Problems out on the trail range from minor annoyances to major issues. And some are more likely to be solved than others. Derek and Carl tackle problems shared by fellow adventurers in this episode and try to come up with realistic and reasonable solutions. Carl also shares some of his own minor problems and challenges Derek to come up with solutions. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does Deet actually do to a mosquito? Is it possible to get mold inside your sleeping pad? Can marmots break your car? These questions and much more are addressed on a episode filled with strange but true facts related to everything in the backcountry. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Derek and Carl have researched worst case scenarios related to the trail. They challenge each other with how to properly handle them. How would each fare if presented with these unfortunate opportunities? And is it okay to use parachute cord for stitches? GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Depending upon what you're looking for, how long you plan to go, or the region you're in, there are obviously a lot of options. Derek and Carl attempt to hit a variety of categories from "Most Consistently Dramatic Scenery" to "Most Dangerous" regarding trail options. This is far from a comprehensive list, but it's a start. Also, Derek continues to express his fear of mosquitoes and seems to think there is a place in the mountains where they exist year round. Are there winter mosquitoes at high elevations? GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is not an episode listing all of the items you have on your gear list. Derek and Carl each examine a gear list that pops up in top search results and then tears them apart. Is four layers for your upper body too many for a summer trip? Is a camera an essential item? And what is the best way to set up your own gear list? The guys give some strategies that may be helpful for both beginners and experts.  GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What backpacking questions are too uncomfortable to ask? Derek and Carl each bring a few to the table and discuss both the questions and the answers. Will this solve some of your backcountry problems? Maybe not. But it might make you more comfortable in some of the decisions you've made and the number of pairs of underwear you bring. Also, is butt sweat embarrassing? And if so, is there a solution? GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Carl thinks there's an issue with every type of filter and every brand of filter. But...after trying a bunch of them he has a solution that should work for everyone. The problems and the solution is revealed on this episode. Also, is Derek willing to own up to terrible camp chore etiquette from years ago? And does he really know the difference between filters and purifiers? You be the judge. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Which gear is most likely to break on you out in the field? Derek and Carl each have their list of items to watch out for and "solutions" if the gear does break. Also, there are ways we might use gear inappropriately that will be the root cause of the breakage. So, what should you stop doing? Derek also challenges Carl on his ability (or lack thereof) to push the power button for an item that was brought up. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should notorious snorers bring earplugs for everyone? Is there a passive aggressive way to get people to go to bed at a reasonable hour? How much of a pass to you give the tired hiker who is simply unable to contribute to any camp chores? All these questions and more are addressed to help make camp life the best it can be. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oatmeal, energy bars, and trail mix are the most common items on a hiker's daytime menu. It's time to mix it up! Derek and Carl suggest some other breakfast items and snacks that you may or may not have considered. Also, what are some of the best energy bars out there? And is Snickers an energy bar?  GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is not your typical list of hypothermia, getting lost, and broken bones. This list involves common tasks, scenarios and decisions trail users encounter. Are they all potentially deadly? You be the judge. Also, Derek is feeling free with his stories during this episode and shares an experience that involved a relatively benign object that almost killed him. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Season 3 has begun! This episode explores using gear in creative ways and learning how to handle gear more efficiently to make for more successful trail days. How do you fill that darn filter bag with the small hole? Are there light weight hygiene options? Should you be aware when others are taking care of their business? These questions and much more will be addressed. Also, is there Giardia dirt? GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Famous Youtuber Dan Becker joins the show to share some of his insights on lightening one's load...without spending much (or any) money. He also outlines the merits of the Aquaclip. Was Carl using this simple device incorrectly? Also, what is the best defensive weapon when you encounter a potentially scary hiker? GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For all of their experience, Derek and Carl still manage to make significant blunders on backpacking trips. This episode answers questions like...when are pants better than shorts, how to find the worst shuttle service, what really is an electrolyte, is it okay to sleep in until 9:30, how did both Derek and Carl manage to have significant pieces of gear go missing, and more! Also, is Olympic worth a visit? GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sometimes we fall into bad habits and don't even realize it. This episode examines inefficiencies that occur due to lack of awareness, affordability, or downright laziness. Carl suggests a cheap way to save pack ounces but Derek isn't buying it (literally and figuratively). Also, how do you know where to go on a first trip or to a new place? And what embarrassing mistakes has Carl made in the past? GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Derek and Carl wrap up Season 2 reflecting on takeaways big and small. The Most Ridiculous Backpacker of All Time vote has concluded and the winner is announced (much to Carl's displeasure). Carl shares a blister story that he's been hanging onto for two seasons. And both guys throw out a video challenge for each other for the upcoming trip. Might this inspire others to create their own trip video challenge? We hope so. Thanks to everyone for becoming part of the Backpacking and Blisters community! