Written articles that accompany each podcast episode, breaking down key topics, lessons, and takeaways into a clear, easy-to-read format.
Backpacking Later in Life: Origin stories Every backpacker has an origin story. Some people find backpacking through Scouts, family camping trips, summer camps, or a friend who talked them into carrying a pack farther than they probably should have. Some people come to it later, after years of day hiking, car camping, or watching other…
Thru-Hiking vs. Backpacking: The Difference and Why It Matters Somewhere along the way, backpacking started to look like it only counted if you quit your job, hiked from Georgia to Maine, knew your base weight to the tenth of an ounce, and had a trail name. That version of backpacking is inspiring, but it is…
After getting back out on the trail for a recent shakedown trip, one thing became really clear:
A lot changes when you get older.
Not just physically, but in how you approach backpacking, how you prepare, and what actually matters once you’re out there. This trip wasn’t about distance or difficulty. It was about getting back into the rhythm, testing gear, and figuring out what still works—and what doesn’t.
Backpacking First aid for beginners and those over 40 EP4 What you actually need to know About this episode Getting your first aid kit dialed in is one of the most important parts of preparing for your first shakedown hike. But most people overpack it. In this episode, we break down what actually matters, what…
If you’re new to backpacking—or getting back into it after years away—there are two things that can make or break your experience before you even hit the trail
Ultralight Backpacking vs Comfort: What Actually Works After 40 Introduction Ultralight backpacking dominates the conversation today—but is it actually the best approach for hikers over 40? If you’ve ever tried to follow ultralight advice and ended up uncomfortable, exhausted, or unable to sleep, you’re not alone. In this post, we break down the real trade-offs…
How Old Is Too Old to Start Backpacking? If you’ve ever asked yourself whether you’re too old to start backpacking, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions people have when they begin thinking about getting into hiking later in life. The short answer is simple: you’re not too old. But the real…
