The Backpacking Podcast presented by Outdoor Vitals

333 A Naked Man, a Missing Nun & The Park Ranger Who SAW IT ALL w/Kristy Slaven Aug 21, 2026 01:01:43 Outdoor Vitals Tern Merino Wool Hoodie & Tee: https://alnk.to/bEmXZ6eIn this episode, we sit down with retired park ranger Kristy Slaven to hear some of the strangest, funniest, and most unbelievable experiences from her time working in and around the great outdoors.From bizarre encounters with people in the wilderness to mysterious situations and stories that sound almost too strange to be true,

332 I Thought Bigfoot Was a Joke… Until This - w/ MK Ultra (Michael Kirkpatrick) Aug 14, 2026 00:53:44 What if the thing you thought was just a legend actually changed the way you look at the wilderness?In this episode, we dive deep into Bigfoot, strange encounters, backpacking, camping, the wilderness, and the unsettling stories that make you question what might really be out there. What starts as a conversation about Bigfoot quickly becomes a fascinating look at the experiences, evidence, and que

331 Backpack or Send It Back Aug 7, 2026 01:01:12 Tushar Rain Jacket from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/3U5xxk6John Kelley and Jeremiah Stringer go live for a wide-ranging backpacking hangout packed with trail talk, gear opinions, and chat-driven detours. They compare trusted weather sources, weigh the changing role of satellite messaging, and put new gear through a round of “Backpack or Send It Back”—including Yeti’s active packs, a high-power

330 Even This Won't Stop a Bear Jul 31, 2026 00:42:52 In this episode, Jeremiah Stringer and JK discuss bear activity updates along the Appalachian Trail, creative and humorous bear deterrent ideas, and share personal stories about neighbors, HOA regulations, and hiking injuries. They also send heartfelt prayers to Danny Warnock after his son's passing.

329 We Slept In 1 Sleeping Bag Together For 150 Nights w/ Justin C. (Let's Hit The Trail - YouTube) Jul 24, 2026 00:49:32 Let's Hit The Trail YT https://www.youtube.com/@JustinAndAnnakey topicsTrail partnership secrets: communication and honestyWildlife encounters: bears, sheep, and moreTrail mishaps: poops, gear, and surprisesLong-distance hiking: PCT, Wonderland Trail, Santa Fe to TaosTrail gear and camping setups for comfort and safetyChapters00:00 Introduction to Justin and his trail adventures01:58 Justin's rece

328 Ultimate Vibe Killers Of The Outdoors Jul 17, 2026 00:29:23 Barking dogs, fire bans, and snoring campers.....oh my! JK and Jeremiah discuss the things that can derail the vibe of any backpacking trip .

327 They Hiked For Children With Cancer Jul 10, 2026 00:57:43 They just hiked 10 miles in 10 days in 10 states!!! And we get the lowdown on all of it. Welcome Rugged Mountain Dad, Sister and Mister to the show, otherwise known as DMS Adventures.Be sure to give to St. Jude on behalf of DMS Adventures: https://tiltify.com/@dmsadventures2020/backpacking-10-10-10-challenge?origin=dashboard

326 When Nature Calls... But You're Too Late w/ Marion Outdoors Jul 3, 2026 01:00:20 Coach's Website: https://www.marionoutdoors.com/Coach's Social Media: @MarionOutdoorsJoin us as we chat with Coach Livingston from Marion Outdoors about his journey from theater to outdoor outfitter, the importance of community in hiking, and practical tips like using a backpacking bidet. Discover how passion, family, and a love for the outdoors come together in this inspiring episode.

325 Protecting Your Most Important Asset on trail: Your Feet Jun 26, 2026 00:51:13 Jeremiah and JK talk all things foot care. Blister control, Plantar fasciitis, and issues with Achilles tendons. If it's dealing with your feet, we'll be talking about it in this episode.

324 When Hammock Camping Goes Wrong Jun 19, 2026 00:45:35 Jeremiah shares his most recent hammock camping experience on his wife's first night in a hammock. Of course, things go off the rails, and we even share some hammock camping tips.Check out the Stormloft Topquilt from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/cm1DdTd

323 Best Backpacking Gear Is NOT In Stores... w/ Ben McMillen Jun 12, 2026 01:02:58 Founder's Sale by Outdoor Vitals (Early-Bird List): https://bit.ly/4v2qWkYJeremiah and John sit down with Ben McMillen, owner of Hilltop Packs, to talk about the world of cottage gear, building a backpacking business, and what sets small outdoor brands apart from the big manufacturers. Ben shares the story behind Hilltop Packs, the importance of customer connection, company culture, American-m

322 The POOP EPISODE Jun 5, 2026 00:58:58 It's all about number 2 and how it affects our time in the outdoors. We're discussing "would you rather" scenarios and revealing personal moments on trail.Check out the Outdoor Vitals StormLoft Down TopQuilt: https://alnk.to/aARYkpC

