New Zealand gear designer Aarn Tate claims to have found a solution to this problem: The Aarn FlowMo Bodypack wraps around a hiker, with front pouches front and back, designed to spread the weight of gear and put the burden on the hips.

A Colorado Springs company is the sole American importer of the packs.

“I‘ve seen many people with completely overpacked, overstuffed backpacks doing that forward lean,” said Dana Adoretti of Aarn North America, who learned about the packs through a relative in New Zealand.

“It balances the weight a little better. You’ve got some on the front, some on the back. You can stand more upright, with better posture,” he said.

Adoretti received his first shipment of the packs in November and recently expanded the inventory to 10 packs, including ultralight and mountaineering models. Cost $135 to $360 and carrying capacity is 22 to 75 liters.

For best results, hikers should put their heavier gear, food and water in the front pouches, for maximum balance.

Reviews have been largely positive of the design. The Out There staff found the pack lived up to its claim of providing good balance and cutting down on back and shoulder fatigue. Still, it felt and looked a little awkward having bulk on the chest.

Like some other reviewers, we noted how complicated the pack is to get on and off, with many small adjustments required.

“There are some more customizable aspects of the pack that do take some time, but once you get it dialed in to your body and your fit, it really pays off.

“It’s not just a pull-it-off-the-wall, cinch-up-a-couple-straps-and-go pack,” Adoretti said.

Related posts:

1. Women and Their Backpacks
2. Osprey Stratos 36 Backpack
3. Haiti Relief effort gets boost from Gregory

Start walking and stretching regularly. If you can, add other cardiovascular exercise such as swimming, jogging or biking. If you have medical conditions,please discuss your hiking goals with your doctor.

Clothes

Pants or shorts with a T-shirt are standard for most summer hikes. Bring a lightweight jacket or sweatshirt and a disposable poncho in case the weather changes. In colder seasons you will probably want additional layers. Look for synthetic fabrics that are designed for athletic activity. These clothes dry out quickly. Sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats are also essential.

Boots

Not only should your boots be sturdy and comfortable, they should also be broken-in. Don’t try to break them in on a trail.
Hiking poles can be very helpful on steep or rocky trails. They take some of the burden off of your knees during a steep downhill stretch. If you aren’t quite as young as you used to be, you may appreciate the extra stability and balance.

Backpacks

Get yourself a comfortable backpack with a padded backboard. You can pay an arm and a leg for premium hiking and camping gear. For the beginner, adequate items at more affordable prices can be found at discount retailers. I recently bought a backpack at Walmart for less than $15.

Backpack contents

In addition to food, my pack usually contains water bottles, sunscreen, lip balm, mosquito repellant, a water filtration system or iodine tablets, a first-aid kit, a lightweight jacket, a disposable poncho, a headlamp or flashlight, a map and compass, a whistle, toilet paper and a plastic trowel, an extra pair of socks and my camera. If I plan on fishing, I add a collapsible pole, reel, tackle, pliers and my license. Don’t forget any prescription medications and asthma inhalers that you regularly use.

Water

Pack plenty of water and drink regularly. Water from natural sources generally needs to be purified. If you don’t plan on carrying enough for the entire trip, you will need a filtration system or iodine tablets.

Food

Pack non-perishable food items that are high in protein and carbohydrates. Typical examples include trail mix, dried fruit, beef jerky, energy bars, granola bars, cheese and crackers. Make sure you have some salty snacks to replace the salt your body is losing through sweating.

Sanitation

On most hikes, your restroom is wherever you choose, as long as you are out of view of others and at least 100 feet from trails, campsites and water sources. Bring toilet paper and a small trowel. Bury waste 6 inches below the surface. It is recommended that you pack out used toilet paper in a resealable plastic bag.

