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Guide’s Gear Award No. 1: Gossamer Gear Mariposa Backpack

Guide's Gear features products used by BPL's WTS guides that have withstood the test of time by demonstrating exceptional performance, durability, weight, and value. Guide's Gear No. 1 goes to the Gossamer Gear Mariposa Backpack for offering more features than any other two pound pack on the market.

2014 Staff Picks

Backpacking Light's staff is some of the most passionate backpackers around. Take a look at the ultralight gear we use and treasure.

How One High Sierra Trip Turned Into Permanent Nomadic Travel

Getting outdoors often makes all the difference, and a long expedition can go a long way to transforming your life.

Vaseline-soaked Cotton Balls

Vaseline fire starters are a very versatile tool and can light a fire in almost any weather condition. Better yet, you can make them from very inexpensive materials from the comfort of your own home.

Wilderness Trekking School – Ultralight Boot Camp Photo Essay

The ultralight boot camp is exactly like it sounds; it prepares you to meet unexpected challenges in the wilderness. Plus it's a lot of fun and the scenery is stunning.

2013 Staff Picks

As we close out the year, take a minute and see which gear our staff uses often.

2013 Photo Contest Winners!

After receiving some stunning photos, our judges have chosen the best. Grab a seat and relive the experience.

Backpacking Light 2013 Photo Contest – Part 1, Information for Entrants

Submit your best shots from 2013!

A Philmont Journal – Part 5

Relive the exciting experience that is Philmont.

A Philmont Journal – Part 4

Relive the exciting experience that is Philmont.

Backpacking with a Newborn

Don't lose hope - Backpacking is still possible with infants.

A Philmont Journal – Part 3

Relive the exciting experience that is Philmont.

A Philmont Journal – Part 2

Relive the exciting experience that is Philmont.

A Philmont Journal – Part 1

Relive the exciting experience that is Philmont.

Global Test Conclusion: Honeymooning in the Backcountry

Danny and Kristin wrap up their 2-year Honeymoon with Backcountry skiing in Europe and discover their home.

How Safe Is Your Food? Investigating the effectiveness of odor-proof bags

Do odor-proof bags work? How do supposedly "odor proof" plastic bags for backpacking hold up to the keen nose of a Police K9?

2012 Backpacking Light Staff Picks

An eclectic assortment of the staff's favorite gear for 2012.

An Introduction to Nordic and Backcountry Ski Gear: Part 2 – Advanced Nordic Ski Mountaineering on UL Tele Gear

It is natural for skiers, as their skills improve, to seek more challenging terrain. And, with access to mountainous landscapes, it is inevitable for a skier to enter the realm of ski mountaineering. An overview of UL backcountry ski mountaineering gear and discussion of proper gear choice.

An Introduction to Nordic and Backcountry Ski Gear

A Primer to Backcountry Ski Travel – Why you can and should overnight ski in the backcountry

Olicamp Xcelerator/Fire-Maple FMS-117V Ti Stove Review

Finally, a remote-canister stove without the extra weight.

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