The Backpacker's Handbook, 2nd Edition

Preface to the Second Edition

Acknowledgments

Introduction: Into the Wilderness

1. Preparing for the Trail

Fitness

The Art of Walking

Going Alone

Slackpacking and Powerhiking

Planning

2. Choosing and Using Equipment

Weight

Checklists

Choosing and Buying

Final Thoughts

3. Footwear and Wilderness Travel

Boots and Shoes: Purpose and Fit

Footwear Types, Materials, and Construction

Footwear Care and Repair

Socks

Gaiters

Campwear

Trekking Poles and Staffs

Ice Ax

Crampons

Skis and Snowshoes

Footcare

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

Headwear

Gloves and Mitts

Bandannas

Carrying Clothes

Fabric Treatment and Care

6. Shelter: Camping in the Wilderness

Bivouac Bags

Tarps

Groundsheets

Tents

Design

Pitches and Pitching: Minimum-Impact Camping

Tent Care

Wilderness Shelters

Snow Caves

Sleeping Bags

Mats and Pillows

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

Candles

Health and Body Care

Equipment Maintenance and Repair

Knife

In Case of Emergency

Office

Binoculars

Photography

Entertainment

9. On the Move: Skills and Hazards

Finding the Way

Coping with Terrain

Minimizing Impact

Wilderness Hazards

Dealing with Animals

Hunters

Backpacking with Children

10. Adventure Travel: Backpacking Abroad

Information and Planning

Organized Tips

Immunizations and Health

Food and Supplies

Insurance

Different Cultures

Internal Travel

A Final Word

Appendices

1. Equipment Checklist

2. Suggested Reading

3. Useful Addresses

4. Metric Conversions

Index