Qualities for Backcountry Companions - Page 2

ppine · 01-08-2012, 11:12 AM

Lorax,

You summed it up. I would add the ability to affect a rescue in an emergency, someone you trust.

I have rarely if ever been in a tight spot because of a mistake by a companion. That relates to Lorax's comment about competence.

Judy Ann · 01-09-2012, 10:36 AM

I don't have time for learning curves so I need to be with "experts" who don't mind going a little slower and teaching me technical aspects of survival and how to have fun. I have learned so much from people that excelled in their interests and that has made the journey more rewarding. For example, I am certain that I would not find the precise location of a spring where it first surfaces, but drinking that water is so much more satisfying!

ppine · 01-09-2012, 10:39 AM

Lorax I would add someone you trust enough to get you out of a tight spot.

catspa · 01-09-2012, 10:46 AM

Ppine: ...someone you trust enough to get you out of a tight spot that they got you into in the first place?

IndianaHiker · 01-09-2012, 11:17 AM

Look for people that don't whine and can shut the heck up and enjoy some quiet time. Don't get me wrong nothing wrong with some good conversation but it doesn't need to be nonstop. I will take that over experience or skills any day.

ChadTower · 01-09-2012, 01:17 PM

Depends on the trip, really. I don't depend on anyone for much so socially I need someone who can deal with me not talking for any given length of time. Also, someone who can also STFU for extended periods. And someone who is also self sufficient because I don't go out to teach other adults. Kids, sure, but adults can do for themselves or choose another companion. I'm not going to ask you to cook for me or carry my stuff and I'm not going to do it for you. Really, other than when I'm with my sons, I go out to get away from having to spend my life doing things for people who won't do them for themselves.

Lamebeaver · 01-09-2012, 04:19 PM

A person who knows when to keep quiet.

A person who says things like "I only packed two cases of beer. Do think that will be enough for both of us?"

or

"you go ahead and keep fishing, I'll go back to camp, chop some firewood and cook dinner."