Have you ever had a backpacking trip that was a disaster - even though you brought everything you needed? Maybe you had matches, but couldnt get that fire going. You positive need more than nice gear to assure a safe and enjoyable wilderness knowledge. You need to know how to do a few things, and the following list will get you started.

1. Learn firemaking. Practice in your yard if you have to, but try to start that fire with one match. Try it the next measure its raining too.

2. Learn to pitch a tent. Do it wrong and the rain will come in, or the the wind will tear the seams. Tents should be pitched tight, and you should be able to set your tent up in a few minutes.

3. Learn how to stay warm. Practice camping in the yard, to see how blocking the wind, wearing a hat, and eating fatty foods before sleeping can keep you warmer.

4. Learn to cook over a fire. Its not as user friendly as it seems. Block the wind, cover the pan, keep the fire small and concentrated. Practice, and measure yourself. Faster is better in a jam, and its always possible your stove will break.

5. Learn about edible plants. Knowing how to identify cattails and three or four wild edible berries may make a trip more enjoyable, especially if you ever lose your food to a bear.

6. Learn how to stroll . Learning how to pace yourself and how to move comfortably over rocky terrain means youll be less tired, and less likely to twist an ankle.

7. Learn about animals. Can you tell if a bear is "bluff charging" or stalking you? If its the latter, playing dead will make you a bears supper. Hint: lots of noise usually means he just wants to frighten you, but you need to read up on this one.

8. Learn to watch the sky. Is that a lightning storm coming or not? It might be useful to know when youre on that ridge. Learn the basics of predicting weather, and you will be a lot safer.

9. Learn basic first aid. Can you recognize the symptoms of hypothermia? Do you understand how to properly treat blisters? Good things to know.

10. Learn navigation. Maps do not help if you do not understand how to make use of them. The same is true for compasses

You dont absolutely need to be an expert in wilderness survival to enjoy a safe hiking trip. It might help to know a little more though. Use the backpacking skills list above, and learn something new.