In most parts of the country correctly hanging food in a bear bags can be effective though it takes a bit of skill. Unfortunately bags won’t protect your food in the more highly trafficed parts of the Sierras were the bears see backpackers and think “Great, I … “Food Storage for Backpacking”
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Single-wall Tents There are two types of single wall tents. The first is made using waterproof (or water resistant) breathable materials. These are typically free standing shelters designed for mountaineering, and have very similar designs such as those from Bibler, Rab, or Black Diamond. I like … “Tents”
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Actually, this should really be called shelters for extreme conditions with snow since there are many places where “winter” could be handled with a traditional “three season” tent. When I think “winter shelters” I am thinking something that can survive 50+mph winds, and a foot … “Winter Shelters”
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Shelters are made from a variety of materials which have a variety of strengths and weaknesses. One of the important properties of a shelter is being able to keep you dry. Many fabrics, even those that aren’t “waterproof” can keep you drive in moderate conditions. … “Shelter Fabrics”
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Some brief notes by other sectionhikers campsite selection Look for someplace with soft ground. Not only is this more comfortable to sleep on, but if it rains, the water will more quickly soak in. Look for someplace that has good drainage: slightly higher than the near … “Selecting Campsites”
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Most shelters need something to keep them from blowing away. Most people carry metal or plastic stakes, though it is often possible to improvise using local material. Ultralight backpackers often use titanium stakes because they are strong and reasonably light. There is no one best … “Stakes”
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The following posts can provide a good overview for someone who is thinking and trying backpacking for the first time. Getting Starting Gear You Will Need Food on the Trail Getting a Good Night Sleep Survival skills Additional Resources… books, websites, etc I have some … “Backpacking”
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The general rule of thumb is that people shouldn’t carry more than 1/4 of their body weight. That means that a 60 pound child shouldn’t be carrying more than a 15 pound pack for an extended period of time, a 100 pound child shouldn’t be … “Backpacks for Kids”
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Remember the 3s You need air in 3 minutes (and to stop severe bleeding), to get warmth in 3 hours, water in 3 days, and food in 3 weeks. The Wisdom of Abo Dude touches on most of the survival principles I learned growing up. Cody also has … “Survival Skills”
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My recommendations are focused on backpacking gear, but most of the observations are applicable to a variety of outdoor activities. I also have a list of my “gear for life“ Clothing Backpacks Sleep System Shelters (tents, tarps, hammocks) Kitchen Gear: Stoves, Cookwares, Water, Food Storage Other Items: Knives, Lights Ultralight … “Outdoor Gear”
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Many people under estimate the value of a good night of sleep. If you don’t cherish your sleep, you might want to read The Problem of Sleep which does a good job of documenting the value of sleep, what interferes with good sleep, and what the negative … “Getting a Good Night Sleep in the Outdoors”
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Sleeping pads provide comfort which can enable a good night of sleep. Waking up in the morning feeling worse than when you went to bed is no fun. Some people can sleep on the bare ground or maybe 1/8″ foam pads for some insulation. I … “Sleeping Pads”
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Having the right amount of insulation and comfortable surface to sleep on top of can be the difference between a restful night and a night that you can’t wait to end. Sleeping bags and quilt are the most cost effective ways to insure you have the right … “Sleeping Bag & Quilt”
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Historically the three best choices are Down, Polarguard (especially 3D and Delta), and Primaloft, though Climashield sounds pretty good and will likely replace Polarguard as the most commonly use synthetic in the next few years. Each of these materials has different performance characteristics. You will … “Insulation Materials”
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Shaped tarps can be exceptionally light weight while providing excellent storm protection. The downside of many shaped tarps is that they way you pitch them is limited compared to a classic flat tarp. Shaped tarps come in a variety of sizes and shapes. I have … “Shaped Tarps”
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Sykes Hot Springs is one of my favorite places to take first time backpackers who are reasonably fit. The destination has some nice hot springs and a trout filled stream. The hike is pretty. The trip is long enough that people have a sense they … “Sykes Hot Springs”
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