breaker pants also exist, but you need
to take of your outer pants to remove it if you get too warm which
makes it cumbersome while trekking.
Winter additions [Back
to top]
For colder climates you will also need a thicker pullover. Sweaters
made from fleece are popular as they are very light and don't
get dirty so quickly. But the proven wool jumper is always a good
alternative. For when you are in camp it can be comfortable to have
a pair of warm underpants so you don't get cold. These can also
be made of fleece or other warm materials.
Outer shell [Back
to top]
The shell clothing should be wind and water proofed. But they should
not be so tight that they trap sweat. Gore-Tex and other breathing
and tough materials are good choices for the outer shell. They are
wind and watertight if properly maintained, though they will loose
some of their abilities when they get worn. But if the weather is
very warm they might be too tight. Cotton shell clothing breathes
very well, but lacks the weather proofing. You can always carry some
light raingear just in case, which can be smart for any occasion.
Other garments [Back
to top]
It is said that you loose approximately 70% of your body heat from
your head. A warm cap is therefore a very important piece of clothing.
It is smart to use it as a heat regulator. When sleeping you should
think in the same way as when hiking. Do not put too much clothes
on, but rather use the cap to regulate. Warm gloves or mittens are
also smart to have if it gets a bit chilly.
Warm socks can be life savers when you are trekking in the wild.
You must take care of your feet or you might not be able to walk
back to civilization. Walking with wet socks can cause trench foot.
Always pack plenty of dry socks and dry your wet socks on your body
and/or on the campfire.
Boots and shoes [Back to top]
It is extremely important that the hiking boots fits your feet. When
walking large distances your feet will get a beating if the boots
have a bad fit. Fitting soles are smart to get a more perfect adaptation.
For boots it can be an idea to soak them in water then walk them dry.
This will form them better to your feet. Your feet will probably become
quite sore but it will save you some grief when you are hiking.
The boot you choose should be watertight. The fewer seams the boots
have the better it is. Seams can be susceptible to leakage if they
get damaged. The boots should be fairly stiff and a hard sole is preferred
so that you get good support of your ankles when hiking in rugged
terrain. With leather boots you should be careful to treat them with
leather creams and oils so they stay in good condition. Using leggings
even in summer conditions will help you from becoming wet and getting
the boots full of dirt.
To have some lighter shoes to use around the campsite will enable
you to dry your hiking boots. Such shoes can also be smart to use
if you are hiking in dry terrain such as desert and mountains. Make
sure they have a good grip and fit.
Backpacks [Back to top]
Backpacks or rucksacks are the most common choice for transportation
of equipment in the wilderness. Carrying all your equipment lets you
plan your hike more freely, not having to reach any specified site
in order to have food and shelter. Many types and makes exist.
For all packs it is very important that they fit the back that will
carry them. When choosing a pack, consider the length of your back,
width of your shoulders, etc. Make sure that the shoulder straps and
hip belt fits and does not inhibit free movement. Seek advice in the
store from experienced hikers and sales personnel.
Anatomic pack [Back to top]
The most used type is the anatomically shaped pack. It is light, and
due to its design it is quite comfortable to carry. Though, when carrying
heavy loads the pack will tend to become deformed, often making it
uncomfortable. It is very important to find a pack that fits your
anatomy and that also is made for the amount of load that you are
able to carry. This can save you from a lot of unnecessary pain.
Frame pack [Back to top]
For the heavier loads the frame pack is a better choice. A frame of
welded metal tubing prevents this pack from becoming misshaped when
carrying much weight. Although not as comfortable as the anatomic
pack newer frame packs are nor lagging far behind. The self weight
of these packs is somewhat higher than other types, which is the biggest
negative quality of this type.
Pulk [Back to top]
Useful only when there is snow and is mostly used to take some of
the load from the backpack when carrying much equipment. It is not
wise to pack it with too much weight as it will reduce glide and make
it harder to handle. If you are trekking in hilly terrain it can be
hard to steer and pull. They come in many different sizes, so you
can choose one that fits your specific needs. It is often used for
longer expeditions as the reduction of weight carried on your shoulders
is preferred, and when pulled by several people considerable loads
can be hauled.
Sleeping bags and groundsheets [Back to top]
The bulk of your average type hiker goes trekking in the period from
late spring to early autumn. But hiking can be enjoyable in all the
years' seasons. You just have to use the correct equipment.
