After thru-hiking the Triple Crown trails, guiding hikers of varying experience levels, and watching countless clients try to sort out what to bring, I’ve learned that most people don’t need more stuff. They need less stuff which is light, dependable, and tuned to the conditions they’ll actually face.

Here’s what I’d bring if I were starting from scratch, and what I recommend to anyone trying to build a lightweight backpacking gear setup.

The post The Best Lightweight Backpacking Gear According to a Thru Hiker appeared first on Wildland Trekking.

Temporary vs. Permanent Repairs

When you’re in the backcountry, making temporary outdoor gear repairs is often your only option. Quick fixes like duct tape, zip ties, or dental floss can keep you going until you reach a resupply point or town. Once you’re home, it’s time to apply more permanent solutions like sewing reinforcements, using long-term adhesives, or replacing broken parts. Having both short-term and permanent repair strategies is key to keeping your outdoor gear in top shape!

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Outdoors, climbers must take full responsibility for every aspect of their being, from assessing rock quality to building secure anchors. Transitioning to outdoor rock climbing requires more than just strength; it demands knowledge, preparation, and an understanding of risk management techniques in a sometimes unpredictable environment.

The post A Beginner’s Guide to Outdoor Rock Climbing appeared first on Wildland Trekking.

There’s nothing worse than watching an incredible day on trail turn into a painful slog because of blisters, but the good news is that they’re entirely avoidable. With the right preparation and habits, you can keep your feet happy and blister-free. And if a blister does start to form, knowing how to treat it can mean the difference between increasing the pain or aiding your body in the healing process. 

Why Do Blisters Form?

In order to prevent blisters it is important to think like a blister and understand why and how they form. Blisters form as a protective response to friction, heat, or moisture that damages the skin. When the skin is rubbed repeatedly against a surface, it can cause the outer layer to become irritated. The body responds by sending fluid to the affected area, causing a small pocket of fluid to form between the outer skin layer (epidermis) and the deeper layers (dermis). This helps cushion and protect the damaged tissue underneath.

Blisters often form on areas of the skin that are exposed to repeated friction. Moisture, such as from sweat, can exacerbate this friction, increasing the likelihood of blisters. The blister prevention and treatment methods in the article explain how we can better assist our bodies in either stopping blisters from forming or aiding in healing blisters. 

Choosing the Right Footwear

The foundation of blister prevention is choosing the right hiking footwear. If your footwear doesn’t fit properly, you and your feet will suffer. Before you buy, check out this guide on how to choose hiking boots. Make sure your footwear has enough room for your toes to move but not so much space that your feet slide around. Breaking in boots before hitting the trail is crucial – wear them on short hikes, around town, and as your daily drivers to soften the material and mold them to your feet. Stiff, unworn boots can create pressure points and cause blisters early in a hike.

Personally, I’ve found that trail runners are a much better option than traditional hiking boots for long distances. They are lightweight, breathable, and require little to no break-in period. The increased airflow also keeps feet dry, reducing the moisture buildup that contributes to blisters. If you’re hiking thousands of miles or just prefer a more comfortable, flexible shoe, trail runners might be the way to go.

Socks are just as important. Avoid cotton, which traps moisture and increases friction. Instead, go for moisture-wicking materials like merino wool or synthetic blends. I always use a two-layer sock system: a thin liner sock under a thicker hiking sock to reduce friction. Using toe socks as liner socks has been a key blister prevention strategy for me, without them I will get blisters between my toes, with them I do not. 

Gaiters are another piece of gear I won’t hike without. They keep dirt, sand, and small rocks out of my shoes, which means fewer friction points and blisters. Even tiny bits of debris inside your footwear can create hot spots that turn into painful blisters by the end of the day.

Wildland Gear Guide

KnoW Your Feet

After thousands of miles on trail, I know exactly where my feet tend to blister – between my toes, and I prevent blisters there by wearing a liner toe sock. If you know your weak spots, be proactive. You can also pre-tape these areas with Leukotape or moleskin for extra protection. Leukotape is the most superior product I have ever discovered when it comes to a dressing that will not come up until you want it off. 

