Adventures Don’t Always Go as Planned

Take the Faroe Islands, for example. The scenery was jaw-dropping, sheer cliffs plunging into the North Atlantic, winding ridgelines, and trails that seemed to disappear into the clouds. But those same stunning landscapes can also be treacherous. High winds, slick rocks, and remote locations mean that a simple misstep could turn into a serious situation.

In Costa Rica, the challenge was different. Between rainforest hikes, river crossings, and waterfall rappels, we were constantly surrounded by wild, unpredictable terrain. A slip on wet ground or a sudden illness far from medical facilities can escalate quickly.

Even in North Dakota, where I was hiking across open prairie, the remoteness surprised me. It doesn’t take a mountain range to feel isolated, when you’re miles from the nearest road with unpredictable weather rolling in, you realize how vulnerable you can be. When I was hiking on sections of the Maah Daah Hey Trail, I noticed that certain times of year the trail may be impassible due to snow, ice, high water and mud.

Why Group Travel Insurance Matters

No matter how prepared you are, travel involves risk. Group Travel Insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind if something goes wrong. It can cover things like:

• Emergency medical evacuation from remote areas
• Hospitalization and medical expenses abroad
• Accidental death or dismemberment benefits
• Transportation back home for further care
• Support for family members if needed

For adventurers like me, this isn’t just about being cautious, it’s about being responsible. Whether I’m filming for Epic Trails or exploring off-camera, I want to focus on the experience, not worry about “what ifs.”

Emergency Evacuation Insurance: A Key Layer of Protection

A solid Travel Accident Insurance plan often works hand-in-hand with Emergency Evacuation Insurance. If you’re injured somewhere far from adequate medical care, evacuation coverage is what gets you to the hospital, whether that means helicopter rescue, specialized ground transport, or even a medical flight home. Be sure to look for Emergency Evacuation Insurance if you a looking to purchase Group Travel Insurance to remote areas.

Redpoint Travel Protection is a sponsor of BackpackingTV. And we couldn't be happier about it because whether we're exploring the backcountry or traveling the world, reliable insurance is a must. 

Redpoint offers three tiers of coverage, but our audience will want to take a good look at the Ripcord package. It applies to “remote destinations with limited communications or medical facilities.” In other words, backpacking adventure

The post Group Travel Insurance for the Adventure Tourist appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Catch all the Arkansa trails from the beginning—read Exploring the Ozarks of Arkansas.

Starting in Jasper, Arkansas: Food and Views

The adventure began in Jasper, a small town with a big personality. At the Ozark Café, I tackled the infamous Excalibur Burger. They take two patties stacked with all the fixings and sandwich them between grilled cheese buns. It was equal parts delicious and overwhelming, the kind of fuel you need before hitting the trails.

Just minutes outside of Jasper lies Round Top Mountain. This easy trail is perfect for families and rewards hikers with panoramic views of the town and the surrounding Ozarks. Not every Arkansas hiking experience has to be extreme—sometimes a short hike with a stunning overlook is exactly what you need.

Horseshoe Canyon Ranch: Climbing, Ziplines, and Adventure

For a more adrenaline-filled outing, Horseshoe Canyon Ranch is the place to be. Known as an outdoor adventure hub in the Ozarks, it offers rock climbing, via ferrata routes, mountain biking, and one of the tallest and fastest ziplines in Arkansas.

The Via Ferrata at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch (a guided climbing route using cables and rungs) was a highlight. Safe yet exhilarating, it’s a great way to experience vertical terrain without needing advanced climbing skills. Crossing suspended bridges and scaling the rock face, I felt the perfect mix of challenge and excitement. The finale—flying through the fall canopy on a zipline—was an unforgettable Arkansas hiking and adventure experience.

Rock Climbing in the Arkansas Ozark Mountains

The North 40 section of Horseshoe Canyon Ranch is home to some of the state’s most iconic climbing routes, with over 500 established climbs. Climbing here felt like solving a puzzle, each move a combination of strength, focus, and balance. For anyone looking to expand their Arkansas hiking trip into new activities, climbing in the Ozarks is both accessible and rewarding.

