George Fox University | Helpful Hints
Helpful Hints
General rules
Remember that in the wilderness, whatever you bring in must be brought out. The more stuff you bring, the heavier your pack will be. This is not a trip to be concerned about making a fashion statement or not wearing the same thing twice.
What clothes should I bring?
- When packing, you should be thinking about 3 layers.
1. Your base layer should be something made from synthetic fibers such as polyester, or at the very least, 50 poly/50 cotton. This layer helps pull moisture away from your body to keep you cool when you're working hard on the trail and warm in cool conditions.
2. The insulation layer will keep you warm in cold conditions. A pull-over or zip-up fleece jacket is a great option. A wool sweater is also a good option. A cotton sweatshirt is NOT a good idea.
3. Your wind and water layer needs to be ready to take on a variety of unexpected weather conditions -- wind, rain, or snow. Rain gear can be expensive, and there are many less expensive Gore-Tex-like jackets and pants available, they just don't say Gore-Tex. Don't drop $300 on a new jacket. Borrow one or find an inexpensive alternative to REI.
Why shouldn't I bring clothing made of Cotton?
- There is a saying in the backcountry that "Cotton Kills". Though extreme, Cotton could "kill" you and your groups' experience if you get wet. Cotton loses its insulating qualities when wet, absorbs many times its weight in water, wicks perspiration very poorly, and takes a very long time to dry. Look for clothing made from wool, polyester, polypropylene, nylon, or spandex.
Doesn't this specialized clothing cost a lot of money?
- Well, it can, but certainly doesn't have to! Check out Target, Walmart, Marshall's, T.J. Max, Outlet stores, and especially thrift stores for clothing. Also, look at these on-line stores for deals and ideas of what to look for.
How do I find the right boot?
- If you have questions about how to select appropriate boots, Backpacker Magazine and ABC of Hiking) are great online resources. Boots that fit will are important to invest in. It is essential you break your boots in before the trip. Wear them around the house with the socks you would wear on the trail. Your feet will thank you!
I won't be showering for how many days?
- That's right - you will truly be roughing it! Wet wipes are a great way to freshen up. Pack some in a zip-lock bag, and it's like having a portable bathtub.
Deet? Neat!
- Many mosquito repellents contain Deet, an active ingredient that repels bugs. The percentage of Deet is up to you. Generally, the more DEET in the product, the longer lasting the protection.
Points for packing:
- A general rule of thumb regarding how much clothing to bring is you should be able to wear all of the clothes you bring at once (minus underwear and socks).
- Pack your clothes in zip-lock bags to keep them dry. Zip-locks are also a convenient way to keep your things organized.
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