321 Best Backpacking Gear of 2026 May 29, 2026 01:09:55 What is the best tent, backpack, sleeping bag, and more on this episode of the Backpacking Podcast.If you want to check out two of our favorite backpacks, go over to Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/aARVPc7

320 Is AI Ruining the Appalachian Trail? May 22, 2026 00:59:20 700 Acres of land are being used to build an AI data center, only 1/3 of a mile from the Appalachian Trail. What will this do to scenic views, pollution, and noise on trail? Was the ATC even contacted about it?Check out our friends at Outdoor Vitals and their Carbon EVO 50 Backpack: https://alnk.to/8PIgYvd

319 Should We Fear BEAVER ATTACKS on Trail? May 15, 2026 00:50:34 Do you have to be a person of privilege to thru-hike? Should we be worried about beaver attacks? This and more on today's episode.Check out this great gear from Outdoor Vitals:Pursuit Hybrid Fleece: https://alnk.to/gKUn7dSVentus Hoodie: https://alnk.to/31vgBB4Carbon EVO 50 Backpack: https://alnk.to/8PIgYvd

318 We're Spraying ROUNDUP in our National Forests? May 8, 2026 01:07:39 Is the Forest Service really spraying Round Up in our forests? Is the Garmin InReach Mini 3 worth the money you'd spend on it? How likely are you to be attacked by a grizzly bear in Yellowstone? All this and more in this episode of the Backpacking Podcast.Get signed up for the Live Ultralight Membership at Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/fSkxDxLGive us your thoughts on this article: https://ww

317 Jessica "Dixie" Mills - Mom-Life and Getting Eaten by Coyotes May 1, 2026 01:01:40 In this episode, we have the honor of spending an hour with a true treasure in the backpacking world, Jessica Mills, AKA "Dixie". We'll be talking about everything from her new podcast to the challenges of Backpacking as a new mom.Looking for a new backpack? Check out the new Showdowlight Carbon 60 from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/cHQRrZL

316 Horse Diapers On Trail? Hut to Hut Backpacking, and Wildfires in KY Apr 24, 2026 00:57:29 Wildfires in KY? Should horses have doggy bags for on trail? Hut to Hut Backpacking. Is this really a thing? All this and we find out who has the most rock and roll knowledge in this episode of the Backpacking Podcast.Get your hands on the Pursuit Hybrid Fleece over at Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/cHQOQG7

315 Has Government Overreach Finally Happened in the Outdoors? Apr 17, 2026 01:05:45 What happened on Jeremiah's Top Secret Vacation? Is the US Forest Service being dismantled, and what happened to the Trek correspondent who died on the PCT? All this and more on the Backpacking Podcast.The Satu Adventure Pants are on an insane sale right now! Check them out over at Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/8PI6JGr

314 Jeremiah's Spirit Animal, Poisonous Snakes, and Mystery Vacations Apr 10, 2026 00:33:08 Jeremiah daydreams about singing on The Voice. Are "surprise" vacations a GOOD thing? What are the most poisonous snakes in the world? All of this and more on an unexpected livestream episode of the podcast.Check out Outdoor Vitals' most recent piece of gear, the Cirq Tent: https://alnk.to/3nkuzzm

313 - Our FINAL Livestream - April 1st Edition Apr 3, 2026 00:58:22 All things must come to an end, and that includes this podcast. What does the future hold for the BPP and its hosts, John Kelley and Jeremiah Stringer?Check out the Cirq Tent: https://alnk.to/3nkuzzm

312 JK Hates Hammocks?!?!?!?!?! Mar 27, 2026 00:55:16 Today, some of your favorite backpacking gear is going to court.....TRAIL COURT! What gear comes out better on the other side, and what fails to live up to the hype? Find out on today's livestream. Cirq Tent Deep Dive with OV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuWEYDjQneACheck out the Cirq Tent: https://alnk.to/3nkuzzmSign up for the OV 100 Mile Challenge: https://alnk.to/5joN1Jm

311 Worst Meals, Cabin Break-ins, and Squeaky Backpacks - a BPP Q&A Mar 20, 2026 01:01:41 You send in the questions, and we answer them....probably in the worst way possible. In this episode, we open ourselves up to answer questions sent in by BPP fans, and the results are hilarious. Cirq Tent Deep Dive with OV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuWEYDjQneACheck out the Cirq Tent: https://alnk.to/eDUX0X4Sign up for the OV 100 Mile Challenge: https://alnk.to/5joN1Jm

310 Camping in THUNDERSTORMS and Silly UL Gear Mar 13, 2026 00:44:36 Jeremiah gives a trip report, and we discuss silly things that ultralighters do.Check out Outdoor Vitals and the new Carbon EVO 50 Backpack: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