Fly Fishing on the White River in Arkansas

To balance out the action, I spent a day fly fishing on the White River, one of the premier angling destinations in the U.S. With a patient guide, I learned the rhythm of casting, the thrill of hooking a trout, and the joy of catching a fish that would later be prepared fresh at Gaston’s White River Resort. The calm waters and quiet beauty made this a peaceful counterpoint to the high-energy hiking and climbing of the Ozarks.

Why Arkansas Feels Like a Hiking Playground

What struck me most about this trip is how diverse Arkansas hiking and outdoor activities can be. In one week, I experienced everything from casual family trails to technical climbs, ziplines, and fishing. Locals describe the Ozarks as a playground, and after hiking, climbing, and fishing my way through Jasper and beyond, I couldn’t agree more.

Arkansas hiking isn’t just about the trails—it’s about the variety of experiences that make every day an adventure. If you’re looking for a destination where you can eat well, hike through stunning scenery, and try something new, the Ozarks are waiting.

The post Arkansas Hiking: Exploring Jasper, the Ozarks, and Beyond appeared first on Hazeadventure.

We hiked sections of the West Highland Way. We explored castles, navigated winding single-track roads, and soaked in the vast expanse of the Highlands. It was everything we’d hoped for… and a few things we didn’t expect.

Those unexpected moments are exactly why I never travel without family travel insurance. For me, the choice is Redpoint Travel Protection. I’ve learned that good travel insurance isn’t just a safety net—it’s peace of mind.

Traveling with Family Adds New Considerations

When I travel solo, I accept a certain amount of risk. I’ve been caught in storms, missed connections, and dealt with the occasional injury in the backcountry. But when you’re traveling with a parent, or kids, for that matter, things can be a little different because it isn't all about you anymore.

Being miles away from cities and towns further complicates the already complicated process of getting medical attention in a foreign country. Honestly, it's complicated enough in my own country of the USA but I digress.

Having that peace of mind goes a long way in making sure that potential problems and logistics are better covered, which is why travel insurance can be so nice.

That’s where family travel insurance makes all the difference. With Redpoint Travel Protection, I know that emergency medical evacuation and support are covered, no matter how far off the beaten path we are.

Delays and Cancellations Happen

Anyone who’s traveled internationally knows that getting there is half the adventure—and sometimes, half the headache. Delays happen, flights can be easily missed, and all sorts of shenanigans can result from the snowballing effect of everyday inconveniences.

Having family travel insurance can help take the sting out of that situation. Redpoint Travel Protection can cover the unexpected costs of rebooking transportation and accommodations. So, instead of stressing over the logistics, you can grab a pint and laugh it off. And believe me, there are quite a few pints to be found in Scotland.

Travel disruptions are a fact of life, but they don’t have to derail your trip—or your budget.

Covering Gear and Personal Items

As a filmmaker and outdoor enthusiast, I travel with a lot of gear. I bring cameras, hiking equipment, and occasionally some specialized backcountry kits. Losing any of that would be more than an inconvenience.

Family travel insurance with gear protection means that if luggage goes missing or equipment gets damaged, I’m not left footing the entire bill. Thankfully, on this Scotland trip, everything arrived as planned. It’s nice knowing that if it hadn’t, Redpoint had my back.

The Real Benefit: Peace of Mind

One of the best parts of traveling with family is being able to relax and focus on the experience. For me, that means taking responsibility for making sure we’re covered if something goes sideways.

With Redpoint Travel Protection, I don’t just get coverage—I get comprehensive family travel insurance support. Their team specializes in adventure travel, so they understand the kind of trips I take. Whether it’s a backcountry hike in the Cairngorms or navigating travel delays in Glasgow, I know help is just a phone call away.

Family Travel Insurance Worth It?

Family adventures are some of the most meaningful trips you’ll ever take. They can bring you closer together, create memories that last a lifetime, and remind you why travel is worth every bit of effort. But they also come with unique responsibilities.

Family travel insurance isn’t just a checkbox on a booking form, it’s an essential part of traveling smart. Whether you’re hiking in Scotland with your dad, road-tripping across the States, or heading overseas with your kids, make sure you’re protected.

For me, that’s why I trust Redpoint Travel Protection. Because when I’m out there on the trail with family, I want to focus on the journey—not on what might go wrong.

