Hiking gaiters can be an essential piece of gear when your backpacking in the Spring or Winter. I find in early Spring when it’s still wet, muddy, and cold, gaiters can keep my boots and socks pretty dry.

Hiking Gaiters are normally a synthetic type material that covers the top of your boot and the lower part of your leg.  Gaiters can protect you in many ways:

• Keeps your legs warm when hiking in snow (especially snowshoeing)
• Keeping your feet warm and dry when crossing small streams, or hiking in really muddy conditions.
• They are great when hiking in tall blade grass, or ferns.

Another big advantage is during tick season. Ticks generally leap onto your leg or sock. Gaiters can be a huge benefit to make sure you don’t bring those pesky guys into your tent. 

Hiking Gaiters come in two heights, low and high.

• Low Gaiters, 8” to 12” tall, are designed to mainly keep debris and water out of your hiking boots. These are recommended for basic hiking conditions.
• High Gaiters are 15” to 18” tall. These are the workhorse Gaiters. They protect you during more extreme conditions, like bushwacking, deep snow and bad weather.

What kind of Gaiters should I get?

What’s the Activity?

• Mild-Weather Hiking Trips – Trail Gaiters are your best bet. These have basic protection against some rain, rocks and grit. These are normally breathable and lightweight.
• All-around Hiking, Mountaineering and Snowshoeing – Alpine gaiters are what you need. These provide better abrasion and water protection than the Trail Gaiters.

Good Gaiters can be costly, but well worth the investment. Nobody likes hiking in wet socks. Look for Gaiters that are waterproof. Gaiters that have a waterproof and breathable material are going to cost a bit more, but can be worth it for comfort.

Durability is the key. Keeping your legs free of abrasions is of utmost importance. Make sure the material is strong.

I wear the Outdoor Research Gaiters. These guys have never let me down and have always kept my feet dry.

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When I set out to hike the entire Appalachian Trail in 2003, one of the things I first tried to do was get in shape. I mean, you are walking over 2,000 miles up and down every day right? However, not that long into my hike I realized I wasn’t battling the physical part of it. Although, (and let me be brutally honest here), I hurt like nobody’s business the first four weeks. What really took me by surprise was the mental part of the hike. The loneliness, isolation, being wet all the time, being hot all the time, being cold all the time. One could say it’s physical, but the mental hardiness is as important as the physical part of your long distance hike.

There are two dominant schools of thought when it comes to the necessity of physical conditioning before a long distance hike. The first one asserts that the only way to prepare the body for the rigors of hauling a heavy pack up and down mountains is to haul a heavy pack up and down mountains. This being the case, the long distance hiker simply limits mileage and duration for the first few weeks, slowly increasing both as the body adjusts, increases its fitness, and hardens. You will get in shape as you go. No doubt about it. I prepared physically, but nothing does it compare to when you are actually out there.

My recommendation is: Do your best to prepare physically. Take your time in the beginning. You are NOT in a race and hike your OWN hike. Getting to know your gear, is as important is practicing by hauling your backpack all over the place before you go. Great! You can carry a pack up the mountain, but do you know how to pack your backpack up in a pouring rain without getting your sleeping bag wet. Nothing will give you the mental shit’s than knowing you’ll be sleeping in the wet spot tonight. Know your Gear!

The truth is — three to six months is a long time to hike in the backcountry. You will be hot, cold, tired, wet, lonely, and scared. You will itch, ache, and smell bad. The smell bad part is a huge one by the way. You will be hungry all the time. You will get homesick. After awhile, hiking becomes your job, and you’ll be bored. You’ll want to quit. The hardest part of completing a thru-hike is knowing you don’t have to. No one is making you hike day after day. You can go home anytime. The trick is to keep that far-away goal in the back of your mind while focusing only on the immediate day’s hike. Don’t think of hiking 2,000 miles; the longest trail is just a series of week-long hikes. From one town to the next. Rest. One day at a time. Just this next climb. Beating the Mental breakdown is keeping a positive attitude about why your hiking in the first place. It can be a journey where you will meet and become friends with people from all different parts of the world. You will see the beauty of the trail and what it brings YOU. Laugh when you hurt, smile when you smell, and enjoy it. You may only get one change to hike your long distance hike.

My recommendation: Bring your Ipod and regularly download new songs to listen to at camp. Laugh at yourself. Don’t be seduced by good food in town. Have new clothes brought you to half way in. This gives you a good feeling and reduces the odor you’ve been hiking in for awhile. Stay in contact with others and let them be inspired by you. They may be living vicariously through you. AND…Have Fun!

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EMS Cloudburst Jacket – Women’s

When the weather is wet and range of motion is critical, the Cloudburst’s stretch panels and waterproof, breathable System Three are elemental.