Trimming toenails before a hike is also crucial. Long nails can press against the front of your shoe, causing discomfort and even black toenails (which, trust me, is worse than a blister). Keeping your feet dry is another big one—whenever I stop for a break, I take my socks and shoes off to let my feet air out. This is especially important in wetter climates and will aid in preventing trench foot. 

One of the best natural defenses against blisters? Calluses. Over time, your feet will build up thickened areas of skin in high-friction spots, acting as a protective barrier. I never shave them off completely, but I do keep them smooth with a pumice stone to prevent cracking, which can cause other problems down the road. 

Recognizing and Addressing Hot Spots

A hot spot is an early warning sign of a developing blister. It presents as a slight irritation or burning sensation, often caused by friction in a specific area of the foot. Addressing hot spots immediately is a key step in effective blister prevention.

To manage a hot spot:

• Cover the affected area with Leukotape or a blister prevention patch to reduce friction.
• If those materials are unavailable, a piece of duct tape can serve as a temporary solution but should be taken off as soon as possible. 
• Adjust socks and shoes to minimize continued rubbing.
• Take a break and allow feet to breathe if the situation permits.

Ignoring a hot spot increases the risk of blister formation. A few minutes of proactive care can prevent significant discomfort later on.

Treating a Blister on the Trail

Even with the best blister prevention strategies, sometimes blisters still happen. How they are treated depends on the situation.

If the Blister is Intact:

• If it is small and not causing pain, it is best to leave it alone.
• Covering it with Leukotape or a blister pad after cleaning will help protect it from further friction.
• On a multi-day hike, reinforcing it with tape for the remainder of the hike can prevent bursting.

If the Blister is Large or Painful:

• Clean the area with an antiseptic wipe.
• Using a sterilized needle (can be done with a lighter) or safety pin, puncture the side and drain the fluid, but leave the skin intact to protect the raw area underneath.
• Apply antibiotic ointment and cover with a bandage, gauze, or blister pad.
• Secure everything with tape to keep it in place.

If the Blister is Infected:

• Signs of infection include redness, warmth, pus, or increasing pain.
• Keep it clean, apply antibiotic ointment, and change dressings frequently.
• If symptoms worsen, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Building A Med Kit for Blister Treatment

An ideal blister treatment kit would contain:

• Leukotape – and it is useful for more than blisters. 
• Antiseptic wipes or alcohol pads
• Antibiotic ointment
• Safety pin or needle (sterilized when draining blisters)
• Small scissors (to trim tape or bandages)
• Gauze 
• Extra pair of dry socks

This kit can be made quite light, and many of the items will be able to serve multiple purposes. 

 Best Guided Beginner Backpacking Trips

Prevention is the Best Cure

Blister prevention isn’t just about comfort—it’s about keeping yourself moving. Whether it’s choosing the right footwear, managing moisture, or catching hot spots early, the little things make a big difference. But if a blister does form, knowing how to treat it will keep you hiking instead of hobbling.

After thousands of miles, I’ve learned to respect my feet. They’re what carry me through every adventure, and taking care of them means I get to keep hiking. If you do the same, you’ll set yourself up for success, whether it’s a weekend backpacking trip or a multi month-long outing.

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1. Choose the Right Campground

Picking the right campground is the first step to a successful camping trip. Consider factors like:

• Location: Are you looking for a remote escape or a campsite with easy access to hiking trails, lakes, or nearby attractions?
• Amenities: Some campgrounds offer more than just a place to pitch your tent, including showers, picnic tables, fire pits and even Wi-Fi. Make sure the amenities align with your needs.
• Reservations: Many popular campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. Book early to secure your spot.