Redpoint Travel Protection is a sponsor of BackpackingTV. And we couldn't be happier about it because whether we're exploring the backcountry or traveling the world, reliable insurance is a must. 

Redpoint offers three tiers of coverage, but our audience will want to take a good look at the Ripcord package. It applies to “remote destinations with limited communications or medical facilities.” In other words, backpacking adventure.

The post Family Travel Insurance and Travelling Abroad appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Your Pack Should Hold All Your Gear

For a one-night trip in the woods, most backpackers bring the essentials: a tent, sleeping bag, pad, clothing, food, stove, water filter, toiletries, and maybe some extras like a camp stool or a book. A good hiking backpack should handle this load without straining seams or leaving gear dangling off the outside. But as you’ll see, size really matters.

Testing Small Backpacks: 25L and 32L

A 25L hiking backpack, like the Loris 25, is better suited for day hikes than overnights. While you might squeeze in a few essentials, tents and sleeping bags will likely hang off the outside. A 32L pack adds some space but you'll still find that you are running pretty low on storage space. If you’re planning a night out, these smaller packs can feel cramped and impractical.

Getting there: 36L to 47L

At 36L, things start to feel manageable. Everything fits inside, though just barely. Moving up to a 47L hiking backpack gives you breathing room, better organization, and comfort. This size works well for one- to two-night trips and strikes a balance between compactness and capacity, though for me it's still a little on the small side.

Kumo 36 Gossamer Gear

Spacious Options: 60L Hiking Backpacks

For those who like comfort, flexibility, or heavier gear, a 60L hiking backpack shines. You won’t have to stress about cramming items in, and you’ll have extra space for things like camera gear or luxury items. This size easily works for multi-day trips while still being manageable for a single overnight. It’s a favorite for backpackers who want a stress-free packing experience. This is my personal recommendation. You will likely have extra room, but extra room means extra gear, which is always good.

Going Big: 70L and Beyond

A 70L hiking backpack provides maximum room, often used on multi-day expeditions or when carrying group gear. While it’s more than you need for a single night, it’s incredibly versatile if you expect to haul extra comforts. Just remember—more space often means more weight, so only go this big if you’ll truly use the capacity.

Choosing a Hiking Backpack For You!

The best pack depends on your gear, comfort level, and trip length. For most one- to two-night adventures, a 47L–60L pack is the sweet spot, giving you enough room without unnecessary bulk. If you’re just starting out, lean toward a little extra space—you’ll thank yourself when packing feels effortless.

Check out my reviews of Gossamer Gear's Loris 25 and Mariposa 60L backpacks.

The post Hiking Daypack or Overnight Backpack: Pick the Right Size appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Here are some tips, drawn from my real-life travel experiences in places like Scotland and Costa Rica, on how to stay safe and smart when hiking or backpacking abroad.

Travel Accident Insurance

Accidents happen. Whether it's an injury, illness, or an emergency evacuation, having solid travel accident insurance is essential. When we are filming our TV show, Epic Trails, we use a company called Redpoint Travel Protection, which offers tiered travel accident insurance for different types of travellers, from casual tourists to hardcore adventurers who need high risk travel insurance.

• Travel Accident Insurance providers can cover medical evacuations, hospital bills, and trip disruptions for backpacking trips overseas.
• Travel Accident Insurance is a small price for peace of mind, especially if your domestic insurance doesn’t apply overseas.

Food and Water Safety

Your gut biome is familiar with the food and water at home, and even if the local fare is technically safe, it might not sit well with your system. To stay healthy:

• Bring a Water Filter: I recommend products like the HydraPak filter bottle or the classic LifeStraw. Read a past article about water filters and purifiers. These allow you to filter both natural water sources and questionable tap water.
• Carry Emergency Food: Even if you're planning to eat in towns, always pack some dehydrated meals and a small camp stove. Plans change, and local food availability can be unpredictable.

Don’t deny yourself the fun of trying new foods—but you do want to take care of yourself, because nothing’s worse than being sick in the middle of nowhere.

Wilderness First Aid Training

A Wilderness First Aid (WFA) course can be a literal lifesaver. These certifications teach you how to treat injuries, illnesses, and emergencies when you’re far from help.

