When I'm out backpacking, whether I'm solo or with a group, I like to follow a well-defined routine when I arrive at camp. By creating and following one, I am able to enjoy extra time on the trail and not worry about forgetting tasks or gear at my site. Having extra time on the trail allows me to cover more ground, ensure that I am not racing the daylight to make camp before dark and adds to my experience of the trip overall. Accidentally leaving behind gear at my site can ha

A good sleeping bag will only get you so far. In addition to a bag, I share tips and methods I use for sleeping warm and comfortably during winter backpacking trips in the video above. #winterbackpacking #backpacking #backpackinggear #wintercamping #backpackingskills #travel

Packing the Ten Essentials for any trip is a good habit to have. Even if you are going for a simple day hike, kayaking in a nearby lake or snowshoeing in the rolling hills. This list can provide you with items that can help address accidents and emergencies, and also get you through an unexpected night or more out. In the video above, I'll break down the Ten Essentials with you and how each item helps. I'll also share a few other items I like to add to the list and carry with

Packing a backpack properly has many benefits that can help your trip more fun and enjoyable. In the video above, I break down the science of packing a backpack and show how I like to pack my pack from start to finish. This is a method I have used for years and it has always been proven effective. #backpacking #adventure #travel #backpackingskills #howtovideos

Packs should always be picked last before each trip. To do so beforehand would be like moving a couch into a room without measuring the space first. Once you've determined the proper gear for your trip and have picked the pack suitable for the task, follow these methods below to get a proper fit* and boost comfort. 1. Loosen all of the straps on your pack. These will include: load lifters, shoulder straps, sternum strap, hipbelt and compression straps. 2. Load your pack up wi

When I'm out on backpacking trips, I always like to carry a couple of navigation tools with me. Whether hiking on-trail or off-trail these tools help me (or my group) accomplish my (or our) goals for that specific trip. They aid in everything from finding water, to campsite selection, to double checking a bearing and more. A good map and compass will never fail you so long as you know how to use it in conjunction with what’s between your two ears. These two crucial pieces of

Despite how we may feel while out exerting ourselves during the winter, staying properly hydrated is just as important as in the summer months. Believe it or not, dehydration is a common occurrence on the trail during colder days. Water treatment not only helps us combat this, but it also helps keep our packs lighter. What kind of weight savings are we talking about to help keep things light? To quickly break it down, 1 liter (or one Nalgene) of water weighs 2lbs 2oz. Add in

It's no secret, our bodies need to be taken care of in order to ensure a lifetime of adventure. Quite often, preparing for these adventures brings the focus on where to go, what to bring and when to go. As important as these preparations are there is one that is often overshadowed, additional exercise. It's important that we prepare our bodies for the challenges and abuse that lies ahead. Increasing our cardiovascular systems, strengthening our muscles and improving our flexi