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The backpacking meetup happened… and somehow we ended up carrying coolers into the backcountry, eating Philly cheesesteaks and Oreo balls, relocating a snake named Sheila, dealing with gear failure, and trying to beat a tropical storm out of the woods.

Just another normal weekend.

This week on The Backpacking Podcast, John and Jeremiah recap the latest meetup at Big South Fork before jumping into another round of Backpack or Send It Back.

First up: a 3.2-ounce ultralight jacket that costs $195 but doesn’t come seam sealed, followed by possibly one of the strangest pieces of backpacking clothing we’ve seen yet—down sleeves. Useful ultralight innovation… or gear nobody asked for?

Then in Animal Encounters, we meet one of the biggest bears we’ve ever seen: Katmai National Park’s appropriately nicknamed “Honky Chonk Bear Donk-a-Donk.” Yes, that is apparently what we’re calling her.

In Hiker News, we congratulate former guest and ultrarunner Jeff “Free Outside” Garmeyer on getting married—sleeveless tuxedo and all—before diving into the chaos surrounding the Moab 240. Flash flooding, deep mud, sleet, high winds and severe weather stranded roughly 70 runners and volunteers overnight and ultimately forced organizers to cancel the race. Thankfully, everyone was safely evacuated.

And finally…

The Neighbor Update is officially its own segment.

Jeremiah gives the latest on the ongoing situation with his neighbor’s dog after animal enforcement finally got involved—and we may actually be moving toward a solution.

Maybe.

Stick around until the end for the latest version of The Backpacking Podcast theme song, this time with a little Disney-inspired flair.

🎒 The Backpacking Podcast with Jeremiah Stringer and John Kelly — backpacking gear, trail stories, hiking news, outdoor culture, questionable decisions, and whatever else happens when we start talking.

📧 Send us your stories, gear finds, pro tips, guest ideas, animal encounters, and show suggestions:
backpackingpodcast@gmail.com

👍 Like the episode, subscribe, and let us know what YOU would backpack or send back.

#Backpacking #Hiking #BackpackingGear #UltralightBackpacking #Moab240 #HikerNews #KatmaiNationalPark #Bears #OutdoorGear #ThruHiking #Camping #TheBackpackingPodcast

Outdoor Vitals Resolve Down Anorak: https://alnk.to/cwX2fyNMeetup AllTrails Link: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/creator-meetup-route-to-camp-a0671d7?u=i&sh=luwlk4Permit Link: https://www.nps.gov/biso/planyourvisit/permits.htm

🥾 IN THIS EPISODE💰 Backpacking Upgrades for Pennies or FreeWe take on five ideas from a list of 42 low-cost backpacking upgrades, including using fishing line for repairs, keeping your pillow in place with a T-shirt, trimming unnecessary gear, and intelligently downsizing your first aid kit. We also debate whether an $80 tree table deserves a place at camp.🏞️ The Government Hates the Outdoors?We discuss changes to Bears Ears National Monument, public land conservation, and new recreation surveys being conducted in Daniel Boone National Forest. What does this mean for outdoor access, privacy, and the future of our public lands?📰 Hiker NewsMeet the Great Colorado Route, a massive Colorado hiking route connecting existing trails, and hear why one school's 50-mile Appalachian Trail backpacking requirement is getting our attention. We also discuss the proposed Chiricahua National Park designation in Arizona.🐻 Animal Encounters: Bear Trouble in TennesseeWhy have dozens of bears been euthanized following human-bear conflicts in the Smokies region? We talk about irresponsible wildlife feeding, unsecured food and garbage, and why keeping wild bears wary of humans matters.😳 Jeremiah's Neighbor UpdateThings take a serious turn in Jeremiah's ongoing story about his neighbor's aggressive dog. Hear the latest developments and why the situation has become so frightening.🎒 Plus: Outdoor Vitals' Resolve Down Anorak jacket, our upcoming Big South Fork meetup, Kentucky's legendary Ale-8-One soda, plenty of laughs, and a special rockabilly version of the Backpacking Podcast theme song at the end!