Related posts:

1. Backcountry Gear Checklist
2. Hygiene and Femininity in the Backcountry
3. Water Purification Tips

Yes, you could sit on a fallen tree trunk or a log around the camp fire to chat and do your cooking. You could even sit on the ground or on a blanket, but have you ever stopped to consider how heavy a canvas and aluminium framed camping chair really is? It weighs a pound or two and can hang off the outside of your rucksack or knapsack.

A camping chair can hugely enhance your camping holiday, whether you are going to a camping site or just wandering in nature, but probably even more so in the latter case. If it is raining or has recently rained, logs, rocks and the soil will be damp. If there are lots of ants about, you will not want to sit on the ground anyway. What about bugs and other insects? Or snakes even? The fact is that a camping chair does not take up much room, does not weigh anything, but can provide a lot of comfort.

Of course, the more sophisticated the camping chair, the heavier it will be, but you not have to have much to feel good after a long hike, especially if the weather was bad. A stool is better than nothing, but I would want something with a back to it; something like a canvas director’s chair the same as you see in movies.

Your camping chair can act as as a table, if the weather is fine and you have other means to sit down. If you serve your food on your camping chair you will have fewer problems with ants and other insects. However, the best reason for taking a folding camping chair with you on a camping holiday, is the luxury of being able to take your boots off and lean back in your camping chair with your feet up as soon as you have made camp. It may not be macho, but I like it.

Related posts:

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2. Backcountry Gear Checklist
3. Low Impact Camping Guide

This article caught out attention in the Winter 2009 Issue of Wilderness Medicine Magazine.

Winter doesn’t have to be a stay-at-home season. There are plenty of opportunities to get your kids into the outdoors. With some basic equipment, reading, lessons and tapping into your own experiences, you can equip your kids and give them skills to participate in outdoor winter adventures and sports.

Get Ready, Set…Go

Back in the sixties I remember being so bundled for a winter outing I walked like a grade B movie monster. Gone are the days of cotton long underwear, thick cotton sweaters and bulky water logged snowsuits. The Fall 2008 edition of WM magazine discussed clothing and gear, but winter requires some added advice.

Outfit your kids in non-cotton synthetic fiber clothing using the layer method. Give attention to waterproof mittens or gloves with liners. Wool or fleece hats contain warmth and should cover their ears. Neck gaiters make up the distance between jackets and hats. They can also be pulled up for face protection. Neoprene face masks in extreme cold not only protect from cold exposure but also from sun and wind burns. Thicker synthetic socks and waterproof boots protect feet. Pay special attention to tight fitting boots which restrict toe movement and predispose to cold injury. Light reflection from snow cover can cause UV eye burns – bring sunglasses or goggles for all. Sunscreen is a must for exposed skin.

Helmets should be non-negotiable for activities such as sledding, skiing, and snowboarding.

Remember to bundle infants and small carry-along kids who may not be heating up from exercise as much as you. Carry instant heat packs, which shouldn’t be depended on for prolonged exposure situations, but can help take the chill from hands and feet. Besides, they are as good as a magic trick for little ones who marvel at the scrunch and heat trick.

Fun Things to Do

You can’t beat a great snowball battle or building Frosty for a quick outdoor activity, but there are a whole lot of winter adventures waiting to help build your kids’ confidence, skills, and general good health.

Sledding:

Three important pieces of advice: Wear a helmet. Wear a helmet. Wear a helmet.

Too often this is considered a benign sport, but consider your kids are on a device that gains speed and eventually collides with something or someone. Examine and repair damaged equipment and check steering function. Sleds with runners and steering devises are safer than disks or toboggans. Pick gentle slopes, away from hazards, with a spacious level area to stop. Teach them proper riding position with feet always pointing downhill. Make a game of pulling the sled and racing back up the hill. Feed and water them every hour to maintain energy and warmth.

Skiing or Snowboarding:

Helmets. Helmets. Helmets.