• Certifications expire Many of the lessons stay with you!
• Wilderness First Aid Training and Courses available by American Red Cross or the one made available by NOLS.
• Create a list of first aid items to pack in a travel first aid kit, get advice from a BackpackingTV video about Backpcking First Aid Kit Basics.

You’ll learn a lot about keeping yourself and others alive and okay in the wilderness.

Money and Communication Preparedness

You can’t get food or water—or much else—without money.

• Carry local currency. Don’t rely solely on your credit or debit card. Machines fail, banks block foreign transactions, and card usage could become unavailable.
• Plan your phone usage. International roaming charges can pile up fast. Check your carrier’s travel plan options, or consider buying a local SIM card for longer trips.
• Don’t forget your adapters! Different countries = different outlets. A universal adapter can save your phone—and your trip.

Navigation and Getting Un-Lost

In many countries, trail systems don’t work like the long, well-marked routes we’re used to in North America. You may find fewer signs, more road crossings, or even confusing town-to-town segments.

• Carry a physical map if one is available. Watch a video about hiking maps vs hiking apps.
• Use GPS apps like AllTrails or OnX. With premium versions, you can download maps for offline use. GPS works even without cell service. Read my review of AllTrails+ vs Strava vs OnX.
• Watch a video guide to the region. For example here is a video guide to Scotland's West Highland Way or check out my video guide to George Washington and Jefferson National Forest.
• Travel Accident Insurance can cover extractions in the mountains or other high risk areas, check out Ripcord by Redpoint Travel Protection.

This can point you in the right direction even if you don’t have service—which is going to be an issue in many, many places.

Visit a Travel Clinic

Before you head out, visit a travel clinic to get up-to-date on necessary vaccines and medications based on your destination.

• Info on local disease outbreaks can be found at Travel Clinics.
• Travel Clinics recommend vaccines like tetanus or flu.
• Malaria Pills or other prescriptions. They may also prescribe pills to prevent diseases like malaria if you're headed to high-risk areas.

Know the Nearest Hospital

This is one of the most overlooked parts of international travel safety:

• Research the nearest hospitals or clinics to your trailhead or destination.
• Save their names, addresses, and phone numbers to your phone and on a physical emergency card in your pack.
• Give the Info to everyone, If you're traveling with others, make sure they also know where to go in an emergency.
• Travel accident insurance policies can cover medical expenses so be sure to check the policy before you travel.

Backpacking and Touring Internationally

International backpacking is an incredible way to experience the world—but it’s not without its risks. With a little preparation, travel accident insurance, the right gear, and the right mindset, you can minimize those risks and focus on what really matters: the adventure!

Even though your certification might run out… some lessons stick with you—and I’m extremely grateful for that.

Redpoint Travel Protection is a sponsor of BackpackingTV. And we couldn't be happier about it because whether we're exploring the backcountry or traveling the world, reliable insurance is a must. 

Redpoint offers three tiers of coverage, but our audience will want to take a good look at the Ripcord package. It applies to “remote destinations with limited communications or medical facilities.” In other words, backpacking adventures!

The post Travel Accident Insurance, Food & Water, First Aid | Tips to Stay Safe Backpacking Internationally! appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Spooky.

Hearing the signature scream of a mountain lion late at night?

Also spooky.

Feeling the hot sun beat down on your neck?

Not spooky. Yet, that very sun is a much greater cause for concern on the trail than any of our four-legged friends might otherwise be. Or rather, it's a greater cause for concern that pretty much anything.

All too often, hikers feel the effects of direct exposure to hot sunlight and choose to carry on, leading to increasing cases of heat exhaustion and heat stroke around the country. Let's take a moment to dive into these concerns, understand the symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion, and learn how to prevent them before they are even an issue.

The Real Danger: Heat-Related Illnesses

You may think that deadly blizzards or flash floods are the most dangerous weather events for those in the outdoors, but according to the World Meteorological Organization, extreme heat has the highest mortality rate of any extreme weather event. Heat-related deaths are often underreported, meaning the actual risk might be even higher than we realize.

Understanding Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

People often confuse heat exhaustion and heat stroke with one another, however there is a significant difference between the two. Heat exhaustion, though extremely dangerous, is only the precursor to heat stroke. Heat exhaustion occurs when your body temperature rises due to environmental heat or physical exertion. Those who spend time exerting themselves outside are especially at risk. Think hikers, distance runners, construction workers, and athletes.

