Highlights from The Complete Walker, by Colin Fletcher. (New York: Knopf, 1970)
- Your opinions on equipment and technique must never fossilize into dogma.
- Don't put wet boots close to a fire. The soles may curl up and the leather may lose some of its life.
- Dirty socks can cause abrasions faster.
- Walking sticks are good for checking bushes for snakes.
- Of course, avoid drinking still water, and be cautious about springs that have no insect life.
- Flint sticks are easy to carry.
- The hottest fire comes from small sticks.
- Once you get a fire going, dry up some tinder for future fires. It's going to be a wet world.
- Newspaper is a good insulator.
- The neck creates a weak point in almost any clothing system, hence the usefulness of scarves.
- If you're on the move, binoculars can save you hours of wasted effort. They help you choose the best route.
- Despite the magnetic chaos, a compass may still be useful. Get one that's shielded from interference, and get one that's not liquid-filled.
- A mirror may come in useful for signaling. So may a whistle, if someone in your party gets lost.
- In trout country, the best rod is a switch cut from a riverbank.
- A thermometer can help you avoid surfaces that are too hot or water that is too cold.
- Adhesive medical tape is good for repairs.
- Nylon cord, of course, is an essential. How else can you get water out of a well?
- Rubber bands are God-sends.
- Burning your feces will discourage flies.
- Most caves are not safe during lightning, unless very deep and high roofed.
Offered by Mike.