As Alaskans, we’ve grown accustomed to ‘playing hard’. We’ve learned to maximize our activities with each season. But sometimes, when we play hard, many often ‘fall hard’. Being properly prepared and ready for outdoor Alaskan activities improves our chances of a positive experience. Proactive preparation improves your overall experience and can keep you healthy and safe.

Now that the solstice is behind us and the midnight sun hangs a little lower in the sky, many Alaskans are focusing their time harvesting the amazing fish swimming in our waters and dreaming of an epic hunting trip this fall. Preparing for a backcountry hiking, hunting or fishing trip involves careful planning and organization to ensure a safe and successful experience. Here's a brief overview of the key steps involved in preparing for such a trip:

1. First aid: Pack a well-stocked first aid kit and learn basic wilderness first aid techniques. Before your backcountry hunting trip, consider taking a specialized course to handle injuries and medical emergencies in remote areas without professional help. Think about what medications you may need in advance, and speak to your primary care physician about any health concerns that may need to be addressed while in the backcountry. No matter what you decide to include in your first aid kit, make sure you know how to properly use each item. Be aware of any medication allergies for anyone in your group.

2. Physical fitness, conditioning, and injury prevention: Train regularly to improve endurance, strength, and agility for navigating rugged terrain and carrying heavy gear. Use proper lifting techniques, wear suitable footwear, and be cautious on rough terrain. Engage in a comprehensive fitness routine to improve endurance, strength, and agility in the months leading up to the trip. Cardiovascular fitness is important, but strength training shouldn’t be neglected. Train specifically for the demands of the trip by hiking or backpacking with a weighted pack. Break in your boots and use the same pack for training that you’ll (hopefully) be carrying out loaded down with the heavy weight of your harvest.

3. Hydration & Nutrition: Consider supporting your physical training and prep with a healthy diet well before the excursion. While in the backcountry, it’s crucial to stay well-hydrated. Always carry extra water and routinely ask yourself where and when you can get more clean water. Carry high-energy snacks to sustain yourself during the trip. Nutrient-rich food is crucial for sustained performance throughout the hunt. Snacks like nuts, dried fruits, and energy bars provide quick boosts, while lightweight, nutrient-dense meals fuel the body without weighing down the pack. A trip to the backcountry is not the time to try new foods; test items at home to make sure you tolerate your chosen meals.

4. Gear, equipment, and foot care: Prepare a comprehensive list of hunting gear and triple-check it to ensure you have all the necessary items to be safe and successful. Practice weapons safety at all times and remember that firearm-related deaths and injuries are 100% preventable. Do your research when it comes to bear safety and consider taking bear spray and or a firearm that you’re proficient with. Take time to select appropriate clothing and footwear, camping gear including tent, sleeping bag, cooking equipment, water purifying systems, navigation tools, and field dressing equipment for fish or game. It’s crucial to break in new footwear well before the trip to ensure your feet are comfortable and you can avoid blisters.

5. Safety considerations: Prioritize safety, inform others of your plans, carry necessary safety equipment, and follow hunting-specific guidelines. Familiarize yourself with the area using topographic maps and GPS. Plan routes, mark landmarks, and identify water sources and camping spots. Ensure you have enough food for a few extra days.

6. Emergency planning: Know how to use GPS and communication devices. Discuss health issues and emergency protocols with your hunting and fishing partner. Ensure communication devices are charged. Create a detailed emergency plan with your hunting party, including communication protocols and assigned roles in case of an accident and share them with someone who will be staying in town.

Remember that backcountry hunting and fishing expeditions can be physically demanding and potentially dangerous, so it's crucial to be well-prepared and prioritize safety at all times. Consider consulting with experienced hunters or outfitters for additional guidance and insights specific to your chosen location.

Backcountry safety, emergency preparedness, proper fitness, and first aid training are paramount when venturing into remote wilderness areas. The backcountry presents unique challenges and potential hazards, from rugged terrain and extreme weather to encounters with wildlife and limited access to medical help. Proper preparation, including research on the location, weather, and wildlife, is essential to mitigate risks and ensure a safe journey. Wilderness first aid training equips individuals with crucial skills to respond effectively to injuries and medical emergencies when professional help may be far away. Carrying a well-stocked first aid kit, reliable communication devices, and emergency shelter further enhances safety. Prioritizing physical fitness and health ensures the stamina to handle backcountry demands, while adherence to leave-no-trace principles protects the environment and future visitors. Overall, a comprehensive approach to backcountry safety and emergency preparedness safeguards both the individual's well-being and the natural surroundings, fostering a responsible and rewarding outdoor experience. 

 Use the attached first aid kit list to prepare for your next big adventure properly.