2. Prepare Your Gear Wisely

While campgrounds tend to have more amenities than backcountry sites, you’ll still need to bring your own gear. Here are a few camping tips for what you’ll want to pack:

• Tent and Shelter: Even in campgrounds with pavilions, a sturdy tent can provide comfort and privacy. Be sure to bring a weather-appropriate tent with proper ventilation. Tarps or sun shades can also offer protection from heat and inclement weather.
• Sleeping Gear: Invest in a high-quality sleeping bag suited to the weather conditions, and a comfortable sleeping pad or air mattress for a good night’s rest.
• Cooking Supplies: If your campground allows campfires, bring fire-starting materials and a portable grill. Otherwise, a two-burner camp stove, fuel, and cooking utensils will make preparing meals much easier.
• Lighting: Pack a reliable flashlight, headlamp, or lantern for evening activities and navigation after dark.
  
  Pro camping tips: Hanging string lights around your kitchen and dining areas creates a festive atmosphere and saves your headlamp batteries for nighttime adventures.

3. Pack for Comfort

Even though campgrounds offer some comforts, it’s important to bring a few items that will make your stay more enjoyable:

• Camp Chairs: After a long day of outdoor activities, there’s nothing better than sitting back and relaxing in a comfortable camp chair or hammock.
• Bug Protection: Depending on the season and location, mosquitoes and other bugs can be a nuisance. Bring insect repellent, a bug net for sleeping, or a mesh-walled shelter to keep the swarms at bay.
• Clothing Layers: Weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers that you can easily add or remove as needed. Don’t forget a waterproof jacket if rain is expected.
  
  Pro camping tips: Always pack a pair of warm and cozy “Sacred Socks” that are used solely for your sleeping bag and tent time.

Read: What to Bring Camping

4. Respect the Campground Rules

Every campground has its own set of rules to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience. These might include guidelines on noise levels, campfire restrictions, or where pets are allowed. Some camping tips for being a respectful camper include:

• Quiet Hours: Be mindful of other campers, especially during designated quiet hours. Keep noise to a minimum, especially when setting up camp or at night.
• Campfire Safety: Follow campground regulations for campfires. Keep fires small and contained, and always fully extinguish them when you’re done. Be mindful not to start fires during high winds.
• Leave No Trace: Brush up on those LNT Principles: Always clean up after yourself. Pack out all trash, and leave your campsite better than you found it.

5. Make Use of the Campground Facilities

Many campgrounds offer a variety of amenities that can enhance your camping experience. Take advantage of them:

• Showers and Restrooms: Use these facilities to stay fresh and comfortable throughout your trip. A shower after a long day of hiking can be just the refresh you need.
• Picnic Areas: If you don’t want to prepare meals at your campsite, check if there are picnic tables or grills available for public use.
  
  Pro camping tips: Wow your friends by cooking a sunset dinner at a scenic overlook with picnic tables. Sharing highlights from the trip over a camp-cooked meal can be a memorable experience!
• Hiking and Recreation: Many campgrounds are located near trails, lakes, or rivers. Explore the surrounding area, and take advantage of on-site activities like fishing, kayaking, or wildlife watching. Apps like Outbound and AllTrails can help you find memorable places to adventure.

6. Savor the Moment

Camping can be a relaxing way to disconnect from screens. When it comes to creating a fulfilling experience, it’s important to enjoy downtime. We are often living in the moment we used to look forward to.  Try out a few of these camping tips for enjoying your downtime:

• Books or Journals: Escape into a good book or spend some time writing in a journal. Sketching or writing postcards can be a fun way to share your adventures with family and friends.
• Board Games or Cards: If you’re camping with others, games are a great way to bring everyone together and build connections during the evening.
• Music and Instruments: If you play an instrument, bring it along for a campfire jam session. Just remember to keep it at a respectful volume so as not to disturb other campers.

7. Stay Safe and Be Prepared

Safety should always be your top priority when camping. Here are a few tips to ensure you stay safe:

• First-Aid Kit: Always have a well-stocked first-aid kit on hand for minor injuries, blisters, or emergencies.
• Fire Safety: Always follow fire safety rules, and keep a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby when using a campfire.
• Wildlife Awareness: Familiarize yourself with the local wildlife in the area and the food storage regulations. Keep a safe distance from any animals you encounter and remember– this is their home!
• Emergency Plan: Know the nearest hospital or ranger station in case of an emergency. Have a map or GPS device on hand to navigate the area, and leave your itinerary with someone at home.
  
