You can also learn about equipment by meandering around local
outdoor stores that are tailored to the activity you’ll be doing. These are
great places to meet people, especially other customers, who may have
experience that could help you. Also consider posting a notice on a board
in stores like these, to get in touch with other adventurers who may have
knowledge to share.
stroud’s Tip
Do not select your equipment based solely on
what’s suggested in books and other print materials; these
sources may contain too many errors and omissions, or may
be out of date. It is important that you learn from other travelers’
personal experiences. Assuming that you now have all the right equipment for your excur
sion, the next step is to make sure you know how to use it. Don’t make the
mistake of thinking that you will have the chance to learn about your gear
during your adventure. Your survival ordeal could take place within the first
few hours of the trip, and you might panic because you don’t know, for exam
ple, how to set up your tent in a storm. So get yourself out in the backyard,
on the deck, or even in the living room, and spend a few hours acquainting
yourself with your gear. Practice setting it up and taking it down. Even more
important, figure out how to fix it if it breaks; it may have to last you for a lot
longer, or under more difficult circumstances, than you think!
Equipment planning and preparation pertains to clothing as well, yet
another category in which a little local knowledge goes a long way. Don’t
always trust the salespeople at your local outdoor store. I’ve seen many cases
where a clerk has recommended the wrong item of clothing just because he’s
been told to push a particular brand. Again, try to speak with other travel
ers who have been to where you’re going. Remember, poor clothing choices
won’t make much of a difference if everything goes right, but they can sure
go a long way toward making you miserable should things go wrong.
Wind, rain, cold, poisonous creepy crawlies, and extreme heat are
some of the elements you may face. Your clothing should be able to with
(^12) | Survive!