How Much Water to Carry Backpacking (By Climate, Terrain & Effort)
Water is the single heaviest item in most backpacks. At 2.2 pounds per liter, carrying too much is a brutal tax on your …
How-To
How-To
How-To
Trail Runners vs Hiking Boots: Which Is Right for Ultralight Backpacking?
The “trail runners vs hiking boots” debate is quietly one of the biggest shifts in backpacking over the last …
How-To
How to Set Up a Trekking Pole Tent — A Step-by-Step Guide
Trekking pole tents are the gateway to true ultralight backpacking. Eliminating dedicated tent poles saves 8-16 ounces — …
How-To
Ultralight Backpacking on a Budget — Real Kits Under $800
The ultralight community has a money problem. Zpacks Duplex: $699. Arc Haul Ultra pack: $399. Western Mountaineering …
How-To
Ultralight First Aid Kit for Backpacking — What You Actually Need
Commercial first aid kits are designed to seem comprehensive to retail customers, not to work in the backcountry. Open …
How-To
How to Choose Trekking Pole Length — A Simple Guide
Most trekking pole problems aren’t pole problems — they’re length problems. Poles set too long force your …
How-To
How to Hang a Bear Bag — The PCT Method and Alternatives Explained
If you’re camping anywhere black bears live, your food is either going to be: (a) in a bear canister, (b) in a …
How-To
How to Choose a Sleeping Bag — Temperature Ratings, Down vs Synthetic, and What Actually Matters
Choosing a sleeping bag is one of the most important gear decisions you’ll make for backcountry camping. Get it …
How-To
Leave No Trace in the Backcountry — A Practical Guide for Backpackers
Leave No Trace exists because backcountry areas are finite, fragile, and increasingly popular. Every improperly disposed …
How-To
How to Pack a 10-Pound Base Weight (Without Sacrificing Safety)
Ten pounds. That’s the number most ultralight backpackers aim for as their base weight — everything you carry …
How-To
10 Ultralight Backpacking Meal Ideas (High Calorie, Low Weight)
Backcountry food has a reputation problem. Most people assume eating light means eating bad. It doesn’t.
The goal …
How-To
The Complete Backcountry Layering System (3-Season Guide)
The layering system is the foundation of staying comfortable in the backcountry. Get it right and you can handle a 40°F …
How-To
Bear Canister Guide: What You Need, Where It's Required, and How to Pack One
Bear canisters are required in more wilderness areas every year — and honestly, they should be used more broadly than …
How-To
Beginner's Guide to Backcountry Camping — Everything You Need to Know
Backcountry camping is one of the most rewarding experiences available to anyone willing to put one foot in front of the …