The first few not so generalities that come to mind...
I pack food for each day in an individual gallon ziploc. I try to put a minimum of 1500 calories in each bag. Then each day make a point of finishing the bag. My hunts have been more enjoyable and I have more energy on day 10 as a result of this force feeding.
Stay hydrated and stay hydrated. Bring some crystal light (or other brand) packets to change the flavor if desired, it helps me consume more water. If you do this be sure to keep one Nalgene clean for cooking water. Raspberry flavored mountain house is not usually the best. I always carry a camelbak, but I always have at least one hard sided water container with me as well in case of a rupture.
I would not recommend a super spartan camp. I have done it many times, the energy bar and a tarp deal, but in the end it has always come back to haunt me. There are a couple of truths (for me at least) in the mountains....if you run a calorie deficiency for too long you will crash and if you don't sleep well and recharge each night you will crash. If you crash you will sleep in and miss a hunt or worse you will drag pass on chasing killable bulls and generally feel sorry for yourself. So, carry enough of a load to keep yourself comfortable and charged up. However, a full on backpacking load for 1-2 days does not need to weight more than 30-35 lbs.
Most guys carry way too much stuff IMO. Make a gear list and compare with those online. Then on your drive home from the trip get that list out and mark down how often items were used, you might be surprised at how many never got used at all. If something did not get used and is not absolutely critical don't take it next time. One thing we can always do is learn from our experiences.
Pay attention to the thermals, cold air tends to sink (barring inversions and the like). Lots of folks want to sleep in the bottom by the creek, but that is OFTEN a much colder, wetter and energetically expensive decision. Meanwhile up on the ridge tops the air can be very mild and require less of you and your gear. Dry and warm are good and smart, not soft or weak. Where the warm air settles at night is less of a rule, but being up high will often keep the air drier at a minimum. Dry air and minimal condensation means your tent will weigh less in the morning and you will not be wearing wet gear until the sun has some time to dry you off.
Use a topo map and try hard to not give up elevation if not necessary. Traveling smart will save lots of calories. Use ridges, saddles and other topographic features to save your legs when possible. If you are chasing a big bull then put out and get your butt up the mountain, but if you are just cruising do it smartly.
Enjoy yourself, look around, listen, there are a lot of other critters out there that can bring you joy and just make you happy to be alive. Take an afternoon nap or go for a swim in a creek/lake, enjoy the trip and you will last longer.
Have fun, it is almost here.
Topic: Spike camp: Do and don't (Read 344 times)