The sleeping bag is no exception. The ordinary hiker only has only
one all-round sleeping bag. It can be a bit warm for the hottest days,
but that's not the biggest problem. For cold winter days it
is insufficient. Personally I use three different sleeping bags depending
on the time of year. The summer type is quite thin and light, which
are good things if it is an ok temperature. Below 10ºC (50ºF)
it will be too cold, unless you have warm clothes on. For winter conditions
you should choose a bag that has a comfort temperature less than the
average temperature in the area you are hiking. To ensure that you
wont freeze choose a bag at least in the range -25ºC to -30ºC
(-13ºF to -22ºF).
To ensure a healthy back you must use groundsheets with sufficient
thickness. In winter conditions it is also important to insulate yourself
from the snow. Inflatable groundsheets are comfortable and have good
insulation but can be punctured by twigs or sharp rocks. Groundsheets
made from foamed plastic are tougher but has less insulation and is
a bit harder to lie on. Having a foamed plastic sheet against the
ground and an inflatable sheet on top will ensure you both good insulation
and protection from perforation.
Tools [Back to top]
You should carry tools and equipment that you won't find in
nature. Unexpected things can happen when you are out hiking so you
should prepare for such eventualities. Things can break that you will
need to repair or you might need to craft traps or shelters to get
food and cover.
A good knife is the most important tool when you are hiking. The
knife should be big enough to be able to cut branches. A finger
stop is smart so that you won't cut yourself when the knife
is wet and slippery.
Needle and thread is smart to carry in order to repair damages
to your equipment. Make sure the thread is strong so that it doesn't
break so easily.
For cutting trees and thick branches you should carry an axe or
a saw. Small hiking axes and foldable saws are light and are perfect
for hiking use.
Some strong and not too thick rope is smart to have for a number
of different tasks. Making snares or emergency shelters is hard
without rope.
Small hunting binoculars are good for finding a good route to travel
and to look for other people.
A flashlight might come in handy. You should limit your nighttime
hiking because you can easily get lost of fall of a rock. But the
flashlight can be nice to have around the campsite. Headlights are
practical as you have both hands free.
Winter essientials [Back to top]
Warm clothes with cap and gloves are alpha omega in winter conditions.
But you should carry warm clothes whenever you are on a hike. There
are other equipments that are indispensable when hiking in winter
time.
Skis and snowshoes [Back to top]
It's hard to get around in deep show. Without skis or snow shoes
it's almost impossible. To choose one or the other depends on
terrain and personal taste. Skis have the advantage that you can run
downhill which can save a lot of strain. In steep uphill on the other
hand you will need to zigzag not to slip. Climbing skins can be used
to counter slipping, but they also add drag causing you skis to loose
glide. In heavily wooded areas it might be difficult to walk with
skis. For such conditions snow shoes can be a better choice. They
don't slip as quickly and are quite sturdy. But you will need
to walk downhill as well as uphill.
You should choose skis that are not too narrow but neither too
wide. The width should be around 70cm (28in) and the length should
be a little shorter than yourself with your arms raised. The bindings
must be robust and the ski boots should have the same specs as regular
hiking boots.
The show shoes come in many designs. You can find types made of
wood, bamboo or metal and synthetics. Buy some that have sufficient
size to be able to carry you with a full pack on semi compact snow.
A good quality is if the binding is hinged so that it will pivot
like a ski. This will make it easier to walk in deep snow.
First aid [Back to top]
Carrying some first aid equipment is very important incase of injury. Bandage
and plaster for dressing cuts and wounds are most important so that you
can contain bleeding. Below is a list with items that you should have in
your first aid kit.
Sterile bandages in several sizes
Sterile dressings
Sterile gauze
Cleansing agent (disinfectant soap and alcohol wipes)
Burn ointment
Antibiotic ointment
Adhesive plaster and tape
Eye wash solution
Latex or plastic gloves
Scissors
Tweezers
Safety pins
Thermometer
Pain relieving tablets (ibuprofen or paracetamol)
Anesthetic gel
Hydrocortisone cream
Antacid tablets (for upset stomach)
Laxative
Coal tablets (anti diarrhea)
Those are some of the basic equipment you need. You can also carry some
alternative equipment which is listed below. Some of these should not be
used if you don't know how to administer them. Some are prescription items,
but if you know your doctor well she/he might agree to prescribe them to
you.