These activities require training from a skilled individual. If you don’t ski or snowboard, consider lessons for the whole family. All resorts offer a variety of lesson packages that can include ski rentals and lift tickets. During lessons they learn not only to ski but how to fall and avoid injury. Rent equipment for a season if they are new to the sport before making a big investment in gear. The ski rental shop will help choose and fit the equipment. But if your child complains about a tight fit or bindings that don’t release when they fall, take time out for an adjustment back at the shop. Check your own equipment at the beginning of the season for needed repairs and routine maintenance. If you teach them yourselves try using a harness to control their speed, or ski next to them holding your pole parallel to the ground so they can hold onto it, or like we did for our youngest, just ski ten feet ahead of them to act as a stop if needed. No matter what method you use inject fun into the activity by taking lots of breaks for snacks and hot chocolate, play games like searching for winter birds, and let them snap pictures to preserve memories of the fun.

Snowshoeing:

Winter hiking just got a whole lot more fun with snowshoes. No learning curve here; if they can walk, they can snowshoe. Wearing snowshoes allows you to ride above the snow instead of sinking into it. You exert less energy, stay drier, and can cover more distance. As with any hike bring a map, emergency rescue gear, extra food, extra clothing, and leave your itinerary with someone. Most XC ski centers also rent snowshoes and poles for use on their trails. This is an opportunity to teach your kids respect for multi-use trails. Stay out of the XC ski tracks and yield to skiers coming downhill. It’s also a great time to observe the scenery and wildlife when walking down a quiet snow-laden trail.

Winter Camping:

Some campgrounds operate year round, or you can backpack into a designated trail campsite. If this is a first-time winter camping trip, consider car or tent camping in a designated campsite. Having your vehicle nearby is an “out” for sudden weather changes. Bring a four-season tent, sleeping bags, and thick sleeping mats or air cushions for ground insulation. Plan to sleep wearing your hat and mittens. This is a terrific opportunity to teach kids winter survival skills such as fire building in wet conditions, snow fort construction, trail finding, and weather monitoring.

Slick Advice for Tricky Conditions

Start outdoor adventures, like snowshoeing, early in the day so you are back before the daylight fades. Allow extra travel time for bad weather, traffic delays, poor road conditions, or detours. Stay home if the weather is bad. Frequently check kids clothing and gear for wetness and proper coverage. Catching problems early can avert a worse disaster later down the trail. Bring along extra hats, gloves, mittens, socks, and scarves to replace wet items. Bring a dry pair of shoes and extra food. Most kids less than twelve years need supervision for these outdoor activities which also gives you a chance to teach and spend valued time together. Equally important is bringing your sense of fun and flexibility. Quitting before they and you are exhausted reduces the risk of injury and enhances their prospect of continuing these winter outdoor traditions with their own kids.

Related posts:

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2. North Face VE 25 Tent
3. Backcountry Gear Checklist

• Stretching
• Boot Preparation
• First Aid
• Mileage and Speed

Pain is the nemesis of all backpackers. It can ruin a trip or turn first-timers off to the joy of the activity. Be prepared, knowledgeable, sensitive, and sure of your own needs and limits before going out. Don’t forget to breathe, savor and have fun.

STRETCHING – Avoiding Backpacking Pain

Stretching: I have always been one to stretch and prepare myself for a workout, but in my early days of backpacking I disregarded the importance of stretching and headed out for long days with a heavy pack, only to realize my mistake at the end of the journey. Now, despite the time and the effort, I carve out a little time at the beginning and end of my day for a stretching routine.

I usually start from the bottom up, and spend about 15 minutes in the morning and the evening. Starting with the feet, sit on the ground with your shoes off and stretch the bottom of your feet by pulling the balls of your feet and your toes toward you. This stretches all the tendons on the bottom of your feet, helping to avoid small tears that result in extreme pain. With your legs stretched out in front of you, reach toward your toes until you feel a tug on your hamstrings. Hold this position for at least 10-20 seconds. Still on the ground, lie on a sleeping pad and pull your legs up and over your head, (your knees should be resting by your ears, so that you are in a ball).

