Backpacking Resources
Part of Mark’s Backpacking Guide Getting Started Individuals’ Notes / Sites Books Online Communities Orgs Research Articles
Read MoreFood for Backpacking
There is a saying that an army runs on it’s stomach. The same could be said for most backpackers and outdoor adventurers. For most, food is not only fuel for the journey, but also a source of enjoyment, comfort, and motivation. There is a wide … “Food for Backpacking”
Read MoreCookware for Backpacking
If you want to cook food, you need something that holds the water and/or food as you heat it up. They best cookware will vary depending on the size of a group and the type of cooking. My Choice When I am traveling solo I … “Cookware for Backpacking”
Read MoreStoves for Backpacking
A portable stove enables you to cook nearly anywhere. Most stoves burn clean which makes cleanup easy. While a stove will add weight to your pack, the combination of a stove and foods which you cook are often lighter than ready to eat foods. Cooked food typically provide … “Stoves for Backpacking”
Read MoreFood Storage for Backpacking
In most parts of the country correctly hanging food in a bear bags can be effective though it takes a bit of skill. Unfortunately bags won’t protect your food in the more highly trafficed parts of the Sierras were the bears see backpackers and think “Great, I … “Food Storage for Backpacking”
Read MoreShelter Fabrics
Shelters are made from a variety of materials which have a variety of strengths and weaknesses. One of the important properties of a shelter is being able to keep you dry. Many fabrics, even those that aren’t “waterproof” can keep you drive in moderate conditions. … “Shelter Fabrics”
Read MoreWinter Shelters
Actually, this should really be called shelters for extreme conditions with snow since there are many places where “winter” could be handled with a traditional “three season” tent. When I think “winter shelters” I am thinking something that can survive 50+mph winds, and a foot … “Winter Shelters”
Read MoreTents
Tents are structures made from fabric that provide an enclosed space which protects the occupants from environment conditions. Historically tents were made from canvas, but now are typically made from nylon or polyester with some some of waterproof treatment. Most tents are double walled, though … “Tents”
Read MoreSelecting Campsites
PLACEHOLDER Some brief notes by other sectionhikers campsite selection and a thread about selecting sites in the high sierras.
Read MoreStakes
Most shelters need something to keep them from blowing away. Most people carry metal or plastic stakes, though it is often possible to improvise using local material. A decent video of the big/little rock anchor is what I often do above treeline. Ultralight backpackers often … “Stakes”
Read MoreBackpacking
The following posts can provide a good overview for someone who is thinking and trying backpacking for the first time. I take a lightweight and something ultralight approach to backpacking… but I think most of this information would be useful for any approach. I have … “Backpacking”
Read MoreBackpacking with Kids
One of the common questions is how young can start taking a kid backpacking. The answer is, it depends on you, the child, and your expectations. If you are expecting the child carry their own stuff and cover mileage like an experienced thru-hiker, than the … “Backpacking with Kids”
Read MoreBackpacks for Kids
I strong encourage keeping kids packs as light as possible. A 60 pound child shouldn’t be carrying more than a 15 pound pack, and I think it would be best if the pack was closer to 6lb. A 100 pound child shouldn’t be carrying more … “Backpacks for Kids”
Read MoreSurvival Skills
Remember the 3s You need air in 3 minutes (and to stop severe bleeding), to get warmth in 3 hours, water in 3 days, and food in 3 weeks. The Wisdom of Abo Dude touches on most of the survival principles I learned growing up. Cody also has … “Survival Skills”
Read MoreOutdoor Gear
My recommendations on the following pages are focused on backpacking gear, but most of the observations are applicable to a variety of outdoor activities. I also have a list of my “gear for life“. I strive for simplicity and gratitude. Ultralight Approach The key to ultralight is to … “Outdoor Gear”
Read MoreGetting a Good Night Sleep in the Outdoors
Many people under estimate the value of a good night of sleep. If you don’t cherish your sleep, you might want to read The Problem of Sleep which does a good job of documenting the value of sleep, what interferes with good sleep, and what the negative … “Getting a Good Night Sleep in the Outdoors”
Read MoreSleeping Pads
Sleeping pads provide comfort which can enable a good night of sleep. Waking up in the morning feeling worse than when you went to bed is no fun. Some people can sleep on the bare ground or maybe 1/8″ foam pads for some insulation. I … “Sleeping Pads”
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