Meetup AllTrails Link: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/creator-meetup-route-to-camp-a0671d7?u=i&sh=luwlk4This week on **The Backpacking Podcast**, John and Jeremiah are back with backpacking news, questionable gear, wildlife encounters, and plenty of opinions along the way.We kick things off with our first-ever **Pro Tip** segment: if you’re hiking with people who are faster than you, make sure YOU have the car keys. 😂Then things get serious in **Hiker News** as we discuss the disappearance of well-known hiker **Chris “Mischief” Phillips**, a double amputee who has logged thousands of miles on trails across the country.In **Animal Encounters**, we break down the terrifying story of a black bear that climbed through a 17-year-old girl’s bedroom window in Durango, Colorado—and then came back a second time. We also take a look at Colorado’s massive **I-25 wildlife overpass**, where officials have reported a dramatic reduction in wildlife-vehicle collisions.Then it’s time for **Backpack or Send It Back**, where we dig through a collection of ultralight backpacking gadgets and decide what actually deserves a spot in your pack. Windscreens, cord spools, pot lids, bear-bag toggles, sport caps, folding utensils, refillable lighters, titanium sporks and more all go before the court.Some of it gets a thumbs up.Some of it definitely needs to be sent back.Finally, **That Don’t Make No Sense** takes us into the strange world of overnight Amazon deliveries. Is getting a package at 4:00 in the morning incredibly convenient—or is sending gig drivers onto strangers’ porches in the middle of the night asking for trouble?Let us know where you land on these stories and gear picks in the comments!🎒 **The Backpacking Podcast** with Jeremiah Stringer and John Kelly — backpacking gear, hiking news, trail stories, outdoor culture, and everything else that happens when backpackers start talking.📧 Send us your backpacking pro tips, guest ideas, pictures, theme-song ideas, and show suggestions at:backpackingpodcast@gmail.com👍 Like the episode, subscribe, and join us for the next one!#Backpacking #Hiking #BackpackingGear #UltralightBackpacking #HikingNews #ThruHiking #BackpackingPodcast #BlackBear #Wildlife #OutdoorGear #CampingGear #TheBackpackingPodcast

Meetup AllTrails Link: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/creator-meetup-route-to-camp-a0671d7?u=i&sh=luwlk4Outdoor Vitals Mountain Pursuit Line: https://alnk.to/dLmgnji📧 Send us your photos, guest ideas, and ridiculous theme-song genre combinations:[backpackingpodcast@gmail.com](mailto:backpackingpodcast@gmail.com)Welcome back to The Backpacking Podcast! This episode has a little bit of everything: backpacking news, gear, ridiculous outdoor stories, Appalachian Trail discussion, Trail Court, and one of the most ridiculous boating stories we've told yet.We kick things off talking about Outdoor Vitals gear and the Mountain Pursuit line before getting into our Sub Pick of the Week — a vintage backpacking photo that shows just how different hiking looked decades ago.Then things get serious with a disturbing story about **5,000 gallons of diesel fuel spilling from a data center into a New Jersey waterway** and a conversation about data centers, technology, and their growing impact on the outdoors.Next up: Yellowstone. And apparently people have been throwing some absolutely bizarre things into Yellowstone's hydrothermal features — including camera lens covers, sunglasses, toys, coins, retainers, and other random objects. More than 20,000 pieces of trash were reportedly collected during a record-setting cleanup effort.Then we get into **Hiker News**, including the future of shelters and campsites along the Appalachian Trail. Could some aging AT shelters eventually be replaced with tent pads or other camping options? We talk about the history, usefulness, problems, and culture surrounding Appalachian Trail shelters.And then things get weird.We introduce **Poop Talk**, talk about "pooping with a view," explore some incredible backcountry privies, and discuss the unique experience of using an outdoor bathroom with absolutely no privacy.Finally, it's time for **Trail Court** — involving a broken boat, two jet skis, a giant camping chair, a marina slip, and a situation that definitely deserves a courtroom.Plus, we talk about our upcoming Hiker Awards, listener-submitted theme song ideas, backpacking stories, and more.If you love backpacking, hiking, camping, Appalachian Trail stories, outdoor gear, hiker news, trail culture, and a healthy amount of ridiculousness, you're in the right place.