Features/Benefits:

• Nylon dobby fabric with stretch nylon side panels and a DWR (durable water repellent) finish
• Shell fabric backed by waterproof breathable System Three 10k coating
• Fully taped seams for complete waterproof protection
• 2.5 layer construction for enhanced breathability and lightweight packability
• Stretch underarm, front and back side panels allow easy movement
• Attached adjustable hood
• Two-way underarm zippers to regulate internal temperature
• Two-way center-front zipper with storm and draft flaps
• Brushed chin guard and collar for nonchafing softness
• Vertical chest pocket with water-resistant zipper
• Two hand pockets with water-resistant zippers
• Velcro adjustable cuffs
• Drop-tail hem for greater coverage
• Hem drawcord and snap closure keep rain and wind out

Fiber Content: 100% nylon dobby

Panels: 100% stretch twill nylon

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[tab name="Specs"]Material: 70D 2-Layer WPB Nylon ripstop Lining: None Core Venting: Underarm zips Pockets: 2 Hand, 1 chest Seam Taped: Yes Powder Skirt: No Hood: Yes, stowable Removable Hood: No Zip-in Compatibility: No Recommended Use: Rain jacket Weight: 1lb 6.5oz Warranty: Lifetime [/tab]
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I created TheBackpackerTV because of my passion for the outdoors and seeing nature up close and personal. To share my experiences, and the experiences of others for everyone to enjoy. We go watch hundreds of videos each month picking the very best for you. Enjoy!

   

Each Spring hundreds, if not thousands plan a backpacking trip somewhere. Whether it’s in one of our National Parks, or a Wilderness area, or maybe just a State Park. Preparing for your trip can make it enjoyable, and safe. I’ve put together some tips for preparing for a backpacking trip. No matter where you end up.

1. Learn camping skills. Just reading about camping skills is not enough. Actually learn from a knowledgeable outdoorsman or outdoorswoman. If you are new to backpacking trips, consider joining a backpacking group or tour and ask for help. I suggest a practice run (even if it’s your own backyard) so you can get to know your gear.
2. Learn to read maps and use a compass and GPS properly. Buy a good compass and a map of the area in which you intend to immerse yourself, and study the terrain carefully before you set out, so that you have some idea of what awaits you. Get in the habit as you hike of looking around and checking your map so you always know where you are. Keep track of landmarks and trailside scenery and make notes as you go on the map. Put the map into a clear plastic bag and seal it if it is not already waterproof.
3. Learn about your area. This is extremely important if you are going someplace very different from your own locality. Research what sort of weather to expect, what types of creatures (i.e. bears) and vegetation that you are likely to encounter, terrain, and possible dangers. A guide book can be useful, if it is high-quality.
4. Tell someone your itinerary. Before leaving for the hike, be sure a trusted person will be alerted to your trip. If a disaster befalls you, and you don’t come back on time, he or she can alert the authorities, give information on your intended whereabouts, and so on.
5. Dress for the environment and the weather. Temperatures and weather can vary wildly; be prepared for a range of conditions. Learn to dress warmly for cold temperatures or protect yourself from heat.
6. Get used to your pack. Two days into the back-country is notthe time to find out you aren’t able to carry your own pack. Carry it around fully loaded for a few hours every day. Take walks whenever possible with it. If your backpack is too heavy and unwieldy in the middle of civilization, it will to be impossible to carry in the wilderness. Do not try to carry more than 30% of your own body weight on your back–and even that might be too much.
7. Consider where the water source will be. Don’t assume you can drink the water unless told by an expert–a crystal clear mountain stream can be swimming with illness-causing bacteria. Water may not be potable, or essentially inaccessible. In a dry or hot season, springs, rivers, and streams may dry up. In some dry areas, like deserts, you may have to bring in all of your water. Remember that water is 8 1/3 pounds a gallon^[1]; this adds up quickly.
8. Bring your first aid kit. What you will need to bring will depend on where you are hiking, when, and how long you’ll be out. But a basic kit will contain:
   • Bandages, both gauze and ACE bandages(for sprains and strains)
   • Sunscreen
   • Pain-killers (ibuprofen, etc.)
   • Tweezers
   • Anti-bacterial cream
   • Diarrhea relief
   • Adhesive bandages
   • Foot care items: athletic tape, blister bandages, “moleskin” patches, etc
9. Know your tents. For backpacking, you need shelter that is proper for the terrain and season, lightweight but strong, and relatively easy to manage. “Pop-up” tents are very popular for the beginner, although be sure to select the tent that will fit your needs.Be sure to assemble your tent before heading to the wilderness, to know how to set it, inspect for damage, and replace any missing parts. Always have a repair kit. Avoid packing wet tents if you can. If you can’t, don’t forget to dry them out later.
10. Prepare your sleeping gear. A sleeping bag is the typical way to keep warm at night. Be sure yours is rated in the recommended temperature range of your wilderness area, as you don’t want to be too hot or cold. Buy a compression bag to help reduce bulk. You may want to buy a sleeping bag liner to keep your bag in its best shape. You also will likely want a sleeping pad, either blow-up or self-inflating. All of these items will be among your heaviest, bulkiest items, so choose wisely. A zero-degree bag should not weigh more than 3 pounds if you shop carefully. A sleeping pad should not weigh more than 2 pounds. Added together and on your back, that’s still a heavy 5 pounds. Try find gear well below these weights.
11. Pay attention to your footwear. A foot injury will turn a wilderness journey into a crisis in moments. Choose supportive, rugged footwear appropriate to the terrain. Hiking boots are the usual best choice, with hiking shoes or sandals also possible good choices. ‘Always break in your footwear before your backpacking trip.’: a simple blister can cause big difficulties.
12. Consider your food. Backpacking in the wilderness requires lightweight, shelf-stable, high-calorie food. Avoid food that needs refrigeration or is fragile. Most outdoor stores, catalogs, and websites offer freeze-dried, or ready-to-eat meals that are easy to heat. American-style MRE’s (military rations) are available in a commercial version. You can also find foods at the grocery store that are in camping-friendly form. In addition to snacks, two or three meals a day, be sure you bring a bit more than you think you’ll need. In bear country, you will need to learn how to hang a bear bag or have a bear-resistant container and secure it properly.

