Orientation
Field studies require different clothes than you would use for ordinary travel.
- What is carried should be absolutely minimized: small size and light weight are the goals.
- Transported gear should emphasize travel comfort, wise use of time, and safety.
- Contingency planning should permeate all aspects of travel.
The kinds of field clothing and support gear are constantly changing, as are the requirements of the field studies.
There are a number of general considerations that apply to all of your clothing and field gear.
- Minimizes bulk and weight
- Promotes multiple use (e.g., shoes that work in the field as well as in meetings)
- Utilizes of a good packing system and components that pack well
- Consists of items that are easy maintenance (e.g., can be washed and dried easily)
- Builds on components that are highly functional (opposite = "fancy")
Some complexity is added when there are special conditions that must be accommodated.
- Stressful climates (e.g., ice & snow, heavy rain, strong wind)
- Formal situations
- Multiple-Climates (e.g., cold and hot in the same trip)
- Long duration
The result is that every item of clothing and supporting gear must be selected carefully. Each must be evaluated on its own terms, as well as how well it fits into an overall system.
Handling Field School's Two Locations