To stretch your back, hold this position for 10-20 seconds, and then roll over on to your stomach. Push up with your arms, arching your back, while keeping your legs on the ground. Hold this position for another 10-20 seconds to stretch your lower back. After completing the stretches on the ground, stand up to stretch your calves. If you are near a tree or rock, lean against it with both arms. Stretch one leg back and press that heel into the ground to stretch your calf and Achilles tendon. I usually hold this stretch, on each leg, for at least 30 seconds.

While doing long uphill stretches, the calves usually get hammered more than any other part of your body. For the quads, reach back grab your foot, and pull it up toward your butt. Hold this for about 20 seconds.

Last, I usually spend a couple minutes rolling my neck and shoulders, and when in need, I throw down a couple Advil.

Some people have different stretching routines for morning and evening, but I usually do the same thing twice a day. I recommend trying out different stretches and going with what feels best for you. My last piece of advice in the stretching category, is to take a leisurely stroll around your campsite at the end of the day, (without a pack of course), and work out the kinks. Walking without your pack will feel like heaven!

BOOT PREPARATION – Avoiding Backpacking Pain

Boot Preparation: I can’t stress the importance of this category more. Taking care of your boots is invaluable on any extended trip.

First, do not go backpacking in cheap, cloth boots, (much less, anything that resembles a tennis shoe). You will be sorry if you don’t invest the money in a good pair of hiking boots. Some brands I recommend: Merrell, Vasque, Technica, Asolo and Raichle, to name a few.

The catch is, when you buy a high quality leather boot, you will be in more pain than you can imagine if you don’t spend the time breaking them in before you hit the trail.

I was on a trip in the Canyonlands with several people who had brand new boots right out of the box. In a matter of days, they all had blisters that were bad enough to delay our trip. I was so glad I was wearing boots that were long broken in.

As soon as you purchase your boots, wear them. Wear them around the house, to work, on walks, on day hikes and shopping. Wear them wherever you can. The boot needs time to crease in the appropriate places, as well as time to form to your foot. This breaking in process also give you a chance to see if you found the right size and fit and a chance to try out a variety of sock options.

You will be glad, while breaking them in, that you can take them off after a couple of hours, instead of having to hike all day.

The other important step to remember, before you hit the trail, is to waterproof the leather. Most places that sell boots will offer you a waterproofing option when you purchase your boots. There are many different waterproofing products that work, but make sure you get the right one for your boot. With many products, like Nikwax, you have to get the product for your boot material combination – usually either smooth leather, fabric and leather, or nubuck and suede. The directions are pretty straightforward, just make sure you apply several coats of the waterproofing product, letting them dry in between coats. If your boots have been used and you want to apply or reapply a waterproof coat to them, make sure you clean them first with a wet cloth, and then condition them with a leather conditioner. Good boots can be your best friend or your worst enemy, so choose wisely and love them like you love your feet.

First Aid – Avoiding Backpacking Pain

First Aid: Don’t leave home without some knowledge of wilderness first aid techniques and a first aid kit.

As soon as you are in a remote location, (at least an hour from professional medical care), you need to be prepared to handle any injury or physical discomfort on your own. I am not going to go in to all the first aid details that one should know before a trip but I will highlight some basics.

First, be prepared to prevent all foreseeable accidents or injuries, (i.e.. Proper nutrition, clothing, equipment, etc.) and for whatever you can’t prevent, have the necessary items on hand to deal with the situation. I highly recommend investing in a “pre-made” medical kit, something made by a wilderness medical expert, like Atwater Carey, MSR or Outdoor Research. After making this purchase, you can add to or subtract from your kit as needed.

I actually have two kits: One for short hikes, with Band Aids, Advil, sunscreen, moleskin, etc., and one for extended trips to help deal with a more serious medical emergency. I am all for saving weight on a trip, but a medical kit is something I don’t take lightly.

