Ben Saunders is attempting to travel to the North Pole in record time, solo and unsupported by re-supply drops. He aims to complete the trek in less than 30 days.
He’s posted his equipment list online, including the following gadgets, as well as tools like a Gargin E-trex and a Leatherman Skeletool. He’s also taking a shotgun and ten cartridges for “bear safety.”
• Spare GPS (exc batteries) Garmin eTrex
• Chart NOAA JNC5
• AA Cells Energizer Lithium AA 1.5v
• PDA HP iPAQ
• Argos satellite platform Telonics
• Iridium phone – battery Motorola 9505
• Digital Camera Nikon
• Video camera
Makes my little week in the woods trip seem much less daunting.
Equipment List [North.BenSaunders.com via Kottke]
No kidding about the bear safety. NASA staff who go to Devon Island in Canada all get shotgun training.
Why does he take a PDA with him, to check if he missed some appointment?
Like my granddaddy used to say:
No, but seriously – I would love a total on the weight he will be carrying. As someone with long distance trekking experience (albeit in less harsh climates) the packed weight of these items seems like the major concern. I know that other trans-arctic trekkers have pulled items on sleds.
If you are into equipment lists, my wife has put up some for our own outdoor use in various situations (from WE car trip to climbing Everest).
Has bear spray been considered as an option? Might actually be more effective in certain circumstances. Relevant article and research:
http://www.sltrib.com//ci_8699976