Souris & Area Branch of the P.E.I. Wildlife Federation

Water is critical to prevent dehydration. Many hikers will carry their own with them. When choosing a campsite, it is advisable to find a water source nearby. It is a source to replenish drinking supply, as well as a form of fire prevention. Drinking water from springs is usually safe.
The water in free flowing streams usually may be regarded as pure and drinkable. The water flows undisturbed through the wilderness and usually has not been polluted by man-made activity.
Water in bogs, while usually safe, is not so palatable. It may be made so by adding one drop of bleach per cup which will not affect the taste or create a risk.

One should always place a trail lunch in your knapsack. Include high energy food such as chocolate, hard candy or raisins. They provide a quick spurt of energy when fatigue sets in.
On an extended hike, the same principle applies. Bring your food from your home. If the route is planned, food may be carefully cached at road crossings. This enhances the walk for the hiker is not forced to carry the food for the complete journey.
Hikers try to keep their pack weight at 13.5 kilos. Light weight dehydrated foods such as whole dinners may be purchased. While expensive they are worth it. They are nutritious and reduce pack weight during your journey. Dehydrated packaged foods may be found in supermarkets. You may select and build your own meals.

Thanks to MacPhee's Market Save Easy
in Souris

Being conscious of packaging is important for two reasons; waste and weight. Package your food into plastic bags or containers which are light to carry.

Everything that will not burn completely to ash must be carried out. A plastic bag should be carried for picking up litter after your own party or others. You must leave the wilderness completely clean!

There is no lack of fuel in most forest situations for cooking and camp fires. The building of a fire is carefully regulated. You may require a permit. As a hiker, you must be responsible. The building of a fire must never be performed when the authorities in charge issues warnings due to hazardous forest fire conditions.
An improperly made and maintained fire will destroy the very wilderness you wish to enjoy. It could also take the lives of yourself and your companions. Proper conduct is to err on the side of caution.
Many hikers choose to carry a small, lightweight gas or butane stove. They are strongly suggested for use for they are instant, hot and compact. They eliminate the need for cutting wood and building a fire for preparing meals.

Thanks to Sporting Intentions in Charlottetown.

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They may not be copied without permission of the photographer and the Souris & Area Branch of the P.E.I. Wildlife Federation.