You can never plan enough for the unknown.

I also recommend purchasing and bringing a basic first aid book, (bigger medical kits often come with these), in case there is a situation you are unfamiliar with. Have some basic knowledge around lightning, flash floods, snow conditions, hypothermia, dehydration and navigation. The best advice, regarding first aid is BE PREPARED!

Mileage and Speed – Avoiding Backpacking Pain

Mileage and Speed: The best way to avoid backpacking pain is to pace yourself.

My hardest day on the trail is always the second. I find on my first day out that I am excited, motivated, inspired, and feeling good. My pack is the heaviest it will be and my body is the softest. Despite all this, I practically run the first ten miles, (hah, not really), but it sure feels like it the next day! I know for sure, though, that I go way too far and way too fast that first day.

The next day I usually wake up and want to go home. I have learned time and again that I have to pace, pace, pace.

So, I recommend deciding on your total mileage before you even leave for your trip, and then, instead of dividing your mileage by your number of days, I would plan for fewer miles the first couple of days, and then increase your mileage during the middle of your trip. More importantly, day to day, than mileage is speed.

It is so important to remember that faster is not better.

There are two reasons for this: First, if you are backpacking for aesthetic reasons, the views, the solitude, and the company, going too fast detracts from the enjoyable aspects of backpacking. I like to take lots of breaks to look around, listen to the silence and talk with my companion. I also like to go slow enough that I am not too breathless to have a conversation while I am hiking.

Second, speed is going to vary from one individual to the next, based on fitness level, size, and preference. Encourage your packing partner or group to be sensitive to everyone’s individual needs. Remember that if you can’t seem to catch your breath, you are going too fast. When you can’t catch your breath, your muscles aren’t getting enough oxygen and you will feel fatigue and soreness much sooner.

Try and compromise with your partner or group if your pace and speed needs are different, so that backpacking is enjoyable and doesn’t end in misery and frustration.

Related posts:

1. Snowshoeing: How Far? How Fast?

Making sure an expedition is appropriately outfitted and prepared for any type of weather is the difference between having an unforgettable expedition or one that can have a negative impact on all those involved. The

• clothing worn
• the gear used
• the trail to be traveled
• and how to act in an emergency

will all be affected by any possible weather conditions, and thus all of these factors should be taken into account.

Clothing:

Because having an enjoyable time while on a backpacking expedition is the main goal, one must make sure that the clothing that is worn is appropriate in the kind of weather that one will travel in.

Thanks to modern technology, the clothing that is worn on contemporary expeditions is very different than what was worn fifty years ago. Dressing to be in the great outdoors has become more of a science today than in the past.

There are three main weather systems that should be taken into account before choosing the appropriate clothing. Rain, (The Appalachian Mountains, east coast, for example), snow (The Rocky Mountains, Colorado, for example), and hot and dry (The Guadalupe Mountains, Texas, for example).

All of these weather systems are very different, but they all have some similarities. They all start off cool in the morning, which means the appropriate layers must be worn. All of these weather systems require what is called a base layer (wicking layer).

A base layer is made from nonabsorbent synthetic fibers and is worn next to the skin. This layer protects and facilitates the movement of liquid moisture away from the skin. The color of this base layer must be chosen based on the weather. Dark colors, because they absorb light, should be worn in colder weather. Light colors, because they reflect light, should be worn in warmer weather.

The second layer, known as the insulation layer, is worn over the base layer and can consist of a wide variety of insulating fibers and fabrics. Modern clothing systems often include synthetic insulators because, unlike natural fibers synthetics, they tend to retain much of their insulating ability when wet, wick better, and may also dry faster than natural insulation . In snowy and some rainy conditions this layer should be thicker than the base layer, because this is the layer that keeps heat close to the body. In warmer weather this layer can be used as the outer layer and should be easily taken off to regulate body temperature.

