MOUNTAINEERING • Getting started • Is mountaineering for me? • Skills & techniques • Fitness • Food & nutrition • Equipment overview • Gear check list • Joining an expedition • The effects of altitude • Navigation • Safety & first aid • Further reading

MOUNTAINEERING
Joining an mountain expedition

The decision to join a mountaineering expedition is not one that should be taken lightly. By joining you will be signing up as a part of a team and in doing so you will inherit certain responsibilities.

Living for a month or more within the confines of a mountaineering expedition will test the social skills and tolerance levels of every member. You will be sharing a compact tent with another team member for the duration of the expedition and personal privacy will be at a minimum. Toilet and washing facilities are basic and minimal and to the first timer, this can take some getting used to. Although, you would be amazed at how well we adjust when we need to.

It's a good idea to compare the services and itineraries of various adventure companies as some offer a combination of both camping and lodge accommodation en route to base camp. Apart from getting you out of the tent every few nights, this may also create an opportunity for the occasional hot shower. If you're new to adventure travel you might want to consider some of the options available for your first adventure.

The effects of altitude >