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1. Geography/Navigation Knowledge

  • Tools for navigation include maps and compasses.  

  • Apps like "All Trails" provide directions to the trailhead and maps of the trail, which can be downloaded. 

  • You shouldn't always rely on your phone. Phones can lose battery, get dropped, etc. Print out a maps of the trail or find a paper map. 

  • Trails like Sespe River Trail have a clear path are a fairly straightforward, but not all trails are like this. Learning how to read a map and use a compass are important skills when hiking in the backcountry.

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2. Building a Campfire

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3. First Aid

  • When backpacking, you'll be far from hospitals. Make sure you know how to treat a burn, cut, scrape, blister, or broken bone, sun burns, ticks, poison ivy, etc.!

  • The First Aid/Emergency lists I provide on this site is very basic. If you plan on backpacking in wet weather or precarious landscapes, I suggest having a more advanced first aid kit. 

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4. Plant and Animal Recognition

  • It's important to familiarize yourself with the local plants and animals in order to recognize danger. 

  • Common species to look out for in Santa Barbara are poisonous plants and ticks.

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5. Cooking and Cleaning

  • This goes for all the equipment you use, but make sure you know how to operate your stove and to use the fuel before you go on your trip. 

  • Dishwashing probably isn't something you considered when thinking about camping... but yes, you will need to wash your dishes and there is a right way to do it -- or you can just lick them clean! (Do what ya gotta do).

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6. Communication and Cooperation

  • Spending long periods of time with people can be hard, even if they are your family or friends.

  • Communication is key. Set boundaries and delegate tasks. Also, don't forget to have fun! Play games while on the road, make music playlists, etc. 

  • Also, make sure to bring plenty of snacks and water. Food is always a good way to boost morale on a hard hike!

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"Leaves of three leave them be" is a phrase that will help you remember what to look out for.

Source: Healthline.com

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