When preparing for glacier travel, climbers should primarily practice what?

When preparing for glacier travel, practicing crevasse rescue skills is essential. Glaciers present numerous hazards, with crevasses posing significant risks to climbers. These deep, open cracks in the ice can be difficult to see and navigate around, making it crucial for climbers to be well-prepared for the possibility of a fall into one.

By practicing crevasse rescue skills, climbers can ensure they are capable of quickly and effectively rescuing a partner who may have fallen into a crevasse. This training typically involves using ropes, harnesses, and other climbing gear designed for rescue operations. Mastering techniques such as anchor building, body recovery, and utilizing appropriate mechanical advantage systems plays a vital role in the safety of glacier travel.

While the other options, such as equipment packing, route mapping, and weather forecasting, are important aspects of overall climbing preparation, they do not directly address the immediate life-threatening risk associated with crevasses. Focusing on crevasse rescue skills ensures that climbers are prepared to handle emergencies that may arise while traversing glaciers, which is why this answer stands out as the primary focus during training.