The third and final layer is known as the weather protection layer. This layer can be waterproof to prevent water from outside getting inside and can protect the insulating layers from accumulating moisture from internal sources. Wind chill, how cold the wind makes one feel, is something that should be considered, to prevent convective heat loss. The weather protective layer should ideally be wind proof. This outer layer must also have a hood to keep the head warm and good heavy weight zippers to keep the elements out during a heavy down pour or a heavy snowfall. The outer layer can be omitted during warmer weather, but one should carry some sort of protection for unexpected windstorms.

Equipment:

Staying comfortable not only depends on the clothing one chooses but also on the equipment that is taken on the expedition. From the tent used to the sleeping bag that someone sleeps in, the equipment must be appropriate for any type of weather. The tent (shelter) is by far one of the most important pieces of equipment for the sole purpose of protection, not only from falling snow and rain but also from the heat in warmer climates. The protection you choose will depend on the season and altitude. Weather should be carefully investigated for minimum temperature and altitude before leaving on a trip.

There are a great number of tents on the market, from four season tents that are superior during the winter seasons, to a simple tarp that is primarily used in warmer climates. See “Picking the Perfect Tent.” For three and four season tents several things must be considered before exposing the tent to various weather conditions. The seams on the rain fly, (the part that goes over the tent body), should be a moisture resistant fabric and seam sealed. You can seam seal your own tent with seam seal tape or with seam sealant a chemical that acts like glue holding the seam tightly together, thus keeping the water and snow out.

A sleeping system should also be considered when planning an expedition. A sleep system consists of a sleeping bag and a sleeping pad. Sleeping bags should be chosen depending on minimum temperature and maximum altitude. See “Selecting a Sleeping Bag.” In dryer, colder weather a goose down sleeping bag may be considered. A goose down sleeping bag is the warmest, lightest, and when properly cared for, the longest lasting. Because goose down is a feather, once it gets wet it loses its efficiency to keep a person warm, so it is not a good idea to take goose down into rainy conditions. For rainy conditions a synthetic sleeping bag is more adequate. Due to a synthetic bag’s ability to retain most of their loft and warmth when wet, they dry quickly, and clean easier. These bags are better suited for wet, rainy conditions.

A sleeping pad is simply a barrier between a person and the ground. This is especially important when sleeping on cold or wet ground. Sleeping on the cold or wet ground will make a person become cold and uncomfortable. There are many sleeping pads to choose from, so special attention must be given to the weather. When sleeping in a hot, dry climate one should still use a sleeping pad although a lighter weight pad might be in order.

The trail:

When choosing where to go backpacking the trip leader should always consider the location of the trail. What is the weather generally like at this location during that particular time of year? Is a contingency plan needed in case of bad weather? In some areas of the country, during spring and fall, the temperature can change fifty degrees in a few hours. This rapid change of temperature can make a person at risk of hypothermia. If there is any question about the weather do not hesitate to alter plans or cancel the trip if weather conditions warrant. Inclement weather conditions are not the only reason to postpone or cancel an expedition. In dryer, warmer weather the danger of wild land forest fires are very important to consider .

There are many things to consider when planning a backpacking expedition. Some of the things that are planned can be controlled, as what type of clothing to wear, what kind of gear to use, and what trails will be hiked. But there are also things that that are beyond any kind of control, perhaps the one that is the most difficult to plan for is the weather. Weather may be one of the most difficult things to plan for, but taking the time to consider any type of weather at any time of year will determine whether a backpacking expedition will be a success or if it will be a failure.

Related posts:

1. Selecting a Sleeping Bag
2. Kids and Winter Mountain Sports
3. Camping Chairs are Great!

But take heed, avid campers and backpackers, there is a very logical way to wade through the huge selection and pick out the perfect tent for your needs.

Let’s talk Tent Size

The first, easiest way to narrow down your selection is to determine the size of tent you will need. Tents are designed to accommodate a certain number of people. So, a solo backpacker, and a family camper will be looking for two very different tents.

