Also planning my first backpacking trip in the next 2 weeks. Any survival/need-to-know tips would be great!
Recreational advice:
- Have fun!
- Look at the stars.
- Bring treats and snacks.
- It's okay to pack extra (even though you probably won't need most of it).
- You probably won't change clothes as often as you think.
- Seriously look at the stars wtf.
Survival advice:
- Tell someone where you're going.
- Drink more water.
- Print out maps.
- Make extra maps.
- Put some in plastic bags.
- A dedicated GPS is good, but offline maps on your phone are good too.
- If you get lost, stay put.
Addendum:
- IF YOU GET LOST, STAY PUT.
- Wear bright colors.
- Bring a small first aid kid.
- Building a fire is fun, burning down a forest is not.
- Tell someone very specifically when you'll be back.
- Literally the words "if I'm not back by 6 PM on Sunday, call 911"
- If you're waiting for a rescue, don't hang out right next to water (it's usually loud and you won't hear #SAR crews)
- Seriously look at the goddamn stars how are they so perfect
- IF YOU GET LOST, STAY PUT
@meia I've gotten turned around *plenty* of times, but fortunately I've gotten lucky and never needed a rescue.
The super-specific advice is mostly from joining my local search and rescue group (https://pnwsar.org/). I can't recommend it enough.
Tons of friendly people, monthly training sessions, and the plenty of opportunities to go on an impromptu hike when folks don't come home on time.
Also: someone will probably get a blister and whoever packed band-aids will be praised as a hero. :)
@christianbundy this seems super cool! I'll look around for something similar to https://pnwsar.org/ in SF. Ooh thanks for reminding me. I will have to run to the store for those band-aids.
@christianbundy Okay so I really need to know now...have you ever gotten lost? This advice is so specific! I was questioning bringing a first aid kit but I will for sure be doing that. Adding all this to my group's list!