  Pro camping tips: Offline navigation apps like Maps.me and Gaia GPS can be extremely helpful in a pinch!

8. Make New Friends

One of the best parts of campground camping is the chance to meet other outdoor enthusiasts. Don’t be afraid to say hello and share tips, stories, or even meals with your fellow campers. 

Pro camping tips: Many National Parks offer ranger programs, which are a great way to learn about the area while meeting other travelers!

9. Treat Yourself

The best camping hack for longevity is practicing self-care. Whether that’s packing in an eye mask and a comfy pillow, stretching during down time, or tuning into that go-to feel good playlist– having a “pocket reset” goes a long way in keeping morale high.

10. Go with a Guide 

Signing up for a commercially guided basecamp trip could save time and money in planning the next adventure. Wildland Trekking offers camping trips in National Parks across the US in ideal locations. Booking one of these trips saves money on gas and supplies, while also saving energy to execute adventure-filled itineraries. 

Pro Camping Tips: Wildland Trekking’s experienced guides not only pack all camping and cooking gear– they also cook tasty meals catered to your specific dietary needs. 

Shop guided basecamp tours

Closing Thoughts

Campground-based trips provide the perfect mix of nature and comfort. By following these camping tips, you can ensure that your experience is memorable, enjoyable, and stress-free. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows by the fire or hiking local trails, there’s nothing quite like spending time in the great outdoors. 

So pack up your gear, grab your loved ones, and embark on your next campground adventure. We’ll see you out there!

The post How to Camp Like a Pro appeared first on Wildland Trekking.

A question I often get is, how much should my backpack weigh? It’s a simple question and the answer is – it depends on the circumstances. There is not a magical right or wrong number. Whether you’re heading out on your first weekend trip or a six month odyssey, backpack weight shapes the whole experience. It influences how far you go, how well you sleep, what hurts by the end of the day, and, maybe most importantly, how much you enjoy the walk.

Guided Beginner BACKPACKing Trips

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Fear that discomfort and difficulty will accompany cold and inclement weather often keeps hikers inside for the winter. But this does not have to be the case! In order to stay safe and maximize your enjoyment, it’s important to arm yourself with the knowledge of how to stay warm outside on the trail and in your tent. Here are some pro tips and guidelines I like to consider when planning my own cold-weather adventures! 

The post How to stay warm outside in all weather appeared first on Wildland Trekking.

Consider the Environment 

The advice for clothing I give below specifically works for the dry heat of desert environments like those frequently found in the Southwest US. I want you to imagine the inner Grand Canyon, the Mojave desert, and some of the National Parks in Utah. Knowing the environment, weather patterns and season that you are packing for is incredibly important. The layers you bring for hiking in the Everglades in the Fall will differ drastically from what you bring for a trip to Zion National Park in the heat of the summer. 

Summer in the desert Southwest (depending where you are) typically sees highs in the 90’s-100’s by day,with temps dropping drastically thirty to forty degrees after sunset. Afternoon monsoons are also common in the late summer. There is typically a large amount of sun exposure with little shade or water.

Cotton Shirt

Cotton is light-weight, breathable,moisture absorbing, and once wet, stays wet for longer. While these latter qualities render cotton a poor choice in cool or humid environments, the same attributes become a selling point in the dry heat. When soaked, a long-sleeved cotton shirt can act as a cooling system to keep you cooler for longer than a water-wicking or synthetic shirt.

It will also hold your sweat, assisting your body to perform its biological self-cooling more efficiently. Instead of a tight-fitting top, opt for a looser fit so you have more space to sweat. A long sleeve is advantageous to keep the direct sun off your skin which can lead to sunburns or sun rashes. Many of these sunshirts even have a hood to protect your ears! 

Light-weight Pants 

Dressing the bottom portion of your body should follow similar principles as the top; light-weight, light-colored, and loose. One technique to cut down on packing is to buy hiking pants that zip off at the knee to create shorts! I personally prefer wearing long hiking pants made of a material like nylon to keep the sun off my legs and protect me from the hostile plants of the desert. 

