Backpacking Advice & Tips

The questions I most commonly receive during public presentations and through email relate to lightweight gear, nutrition, training, and sponsorships. In these pages I have tried to address these questions.

In addition to these pages, I would also highly encourage you to check out GoLite's "How to GoLite" section as well as Backpacking Light Magazine, both of which contain more great information about lightweight gear, skills, and philosophy.

Lightweight Backpacking Philosophy
Light is right and less is more, especially when you are backpacking. A lightweight pack is safer and more comfortable, and more FUN, than a heavy pack full of overbuilt and unnecessary stuff; and it makes the backcountry more accessible for anyone who does not want to (or cannot) carry a traditional pack, which should be everyone but the masochists among us.

Gear Talk
During 3-season conditions my pack usually weighs 6 or 7 pounds (minus food and water), and during the deep winter I have pared it down to a mere 14! This page explains the rationale behind some of the gear that I carry, including shelters, sleeping bags, footwear, water purification, and more.

Gear Lists
Prior to every trip I create a spreadsheet with all of the gear (and the weight of the gear) that I plan to take. This ensures that I have everything I think I need and nothing that I do not; based on the conditions that I actually encounter, I may change my gear kit during the trip or conclude that next time I should take something different. I have posted many of these gear lists because they can be useful guides in developing your own.

Nutrition
The dietary habits of a long-distance hiker are unique, as cooking methods and food variety is limited. I have found a bar-based diet combined with easy-cook dinners to be the most efficient and effective system for me.

Training for a Long-Distance Hike
Prior to leaving for a long-distance hike there is a lot to do - you have to buy gear and supplies, pack maildrops, organize maps and guidebooks, etc. But it is important that you are physically, as well as logistically, prepared for your hike. This article explains how I condition myself for my long-distance hikes.

How to Get Sponsored
If you are looking for product and/or financial support for your next expedition, you may want to read this article. It explains sponsorships types, the sponsorship process, and what companies want in return for their sponsorship.