1. Be flexible with your tent setup.

2. Make an extra portable spice pack.

More info here.

3. Use biodegradable trail marking tape.

4. Re-waterproof your rain jacket.

Directions here.

5. Maximize your packing efficiency.

6. Learn how to estimate remaining daylight.

Click here for a larger version.

7. Pack duct tape around a lighter or water bottle to save space.

8. Use the duct tape to deal with blisters.

Full guide here.

9. Or for quick tick removal.

Definitely check here for more tick-related advice.

10. The Tick Key is another super portable option for tick removal.

Basically, be totally prepared to remove ticks quickly.

11. Know your knots.

PRO-KNOT makes a credit card-sized set of knot types for easy reference.

12. Familiarize yourself with these poisonous plants.

13. Make your own walking staff.

Walking sticks help with stability and balance and are especially good for your knees and back on a long hike.

14. Waterproof your matches with shellac.

Directions here.

16. Line your backpack with a garbage bag for extra rain protection.

And you’ll also have an extra bag if you need it.

17. Pack a space-saving first aid kit.

18. Fashion your own portable utensils.

Details here.

19. Pitch your tent entrance facing into the wind to discourage mosquitos from congregating.

More mosquito-related tips here.

20. Don’t wear cotton.

It retains moisture/sweat and doesn’t insulate properly in the cold. Many, many more reasons not to wear cotton when you’re hiking can be found here.

21. Put important and sensitive items in separate plastic bags for safe keeping.

22. Study up on layering, especially for cold weather hiking.

This REI layering guide is a great start.

23. Study up on which spiders to be legit scared of and which are just creepy.