I can dunk myself completely in the river and my pants will have the same evaporative cooling properties I described above. Many other desert dwellers prefer athletic or hiking shorts, and that can be a perfectly viable option as well. Even though jeans are technically cotton, they are not good summer hiking clothes! On trail jeans are too restrictive and notorious for chafing.

 Grand canyon Summer Rim to Rim

Hats 

A hat is an essential item to add to your arsenal of summer hiking clothes. Wearing a hat prevents you from sunburning your scalp and helps shade your face from sun exposure. Some hats even have ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) properties.

When choosing a sun hat the majority of skin-cancer experts will tell you to pick a wide-brimmed hat with a flap covering the back of your neck. Since this is the look my dad has (and I think his style is a little nerdy) I opt for a baseball cap. I prefer the cap because it doesn’t get in the way of my backpacking pack and I feel like I can look around better. I combine the baseball with a hooded sunshirt to provide back of the neck protection. 

Socks

Not all materials are made equal when it comes to choosing the right socks for the desert. While having a wet shirt can be advantageous, having perpetually damp cotton socks can be very uncomfortable. Most desert hikers recommend using wool or synthetic blend socks because they are better at managing moisture. Wool can absorb much more moisture than other materials before it actually starts to feel wet, and that keeps your feet cool and dry. Merino wool is a great option because the structure actually repels moisture and regulates the temperature of your feet. Wool socks are a must to add to your go-to summer hiking clothes. 

Shoes

While choosing the right summer hiking clothes is obviously important in the heat, deciding on the ideal summer shoe can also make a surprisingly big difference. I typically prefer a light-weight hiking sneaker over heavy boots in the summer season. Boots can be great for colder weather, trail running or rock climbing approach shoes can be more breathable and dry out quicker. Some popular brands for light-weight hiking shoes are Merrel, Altra, Salomon, and La Sportiva. Make sure the sole of the shoe has good traction for steep, gravely canyon hikes.

Water Shoes

Many summer hikes involve walking through or across creeks and rivers to arrive at a picturesque watering hole. For these hikes, you might consider wearing a hiking sandal or water shoe instead of typical hiking shoes. If your feet are going to be wet for most of the hike anyways, a water sandal can help prevent getting blisters and avoid having a shoe fill up with sand or water. 

Try to find a sandal with a heel strap for more stability and a sole with lots of tread so you don’t slip on the river rocks. Some of my favorite brands are Chacos and Tevas. If you are on a multi-day backpacking trip, these may also be a great choice of “camp show” for wearing around camp to air your feet out.

Sunglasses 

Eye protection is crucial out in the desert as well as on the water, or for sunny high altitude snow crossings. Did you know the whites of your eyes can actually get sunburnt from the sun? Sun glasses can prevent this and additionally protect your eyes from windblown sand, or tree branches smacking you along the hike. 

One factor to take into consideration when picking out sunglasses is if they have polarized lenses. Polarized lenses are more effective in reducing the glare from the sun and also offer UV protection. Adding a solid pair of sunglasses can enhance your summer hiking clothes set up and allow you to take in the beauty around you without all the squinting.

Other Useful Items:

In addition to dressing for success with my summer hiking clothes and lightweight footwear, I also pack a backpack with at least the following few items in the summer to stay cool and safe: 

• 3-5 liters of water – Consider a hydration bladder in combination with at least one hard sided water bottle) 
• Extra layers- Many people are surprised to find out that the temperature in the desert can swing drastically. When the sun goes down, it’s important to put on those warm layers.
• Salty snacks and electrolytes 
• First aid kit
• Optional: Sun gloves, sunbrella, or spray bottle

Read: What to pack for a day hike 

Conclusion 

Hiking in canyon country can be a wonderful adventure, and choosing the optimal summer hiking clothes can make it even better. Although this might seem like a lot of expensive gear, many of these items can be found second-hand and worn for many years. If acquiring this gear keeps you safe in the heat, it’s worth putting the time and energy into finding it. Now, get out and explore the beauty of the Southwest!