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is an episode about embracing the challenge. Do you ever try to stretch yourself to your physical limits? Is there a high probability of disaster potential? "The Death Hike" is an event that Carl is attempting this July with a couple of guys from his backpacking crew -- Jared and Rocky. This episode discusses the details surrounding this Fastest Known Time (FKT) attempt. This includes training, gear, general strategy and putting this event together. Will telling somebody that they won't succeed actually motivate them to succeed? Does drinking fast food salsa a great nutritional trail strategy? And is jumping into a pool with your clothes on a great way to train? These are just a taste of the topics that pop up. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many of us have brought items into the backcountry that are regrettable. But some do this intentionally. Derek and Carl share the nominations for the Most Ridiculous Backpacker of All Time Award. Carl discusses his trip report from Capitol Reef NP -- highlights, challenges and, of course, fails. Carl has poked fun at Derek for making a silly mistake last summer. But did he make the same blunder? You be the judge. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Where did trail names come from and how does one get one? Derek and Carl explore the idea of trail names and then really dig into the results of a quiz they put out a few weeks back by plugging them into a newly designed "generator" to give a few folks some of the strangest names you've ever heard. Also, Carl shares some surprising (in a bad way) backpacking news about an upcoming trip. Does Derek have a good solution? GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are the big trips your way to get your fitness on? Or do you train to dominate the trail? And which one will make for the better wilderness experience? Carl has made fun of Derek's lack of fitness over the last couple of years so Derek has upped his game. But is he simply spinning his wheels or making significant increases in his fitness goals? These are a lot of questions that this episode will answer. Thankfully we have Rowan Smith, an Australian expert trainer who specializes in fitness for hikers, backpackers, trekkers, etc. Check him out at Summit Strength. He will give you a taste of some of the best ways to increase your strength and stay injury free on the trail. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's a fine line between foolish decisions and straight up adventure. When should we play it safe and when should we just go for it. No equation has all the answers but Derek and Carl weigh in on a few scenarios. Also, what's in your first aid kit (if you have one). Purchased kits range from a few ounces to multiple pounds. Derek and Carl each share items they feel are essential and items most people can ditch. One of Derek's items causes some major confusion for Carl. Will you think what Carl is thinking or will you track with Derek the whole time? GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Green Beret, Ultimate Survival Alaska Star, Dual Survivalist and now, Ursack representative, Grady Powell joins the show to give a different perspective concerning proper food storage. He also shares his experience of throwing salmon at a Kodiak bear to stop it from chasing him. Derek and Carl follow up with their takeaways from the interview including What would it take to get an Ursack away from a bear? and How would a bear logically decided between attacking a canister or a bag? GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No doubt many of these celebrities know their stuff, but are some of them giving straight up bad advice? Derek and Carl weigh in on a couple of these types of situations. Also, how do you respond to falling through the ice on a pond, or being cliffed out during cross country travel, or having to descend a steep Mesa after a helicopter drop-off (one of Derek's ideas)? And finally, is backtracking the best solution to many of our survival dilemmas? GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trip planning can be an art form. And it isn't for everybody. But is it for Derek? Carl challenges Derek to plan a specific trip for a group of people traveling to a popular area. Will he remember all of the key details for success? And if so, would Carl actually entrust him to plan a future trip? Also, how would Derek handle some specific examples of trip saboteurs? These questions and more will be answered. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Derek and Carl react to the information regarding bear canisters provided by Ranger Rick Sanger. They break down his arguments and provide "research" of their own to address a potential new course of action. Listener Todd also shares an mp3 that further challenges them to follow the rules. Will they humbly begin to carry the appropriate amount of bear canisters? Also, is there a way to take advantage of aggressive bears in camp by putting them to work making ice cream?  GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Over the course of the first two seasons Carl and Derek (mainly Carl) have challenged some wilderness regulations--especially related to bears. This episode features a discussion with Ranger Rick Sanger that addresses all of these challenges. As a backcountry ranger, Rick Sanger was a key part of the search and rescue efforts for a lost colleague in Eric Blehm's book The Last Season. Does Mr. Sanger have a response to all of the B&B bear canister rhetoric? (Basically, can he shut down Carl's arguments for alternative solutions?) That, and some crazy bear stories, will be discussed in this episode. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How come America does not have rites of passage for men and women? And is it really all that important? Derek and Carl explore the journey from adolescence to manhood and why it matters. They each describe how a wilderness experience can play a critical role in this transition and, specifically, how they would set it up. Derek also wrestles with idea that becoming a man doesn't mean you can't have fun anymore. And Carl shares how a Snipe Hunt produces the exact opposite result. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The desert is an oft overlooked wilderness area. But it's a place of real beauty and it can extend your backpacking season if you prefer warm weather. Derek suggests three reasons why you should consider heading to the desert this spring. Carl notes three things to consider when planning your trip as well as a few warnings. Dessert is also discussed in this confusingly named episode. And...Derek creates his own trail named based upon a Disney princess. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can penny water keep bugs away? Can sheet metal screws help with traction? In this episode, Derek and Carl are joined by guest host, Steve, as they cover some interesting ground with more backpacking tips and tricks. In addition, they each share some really good and really questionable trail pranks. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode could also easily be called "Don't Be That Guy/Gal." Pulling from experiences (some of them personal), Derek and Carl identify a handful of trail characters and behaviors that simply violate trail social norms or downright annoy adjacent hikers. Also, Carl challenges Derek on his trail etiquette knowledge. Among the questions: is it okay to intentionally scare somebody who has music blasting through their earbuds? GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trail legend Buzz Burrell joins Derek and Carl in this episode to discuss a growing movement based upon the Fastest Known Time website. Do average (or even below average) hikers have the opportunity to set trail records? What is the best GPS device to record our outdoor experiences? What happens when somebody pulls a gun on you when you're out on the trail? Buzz answers all of these questions and evaluates Carl's planned attempt at an FKT for later this year.  GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While the real Darwin Awards involve poking fun at others' misfortunate deaths, the Backpacking and Blisters version pokes fun at others' misfortunate decisions (mostly). Derek and Carl share their own ability to earn this version of Darwin Awards as well as an assortment of experiences others have shared. Is there something to be learned from these ridiculous mistakes or are experienced wilderness travelers beyond reproach in this area? You be the judge. Derek also works in a motorcycle story that he believes relates to this topic. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While philosophers and social experts ponder the chicken or the egg, nature vs. nurture, or where have all the Sasquatch gone, Derek and Carl come up with a list of backpacking related questions that are simply hard to answer. And both attempt to provide wise and reasonable answers for these questions. Derek also adds three terms to the English language. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Derek and Carl debate the merits of various electronics in the backcountry. Are they more likely to save your life or become a stronger leash to the "real world"? Derek also suggests how silly putty can be used in a variety of ways to "improve" one's trip. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who is the man with the trail name "Plug It In"? This episode is devoted to a powerful story from Benny Braden. He holds trail speed records. He has been featured on television. He is a major part of Chris Smead's upcoming documentary Highline. And he has overcome quite a bit to become the man, husband, and father he is today. He also might value his gear more than his life as he shares a story that we'll call "Bacon's Almost Revenge".  GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why don't more people venture out in the winter? Derek and Carl try to come up with solutions to get you out there in cold season. Carl even tries to convince Derek to get out there more often with solutions to common concerns about going when it's below freezing. Derek, on the other hand, considers the R value of grocery bags and pocketed cell phones. If you'd like to submit an audio file for us to potentially include on a future episode, either message us on our Facebook page (below) or email it to: [email protected] GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is it possible to make an episode about sleep...interesting? Derek and Carl take a crack at it. Why is it so hard for campers to get good sleep in the backcountry? While some legitimate suggestions are thrown out such as sleep patterns and environmental factors, somehow Derek manages to work in ideas involving styrofoam and wrapping one's head in cellophane. Also, a new Backpacking and Blisters contest is introduced. