During one of my first few hiking trips led by a professional instructor - we were asked to navigate using nothing more than a compass and a map (safely enclosed in a waterproof map case). However due to safety requirements imposed by the hiking association, our instructor brought along a GPS system in the event of an emergency that may require rescue by a helicopter.

Hiking light is the biggest backpacking trend in recent year. New materials and designs have made it possible to cut the weight of loads, making hiking much more enjoyable.

The basic concept of “leave no trace” is quite simple - leave things as pristine as you found them, if not a little better.

Your feet bear both your weight and the weight of your pack. Carrying this weight, wearing new boots, and ignoring hot spots all contribute to blisters. Some simple preventative tips to keep blister-free.