A few things to look out for are skin tingling, nausea and vomiting, dizziness and headaches, irritability and fatigue, and excessive sweating. These can be early warning signs that danger is on it's way!

If heat exhaustion isn’t addressed promptly, it can escalate to heat stroke, a severe condition marked by a body temperature over 104°F. Heat stroke can lead to multiple organ dysfunction, seizures, kidney failure, and even death. Early symptoms include: sudden behavioral changes, confusion and delirium, dizziness, weakness, agitation and combativeness, slurred speech, and nausea.

You can imagine how significant cognitive impairment would be a danger to someone in the wilderness, but this danger is SIGNIFICANTLY compounded by the fact that those affected are operating on the clock!

Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses

Prevention is key when it comes to heat exposure! Here are some tips to help make sure that you don't wind up in a sticky situation.

1. Stay Hydrated: Carry more water than you think you’ll need. Dehydration can set in quickly, and it’s better to have extra water than to run out.
2. Dress Appropriately: Wear a thin, long-sleeve hiking shirt and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from UV rays. It might seem counterintuitive, but covering up can help keep you cooler.
3. Take Breaks: Find shade, rest frequently, and avoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day.
4. Listen to Your Body: If you start feeling dizzy, nauseous, or overly fatigued, stop immediately. These are warning signs that your body is overheating.
5. Know the Symptoms: Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke so you can act quickly if you or someone else starts showing signs.

What to Do if Heat Exhaustion or Heat Stroke Strikes

If you or someone else experiences symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke:

1. Find Shade: Get out of the sun and into a cooler area.
2. Cool Down: Remove unnecessary clothing, apply cool water to the skin, and fan the person.
3. Hydrate: Offer sips of water! You want to hydrate AND cool the person down internally.
4. Seek Medical Help: Seek medical assistance immediately.

Heat-related illnesses can be deadly, but with the right precautions and a quick response, they are preventable. Stay safe out there, respect the power of the sun, and enjoy your hikes responsibly!

Mike Fink

The post Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke while Hiking appeared first on Hazeadventure.

The Great Debate: Hiking Shoes vs Hiking Boots

It's common to see lightweight hiking shoes described as “nimble, but unstable”, while their heavier counterparts fit the role of “supportive, but clunky”, whereas the truth is a little more muddy than you might expect. Shoes and boots tend to do the exact same thing – they protect your feet – and they will do it well if you buy a high quality pair. The difference often comes down to personal preference.

Hiking Shoes: Light and Nimble

Hiking shoes, in my opinion, are the default all-around winners. Very, very rarely have I been in a position where I curse myself for bringing shoes as opposed to boots. Shoes tend to be lighter, more breathable, and more relaxing to wear. People say that shoes are less supportive than boots, but you'll often find that they are much more supportive than your average footwear, with aggressive treads that cling to the terrain.

You'll find that the big drawback of hiking shoes comes when you have to muscle through unfavorable terrain. Muddy, wet, slippery, or jagged conditions will leave you wanting something a little more purpose-built strapped to your feet.

Hiking Boots: Sturdy and Supportive

Hiking boots, on the other hand, tend to be a bit heavier (though often not as much as you'd think), and offer more in the way of protection. Is that protection always necessary? No. Would you be fine wearing shoes in most circumstances? Yup. However, boots have their time and place.

I've been in situations where the stability and protection of a good boot makes me feel like king of the mountain, with ankles of iron and an unfailing grip on the rocks below…. though I've also been in situations where all I wanted to do was lose my beefy boots in favor of something lighter and more breathable.

Making the Choice: It's All About Context

So, how do you decide? If you're new to hiking, I'd suggest investing in a solid pair of boots, and break out your old tennis shoes on the easier trails for the time being. I'd rather have good boots and not need them, than need them and not have them – and I'm sure you'll find that tennis shoes are often good enough!

Choose What Works, Hiking Shoes vs Hiking Boots

Ultimately, the choice between hiking shoes and boots isn't a one-size-fits-all decision. It's about finding what works best for your adventure style, comfort level, and the specific conditions you'll encounter out there. Don't be afraid to try out different options or borrow gear from friends to see what suits you best.

