Backpacking

Level: 2

Requirements

• Discuss with your instructor the meaning of the motto: “Take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints.”
• Know the essentials of proper clothing, shoes, and rain gear to use in backpacking.
• Know the principles in selecting a good quality backpack. In an emergency, what might be used in place of a backpack?
• Know the essential items to be taken on a backpack trip.
• What kind of sleeping bag and pad are best for your camping area? Know at least three kinds of each that are available.
• Know how to pack a pack properly.
• What types of food are best for backpacking? Visit a grocery store and list the foods found there that are suitable for backpacking. With your instructor:
  • Prepare a menu for a weekend backpack trip using foods obtained from a grocery store.
  • Learn the techniques of measuring, packaging, and labeling backpack foods for your trip.
  • Make a trail snack.
• Know the prevention and symptoms of, and the first aid for:
  • Sunburn
  • Blisters
  • Frostbite
  • Hypothermia
  • Heat stroke
  • Heat exhaustion
  • Snake bite
  • Cramps
  • Dehydration
• Have a First Aid Kit in your pack and know how to use it.
• According to your weight, what is the maximum number of pounds you should be allowed to carry?
• Know three ways to find direction without a compass. Demonstrate at least two.
• Show the proper way to put on and take off a backpack alone and with a partner.
• Participate in a weekend backpack trip of at least five miles and cook your own meals.