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for rope or medical aid.

2. Know simple survival skills

A novice hiker can even know simple things to save his/her life. How to discern true north, at any time is one of the most important. Even if you aren't lost, if you don't have a compass, but you do have a map, having this skill is essential! Remember RESeW. Rise East, Set West. That's for the northern hemisphere anyway. Finding a directional star, like the North star is also important. Building shelter, making fire, finding water, finding food, and then a sharp wit is most of what you need to know in the wild.

3. Wear synthetics

Synthetics now are usually comfortable. They are lightweight, and are a combination of warm, wind and water resistant, cool, and quick drying. They may be more expensive, but synthetics save you room and your sanity.

4. Bring only what is needed

Except for a camera, a good hiker can subsist off of the 13 objects that were listed with ease. Any more than the essentials will reduce your performance.

5. Bring a buddy

If you have friends, which, I am sure you do, bring one. Friends split the load, keep morale high, and add another brain. Friends are also multi-use. :)

6. Inform people where you are going

If friends in your hometown know where you are going and don't meet the deadline, you are at a reduced risk of casualties. The search parties will find you if they know approximately where you are.

7. Have extra room in your pack

Packing lightly will allow you to sort through your pack without gushing things all over the trail. It is a convenience worth taking. Pack hard, irregularly shaped objects on the bottom and mushier things on top.

8. Have good shoes

This is important enough to be an outlier in this section. Good shoes, meaning rugged, lightweight, supportive and with good tread, allow a hiker to travel as far as his/her stamina allows. Sore feet suck, and so does a sprained ankle.

9. Know alternatives

Know an alternate hike, route on the hike, and way to get to the trailhead. Planning alternatives ahead of schedule means you will be prepared for locational issues.

10. Bundle

Bundle things that are rollers, like duct tape and the metal can, together. If possible, fill hollow items. Bundling/stuffing saves a great deal of space. Bundle items that you hope you won't have to use, like your whistle or mirror, or first aid kit, to save space and a little peace of mind.

11. Adapt

Don't just know your surroundings, adapt to them! Adapt to the weather, wind, humidity levels, or altitude and it will save

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