Mike's Backpacking Reference

Field Repair Tasks

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Over the year I have done many field repairs and very rarely have I had to end a trip early.    Here are some of the more common repairs.    If you have some common materials and tools most situations can be resolved.   Some times you need to get creative!

Replace shoe lace

Materials/Tools: paracord, knife, lighter

Procedure: Remove broken lace.  Measure a similar amount of paracord, cut, use the lighter to sear the cut end.   Replace.

Torn clothing

Materials/Tools: sewing kit

Procedure: Depending on the complexity of the tear, simply whip stitch the edges together. 

Ripped stuff sack / parka

Materials/Tools: Scissors, Ripstop tape (sewing kit)

Procedure:  for simple tears cover with a piece of ripstop tape.   You may wish to sew edges of tape down to make a patch.  Fabric needs to be clean and dry before applying the tape

Broken tent pole

Materials/Tools: Saw, knife, paracord, duct tape, ripstop tape, pole repair section.

Procedure: A number of solutions might be used:  Some are:

  • If you a pole repair section:  Round the broken edges so the section will go over the break.   Attach as needed with tape to hold in place
  • Try an internal splint:   Find a strong branch and whittle to fit inside the pole tightly (about 4-6 inches).   Wrap break with tape. 
  • Try an external splint:  Fins a couple of strong branches about the same size as the pole.  Lay them along side the break and wrap tightly with tape and/or paracord

Boot sole

Boot soles can separate.    Walking out barefoot is not a good option...

Materials: knife, tape, paracord, lighter

Procedure:  Depending where the separation is will determine exactly how to do this repair.   Any tape can be used.  The paracord can be wrapped and worked into the boot tread then tape applied to hold the cord in place.   Do this as soon as you notice the issue to protect the remaining glue on the boot sole.  Melt the ends of the cord.

Broken pack buckle/strap

Materials/Tools:  Knife, awl, paracord, lighter, sewing kit. 

Procedure:  Some buckles are critical and must be field repaired.  If stitching has come loose repair with sewing kit (use heaviest thread).  If a buckle has failed use the paracord to "bridge" the buckle.   If adjustment is needed then attach so it can be tied.   Melt the cut ends of the cord.