Go through the Trip in your Head. One of the things I do before I go out into the Wilderness is I think about each day I’m out there. What am I doing? What will I want to eat? How do I get my water? What kind of campsite will I be camping in. I try and visualize everything I may need. It really helps me bring what I need.

Tips

• Always be willing to turn back if your trip is threatened by bad weather, injury, or the like. The journey is the point, not the destination. Bad things can happen if bad decisions are made out of stubbornness.
• Carry spares wherever possible: things break and get lost; bulbs burn out and boot laces break.
• You can buy foldable stoves that burn solid fuel bars and fit into a pocket: a marvellous saviour when everything is too wet to burn and you are in dire need of a hot beverage.
• Rope always finds a purpose. Polypropylene rope is light and very strong and can be used for washing lines; storm-setting your tent; hauling people out of holes in the ground; crossing rivers; dragging your rucksack up a cliff face and hanging your kit out of the reach of animals.
• Whenever possible, start pitching camp at least an hour before sunset. Setting up camp at dark is much more difficult.

Don’t forget to HAVE FUN! That’s why you went out there in the first place. Enjoy and be grateful to be with Nature.

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Bottled water is a bit of a fad and a strange thing to pay for, considering water makes up majority of our planet (yeah yeah, it’s purified and all that).

Wait a second – now you can get purification without having to fork out money for every little 250ml! Camelbak are bringing you a nifty little water bottle that will clean up your water in just 60 seconds. A brilliant innovation into purifying water, the All Clear bottle contains a UV light installed in the cap that’s proven to eradicate 99.9999% of bacteria, 99.99% of viruses and 99.9% of protozoa. That gives you a pretty good chance of not coming down with Delhi Belly if you ask me!

You can fill it from any stream, tap, or spigot and even has a pre-filter accessory to filter out sediments as you fill it up from a natural source. It would be great for a camping trip or if you’re travelling to a country where the water isn’t purified. It treats 80 cycles (16 gallons) with each charge (so if you drank three bottles a day, it would last about 25 days), and the cap is protected from wear and weather so that you can take it anywhere and everywhere. The bulb itself should last 10,000 cycles – that would be the equivalent of drinking 3 bottles a day for 9 years – so you’re unlikely going to need to change that. It’s powered by two lithium batteries, rechargeable via USB (that’s pretty cool).

The only thing that I think would make this bottle a super-green alternative to bottled water would be to include a solar panel to augment the lithium batteries and reduce energy expenditure. But all the same, a pretty darned nifty gadget. If anyone has tested this in the backcounty would love to hear about it.

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Illuminate your camp site the environmentally friendly way, with these solar-powered collapsible lamps. Powered by solar energy, this eco-friendly concept lamp lights up your surrounds when unfolded. Designed by Jesper Jonsson, the solar-powered collapsible lamps come equipped with solar panels that collect energy when the sun is out and store it in a battery. Once the sun goes down, the lamp can be unfolded and its onboard battery powers a set of bulbs inside the lamp to give you light. It also comes with a strap with magnets that lets you hang the lamp in a variety of ways, open of closed. Jesper Jonsson. 