Most tents come labeled with their capacity in the description. Other tents have a number next to the name, indicating the number of people the tent is designed to hold.

If you are not interested in having more than one tent in your outdoor gear collection, it is best to determine the maximum number of people you think will ever sleep in your tent at one time. If you are doing a solo trip this summer, but usually hit the trail with one other person, it is best to select a two-person tent.

So… Where are you headed in this tent?

The next step is determining when and where you will be using your tent. Are you spending a couple weeks on a volcano in Mexico, a month on the Pacific Crest Trail, or an evening in Rocky Mountain National Park? Tents fit into different “season” categories, which are usually labeled “Three Season,” Four Season,” “Convertible,” and “Lightweight.” For the most part, these are generic terms that may change from one manufacturer to the next. The terms generally encompass similar features, regardless of the manufacturer.

A Three Season tent is designed to function during every season but winter. Not to say that you couldn’t use this tent during the winter, but for all intensive purposes, the tent would not be ideal during a winter storm.

A Four Season tent, on the other hand is designed to function during the harshest winter conditions. If you end up stuck on a high peak, during a three-day blizzard, for example, this tent will keep you dry, warm and comfortable. The downside to this tent, however, becomes apparent in the summer months, when you are carrying a heavy tent, lacking the ventilation of a Three Season tent.

Convertible tents, designed to bridge the gap, include the weather blocking features of a Four Season tent, but come equipped with removable ventilation panels for the warmer months.

Lastly, the Lightweight tent category features tents that often have the most technical fabrics and newest designs which allow the tent to be functional and roomy, but most importantly, lightweight.

Comfort vs. Comfort – The Tent Weight Debate

What’s more important? Comfort on the Trail? or Comfort in Camp? After you have decided when and where you will use your tent, you can further narrow your selection, by considering weight. An important aspect to many tent shoppers, tent weight will be listed in the primary description.

Weight is oftentimes, (but not always), closely related to size. Generally, the larger the tent, the heavier the overall weight.

An important detail to note, while looking at tent weight, is the three weights that most manufacturers list in the tent description. This detail is most important for individuals who plan to carry their tent.

“Maximum weight” indicates the weight of the tent when you take it right off the shelf. This includes the weight of the tent, fly, poles, bag that it comes in, instruction manual, stakes, and anything else that comes with the tent.

“Packed weight” indicates the weight of the tent when it is packed for a trip. This may vary from one manufacturer to the next, but usually includes the tent, poles, fly, bag and stakes.

The “minimum weight” again varies from one manufacturer to the next, but usually includes only the tent, poles and fly. For backpackers concerned with weight, the minimum weight of a tent is an important comparison factor while shopping.

So what’s this tent made out of?

Tent materials are another important consideration while tent shopping. You can easily become bogged down by the technical details, but there are some basic components that will indicate the inherent value of the tent you are considering.

Unique, technical, and innovative fabrics and materials are found in the poles, fly, floor, tent body, windows and zippers. Different manufacturers pride themselves on the materials they choose for each aspect of the tent.

Some materials are better than others, but for the most part these technical aspects will be more or less necessary depending on your intended use and specific environment.

What do you need functionality wise in your new tent?

Looking for a tent that is easy to set up and take down? Interested in a tent with multiple entrances? How about an extra large vestibule? These are all important considerations when you are narrowing down your tent selection.

Design features furnish a tent with its individual flare. While many add on accessories are available, the unique, built in features make a tent more or less perfect for an individual with specific needs.

Some features to keep in mind while shopping are the number of poles, number of doors, size and shape of vestibule, size and shape of tent floor, and staking options, to name a few.

Oh yeah… the good tents cost money!

Finally, most of us usually shop with a budget in mind. If shopping for all of your outdoor needs at one time, it will important to determine where on your priority list your tent ranks. A tent is worthy of a large portion of your budget, since this item will last, if taken care of, for many seasons.

