[at-l] Laws of Backpacking: Rules of the Obvious

[shane@theplacewithnoname.com (Shane Steinkamp)]

In working on the hiking section of my website, I've come upon the idea to
write 'master of the obvious' rules.  While this is probably an exercise in
stupidity, all input is welcome.  Please feel free to create your own
section.

Shane

LAWS OF COOKING

1.  Only you can prevent forest fires.
2.  Don't cook next to your tent.  You will attract unwanted wildlife.

LAWS OF COOKING GEAR

1.  Test cooking methods BEFORE you get on the trail.
2.  

LAWS OF FOOD

1.  When practical, carry two days more than you need in case of emergency.
2.  Don't feed the animals.
3.  Hang you food out of reach of animals every night.

LAWS OF ZIPPERS

1.  A clean zipper is a happy zipper.
2.  If you have to force a zipper, something is wrong.

LAWS OF THE PACK

1.  Your pack, shelter, sleeping pad, and sleeping bag should not exceed 11
pounds by themselves, when possible.
2.  Any pack must be suspended at night, not resting on the ground or
against a tree within the reach of any animal.

LAWS OF WATER

1.  If you are unsure of your next water source, carry as much as you
reasonably can.
2.  Always filter or treat water in the back country.