GPS Pin For Parking Meetup (Oct 9th-11th, 2026): https://maps.app.goo.gl/7NFAWh3hv4ajryKN6Trail Map From Car to Campsite (1.3 miles): https://www.ccl-bsf.com/mapsCharit Creek Lodge Website: https://www.ccl-bsf.com/

Gear, hiker news, trail trends, and a little “poop with a view” — this episode of The Backpacking Podcast has a bit of everything!We’re checking out the 3FUL water filter and other gear, talking about what’s happening on the trails, looking at the biggest gear trends of 2026, and, if there’s time, we might be talking about some animal encounters.Trails, campfires, good conversations, bad jokes. 🥾🏕️🐻

GPS Pin For Parking Meetup (Oct 9th-11th, 2026): https://maps.app.goo.gl/7NFAWh3hv4ajryKN6Trail Map From Car to Campsite (1.3 miles): https://www.ccl-bsf.com/mapsCharit Creek Lodge Website: https://www.ccl-bsf.com/

In this episode, we explore humorous and practical aspects of backpacking, including gear reviews, funny anecdotes, and safety tips for encounters with wildlife. Join us for a lighthearted yet informative discussion perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

GPS Pin For Parking Meetup (Oct 9th-11th, 2026): https://maps.app.goo.gl/7NFAWh3hv4ajryKN6Trail Map From Car to Campsite (1.3 miles): https://www.ccl-bsf.com/mapsCharit Creek Lodge Website: https://www.ccl-bsf.com/Season 7 comes to an end with one of our wildest and most packed episodes yet! We talk backpacking, hiking, trail conditions, upcoming meetups, outdoor adventures, crazy trail stories, and some of the biggest backpacking and outdoor news making headlines.We also take a look at the upcoming YouTuber backpacking meetup in the Big South Fork area of Tennessee, including the campsite, Charit Creek Lodge, Twin Arches, Slave Falls, Needle Arch, hiking plans, camping logistics, and what people can expect from the October 9–11 meetup.Then things get painful as we talk about one of the unavoidable hazards of spending time outdoors: CHIGGERS! We share some brutally itchy experiences with chigger bites, poison ivy, outdoor work, and the realities of spending time in the woods.We also discuss a controversial tree-cutting case involving Savage Gulf State Park, including allegations that trees were illegally cut to improve the view from a nearby private property.One of the most inspiring stories in the episode is the incredible accomplishment of 91-year-old Dale “Greybeard” Sanders, who completed the Appalachian Trail in under a year.And then we turn to some serious outdoor news, including the recent Grand Canyon flash flooding, trail and river closures, rescues, deaths, missing hikers, and the devastating flooding affecting Nepal and Tibet. We discuss what makes flooding in mountainous terrain so dangerous and take a look at some incredible footage of the destruction.We also tackle one of the eternal backpacking questions: how much should you actually pay a shuttle driver? We discuss mileage, gas, vehicle wear and tear, remote roads, and why a backpacking shuttle can cost significantly more than you might expect.Finally, we have another update on the ongoing neighbor/pit bull situation before wrapping up Season 7 and looking ahead to a brand-new Season 8.🥾 Whether you're into backpacking, hiking, camping, trail adventures, outdoor news, Appalachian Trail stories, or just enjoy hanging out with fellow hikers, there's something here for you.Thanks for watching and supporting the show!0:00 Season 7 Finale Begins1:14 Season 8 Is Coming!1:49 Photo & Guest Submissions2:50 Backpacking Pick of the Week4:12 Heat Wave & Dad Mode7:43 The 2026 YouTuber Backpacking Meetup10:04 Camping, Food & Cherret Creek Lodge12:18 Getting to the Campsite13:10 Cherret Creek Lodge & Backpacking Memories16:15 Big South Fork Hiking Plans18:35 The Hike & Chigger Disaster25:21 The Savage Gulf Tree-Cutting Case29:16 91-Year-Old Completes the Appalachian Trail32:34 Grand Canyon Flood Update35:57 Catastrophic Flooding in Nepal & Tibet39:40 Watching the Flood Footage42:21 How Much Should You Pay a Backpacking Shuttle?45:05 What Backpackers Smell Like 😂49:59 The Neighbor & Pit Bull Update52:09 Season 7 Comes to an End#Backpacking #Hiking #Camping #AppalachianTrail #OutdoorAdventure #BigSouthFork

