Sleeping (and More) with the Experts

AMC Outdoors, April 2002

By Michael Lanza

The following intrepid adventurers offer these nuggets of wisdom to those who aspire to adventure at any level.

Conrad Anker, professional climber, The North Face climbing team:
"Get an early start. A late start sets the group up for a late evening—making camp with the sun setting is a hurried experience."

"Change your socks regularly, and take off boots and socks to cool your feet during trail breaks, to prevent blisters and other problems."

Annie Getchell, author and AMC's Wild Wisdom columnist:
"Don't loan out gear you care about, or don't expect it to be returned in the same condition."

"Always in my pack: a bag of crystallized ginger, the answer to seasickness, nausea, colds, hunger, and fetid breath; packets of powdered miso, the best elixir for road food, giardia symptoms, and dehydration; packets of Emergen-C drink mix."

Mark Jenkins, Outside magazine columnist:
"Sleep matters. Bring a bag rated 10 degrees lower than the coldest temperature you expect to encounter."

"Bring two pads, a light foam pad and an inflatable mattress—it's extra weight, but it will translate into more sleep and better hiking."

Buck Tilton, author and medical director, NOLS Wilderness Medicine Institute:
"Pack gear and clothing to meet the worst possible conditions for a given area during the time you'll be there."

"Nothing has ruined more trips than choosing uncompanionable companions to travel the wilderness with."

—Michael Lanza is author of The Ultimate Guide to Backcountry Travel, from AMC Books.