Ordering the solar panel and LED’s is the easy part and probably even the small amount of sewing to get the fabric correct, but finding a small enough switch and getting it to work correctly each time you open or close the light maybe the tough part. Still probably nothing that an order from Adafruit Industries wouldn’t fix. I’m definitely going to try this. If you are into light weight backpacking like I am, you should try this also.

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I get asked a lot about Tarp Tenting. But one of the weird looks I get is when I mention I even use my Tarp in the Winter. In fact, if you have the right gear, you can be as comfortable under a tarp in snow, than any other regular camping trip in the Winter.

I use the Equinox 10 X 12 tarp. It takes about 20 minutes to dig a 3′ deep pit and pitch the tarp above it. There are many options including burying the sides under snow to fully prevent wind vs keeping it somewhat open to help with condensation. If you use your poles to support the tarp (and choose a flat site or a slightly rougher nylon tarp–snow really slides off of silnylon) you can cover your tarp with snow for insulation much like a snow cave but without the 2 hour time needed and guaranteed wet-through gloves.

However, tarp tenting in the Winter is a bit different from just pitching it anywhere. I usually look for a place out of the wind. Under a huge pine tree. Or even next to a rock crop. If you get a heavy snowfall, the extra protection will keep your tarp from falling in. One time it started sleeting, and sleet is heavy. Understanding how your tarp reacts to different weather issues may help you when that crappy weather moves in at night.

Tarp tenting in the snow is as much fun, and enjoyable than without snow. Looking out in a panoramic view underneath your tarp worth it.

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[tab name="Description"]Looking for the right snowshoes can be a daunting task. However, I really like these snowshoes that MSR has put out.

Along with MSR’s quickly-becoming-legendary 360-degree traction system and easy-peasy SpeedLock Comfort bindings, the MSR Men’s Lightning Axis Snowshoe features the Axis Gait Efficiency System. This system adjusts to your extra-wonky walk to make snowshoeing as natural as strolling down the beach.

• Bilateral binding adjustment neutralizes variances in foot positions to give you the most natural-feeling stride possible
• 360-degree traction frames for added support and stability in varied terrain
• Modular flotation tails (sold separately) allow you to use the shorter snowshoe alone for maneuverability or attach the tails when added flotation is necessary
• Climbing wires come standard and can be activated with a flick of your pole

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I created TheBackpackerTV because of my passion for the outdoors and seeing nature up close and personal. To share my experiences, and the experiences of others for everyone to enjoy. We go watch hundreds of videos each month picking the very best for you. Enjoy!

   

[tab name="Description"]Note: There is a rating embedded within this post, please visit this post to rate it.

At a ridiculously low 2lb 11oz weight, the single-wall has become an incredibly popular choice for a wide variety of weight-conscious mountain travelers. Black Diamond designed this tent with ultralight, breathable EPIC fabric for weight-conscious backpackers. But dedicated alpine climbers have pushed it into use on the world’s highest, hardest mountains.

The single-wall free standing design allows the Firstlight Tent to be pitched very quickly, and a small 82 x 48-inch floor lets you pitch it in a tiny clearing or small ledge.Your tab contest[/tab]

[tab name="Specs"]Series : Superlight Series
Season : 4
Capacity : 2
Doors : 1
Average Packed Weight : 1.5 kg, 3 lb 5 oz
Minimum Weight : 1.28 kg, 2 lb 13 oz
Dimensions : 208 x 123 x 123 x 107 cm, 82 x 48 x 48 x 42 in
Area : 2.5 m², 27.3 sq ft
Packed Size : 15 x 23 cm, 6 x 9 in [/tab]

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I created TheBackpackerTV because of my passion for the outdoors and seeing nature up close and personal. To share my experiences, and the experiences of others for everyone to enjoy. We go watch hundreds of videos each month picking the very best for you. Enjoy!

   

[tab name="Articles"]The Continental Divide Trail Alliance (CDTA) was formed in 1995 to assist federal land management agencies in the completion, management and protection of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. Since that time, CDTA volunteers have dedicated nearly $7 million worth of labor while individuals, foundations, and businesses committed millions to the effort. As of 2011, of the 2,268 miles of the Trail completed CDTA volunteers are responsible for 525 of those miles, and to date only 832 miles remain to be constructed.

Increasing pressures from development in the West, rising land costs, and challenges with the longstanding down cycle in the economy threaten the completion of the Trail. Despite the strong level of financial support from so many of you, overall contributions and other revenues in recent years have significantly declined. These revenues are the life blood of nonprofit organizations like the CDTA.

Consequently, the CDTA Board of Directors has made the very difficult and painful decision to cease operations of the CDTA. The financial condition of the organization has been unstable and deteriorating for a number of years. We have not been able to raise the necessary financial resources to sustain the continued operations of the organization.