All of the features mentioned earlier will be reflected in the total price of the tent, so the number one rule of thumb, is of course, “you get what you pay for.” A tent, high in quality materials, and features that fit your individual needs, will surely keep you a dry, comfortable, happy camper.

Related posts:

1. Selecting a Sleeping Bag
2. North Face VE 25 Tent
3. Colorado 14er’s a Perfect Destination

This list is a fairly complete list of everything you could possibly need for a safe and successful backpacking trip.

Essentials for Every Trip.

• Compass
• Stocked First Aid Kit
• Ample Clothing for all Weather
• Sunglasses
• Extra Food Pocket
• Knife or Survival Tool
• Flashlight
• Local Maps
• Emergency Space Blanket
• 50 feet or Rope or Cord
• Waterproof Matches & Candles
• Blister Prevention & Care Kit

Additional Gear for Day Trips

• Backpack or Waist Pack
• Sunscreen
• Insect Repellent
• Light Weight Shorts
• Water Bottle(s) 1 qt. minimum!
• Zip Loc® Bags to protect valuables
• Toilet Paper
• Camera & Film
• Trash Bag
• Duct Tape

Overnight Gear (in addition to previously listed gear)

• Tent
• Sleeping Pad
• Sleeping Bag & Stuff Sac
• Cook Set
• Stove and Fuel
• Long Underwear
• Water Purification System
• Ditty Bags for hanging food
• Extra Batteries & Bulb
• Biodegradable Camp Soap
• Utensils
• Repair Kits for tent, jacket, pack, sleeping bag, etc.
• Pack Cover
• Personal Toiletries
• Tarp or Ground Cover
• Extra Fuel

Extra Comforts (makes your pack heavier, but SO MUCH BETTER!)

• Sandals
• Book
• Headlamp
• Coffee Pot
• Notebook & Pencil
• Camping Pillow
• Binoculars
• Gatorade, Coffee, Hot Cocoa Mixes
• Candle Lantern (Highly Suggested)
• 2 Way Radio
• Camp Chair
• Cribbage Board

Clothing Suggestions

• Hiking Boots
• Waterproof Jacket
• Long Pants – we suggest a fast drying fabric, avoid cotton and denim!
• Fleece Jacket or Wool Sweater
• Warm Hat
• Waterproof Pants
• Long Sleeve Shirt
• Light Weight Hiking Shorts
• Baseball Cap
• Short Sleeve Shirt
• Socks – we suggest wool, polypro or wool blends. Do not use cotton!
• Camp Shoes or Sandals
• Light gloves or mittens
• Bandana

This list is designed as a reference for trips in Colorado (or similar areas) during the summer months. Needs will vary depending on climate, weather, topography, altitude, season, difficulty of trip, health or special needs of individuals. The most important item to bring is common sense. Please research area thoroughly before departing on any trip.

Related posts:

1. Baby Steps for Beginning Hikers
2. Backcountry Nutrition
3. Hygiene and Femininity in the Backcountry

Camping

• Never camp within 100 feet of fresh water
• Blend into the environment
• Select previously used campsites
• Never dig up grass to clear tent site

Fires

• No fires unless an emergency situation arises
• If a fire is necessary, use previously made pits
• Make sure you put your fire ALL THE WAY OUT
• Never cut trees for wood, use dead wood

Garbage

• Pack it in, Pack it out!!
• Take only pictures, leave only footprints

Sanitation

• Use outhouses if provided
• Pack out all waste

Water

• Never dump waste or soap into fresh water
• Clean dishes away from streams and lakes

Traveling in the Wilderness

• Never take shortcuts on switchbacks
• Rest on hard ground, not grass or flowers

General Impact Guidelines

• Know the area
• Know first aid and CPR
• Know navigation techniques
• Check weather reports
• Speak softly
• Blend into your surroundings

Related posts:

1. Hygiene and Femininity in the Backcountry
2. Water Purification Tips