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is the establishment of a sort of 'user agreement' for a group backpacking trip really necessary? Are we establishing ground rules or simply trying to micromanage our friends and family? Derek and Carl each suggest 3 agreements you should consider when planning a group trip in order to make it the best possible experience. Have they gone too far? You be the judge. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With all of the required skills to head out into the backcountry, how do you measure up? Carl and Derek have developed a fool-proof system (that might be completely subjective) to measure one's skill levels. Some essential (and non-essential) wilderness competencies are discussed with this strict evaluation system that enables one to earn the grownup merit badge. Also, Todd's challenge for Carl is now formalized via an mp3. Will Carl respond to the challenge? GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Derek and Carl are definitely not gear reviewers. However, there have been multiple requests to discuss the gear they use. Favorites, least favorites, and the most unreliable piece(s) of gear are intertwined into this conversation. Also, there are a lot of gear myths out there. Which are real and which are just a bunch of hogwash? Can you really trust the temperature rating on a sleeping bag? If you break in your shoes/boots, does that guarantee that you won't get any blisters? These, and others, are discussed. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are the freeze dried food companies price gouging backpackers? Or is it simply okay to call it a splurge if you pay $8 for mac and cheese? Derek and Carl address these questions along with providing food-related tips (not recipes) that just might be helpful. Carl also references a phone call he made to Mountain House Foods where he brings up a few issues with a customer service representative.  GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 Some companies spend thousands of dollars to learn about their employees' personalities. Derek and Carl have an easier, cheaper way to determine what kind of person you are (specifically, your trail character). Narrowing it to just 8 questions, Carl designed a test that highlights the best and worst of our trail personalities. And...it's probably just as accurate as the rest of the personality tests out there.  GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most of us go out into the wild to get away from it all, reset, gain perspective, etc. However, when we bring or encounter other people, inevitably there is going to be some drama. Derek and Carl have had fun creating scenarios in various episodes, but this one explores legitmate situations that either Derek or Carl (or both) have actually experienced over the years -- sometimes more than once. What are the best ways to handle these situations? Derek gives it a crack. How were these situations handled in the moment? Not always what you'd expect. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You can spend hundreds of dollars to shave a weigh pounds from your pack OR you can listen to this episode and shave weight for free! Who carries the trash, how to reduce your food load, how to avoid bringing redundant items, and more are discussed in this weight saving episode. Also, we include our first audio file listener question...and it's a good one! GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've been listening to the podcast long enough then you know that Derek brings up 'going to the bathroom in the woods' all too frequently. In this episode we embrace the topic. While Carl tries to make it relevant to trail life with tips and tricks, Derek is more interested in one's general digestive health. Derek also brings up some of his other favorite topics like backcountry games and off-trail hiking. Also discussed are video saboteurs, leave no trace guidelines for peeing, and what happens if a Moose approaches you when you're going #2. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you know your trail lingo? There is a lot of verbage out there that is unique to the hiking community. Some are more common thru-hiker conversations, some if you're simply an experienced backpacker, and some...frankly, Derek and Carl had never heard of. Who comes up with these terms? Derek and Carl try to create a couple of their own. In this episode you can score yourself at the "Trail Lingo Test" to see how you measure up. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Season 2!!! In the season opener, Derek and Carl recap some things learned and relearned from their July trip. How important are group dynamics to backpacking? Is it ever too early to pack? Why is there always somebody who tries to compromise the plan? Does Derek know how to dry out his shoes and socks with a campfire? How many blisters did Carl get from wearing cotton socks through multiple rain storms? What happens when a ranger catches you carrying too few bear canisters? All these questions (and more) are addressed in one way or another. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the final "between-the-seasons" episode Derek and Carl are joined by Tayson Whittaker from Outdoor Vitals. The main topics on the table include ultralight vs. comfort, ultralight vs. cost, down vs. synthetic, and...Luke Skywalker's real ability to survive a night with dead Tauntaun insulation. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos, and priority invites to B&B "events!" It's a safe and secure way to support your favorite content providers. https://www.patreon.com/backpackingandblisters To react publicly or privately to any of our episodes post/message on our Instagram and Facebook pages. @backpackingandblisterspodcast https://www.facebook.com/backpackingandblisters or email: [email protected] Backpacking Gear Best Backpacking Gear Backpacking Trip Planning Hiking Gear Best Hiking Gear Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices