Tom Collins‭

Caves breathe. As the outside pressure increases or decreases the air inside a cave has to equalize. The most common cause is a pressure change is when the the outside temp changes due to the sun ...

posted 5y ago by Tom Collins‭

I wanted to add some points to the discussion, as well as list another product. First, as noted, 100% DEET is overkill. Once you go over 35%, it doesn't get better. Second, DEET is not good for y...

posted 11y ago by Tom Collins‭

As an experienced caver, I can say @studiohack & @manoftheson both good advice. Here's some additional pointers, in no particular order. Some of this is copied from my comments, but new info as...

posted 11y ago by Tom Collins‭

I haven't tried @Vorac answer, but it sounds interesting. I'm not going to say if popping a blister is correct or not. But, if you do, this is how I was taught to pop a blister: Get a needle (ste...

posted 10y ago by Tom Collins‭

More suggestions. Btw @Kate, I loved your list. During the day. Day hikes River / lake swimming Just exploring Practice survival skills At night. Word games book reading Theological / poli...

posted 10y ago by Tom Collins‭

Forget the DEET. That's for mosquitoes, and it's not a repellent, but rather it interferes with their sense of smell so since they can't smell you (food) they don't bother you. It's also toxic. Ci...

posted 10y ago by Tom Collins‭  ·  last activity 10y ago by System‭

These two you mentioned are very important. Expected departure and return Date & time to consider overdue Just saying what time you're expected back isn't enough. If I'm going in an area th...

posted 10y ago by Tom Collins‭

If it's honeydew, then soap & water should do the trick. Do not use harsh soap. An alternative method is to use a gritty, oily mixture to rub it out. I'm thinking maybe baking soda & veg...

posted 10y ago by Tom Collins‭

You don't mention budget, but a couple things I really like when car camping are: Beautyrest air mattress (about $100). Can be very firm if you like that, and the edges don't collapse like most a...

posted 10y ago by Tom Collins‭

I use this for my outdoor activities in general, and not just mountaineering. Not sure who said it first, the quote is attributed to many. "Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention...

posted 10y ago by Tom Collins‭  ·  last activity 10y ago by System‭

As for different animals, or yourself, marking their territory, I think the only time that makes a difference is when the two animals are in competition with each other. A bear or mountain lion wil...

posted 10y ago by Tom Collins‭

As @wedapashi already stated, permethrin is a very good choice. And even though it's an insecticide, I find it works well as a repellent also. I treat all my clothing (even socks and underwear) and...

posted 10y ago by Tom Collins‭

You asked about equipment & training. What you didn't ask, but may be useful is where to hike and who to hike with. There are hiking & outdoor clubs all over the place. Most of them will ac...

posted 9y ago by Tom Collins‭

You can make your own easy enough. Just print onto a clear transparency (used primarily in overhead projectors). Tape that onto some clear plastic (can purchase at Home Depot and maybe art store).

posted 9y ago by Tom Collins‭

This is an answer I read somewhere else, but haven't tried it myself yet. Take this answer for what it's worth. It was stated that cat litter crystals‎ do a good job of absorbing moisture. They a...

posted 9y ago by Tom Collins‭