Backpacking Light
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2022 Backpacking Light Members Choice Awards
First annual Members Choice Awards - what gear do our members use and love as we near the end of 2022?
BPL Live! Tour, News, and Q&A
Join us for BPL Live! and take a tour of Backpacking Light, find out what's new, and get answers to your questions about Backpacking Light, using the website, getting the most out of your membership, and more!
Episode 70 | Fall Backpacking & Cold Feet
In this episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we talk about how to mitigate cold feet during fall-season backpacking conditions.
Episode 69 | Ultralight Shelters in Inclement Weather
Episode 69 of the Backpacking Light Podcast dives into ultralight shelters and how their structures hold up during inclement weather.
Episode 68 | Unpacking the New Garmin inReach Messenger
In today's gear short episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we're going to talk about the brand new Garmin inReach Messenger and how it fits into the broader market of satellite communications devices for backcountry users.
Episode 67 | How to Poop in the Woods (Skills and Tools for Backcountry Pooping)
Ryan and Andrew chat about new gear and techniques for the age-old question: how to poop in the woods (safely, cleanly, and responsibly).
Durston Kakwa 40 Review
Gear Review: the Durston Kakwa 40 backpack utilizes an inverted U-shaped internal frame for stability and comfort at moderate loads. But how does it fare at heavier weights?
Episode 66 | Hiking Cameras: Compact, Durable, and Lightweight Cameras for Hiking and Backpacking
In this episode, Ryan and Andrew discuss some small, pocket-sized cameras for backpacking.
Episode 65 | Empowering Young Women in the Outdoors with Amanda Hatley
Andrew and Ryan chat with She Summits Co. founder and director Amanda Hatley.
Backpacking Cameras and Photography Skills
An online live (and recorded) webinar introduction to backpacking photography skills, techniques, and gear.
Episode 64 | BPL Author Spotlight: Contributor Drew Smith
In this episode, Andrew chats with Backpacking Light Staff contributor Drew Smith about the PCT, desert hiking, ponchos, and more.
How to use Gaia GPS to Find Hidden Backcountry Routes
Learn Ryan Jordan's process for discovering hidden backcountry routes by integrating current base maps, satellite imagery layers, and historical USGS maps.
An Introduction to Map & Compass Navigation
An online live (and recorded) webinar introduction to map and compass use for hiking and backpacking.
Episode 63 | BPL Author Spotlight: Staff Writer Mark Wetherington
In this episode, Andrew chats with BPL staff writer Mark Wetherington about his favorite articles, backpacking in the south, and more.
Tarptent Dipole Li Review
The Tarptent Dipole 1 Li and 2 Li are rectangular DCF trekking pole tents with carbon end struts to boost interior volume and stability, and a four-stake footprint that eliminates the need for apex guyline tie-outs in mild weather.
Episode 62 | Dan Durston Talks X-mids and More
Andrew has a wide-ranging interview with gear designer Dan Durston about X-mids, shelter and pack design, and more.
Protecting Your Food From Bears (Members Q&A)
Learn how to store your food and protect it from bears in the backcountry - an overview of different methods and when to use them.
Episode 61 | Frameless Pack Best Practices
In this episode, Ryan and Andrew discuss how and why to use a frameless pack while backpacking.
Episode 60 | Willow Belden of Out There
Ryan chats with Willow Belden from Out There. Also in this episode: updates on some new packs and the How to Use Gaia GPS masterclass.
Backpacks for Backpacking: Design, Materials, and Use Cases (Member Q&A)
Learn how to choose a backpacking backpack for specific types of trips based on design, materials, and use cases.