In this episode, John Kelley and Jeremiah Stringer explore a wide range of topics from AI and social media controversies to outdoor adventures and environmental policies. They share personal stories, current events, and practical advice, making it a must-listen for outdoor enthusiasts and curious minds alike.

Outdoor Vitals Tern Merino Wool Hoodie & Tee: https://alnk.to/bEmXZ6e

In this episode, we sit down with retired park ranger Kristy Slaven to hear some of the strangest, funniest, and most unbelievable experiences from her time working in and around the great outdoors.

From bizarre encounters with people in the wilderness to mysterious situations and stories that sound almost too strange to be true, Kristy shares what life was really like as a park ranger. If you've ever wondered what park rangers actually deal with, what can happen in the woods, or what kinds of strange people and situations they encounter, you're going to enjoy this conversation.

In this episode:

🏞️ What life is really like as a park ranger

🌲 Strange encounters in the wilderness

😳 The story of the naked man

❓ The mystery surrounding a missing nun

🚨 Unusual situations park rangers have to handle

🥾 Life, work, and adventure in the outdoors

😂 Funny, bizarre, and unforgettable stories from the field

What is the strangest thing you've ever experienced in a park or out in the wilderness? Let us know in the comments!

00:00 - A Naked Man & a Missing Nun

01:35 - Meet Retired Park Ranger Kristi Slaven

05:10 - What Does a Park Ranger Actually Do?

10:02 - Life Working in the Parks

15:18 - The People You Meet in the Wilderness

20:36 - The Naked Man Story

27:42 - Strange Things Park Rangers Deal With

33:48 - The Missing Nun Mystery

41:10 - Unforgettable Stories From the Job

47:35 - What It's Really Like Working Outdoors

53:20 - The Funniest & Craziest Moments

58:05 - Final Thoughts

👍 If you enjoyed this conversation, hit LIKE

💬 Share your craziest outdoor story in the comments

🔔 SUBSCRIBE for more conversations, stories, and fascinating guests!

#ParkRanger #ParkRangerStories #MissingPerson #WildernessStories #OutdoorStories

What if the thing you thought was just a legend actually changed the way you look at the wilderness?In this episode, we dive deep into Bigfoot, strange encounters, backpacking, camping, the wilderness, and the unsettling stories that make you question what might really be out there. What starts as a conversation about Bigfoot quickly becomes a fascinating look at the experiences, evidence, and questions surrounding one of the most famous mysteries in the world.Joining the conversation is Michael Kirkpatrick (MK Ultra) as we talk about Bigfoot sightings, unexplained encounters, what people have experienced in the woods, and why the subject continues to fascinate—and frighten—so many people.Whether you're a Bigfoot believer, skeptic, backpacker, hunter, outdoorsman, paranormal enthusiast, or simply curious about unexplained phenomena, there's plenty here to make you think.⚠️ After this conversation, you might never look at a dark trail or campsite the same way again.Michael's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4UBmF8IUlXjKXBvIL10Sgg

Tushar Rain Jacket from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/3U5xxk6

John Kelley and Jeremiah Stringer go live for a wide-ranging backpacking hangout packed with trail talk, gear opinions, and chat-driven detours. They compare trusted weather sources, weigh the changing role of satellite messaging, and put new gear through a round of “Backpack or Send It Back”—including Yeti’s active packs, a high-powered Petzl headlamp, and HydroPak’s updated filter cap.The conversation also covers Garmin subscription changes, favorite trail meals, fast-food fries and chicken sandwiches, plus a preview of what’s ahead for the Backpacking Podcast’s upcoming season refresh.