We are taking the actions necessary to complete our outstanding contracts for work on behalf of the Trail. We are retaining the services of our committed and outstanding staff to meet our current obligations, to the extent financially possible, as we complete closing down CDTA over the next few weeks.

This is a sad day. But the Trail is still here, and it continues to inspire us all. We are confident this inspiration will lead people to start a new and stronger organization to continue the work on the Trail.

The Board and dedicated staff of the CDTA would like to thank each and every one of you for your tremendous commitment and support of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail and theCDTA. We are truly humbled by the selfless actions of so many and hopefully this will inspire another group of people to continue the mission of CDTA.

Stay Tuned . . . In the meantime watch this video about backpacking the CDT[/tab]
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I created TheBackpackerTV because of my passion for the outdoors and seeing nature up close and personal. To share my experiences, and the experiences of others for everyone to enjoy. We go watch hundreds of videos each month picking the very best for you. Enjoy!

   

There a ton of things to consider when  planning a backpacking trip into the wilderness. Moreover, the advise you get can be overwhelming. Bring this, don’t bring that, how much food, pack weight, the right gear. You can spend hours researching every “what if” situation out there. Still, there are the basics. Nothing better than having a good plan to ensure you have a wonderful experience. The 10 essentials of backpacking always remain the same. Of course planning for the terrain, and weather forecast is NOT to be underestimated.

However, one of the biggest mistakes people make when planning their trip into the wilderness is “who know’s I’m out here”. Do your friends and family know your specific plan? Who have you told where you are going to be, and when can they expect you (approximately) to return? This is one of the more important, if not THE important ingredient to your safety. Your choices out in the wilderness can be the difference between life and death. However, making sure people will start looking for you if something goes wrong can make all the difference and help guide your choices. Having a specific plan for your friends or family to follow can and will be crucial if something does go wrong.

There have been several shows and movies about hikers who simply got stuck on/in a boulder field or crevas, and no one knew where they were.  Their survival could have been greatly enhanced if friends and or family knew their exact route, their ETA out of the Wilderness and had a plan.

Here are some suggestions that will greatly enhance your survival if something goes wrong. It can be as simple as breaking a leg on the  trail and you are immobile. Being stuck in a rock crevas.

• Tell a specific member of your family or a trusted friend, where you will be going, what trail(s) you will be on,  and what time you are expected to be out of the wilderness. Back that up with “I should be calling you by this time ______”. “If you don’t hear from me by _____ call the Ranger”.
• Don’t deviate from the trail(s) that you have specifically told people you were going to be. You don’t want the Search Party looking on one trail when you have bushwhacked in another another.
• Check and recheck your first aid kit and make sure  you have what you need for the “just in case”. I always bring a snake kit to suck venom out if I encounter a snake and get bit. They are small and very packable. Just recently I stepped right over a Rattle Snake and my foot landed 3 inches from it’s head. (He was kind enough to let me know by his rattle that this was his territory)
• Most survival experts will tell you to stay put. However, they maybe more difficult if nobody knows where you are at.
• If you see a Trail Register, sign it. This gives SAR a point of reference and puts together a geographic area that you maybe in.

Again, you can bring everything you need and have a great trip. But always remember to have people on the outside you can count on to make the call, and get SAR out to you if something goes wrong. Of all the things you do, this might just save your life.

For a good reference from a SAR Volunteer read Deb Lauman’s article on Common Mistakes to Avoid

R-Value: This is a common term used when referring to season of use. Insulation is measured according to its capacity to resist (that’s the “R”) heat flow. The higher a pad’s value, the better you can expect it to insulate you from cold surfaces. Don’t forget to wear your hat, 80% of heat loss in our bodies’ leaks from our melon’s.

It’s important to know how you sleep before purchasing a pad. Are you a cold sleeper? Warm Sleeper? Do you role over alot? Sleeping pads come in different sizes. You may want a larger pad if you toss and turn. Pads come in 3 lengths; 78 in (long), 72 in (regular), and 48 in (short). The short 48 in pad is designed to save weight for the minimalist group.

Width: Nearly every pad offers the standard width of 20”. If you tend to roll around a lot, you may want a width of 25” or 30”. Tapered designs reduce volume and pack smaller (mummy shape).

ABC News did a story last night on the increasing number Tick Diseased Babesiosis, a potentially deadly tick-borne illness that mimics malaria, is on the rise in the suburbs north of New York City, according to a paper published in the May issue of the Emerging Infection Disease Journal.

The disease has also spiked in coastal Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Long Island. At least 1,000 cases have been reported, mostly in the Northeast and the upper Midwest, and for those who are immune-compromised, it can be fatal.

