Know your itinerary and destination. Leave a detailed description of your itinerary, including a return time, with a responsible person. If you are alone, leave a note in your car explaining who you are, where you're going and when you expect to return.
Verify if you'll be hiking or driving to your final destination. If you need a backpack, make sure it is comfortable, large enough for all your gear, and has a large, padded waist belt that transfers some of the load to your hips.
Divide your gear into batches that you can store in small nylon bags, available at camping supply stores for a few dollars. Put fishing implements in one bag, cooking equipment in another and so on.
Invest in a hard case for your fishing rod or rifle. Available from hunting and fishing supply stores, they cost $200 to $400 for rifle cases and $100 to $200 for fishing rod cases.
Assess the maintenance needs of your fishing or hunting equipment. Have a small set of tools for working on your gear, including pliers, screwdriver, oil and cleaning supplies.
Check out handheld GPS (global positioning system) receivers at a camping store. Prices start at about $125. These devices are a great way to avoid getting lost, and you can use one to record secret fishing locations. Practice using it before you go. Remember that you still need a map and compass (and knowledge of how to use them).
Get good boots if you don't already have them. Purchase a pair at least a week beforehand and wear them for several hours to break them in. They should be water-resistant, have a thick, protective sole and toe, and have a high enough collar to keep dirt and water out. Got waders?
Pack extra socks. Medium-weight socks in a wool, synthetic or blend are extremely comfortable and suitable for almost any weather. Spend $10 or $15 per pair and your feet will love you.
Plan to dress in layers. Most trips will involve periods of activity followed by stretches of standing around, so you'll need to add and remove insulation. A base layer of long underwear (synthetic fabrics insulate and resist moisture better than cotton), followed by a pants and a sweater or fleece jacket, and topped off with a wind- and waterproof outer layer, is ideal.