In this episode, Jeremiah Stringer and JK discuss bear activity updates along the Appalachian Trail, creative and humorous bear deterrent ideas, and share personal stories about neighbors, HOA regulations, and hiking injuries. They also send heartfelt prayers to Danny Warnock after his son's passing.

Let's Hit The Trail YT https://www.youtube.com/@JustinAndAnna

key topics

Trail partnership secrets: communication and honesty

Wildlife encounters: bears, sheep, and more

Trail mishaps: poops, gear, and surprises

Long-distance hiking: PCT, Wonderland Trail, Santa Fe to Taos

Trail gear and camping setups for comfort and safety

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Justin and his trail adventures

01:58 Justin's recent hikes: Santa Fe to Taos and PCT

03:56 Secrets to successful trail partnerships

05:58 The story of losing each other on the trail

07:53 Wildlife encounters: bears, sheep, and deer

12:14 Trail mishaps: poop stories and gear mishaps

16:02 Sharing gear and sleeping setups

20:03 Trail conditions and best times to hike

24:11 Dealing with cold, drafts, and gear choices

28:04 Trail food, water treatment, and safety tips

32:07 Reflections on solo vs. partner hiking

35:54 The beauty of wilderness and wildlife experiences

39:56 Humorous trail stories and lessons learned

43:54 Justin’s online presence and future plans

Barking dogs, fire bans, and snoring campers.....oh my! JK and Jeremiah discuss the things that can derail the vibe of any backpacking trip .

They just hiked 10 miles in 10 days in 10 states!!! And we get the lowdown on all of it. Welcome Rugged Mountain Dad, Sister and Mister to the show, otherwise known as DMS Adventures.Be sure to give to St. Jude on behalf of DMS Adventures: https://tiltify.com/@dmsadventures2020/backpacking-10-10-10-challenge?origin=dashboard

Coach's Website: https://www.marionoutdoors.com/

Coach's Social Media: @MarionOutdoors

Join us as we chat with Coach Livingston from Marion Outdoors about his journey from theater to outdoor outfitter, the importance of community in hiking, and practical tips like using a backpacking bidet. Discover how passion, family, and a love for the outdoors come together in this inspiring episode.

Jeremiah and JK talk all things foot care. Blister control, Plantar fasciitis, and issues with Achilles tendons. If it's dealing with your feet, we'll be talking about it in this episode.

Jeremiah shares his most recent hammock camping experience on his wife's first night in a hammock. Of course, things go off the rails, and we even share some hammock camping tips.

Check out the Stormloft Topquilt from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/cm1DdTd

Founder's Sale by Outdoor Vitals (Early-Bird List): https://bit.ly/4v2qWkY

Jeremiah and John sit down with Ben McMillen, owner of Hilltop Packs, to talk about the world of cottage gear, building a backpacking business, and what sets small outdoor brands apart from the big manufacturers. Ben shares the story behind Hilltop Packs, the importance of customer connection, company culture, American-made gear, tariffs, product innovation, and the surprising item that became one of Hilltop's biggest sellers.

Whether you're a gear nerd, small business supporter, or backpacker looking for insight into the outdoor industry, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most recognizable cottage brands in backpacking.

#Backpacking #HilltopPacks #CottageGear #BackpackingPodcast #HikingGear #ThruHiking #OutdoorIndustry

It's all about number 2 and how it affects our time in the outdoors. We're discussing "would you rather" scenarios and revealing personal moments on trail.Check out the Outdoor Vitals StormLoft Down TopQuilt: https://alnk.to/aARYkpC

What is the best tent, backpack, sleeping bag, and more on this episode of the Backpacking Podcast.If you want to check out two of our favorite backpacks, go over to Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/aARVPc7

700 Acres of land are being used to build an AI data center, only 1/3 of a mile from the Appalachian Trail. What will this do to scenic views, pollution, and noise on trail? Was the ATC even contacted about it?Check out our friends at Outdoor Vitals and their Carbon EVO 50 Backpack: https://alnk.to/8PIgYvd

Do you have to be a person of privilege to thru-hike? Should we be worried about beaver attacks? This and more on today's episode.

