- Joined
- Jan 6, 2005
- Messages
- 9,680
All "idiot" comments aside...
Plan every trip away from camp as if you aren't comming back that day... even a simple wood run. We all know that you don't need food off the get go. Water is one of the biggies. You should always have a container on you and a means to purify.... ALWAYS. Fire, Water Shelter can be as simple as a belt with a good knife, canteen, firekit and a poncho.
Do I train to be able to do without those things?.. yes... Would I ever let confidence keep me from taking the necessary precautions?... NEVER.
Even more important than physical skills is mental preparedness. Awareness. Be aware of your own skill level, physical conditioning, and it's limitations. You need to be honest with yourself. Be aware of your suroundings, the weather, your location, gear, time and schedule.
If you are hiking with a friend, you need to know almost as much about them as you do, yourself.
Rick
Plan every trip away from camp as if you aren't comming back that day... even a simple wood run. We all know that you don't need food off the get go. Water is one of the biggies. You should always have a container on you and a means to purify.... ALWAYS. Fire, Water Shelter can be as simple as a belt with a good knife, canteen, firekit and a poncho.
Do I train to be able to do without those things?.. yes... Would I ever let confidence keep me from taking the necessary precautions?... NEVER.
Even more important than physical skills is mental preparedness. Awareness. Be aware of your own skill level, physical conditioning, and it's limitations. You need to be honest with yourself. Be aware of your suroundings, the weather, your location, gear, time and schedule.
If you are hiking with a friend, you need to know almost as much about them as you do, yourself.
Rick