Rei.com should be commended for putting up valuable information on how to choose gear, skills and knowledge important for backcountry travel, gear checklists, and quick tips for when you leave home.

My FAQ advice boils down to this. Go slow and careful, keep your wits about you, don't take unnecessary risks, and above all keep you sleeping bag dry. You can survive almost anything as long as you have a dry sleeping bag to retire to.