Backpacking 101

✍ Scribed by Heather Balogh Rochfort

• Publisher: Adams Media
• Year: 2017
• Tongue: English
• Leaves: 256
• Category: Library

✦ Synopsis

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!

✦ Table of Contents

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

✦ Subjects

Backpacking, Choose the Right Gear, Plan Your Ultimate Trip, Cook Hearty and Energizing Trail Meals