What else might you
want to take? Tons of stuff and a Sherpa to carry it all. The
serious items can still create a pretty long list. I always
like to start any list with the 10 or so Essentials. These are
the items that as a backpacker, you should be famaliar with
and know that ALL trips however short should include these items.
They are:
-
Map and Compass;
both items are needed! Some like the GPS units which can
be lifesavers, but don't depend too heavily on a battery
operated system, it can fail and there is no substitute
for good old know how.
-
Flashlight or
Headlamp; I perfer a headlamp for hands free use. Don't
forget extra batteries, the cold can shorten the life
of those alkalines and you may need to switch off for
a warm set that you keep in an inside pocket.
-
First Aid Kit!
should go without saying.
-
Knife or pocket
utility tool with pliers and knife blade.
-
Signal device;
whistle, mirror, or both. The best is the mirror!
-
Sunglasses;
These are especially important for snow travel.
-
Matches; Preferably
windproof and waterproof in a waterproof case.
-
Firestarter;
no not just the matches, a candle or flamable material
to start wet fuel.
-
Extra clothing;
this can be a wind shell and pants or jacket, depending
on climate.
-
Extra Food;
pick something that you won't eat as a snack, this is
EMERGENCY food.
-
Snow shovel
* there should be one for every two or three people in
a group.
Now , here are
some items to add for a snow trip, some are really important
like the snow shovel which really belongs on the list above,
and some are just nice luxeries.
- Avalanche beacon or Avalanche
probe poles * recommended if you are in avalanche prone
areas.
- Ski goggles
- Snow saw
- Recording thermometer
- Barrometer/Altimiter
- Pudding Mix... sets up great
in the snow and makes a super treat for your surprised friends.
- Playing cards
- Book (if you take this, remember
some more batteries)
This list can be expanded or shortened
depending on your stamina and experience in the backcountry
but I always recommend that you keep it as simple and light
as you can as long as you don't leave out the basics.
Thank you for your interest in
snow camping and I hope that this Primer has been of some
help to you. I have tried to cover the most important issues
without pushing my own preferances and prejudices. If you
have any suggestions about how I might improve the information
presented here I am always open to suggestions. Please feel
free to e-mail me at info@snowcamper.com
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