Advice
Why You Should Take the Ultralight Plunge Right From the Start
Once you have committed to a thru-hike, or even just to backpacking as a hobby, it can be daunting to dive into the world of backpacking gear. There are blogs,...
Understanding R-Value and the Updated Testing Standards
When you select a sleep system for a camping trip, what factors do you consider? Probably the degree rating of the bag, the anticipated weather / temperature, and maybe some...
Chaunce’s Cold Weather Clothing for the AT
My latest video gives you a rundown of how I plan to stay warm and fight off the cold weather in my early months on the AT. If you classify...
Dan’s Top 5 Pieces of Gear for a PCT Thru-Hike
In this video, Dan shares his top 5 favorite pieces of gear that he carried with him on his SOBO PCT thru hike. His list is comprised of no-fuss, no-frills,...
Whimsical Woman’s Pacific Crest Trail Gear List
Are you just beginning your PCT thru-hike gear essentials research? Are you putting finishing touches on your carefully cultivated set of gear? Maybe you're a gear junkie who just likes...
The Top Gear on the Appalachian Trail: Results from the 2018 AT Thru-Hiker Survey
We recently wrapped up our survey series on the top gear choices for Appalachian Trail thru-hikers. Our survey included information not only on the top packs, tents, footwear, and cookware...
The Nitty-Gritty of Gear Evolution on a Thru-Hike
About this time last year, I had just committed to my AT thru-hike, which meant that I was in the early research stages. Having never backpacked with less than 30-40...
How to Choose Your Sleeping Bag and Pad for the Pacific Crest Trail
The major four categories of backpacking gear (aka the Big Three) are your sleep system, shelter, and backpack. These items often take up 65-80% of the weight in a traditional...
A Beginner’s Guide to Day Hiking Gear
Regardless of whether you're a day hiker or a thru-hiker, finding the right gear is imperative to a successful, and fun hike. Over the past three years hiking solo I've...
Top Backpacks on the Appalachian Trail: 2018 Thru-Hiker Survey
In this installment of The Trek’s 2018 Hiker Survey, we cover backpacks and base weight. We asked hikers about the frame type, capacity, brand, and model of their backpacks. In...
