From the creator of the Just a Colorado Gal blog comes a guide to help you plan for a fun backpacking experience.
It's time to take a hike!
In Backpacking 101, outdoor expert Heather Balogh Rochfort goes step-by-step through the preparation process of hiking—from selecting the right gear to choosing the perfect destination. She also provides useful information for out on the trail, including how to
-Properly read a topographic map
-Set up an environmentally friendly campsite
-Safely interact with wildlife
-Handle being lost in the woods
With Backpacking 101 in your bag, you can be prepared for whatever comes your way during your trek—no matter what skill level you are. It's the perfect resource for anyone ready for an outdoor adventure!
Author(s): Heather Balogh Rochfort
Publisher: Adams Media
Year: 2017
Language: English
Pages: 256
Tags: Backpacking, Choose the Right Gear, Plan Your Ultimate Trip, Cook Hearty and Energizing Trail Meals
Contents
Introduction
Chapter 1: Mental and Physical Preparation
Choose an Appropriate Trail for Your Trip
Find the Perfect Partner
Find Your Fitness
Familiarize Yourself with the Ten Essentials
Practice Makes Perfect
Chapter Summary
Chapter 2: Appropriate Footwear
Day-Hiking Footwear
Backpacking Boots
Trail-Running Shoes
Components
Fit
Do Your Socks Really Matter?
Chapter Summary
Chapter 3: What to Wear
Outer Layer
Insulation
Base Layers
Pants
Accessories
Chapter Summary
Chapter 4: Packing Your Backpack
How Do You Choose a Backpack?
How to Properly Pack Your Backpack
Proper Care and Storage
Chapter Summary
Chapter 5: Navigation
Reading a Topo Map
Operating a Compass
GPS
Chapter Summary
Chapter 6: Food, Hydration, and Nutrition
What Type of Food Should You Bring on Your Trip?
How Much Food?
Hydration
Cooking Tools: Stoves
Backcountry Cookware
Chapter Summary
Chapter 7: Backcountry Etiquette
Leave No Trace
Trail Manners
Nighttime Behavior
Chapter Summary
Chapter 8: Camp Setup
Choosing a Campsite
Orientation of Your Site
The Environmental Impact of Your Campsite
Chapter Summary
Chapter 9: Setting Up Your Camp Kitchen
Determining the Location of Your Camp Kitchen
Keeping Your Food Safe from Wildlife
Disposing of Trash and Managing Food Scraps
Chapter Summary
Chapter 10: Pitching Your Tent
Tent Technology
How to Properly Pitch a Tent
Tent Alternatives
Proper Care and Storage
Chapter Summary
Chapter 11: Making Your Bed
How to Choose a Sleeping Bag
What Type of Sleeping Pad Should I Bring?
Features of a Sleeping Pad
Proper Care and Storage
Chapter Summary
Chapter 12: Backcountry Hygiene
How to Poop in the Woods
Staying Clean
Hiking As a Female
Chapter Summary
Chapter 13: Emergency Situations
Medical Emergencies
Repair Kit and Tools
Animal Encounters on the Trail
Lost in the Wilderness
Chapter Summary
Conclusion
Appendix A: Trekking with Dogs
Physical Fitness
Food and Water
Dog Gear
Pup Sleeping Arrangements
Appendix B: U.S./Metric Conversion Chart
About the Author
Index
