Essential Things To Bring During Backcountry Excursions

| Friday, December 9, 2011
By Warren Hayiltonn


Not that long ago, heading out to the backcountry meant toting a compass and map along so you won't get lost. Nowadays, we only have to bring personal GPS gadgets to point the way. A number of them are wearable, just like the Garmin Forerunner 305. Although primarily made for runners, Garmin 305 also provides rudimentary but reliable mapping, waypoint marking, and routing capabilities - a reason why Garmin 305 reviews are very encouraging.

Backpackers who sent in Garmin 305 reviews also talked highly of the gadget's impressive sensitivity even when in the backcountry. Garmin 205 is a cheaper alternative to the 305. It has the same capabilities of the 305, save for the heart monitor and cadence sensing functions. Those who submitted Garmin 205 reviews assert that the product is ideal for hikers who want a reliable and intuitive wearable routing system.

Garmin 205 reviews also highlight the fact that it can be charged using external battery packs which is a very essential feature considering it's going to be used in the backcountry, far from power mains.

Aside from a GPS navigator, there are several things you need to bring along during your hike. For one, you have to bring potable water and electrolyte replacements. It would be wise to bring in supplies to help you purify backcountry water so you will still have something to drink in the event your potable water runs out. You can bring in a small kettle so you can boil water, clean bandanas or micro filter sheets to strain out sediments, and tincture of iodine or Hal zone tablets to treat the backcountry water and rid it of disease-causing microorganisms.

In addition, you have to bring adequate food, especially salty ones like chips to prevent dehydration. Even if you are planning to stay in the woodlands for just a few hours, it would be wise to have a flashlight with spare batteries too. Bringing in a medical kit containing bandages, your maintenance meds, as well as syringes pre-filled with epinephrine which you can use to treat allergic reactions would be wise decision as well.

Furthermore, it is important to know what types of animals live in the area you'll be hiking in, and how to detect, avoid, and protect yourself against them. Wild animals, like bears, attack mostly because they are taken by surprise. To avoid this scenario, make a noise while you are wandering about. Talk with other backpackers or put bear bells on your boots. Lastly, before heading to the woodlands you have to be proficient in how to build a fire, regardless of weather conditions. Before going out on a hike, make sure that you have packed lighters or waterproof matches.




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