For those of us who hike in some pretty tick invested Wilderness Area’s. Tick prevention is an absolute necessity. There have been times when I’ve been camping and I can hear the ticks falling on my tent. The hotter the area in which you are hiking, the more ticks. Especially in high dense deer and horse populations. In Illinois for example, there are some State Parks that are Equestrian parks also. Usually, I’ve had more issues with Ticks in these areas.

Babesiosis can go undetected in the blood supply — putting those who are sickest at risk — and there is no widely used screening test. More information can be found on the CDC Website Also

Some of the ways to avoid Ticks:

Avoid brushy areas and tall grass. Try to walk in the middle of the trail and avoid hanging branches.

Sunny, dry areas can still have ticks, but fewer than shady, damp areas.

Wear Permethrin treated clothes or spray it on your clothes. It kills the ticks rather than repelling them and lasts through many washings of your clothes.

Use DEET-based insect repellents on exposed skin. A 25%-30% solution works super from my experience. I mix 2 ounces of 100% DEET with 6 ounces of 4.7% DEET “OFF! Skintastic” pump spray repellent for a 28% solution that works great.

Check each other for ticks when you stop for breaks.

The best way to remove a tick is:

Wipe the wound area with an alcohol wipe.

Grasp the tick with a sharp pointed tweezers right down where it is entering your skin.

Pull it straight away from your skin with a slow, steady pressure. Don’t yank it; don’t twist it; don’t rock it back and forth.

It’s very important to thoroughly clean the wound with antiseptic.

As TheBackpackerTV celebrates 3 years of operation, we wanted to offer something a little bit more to our audience. To date, TheBackpackerTV is averaging about 25,000 page views a month. So, we decided to offer online gear products starting with our new Gear Deals Page. This page changes every other day with some of the best coupons, and gear deals in the Outdoor Industry. The way it works; we get “Feeds” from all of our Partners as to what is on sale. We pass that on to you!

HUGE NEWS: We have also made comparison shopping that much easier. For example: Watching a Gear Review Video on a Osprey Hornet Backpack? Now, you can see other Osprey Hornet Backpacks appear right on the sidebar. We match the products with the Video. No one else does that. Watch the Gear Review + Like the Product = Buy it now. Easy!

We have partnered with some of the best Gear Stores, and Outfitters in the Industry. Through Affiliate Marketing, we have agreements with: REI, Mossejaw, Eastern Moutain Sports, Campsaver, Altrec Outdoors, Patogonia, The Gear Lounge, Half Moon Outfitters, and others.

Along with these Patnerships, we are also offering 3 online gear stores so you have all your favorite Gear Products all in the same place. As this may change from time to time, we will always offer 3 Gear Product Stores so you can browse through thousands of your favorite Gear Items. The best thing about what we are offering…..ALL PRODUCTS will ALWAYS START at 20% off. Not one piece of gear we will offer will be full retail. In fact, we look for the best deals for you and announce them on our Facebook Page, or our Twitter Page.

Hope you enjoy not only our hundreds of outdoor videos and Gear Reviews, but find our New Online Products Pages something you can resource.

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I created TheBackpackerTV because of my passion for the outdoors and seeing nature up close and personal. To share my experiences, and the experiences of others for everyone to enjoy. We go watch hundreds of videos each month picking the very best for you. Enjoy!

   

When using my tarp, I generally look for bug protection. Especially in the hot humid summer months. I started to make a DIY bug net, but then ran across the Minimalist 1 Bivy. It sells for $75.00 with floor. It weighs only 8.5 oz.

Very small footprint so that the Minimalist 1 Bivy can be pitched under canopy tent, tarp, or lines to trees.

The Minimalist 1 Bivy now comes in two sizes: regular and extended length. The regular minimalist 1 has enough internal space to sit up in and will fit someone up to about 6′ 2″. The extended minimalist 1 has enough internal space for a larger person to sit up in and will fit someone up to about 6′ 6″. Other modifications are possible. Just contact us with your ideas. Both bivies have very small footprints so that they can be pitched in almost any locaton that enables lines.
Both bivies can be packed in small pocket in pack or pannier.
Single piece bathtub style floor to keep water away from your sleeping bag. Standard floor is 30D weight (1.35 oz silicone coated ripstop). Floor also available in 0.51 cuben fiber for an ultralightweight bivy. For a more durable cuben fiber floor, 0.74 oz cuben fiber is available.

All seams double stitched for durability. Corners have webbing for stakes or cords. 56″ zipper with twin zipper sliders open from across end to left side or across end bottom to right entry side (customer’s choice) for easy entry and exit. The across end to left zipper (default arrangement) is shown in the main display picture. For no extra charge, the zipper can be extended to run from the left side, across the end, and to the right side for entry from any side (slightly heavier arrangement.)

