Climbing Gear: Personal Equipment

Equipment of the Climb: Personal Equipments

• Backpacks are for storage.
• Should be large enough to contain all gear and provisions.
• Boots protect hikers from foot injury.
• Clothing choice depends on the stay period and weather conditions.
• Clothing provides protection from elements.
• A windbreaker is a light jacket without insulation.
• Windbreakers act as a shield from wind and cold.
• An earth pad is a simple rubber mat that serves as a cushion between you and the ground while sleeping.
• A sleeping bag should be lightweight but capable of protecting hikers from the wild.
• A dog tag and whistle are for personal identification and emergency signalling.
• A first aid kit contains anti-venom, alcohol, mosquito repellent.
• A survival kit must be packed into a compact, waterproof container.
• Survival kits should include: matches, a small knife, tarp, and emergency rations.
• Candles are a cheap, alternative light source but not effective during windy conditions.
• Flashlights provide a source of light.
• A small watertight flashlight and headlamps are also a must
• Lighters and matches should be waterproof and able to ignite.
• Folding knives are essential for protection in the mountains.
• Should include can opener, scissor, and screwdriver.
• Fuels for stoves pressurize gas, kerosene, or lighter fluid.
• Water containers should usually be two separate 2-liter containers, either non-collapsible or collapsible.
• Trail water is for hiking consumption.
• A mess kit & drinking cup should be sturdy and lightweight.
• Used for hot drinks or both.
• A notebook and pencil are necessary for taking down information.
• Plastic bags and trash bags are for waterproofing equipment.
• Rain gear/poncho are mainly used in camp and rarely for trekking unless in cold conditions.
• Sun protection must be applied with sunblock lotion, aps, bandanna, for sunny conditions.
• Rubber bands/garter are for all-around use, such as sealing
• Tying strings are used for lashing tents and other purposes.
• A repair kit contains thread, needle, extra buckles, and glue.
• Sandals/slippers are for relaxing feet and avoiding erosion in campsites.
• Packed lunch should be an easy-to-digest meal when climbing;
• Best options include rice and eggs or pasta/bread.
• A spoon and fork are for eating (preferably metal).
• Toiletries include a toothbrush and floss

Group Equipment

• Bolo
• Stove
• Cook set
• Flag
• Ground sheet
• Map and compass
• Tent
• Trowel
• Rope

Nature of Climb

• Training Climbs are to provide neophyte hikers a chance to explore the wild.
• To partake in other hikes in the future.
• Minor Climbs: Day hikes or fun trips to the mountain.
• Done for recreational purposes and typically just near Manila.
• Clean-up Climbs protect and preserve impacted mountains like Makiling, Makulot, and Arayat.
• Major Climbs involve difficult ascents and are considered long hikes.
• Guide Ship Climbs are group hikes where a group hires a guide.
• Guideships lead the trip.
• Exploratory Climbs are expeditions done for the first time.

Knot Tying

Knots for Joining

• Square Knot: A double knot made symmetrically.
• Fisherman's Knot: Joins two lines (overhand knot).
• Double Fisherman's can be used for climbing, arboriculture, search and rescue.
• Sheet Bend: Used for temporarily fastening one rope.

Hitches

• Clove Hitch: Secured by passing it twice around a spar or rope.
• Two Half Hitches create a binding knot--an overhand knot around a post.
• A Taut Line Hitch is used on lines under tension.
• A Timber Hitch attaches a rope to a log or spar.
• A Constrictor Knot is the most effective binding knot (impossible to undo).

Knots for Loops

• Slip Knot: A running knot that can be undone by a pull.
• Bowline: An ancient simple knot to form a fixed loop at the end of the rope that won't close.
• Figure of Eight: A type of stopper knot used for sailing and rock climbing.
• Threaded Figure of 8: Applied to help anchor inexperienced climbers.

Leave-No-Trace Principles

• Plan ahead and prepare.
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
• Dispose of waste properly.
• Leave what you find.
• Minimize campfire impacts.
• Respect wildlife.
• Be considerate of other visitors.

Climb Preparation

• Pre-climb
• Nature of climb
• Route planning.
• Itinerary of the climb.
• Climb organization.
  • Leader
  • Medical
  • Scribe
  • Tail man
• Budgeting
• Meal planning
  • Carbs
  • Pre-packaged/canned
  • Does not spoil easily

Trail Movement

• Group formation

Trail Signals

• One long whistle means stop
• Two short whistles signal to commence
• Six whistles mean distress signal
• Three whistles signal aid otw
• Pacing
• Trail techniques
• Rests
• Trail signs
• Trail regulations