Tips and tricks - please add your own

[jjozgrunt]

Must be bored but I think after the last weekend when I went hiking with a group I need to pass on the these tips and tricks.

1. You don't need a trowel or in the case on the last weekend a fold out shovel. I thought the guy must have been going to dig a fox hole. A metal peg from your shelter system is perfectly adequate. Carry one of those L shaped ones. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00K71MBXQ?psc=1

2. Carry your duct tape for repairs wrapped around the top of your poles just below the grips. I have a piece, long enough to go around my 13+ boots at least twice on each pole. Used one on the weekend to hold together someone else's boot for the last 6 miles of the walk. Very handy and strong stuff.

3. Lastly never, or if you like a laugh please do, go for a walk in a tropical rainforest with someone afraid of leeches. Laughed so much I'm sure that on at least one occasion my shorts were wet by more than precipitation alone.

Please keep your tip and tricks coming because I'm sure even the most experienced hikers will be sure to find at least one they didn't know, let alone the less experienced walkers.

[squeezebox]

You're slightly better off wrapping duct tape around something less mobile, like a pen, and in your pack. On your hiking poles you lift that tape every time you move your arms. In your pack it's just basic dead wt.

[Speakeasy TN]

I'm a devotee to baby wipes now. No more worrying about getting toilet paper wet. Just remember to tuck them in your jacket when you get up in the morning!

[Traveler]

The problem with baby wipes and other similar manmade fibre products, they don't break down. This is a growing problem and has become a serious issue in septic and sewer systems as manufacturers encourage disposal in them. In the forest, this stuff is more noticeable every year. Perhaps the best thing to use in forests are products that become dispersible when wet and break down.

[Odd Man Out]

If you are sweating in your rain jacket but it's too cold to go without, stick your arms out through the pit zip opening, tuck the unused sleeve inside the jacket and you have a rain vest. Your torso stays dry and your wet arms radiate excess heat, keeping you a little cooler.

[runt13]

Found a very useful lightweight knife, its the CRKT FOLTS ''MINIMALIST'' It is very small and hangs from your neck on a nice piece of Paracord. Or can be stuck in a pack pocket or lashed to just a bout anything.

RUNT ''13''

[rocketsocks]

Don't apply "body glide" to your butt crack on a first date that involves a hike....if you want another date.

[OCDave]

Don't apply "body glide" to your butt crack on a first date that involves a hike....if you want another date.

This is very specific. Have you experience on which you base this tip?

[10-K]

Don't step on anything you can step over...

Pay attention to your stride - try to walk straight...

[Damn Yankee]

The problem with baby wipes and other similar manmade fibre products, they don't break down. This is a growing problem and has become a serious issue in septic and sewer systems as manufacturers encourage disposal in them. In the forest, this stuff is more noticeable every year. Perhaps the best thing to use in forests are products that become dispersible when wet and break down.

I also use baby wipes but only after TP and cart them out in a zip-lock bag. I realize this technic isn't for everyone.

[Damn Yankee]

When brushing my teeth I use a very small amount of tooth paste and instead of rinsing and spitting on the ground, I spray into the air so I don't leave any trace of white anywhere.

[Just Bill]

Spend the most money, effort and time on keeping your feet happy.
Then devote yourself to ensuring a good nights rest.

Any remaining money, time and effort can be spent on the rest of your kit- but matters very little if you can't stroll or sleep peacefully.

[saltysack]

I also use baby wipes but only after TP and cart them out in a zip-lock bag. I realize this technic isn't for everyone.

Do they make wipes that biodegrade?...I thought they were all a paper product...didn't realize as had been burying them...


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[Tipi Walter]

Keep your eyes open and your butt cheeks clenched---

[Just Bill]

Do they make wipes that biodegrade?...I thought they were all a paper product...didn't realize as had been burying them...


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I use the ones made specifically for septic systems/flushable. As far as I know those are Kosher if buried properly, but I go with the combo like Damn Yankee- keeps down on the wipes and weight of them. I usually burn them, especially if the soil isn't good.

Outside the hottest parts of the year I've moved away from them and prefer to carry a big bandana and separate wash towel.

[rocketsocks]

This is very specific. Have you experience on which you base this tip?

I actually have...though it wasn't a first date, it was still pretty embarrassing.


http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/show...72#post1910472

[Demeter]

Learn to identify poison ivy and nettles so you don't walk into them when answering nature's call.

[saltysack]

Keep your eyes open and your butt cheeks clenched---

Damn... Maybe I'll second guess night hiking from glassmine to fontana....where was that? I've never seen any poisonous snakes on my hikes from ga- va...


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[July]

Keep your eyes open and your butt cheeks clenched---

Brings back habits from youth, NEVER step/place foot blindly over back side of log accross trail...

[saltysack]

Yep I usually hit the log s few times w trekking pole also..another reason to make my dog stay behind mr


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