As for me, I've come to appreciate both hiking shoes and boots for their unique strengths. Sometimes its a shoe day, sometimes it's a boot day – and sometimes it's time to rock sandals.

At the end of the day, your goal is to have so much fun that you don't even notice what's strapped to your feet. Read another blog article about the best hiking shoes and hiking boots for 2022.

Until next time, happy trails!

Mike Fink

The post Hiking Shoes vs Hiking Boots: Finding Your Footing appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Understanding the Posterior Chain

First, let's get on the same page. Your posterior chain isn’t just your back; it's everything that connects to it, from your ankles up to your shoulders. Many runners and hikers know that a single weak link in this chain can cause other muscles to compensate, leading to a chain reaction that causes pain and injury. I used to believe my back pain was genetic and unavoidable, but learning about and strengthening my posterior chain helped make me stronger, more durable, and less prone to that nagging back pain.

Why Strengthen the Posterior Chain?

Here's a few exercises you can do at home that will help you target your posterior chain, strengthen your muscles, and identify weak points that may be causing you pain. You can do these exercises with dumbbells, or even just a backpack filled with weight. A strong posterior chain is crucial for pain-free backpacking.

Essential Exercises for Your Posterior Chain

1. Standing Calf Raises

• How to Do It: Stand with one leg on a stair and use your hand for balance. Hold a weight in your hand (or use body weight) and dip your ankle down until you feel a big stretch. Then, rise up to the tip of your toes for another big stretch. Repeat slowly.
• Benefits: Strengthens your calves and improves ankle stability.

2. Goblet Squats

• How to Do It: Hold a weight (or a weighted backpack) if front of you as though it's a medieval goblet. keep your back straight, and your chest out. Slowly lower your body as if sitting into a chair. Feel a big stretch at the bottom, then come up slowly. This works your legs and strengthens your back muscles.
• Benefits: Builds leg strength and stability while engaging your core and back.

3. Lunges

• How to Do It: Step forward with one leg and lower your back knee until it almost touches the ground. Ensure you get a solid stretch in your legs. Use a backpack for added weight if you don't have dumbbells or kettlebells.
• Benefits: Targets your quads and hamstrings, improving balance and leg strength.

4. Good Mornings

• How to Do It: These are tricky. Hold a weight or weighted backpack in front of you. Push your hips back, keep your chest up, and bend forward to stretch your hamstrings. Don't round your back! Go as deep as you can while maintaining a stretch.
• Benefits: Strengthens your hamstrings

5. Dumbbell Bent Over Rows

• How to Do It: Stand with feet close together, knees slightly bent. Push your hips back, keeping your back straight and long. Drive your elbows up, pulling the dumbbells (or weighted backpack) past your hips, focusing on using your back muscles.
• Benefits: Targets the middle back

6. Shoulder Shrugs

• How to Do It: Hold weights or a backpack by the top handle. Shrug your shoulders up towards your ears, getting the biggest range of motion possible.
• Benefits: Strengthens the trapezius muscles connecting your back to your neck, improving shoulder and upper back stability.

The Connection Between Fitness and the Outdoors

Here’s a little philosophy for you. I believe fitness and outdoor activities are inextricably linked. Your ability to climb higher, run farther, and carry more is determined by your fitness level. If you are a hiker, consider the gym as well! The gym is a great way to explore an additional side of nature, which is your own strength! Remember that you are a part of nature too.

Final Thoughts for Pain-Free Backpacking

If you're struggling with back pain, always consult a doctor to rule out serious issues like spinal compression or herniated discs. But if you've been cleared, strengthening your posterior chain can make a world of difference. Don’t dismiss fitness because you’re an outdoor enthusiast, and don’t ignore hiking if you’re a fitness fanatic. Embrace both to experience life to its fullest. Learn more about how to properly fit a backpack for hiking.

Get out there, hike, and be strong!

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The Obvious Essentials

Let’s start with the basics. You’ve got your trail map (because even if you think you know where you’re going, it’s always good to have a backup), your water, and of course, that sweet, sweet GORP.

The Unsung Heroes of My Day Hiking Pack

But we're not here to only discuss the obvious. It’s about those little things that you might not think of but are game-changers on the trail.