Check out this great gear from Outdoor Vitals:Pursuit Hybrid Fleece: https://alnk.to/gKUn7dSVentus Hoodie: https://alnk.to/31vgBB4Carbon EVO 50 Backpack: https://alnk.to/8PIgYvd

Is the Forest Service really spraying Round Up in our forests? Is the Garmin InReach Mini 3 worth the money you'd spend on it? How likely are you to be attacked by a grizzly bear in Yellowstone? All this and more in this episode of the Backpacking Podcast.Get signed up for the Live Ultralight Membership at Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/fSkxDxLGive us your thoughts on this article: https://www.backpacker.com/stories/essays/opinion/thru-hiking-demands-sacrifice-but-it-still-favors-privilege/

In this episode, we have the honor of spending an hour with a true treasure in the backpacking world, Jessica Mills, AKA "Dixie". We'll be talking about everything from her new podcast to the challenges of Backpacking as a new mom.Looking for a new backpack? Check out the new Showdowlight Carbon 60 from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/cHQRrZL

Wildfires in KY? Should horses have doggy bags for on trail? Hut to Hut Backpacking. Is this really a thing? All this and we find out who has the most rock and roll knowledge in this episode of the Backpacking Podcast.Get your hands on the Pursuit Hybrid Fleece over at Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/cHQOQG7

What happened on Jeremiah's Top Secret Vacation? Is the US Forest Service being dismantled, and what happened to the Trek correspondent who died on the PCT? All this and more on the Backpacking Podcast.The Satu Adventure Pants are on an insane sale right now! Check them out over at Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/8PI6JGr

Jeremiah daydreams about singing on The Voice. Are "surprise" vacations a GOOD thing? What are the most poisonous snakes in the world? All of this and more on an unexpected livestream episode of the podcast.Check out Outdoor Vitals' most recent piece of gear, the Cirq Tent: https://alnk.to/3nkuzzm

All things must come to an end, and that includes this podcast. What does the future hold for the BPP and its hosts, John Kelley and Jeremiah Stringer?Check out the Cirq Tent: https://alnk.to/3nkuzzm

Today, some of your favorite backpacking gear is going to court.....TRAIL COURT! What gear comes out better on the other side, and what fails to live up to the hype? Find out on today's livestream. Cirq Tent Deep Dive with OV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuWEYDjQneACheck out the Cirq Tent: https://alnk.to/3nkuzzmSign up for the OV 100 Mile Challenge: https://alnk.to/5joN1Jm

You send in the questions, and we answer them....probably in the worst way possible. In this episode, we open ourselves up to answer questions sent in by BPP fans, and the results are hilarious. Cirq Tent Deep Dive with OV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuWEYDjQneACheck out the Cirq Tent: https://alnk.to/eDUX0X4Sign up for the OV 100 Mile Challenge: https://alnk.to/5joN1Jm

Jeremiah gives a trip report, and we discuss silly things that ultralighters do.Check out Outdoor Vitals and the new Carbon EVO 50 Backpack: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

In this episode, Jeremiah and JK break down controversial stories from the backcountry. Did a mountain climber from Austria leave his girlfriend in the woods to die? Should the government have the right to break laws to secure the border and damage our wild spaces?Check out Outdoor Vitals and the new Carbon EVO 50 Backpack: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQWANT TO HAVE YOUR VOICE HEARD ABOUT THE WALL IN BIG BEND?No Big Bend Border Wall: https://nobigbendborderwall.com/Texas State Congress: https://capitol.texas.gov/Home.aspxGovernor Abbott: https://gov.texas.gov/apps/contact-us/opinion

