The Backpacker"s Handbook (ebook)

Argumento de The Backpacker"s Handbook (ebook)

"The most up-to-date and comprehensive guide to equipment and technique available anywhere." Backpack (UK)

This enormously practical guide includes everything from essential techniques such as map and compass work to the skills needed for more remote wilderness journeys such as how to ford rivers safely and how to choose a route through untracked terrain. As a gear advisor, this book is unequaled. You'll find the last word on:

• How to choose packs and footwear and make sure they fit
• What clothing to take on the trail
• Tents, tarps, stoves, water purifiers, and other gear
• GPS, cell phones, and other electronic devices
• And much more

Now in its third edition, The Backpacker's Handbook also covers desert hiking, ultralight backpacking, and adventure trekking in distant corners of the globe. Indeed, there is little about backpacking Chris Townsend does not cover. This trusted reference will prepare you for the challenges and excitement of backpacking the wilderness.

"A clear and comprehensive primer on backpacking gear. Townsend's knowledge is immense." Sierra

"Belongs in every bookcase dealing with outdoor topics. . . . Chockablock full of useful, practical, commonsense info. . . . If you tramp the outdoors, get this book." Maine Sportsman

"For those thinking of taking a backpack journey, The Backpacker's Handbook is required reading." Daily Local News (West Chester, PA)0Preface to the Third Edition Acknowledgments Introduction: Into the Wilderness 1. Preparing for the Trail Fitness The Art of Walking Going Alone Slackpacking and Fastpacking Planning 2. The Load on Your Back: Choosing and Using Equipment Weight Checklists Choosing and Buying Final Thoughts 3. Footwear and Wilderness Travel About Footwear Footwear Types Fitting Boots and Shoes Footwear Materials and Construction Footwear Models and Choices Care of Footwear Foot Care Socks Gaiters Overboots Campwear Trekking Poles and Staffs Ice Axes Crampons Skis and Snowshoes 4. Carrying the Load: The Pack Types of Packs Suspension Systems Fitting the Pack Packbags Materials Durability Packing Putting on the Pack Pack Care Pack Accessories 5. Keeping Warm and Dry: Dressing for the Wilderness Heat Loss and Heat Production The Layer System The Vapor-Barrier Theory Legwear Headgear Gloves and Mittens Bandannas Carrying Clothes Fabric Treatment and Care 6. Shelter: Camping in the Wilderness Bivouac Bags Tarps Groundsheets Tents Pitches and Pitching: Minimum-Impact Camping Tent Care Wilderness Shelters Snow Caves Sleeping Bags Sleeping Pads Other Comforts 7. The Wilderness Kitchen Food and Drink Water The Campfire Stoves Utensils Siting the Kitchen 8. Comfort and Safety in Camp and on the Trail Light Health and Body Care Equipment Maintenance and Repair In Case of Emergency Office Binoculars and Monoculars Photography Entertainment 9. On the Move: Skills and Hazards Finding the Way Coping with Terrain Minimizing Impact Wilderness Hazards Dealing with Animals Hunters 10. Adventure Travel: Backpacking Abroad Information and Planning Organized Trips Immunizations and Health Food and Supplies Insurance Different Cultures A Final Word Appendixes 1. Equipment Checklist 2. Suggested Reading 3. Resources 4. Metric Conversions Index