1. Toilet Paper (TP)

Nothing ruins a day quite like having to hold it in. The constant focus. The pained grimace. The occasional stomach churn. Those bushes are starting to look pretty good right about now, aren't they? You never know when nature is going to call when you’re out in nature. I keep mine right at the top of my bag for quick access. The more you hike, the more normal this whole process is going to be.

2. Trail Sandals (Teva Sandals)

Next up, my trusty trail sandals. They’re cheap, tough, and perfect for letting my piggies out of the barn when I want to frolic after a tough hike. The stability you get with hiking boots is nice, but sometimes you just need to prance through a field, am I right?

3. Buff Headwear

One of my favorite pieces of headgear is the Buff. It’s flexible, versatile, and can be worn in a bunch of different styles for multiple practical applications. Wear it on your head to soak up sweat, wear it on your neck to prevent sunburn, or pull it over your nose and mouth if you and your buddies feel the urge to rob a train. On hot days, it doubles as a cooling system. Just soak it in some water and wrap it around your neck—nice.

4. The Ultimate Trail Secret: Why a Plastic Bag?

And now, for the pièce de résistance.

It's a regular plastic bag from the grocery store.

pack it in, pack it out, people. Sometimes you forget to bring a trash bag, and now you’ve got a solution that doesn’t stink up your pack. It's so lightweight it can live in your bag for years, so it's always there if you need it! Plus, it’s a great way to pick up other people’s trash left carelessly on the trail. You see it, you bag it, baby.

Conclusion

That’s it for this one— just a quick and easy guide to a few extra goodies that can make your trail days even better. Whether you’re just getting started or are a seasoned hiker, a few items can make a big difference. Read another article about day hiking essentials for beginners.

Happy hiking, and remember to leave no trace. Let’s keep our trails beautiful for everyone to enjoy.

The post Day Hiking Packing Tips appeared first on Hazeadventure.

1. Ensure Your Campsite is Legal

Before you head out, make sure where you’re planning to camp is legal! Just because you're in the wilderness doesn’t mean you can set up shop anywhere. Some parks have designated campsites, while others offer dispersed camping. Dispersed camping allows you to camp anywhere, but there are policies you need to follow that may differ from park to park. If it’s your first time, I recommend doing a day hike to your intended campsite first. Familiarize yourself with the area; it’s much better to know the landscape before you set out on a multi-day trip.

2. Embrace the Call of Nature

Let’s talk about something everyone does but no one likes to discuss: pooping in the woods. It’s going to happen, and there’s no need to be embarrassed. If you’re in a big group, just take the poo kit, find a secluded spot far from water sources and trails, and do your business. Bury it at least six inches deep and mark the spot with a stick. It’s a rite of passage for new backpackers, and once you’ve done it, you’ll feel a strange sense of accomplishment.

3. Leave No Trace

This is a big one. Leave No Trace principles are crucial to preserving the beauty of our trails and ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone. Visit LNT.org to familiarize yourself with the seven principles. They’re pretty straightforward: don’t litter, respect wildlife, and leave what you find. A less obvious tip is to find already impacted areas for your tent to minimize environmental damage. And please, for the love of nature, keep your music to yourself. There’s nothing worse than trying to find peace in the wilderness only to be followed by someone’s portable speaker blasting music.

4. Use a Checklist

Packing for a backpacking trip involves a lot of gear, and it’s easy to forget something essential. A checklist can be a lifesaver. Write down everything you need, from the obvious items like your tent and sleeping bag to smaller necessities like a headlamp and extra batteries. You don’t want to be the person who forgets their tent poles and has to sleep swaddled in a tent in the middle of a rainstorm. Yes, I've done exactly this.

5. Don’t Stress Over Gear

You don’t need the latest and greatest gear to enjoy backpacking. There’s a lot of information out there, and it's easy to get sucked into the mindset of having to compare this gear vs. that gear in a never ending process of gear optimization. You don't have to have all of the latest and greatest equipment to be safe and have a good time. You can get by with beginner gear, borrow from friends, or find deals on sites like eBay. Just make sure to familiarize yourself with the equipment you plan on using!

Backpacking is a fantastic way to connect with nature and challenge yourself. Here are a few more tips, respect the environment, and enjoy the journey. Get out there, be safe, and have an amazing time on the trail. Until next time, happy hiking!

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