Easy setup takes about 1 to 2 minutes.

Materials
Bathtub Floor: 30D
1.35 oz silicone-coated nylon
Bathtub Floor: 0.51 oz
Cuben Fiber
Bathtub Floor: 0.74 oz
Cuben Fiber (optional)
Netting: Black no-see-um

Admin

I created TheBackpackerTV because of my passion for the outdoors and seeing nature up close and personal. To share my experiences, and the experiences of others for everyone to enjoy. We go watch hundreds of videos each month picking the very best for you. Enjoy!

   

Haven’t written a post about anything for quite some time. Deepest apologize for all my visitors. This last year I did a lot of backpacking, (except for the brutally hot summer) and had a blast. However, it was a tough year. Family, and other matters just kept me thinking about how much I needed something more.

Last year I decided to relocate to Atlanta, Georgia. Growing up in Illinois, and spending most of my adult live South of Chicago, it was time for a change. The biggest reason was opportunities. Opportunities I just didn’t have in the middle of Illinois. Driving time to the nearest National Forest was also a big reason. A person who loves the outdoors and one who loves to backpack, isn’t going to find much in Corn Fields. Not there is anything wrong with that, but geez. The nearest National Forest or Wilderness was at least 5 hours away.

Georgia is an excellent location for TheBackpackerTV. Northern Georgia and it’s Mountains and vast Wilderness is a place I’ve always wanted to live by. Cohutta Wilderness, Appalachian Trail, Chattahoochee National Forest, on and on.

So now TheBackpackerTV and I are residing in Atlanta where we will head out into the Mountains on a regular basis without the toll on the truck or our wallets. So far, we love it out here.

See you on the trail.

Admin

I created TheBackpackerTV because of my passion for the outdoors and seeing nature up close and personal. To share my experiences, and the experiences of others for everyone to enjoy. We go watch hundreds of videos each month picking the very best for you. Enjoy!

   

As I am always looking to lighten my pack load, it was a just a matter of time before I ditched the tent and tried sleeping under a tarp. Choosing the right tarp was a little exhausting, however it all came down to simplicity and price.

My first choice was a Mountain Laurel CUBEN FIBER DUO GRACE TARP. This tarp is a high quality tarp. But really expensive. You pay for the high end quality and the price was $255.00 bucks. Weighed in at 7.7 oz. I saw a great blog post on www.sectionhiker.com on how this tarp works and is used.

After debating price, I finally heard some common sense. “Practice tarp tenting until you really like it, and you get good at it”. Good at it? Setting up a Tarp isn’t just a shelter, it can be YOUR living space in the woods. There are many ways to set up a tarp that best fits your comfort level when in the backcountry. Having said all that, the choice was simple. I picked the Globe Skimmer Ultralite Tarp

The Equinox Skimmer (10×12) was only $90.00 and weighs only 18 ounces. Now I had to get some cords to tie on to the Tarp. I picked the AirCore NANO from BackpackingLight it’s a ultra-strong and ultralight tent and tarp guyline cord with a Dyneema (Spectra) core for strength and polyester sheath, for good knottability and less slippage than in 100% Spectra cord. Price was $16.00

Later I would find that he Nite-Ize S-Biner is a dual-gate accessory carabiner (not for climbing!) is a good piece of gear to have while setting up my tarp. However, I had 3 larger carabiners that worked fine.

One last piece of gear I needed was the guide line that I could hang my tarp from. Equinox sells a 50 foot cord that works quite well. You can buy this at Gander Mountain or order it from Equinox. Some good advise I got was to cut this into two 25 foot lengths. If you need more, tie the two 25 ft cords together using a hitch not.

After tying all the loops (Hitch not mostly) to the 6 grommets (4 on the side, 2 in the front and back), I was ready to set up my first tarp. I just needed a ground cloth. I used a 4×10 plastic sheet that was bought at a Hardware Store for painting cover. Taped at the 4 corners with duct tape.

As you can see this is my first tarp set up. The guideline stretched from two trees about 25 feet apart. I then hang the tarp by 3 carabiners from the three 12″ cotton twill ties on the top of the Tarp. I stake down 3 sides on the 12 ft side of the tarp, and 2 sides on the 10 ft side. Then I used my hiking pole (through one of the grommets) as a door entrance. I then stake down that section. Then sleep under the stars.

Here is another configuration I used when snow was in the forecast. An A Frame setup with a hiking pole that you can easily get in and out, but then remove the pole, so you have better protection, just stake down the tarp. You will have to look closely to see the hiking pole.