How do you deal with having to cut a trip short when nature calls? What does the "Hiker Diet" look like? Which backcountry all-star would you want to sit next to on a flight? These questions and more are answered in this episode of the Backpacking Podcast presented by Outdoor Vitals.Check out the Zulu Jacket and the Carbon EVO 50 Backpack over at Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

In this week's livestream, we are excited to chat with Steven Martin. Steven is a Geologist III with the Kentucky Geological Survey specializing in field-based research, mapping, and the documentation of natural arches. He leads efforts to inventory over 2,000 natural rock openings across the state and created a trail guide to showcase Kentucky’s geological heritage in a project called, "Natural Arches of Kentucky."Check out Natural Arches of Kentucky: https://kgs.uky.edu/arches/Go to Outdoor Vitals and grab a Zulu Down Jacket: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

How do you stay warm when it's icy cold? We're talking about how we keep toasty when the temps dip.Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and get your hands on a new Zulu down jacket: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

How do you sleep warm in different situations? Is it better to eat the cost of a hotel, or should you just sleep in the back of your vehicle? Companies are now sponsoring thru-hikes of the major long trails. How can you get sponsored? And do we really live on stolen land?Head over to Outdoor Vitals and join the OV 100 Mile Challenge: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

This episode is all about what to do when you're snowed in. Don't expect a ton of backpacking content here. You will, however, laugh and probably shake your head in confusion over the things that JK and Jeremiah say.Head over to Outdoor Vitals and join the OV 100 Mile Challenge: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

Help us welcome Kevin Estela, a bushcraft and survival expert, who is an avid world traveler and martial arts instructor, to the podcast. Kevin has worked with the History Channel and been a featured guest on numerous broadcasts and podcasts. Want to really challenge yourself? Head over to Outdoor Vitals and join the OV 100 Mile Challenge! https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

Nature comes with one terrifying reality...predators. How should a backpacker protect their food, their camp, and themselves? How should we handle animal attacks properly? We'll also chat about being more responsible when parenting comes into play on our backpacking plans.Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and get your hands on some great gear: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

Is the mullet an acceptable haircut? Should you trust the people on YouTube with your gear purchases? How safe is it to backpack at night in the rain? All of these questions and more are answered on this episode of the Backpacking Podcast.

Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and get your hands on some great gear: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

Join us as we celebrate 300 episodes of the Backpacking Podcast. We're talking everything from our favorite guests to our New Years Resolutions. Check out Outdoor Vitals and all the incredible gear they're making: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

If you could have any backpacking gift for Christmas, what would it be? What would you turn your nose up to? We're talking all things Christmas, winter backpacking, and new years backpacking resolutions.Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

Rates for international guests in our National Parks are rising. Students are getting punished with......hiking? Has the Arizona Trail lost access to its southern terminus? We've some serious hot button topics on this episode of the podcast.Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and get those last minute Christmas Gifts: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

Jamie McCracken joins the podcast today and shares stories of his adventures all over the US, marathon training, and his lesser-known hobby of gardening. Check out Jamie on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@JamieMcCrackenBe sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and their massive sale going on now!: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

What happens when Jeremiah decides to bring a burrito back to camp with him? What could the outcome possibly be? Let's just say there are explosive results!

Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and their massive sale going on now!: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

In this episode, Jeremiah and JK want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. We're talking Black Friday shopping! What are some great gifts that you can get your favorite backpacker.....or maybe just yourself? Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and their massive sale going on now!: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

In this episode, we're discussing products that physically help backpackers hike easier. We're also discussing the updates to AllTrails that have hikers pulling their hair out.Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and their Black Friday Sale: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

JK and Jeremiah go live with a Q&A Session. If we could have any gear, what would it be? What hobbies do we have outside of backpacking? These questions and more are answered in this episode.Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and their Black Friday Sale: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

Are large charges fair in National Parks? Should unprepared hikers have to pay for their own search and rescue? Hot takes incoming....Holiday Sale Incoming https://outdoorvitals.com/pages/holiday-deals-2025$50 off NovaPro Jacket https://outdoorvitals.com/products/novapro-jacket