The post What to Wear Hiking in the Summer appeared first on Wildland Trekking.

The sound of camping.

It’s not a specific bird’s first chirp at dawn or the crescendo of a tent zipper, or a distant outboard peeling back the blanket of fog that hovered over the lake, hunting for muskie.

What I remember most is the sound of a stove, the mechanical, repetitive clank of a green, model #413F Coleman two-burner camp stove being primed to life. It’s unmistakable red supply tank a call sign.

My mother would light it each morning, first for coffee brewed in a blue enamel percolator, and then eggs burnt at the edges in cast iron. A lit cigarette would teeter on the edge of the checkered picnic table that became the equipment catch-all of our camp kitchen. Paper towels. Collectible McDonald’s cups with Muppets on them, saved from drive up to use at home. The half-smoked Salem would threaten to release its lengthening ash into the damp dawn grass with each metallic clank of the pump.

If I wasn’t afraid and my brothers would approve, I’d sleep in the big canvas tent my parents would erect next to the camper at our annual site, 100 yards above a remote lake in eastern Ontario, Canada. The aptly named Moosehaven Lodge. 

The camper, too, was decorated with the Coleman brand, but it sported a 1970’s yellow-beige. It had hand crank slide-outs and musty, brown paisley cushions that I can still smell. 

I recently found the 1960s-era stove on eBay. An original one will cost about $100, and I’m thinking of adding it to my camping gear list to gauge its heartiness alongside a host of its modernized two-burner offspring from companies like Camp Chef, GSI, and Snow Peak. I wonder if they can compete. That Coleman-issue camp green holds in its hue so much camping history, as traditional to the pastime as granola bar crumbs and the stench of slow-burning mosquito-repellent coils. 

Maybe those early morning memories are at the root of my propensity to dig deep into the makeup of outdoor gear, and as a freelance journalist, to often cover it. Companies send me a lot of their stuff to test, and I’ve given away a store worth of down jackets, stoves, backpacks and headlamps over the years. 

There’s a lot of stuff out there to choose from, and my social media algorithms aren’t helping. “Guys, everything you know about camping is wrong!”

To sort through it all, I created a product that helped frontcountry families and backcountry travelers never leave an item behind, it was a lightweight tarp printed with an exhaustive camping gear list compiled from years working as an outdoor professional. It sold well, but I’m more of an idea guy than a business executive, so the company shuttered a few years ago.

Nevertheless, I still use the few tarp samples I have laying around to plan my own trips as a guide, both when leading backpacking trips for Wildland Trekking, as well as for our guided basecamps and inn-based adventures. 

Read: What to Pack for a Day hike

The post What to bring camping appeared first on Wildland Trekking.

In addition to this day’s hiking pack list, hiker’s should leave detailed plans with someone they trust who is not going on the hike. This detailed plan should include the intended route, the potential back-up or alternate route options, contingency plans, entrance and exit times. Having all of this information will aid search and rescue crews if the hiker(s) are not back by the planned times. It is crucial to check back in with this point of contact post hike so that they do not contact the authorities unnecessarily.

History

The concept of the 10 essentials for a day hiking packing list originated in the 1930s with The Mountaineers, a Seattle-based outdoor organization. The Mountaineers published a list of essential items that hikers should carry with them to ensure their safety and preparedness while exploring the wilderness. Over the years, the list has evolved and been refined based on advancements in outdoor gear and technology.

The original list of essentials included items such as a map, compass, sunglasses, extra clothing, headlamp, first aid kit, fire starter, matches, knife, and extra food. These items were deemed essential for hikers to have in case of emergencies or unexpected situations while out on the trails.

As outdoor recreation became more popular and accessible to a wider audience, the concept of the 10 essentials gained traction and became widely adopted by outdoor enthusiasts and organizations around the world. The list serves as a guideline for hikers to ensure they are adequately prepared for any situation that may arise while hiking in the Wilderness.

Today, the 10 essentials for day hiking continue to be a fundamental part of outdoor education and safety practices, emphasizing the importance of being prepared and self-sufficient while enjoying the great outdoors.

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