Both setups were great. These are just two setups among the many many different kinds. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Practice a good hitch knot and practice different configurations. Hopefully a video will be coming soon to show different configurations using this tarp.

Scott Janz

Mountain House has been making freeze dried food for the backcountry since 1963. If you have been backpacking for awhile, you know that creating a fun, and exciting menu can be somewhat challenging. Freeze dried food is good, but it can get a little boring after awhile. Wraps are a popular food item in the backcountry; there easy to work with and stuff with meat, onions, rice, beans, etc. I’ve even made Pizza tortillas with peperoni, sause, and cheese. Lots of calories and fun to eat. Now, Mountain House has come up with a new line designed to be used as delicious filling for tortillas that you provide separately.

It features four initial flavors: Breakfast Skillet, Mexican Style Beef, Buffalo Style Chicken, and Barbecue Sauce with Beef. They all offer high calories per ounce ratios: Breakfast Skillet (680 calories/4.7-ounce serving), Mexican Style Beef (360/4.0), Buffalo Style Chicken (390/4.0), Barbecue Sauce with Beef (630/4.6).

Like all Mountain House foods, they are simplicity itself to prepare. Pour boiling water in the package. Let sit a few minutes. All four single-serving meals cost $6.40

One of the drawbacks from getting older is that my eyesight just isn’t the same anymore. I have fought over the years wearing sports glasses, sunglasses, contacts, my regular glasses, the list goes on. Being active, I rarely keep a pair of (fill in the blank) for any long period. They usually break in my pocket or I lose them.

Recently my Eye Doctor recommended a pair of sunglasses/glasses/sports goggles, that have been perfect for all kinds of reasons.

A cross between a sunglasses and a goggle the Adidas Climacool Elevation is great for Skiing, Snowboarding, Backpacking, and simply sitting on the beach soaking up the rays. The Adidas Climacool Elevation model A136 has been around for a couple of years now but no one has managed to copy it or – beat it!

The best part: I don’t need a second pair of glasses to read a map. (Can’t see close) If you need prescription lenses then simply snap in your specially made prescription glasses into your Climacool Elevation glasses.

ClimaCool by Adidas is a dynamic ventilation technology.
The ClimaCool Technology for eyewear (made up of the specially engineered vents on the pad) allows for air to be directed in a way that does not disturb the eyesight but rather manages moisture and prevents fogging providing a more comfortable wear throughout. The foam pad surrounds the entire frame front and is easily detachable. It can then be replaced with the sadle nose strap and be transformed into a cool looking sunglass.

The Adidas Elevation is very versatile. within minutes you can change the side and lenses to produce a goggle suitable for windsurfing in low lighting, canoeing or climbing as the image below shows. Everything is configurable to meet your needs. You can take apart the stems and snap on a band that fits around your head incase you are in a situation they may drop off.

A spare set of lenses are included, these are orange lenses which are suitable for low lighting – they enhance contrast and show up lumps and bumps in the ground – so making them ideal for skiing or snowboarding. Just pop out the lenes.

There are quite a few places to buy these. Consult your Eye Doctor to make sure your prescription is good to go. My Doctor was able to send my bi-focal prescription out and they couldn’t be better.

Admin

I created TheBackpackerTV because of my passion for the outdoors and seeing nature up close and personal. To share my experiences, and the experiences of others for everyone to enjoy. We go watch hundreds of videos each month picking the very best for you. Enjoy!

   

Our first Fall Video Contest was awesome. Although we only got 6 entries, we got 6 awesome entries. We want to thank everyone that entered and spread the word about our Contest. Especially those followers on Twitter that graciously re-tweeted posts. Also Online Video Contests for posting our contest.

Also a HUGE thank you to Flip Video for giving away a Flip Mino HD, and Seth over at Trek Light Gear for donating one of his awesome Hammocks to our winners. Save 5% off your entire order at TrekLightGear.com. Coupon Code: 4TREKGEAR

The winners were selected on two criteria:
Best Backpacking Video (all around cool video)
Best Trail Vlog (best explanation of a trail or park)

The winner for Best Backpacking Video goes to Sam Haraldson for his video on the “2009 Parcour de Wild endurance race in Northwestern Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness“ Sam will win the Flip Mino HD

The the Winner for Best Trail Vlog is Bryan DeLay for his video “Twentymile Trail to Long Hungry Ridge Trail to Gregory Bald Trail“. Bryan will win the 2010 National Park Pass

The other entries will be notified of their prizes.

Thanks everyone for all the support. Have a great 2010. Look forward to our next contest.

Admin

I created TheBackpackerTV because of my passion for the outdoors and seeing nature up close and personal. To share my experiences, and the experiences of others for everyone to enjoy. We go watch hundreds of videos each month picking the very best for you. Enjoy!