Tips & Tricks

Short articles targeting unique and/or innovative solutions to backcountry problems.

Lightweight Backpacking Gear for Cold Winter Temperatures (Two-Layer Systems, Vapor Barriers, and Really Puffy Stuff)

Dec 24, 2019 by Ryan Jordan

Lightweight backpacking gear for winter temperatures: two-layer insulation systems, vapor barrier systems, and really puffy stuff.

Lightweight Sunscreen for Hiking and Backpacking

Oct 7, 2019 by Emylene VanderVelden

How to create a lightweight sunscreen strategy by using your backpacking apparel and supplies.

How Much Food Should I Pack? (How to save weight on backpacking food based on the energy-mile theory)

Sep 22, 2019 by Ryan Jordan

A mathematical model to calculate how much food to pack for your trip based on terrain and mileage with minimum weight carried in the pack.

Lighten your pack, and your body

Jul 17, 2019 by Ryan Jordan

I’d like to address what I do in each of these areas at some point in the future, but for now, I want to expand on why I believe a lean body weight – in addition to carrying less weight in your pack – is really important for a backpacking lifestyle.

Crossing Rivers and Water Shoes

Jul 16, 2019 by Ryan Jordan

Crossing rivers “ultralight style” – that’s when you simply walk through the water wearing your hiking shoes and keep walking on the trail once you get to the other side.