Basic Map and Compass Navigation for Backpackers Over 40 NOTE: This article comes from our podcast episode 6: Listen to it HERE Why Basic Navigation Still Matters in the Age of GPS Phone apps, GPS watches, satellite messengers, and digital maps are incredible tools. I use them. I like them. I recommend them. But here…
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.
TORC Backpacking GEAR Checklist: The Smart Way to Evaluate your gear In the field TORC is a different kind of “checklist.” While most are for what you’re putting in your pack before stepping off, TORC is designed to help you evaluate your gear and setup in the field during a shakedown trip. For more information…
Durston X-Mid 2 Tent Review: Real-World Shakedown Test Intro: First off, I’m not sponsored by anyone, so this review is just my honest assessment of a tent I paid full price for. Given the hype in the community, I wanted to review it from the perspective of an older person with older-person-type needs. That said,…
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
When you are backpacking in places with little or no cell service, communication becomes more than a convenience. It becomes part of your safety plan. This is even more true if you’re older, a solo trekker, or have underlying health conditions.
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…