309 He Left His Girlfriend in the Woods to DIE!!!! Mar 6, 2026 00:58:16 In this episode, Jeremiah and JK break down controversial stories from the backcountry. Did a mountain climber from Austria leave his girlfriend in the woods to die? Should the government have the right to break laws to secure the border and damage our wild spaces?Check out Outdoor Vitals and the new Carbon EVO 50 Backpack: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQWANT TO HAVE YOUR VOICE HEARD ABOUT THE WALL IN BIG

308 - Surviving the Bubble Guts in the Backcountry Feb 27, 2026 01:04:51 How do you deal with having to cut a trip short when nature calls? What does the "Hiker Diet" look like? Which backcountry all-star would you want to sit next to on a flight? These questions and more are answered in this episode of the Backpacking Podcast presented by Outdoor Vitals.Check out the Zulu Jacket and the Carbon EVO 50 Backpack over at Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

307 Over 2000 Arches to Discover with Steven Martin Feb 20, 2026 00:59:39 In this week's livestream, we are excited to chat with Steven Martin. Steven is a Geologist III with the Kentucky Geological Survey specializing in field-based research, mapping, and the documentation of natural arches. He leads efforts to inventory over 2,000 natural rock openings across the state and created a trail guide to showcase Kentucky’s geological heritage in a project called, "Natural A

306 FISHNET FLEECE? Layer Up For the Cold! Feb 13, 2026 00:57:41 How do you stay warm when it's icy cold? We're talking about how we keep toasty when the temps dip.Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and get your hands on a new Zulu down jacket: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

305 Better Sleep on Trip: Hotel or Back of an SUV? Feb 6, 2026 01:07:35 How do you sleep warm in different situations? Is it better to eat the cost of a hotel, or should you just sleep in the back of your vehicle? Companies are now sponsoring thru-hikes of the major long trails. How can you get sponsored? And do we really live on stolen land?Head over to Outdoor Vitals and join the OV 100 Mile Challenge: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

304 Snowpocalypse 2026 Jan 30, 2026 01:19:28 This episode is all about what to do when you're snowed in. Don't expect a ton of backpacking content here. You will, however, laugh and probably shake your head in confusion over the things that JK and Jeremiah say.Head over to Outdoor Vitals and join the OV 100 Mile Challenge: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

303 Kevin Estela Jan 23, 2026 01:00:40 Help us welcome Kevin Estela, a bushcraft and survival expert, who is an avid world traveler and martial arts instructor, to the podcast. Kevin has worked with the History Channel and been a featured guest on numerous broadcasts and podcasts. Want to really challenge yourself? Head over to Outdoor Vitals and join the OV 100 Mile Challenge! https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

302 Lions and Children and Bears...BACKPACKING!!! Jan 16, 2026 01:04:33 Nature comes with one terrifying reality...predators. How should a backpacker protect their food, their camp, and themselves? How should we handle animal attacks properly? We'll also chat about being more responsible when parenting comes into play on our backpacking plans.Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and get your hands on some great gear: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

301 Backcountry Mullets, Shady YouTubers, and the BPP Hall of Fame! Jan 9, 2026 00:49:26 Is the mullet an acceptable haircut? Should you trust the people on YouTube with your gear purchases? How safe is it to backpack at night in the rain? All of these questions and more are answered on this episode of the Backpacking Podcast.Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and get your hands on some great gear: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

300 - A Triple-Century Mark and Look FORWARD to the FUTURE. Jan 1, 2026 01:07:07 Join us as we celebrate 300 episodes of the Backpacking Podcast. We're talking everything from our favorite guests to our New Years Resolutions. Check out Outdoor Vitals and all the incredible gear they're making: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

299 All I Want For Christmas is....... Dec 24, 2025 01:00:52 If you could have any backpacking gift for Christmas, what would it be? What would you turn your nose up to? We're talking all things Christmas, winter backpacking, and new years backpacking resolutions.Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

298 Do We Have an INTERNATIONAL CRISIS in Our National Parks? Dec 19, 2025 01:09:50 Rates for international guests in our National Parks are rising. Students are getting punished with......hiking? Has the Arizona Trail lost access to its southern terminus? We've some serious hot button topics on this episode of the podcast.Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and get those last minute Christmas Gifts: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

297 Backpacking + Marathons + Gardening = ELITE ATHLETE with Jamie McCracken Dec 12, 2025 01:06:39 Jamie McCracken joins the podcast today and shares stories of his adventures all over the US, marathon training, and his lesser-known hobby of gardening. Check out Jamie on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@JamieMcCrackenBe sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and their massive sale going on now!: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

296 The Painful Reason Why You Don't Eat Burritos on Trail. Dec 5, 2025 00:55:07 What happens when Jeremiah decides to bring a burrito back to camp with him? What could the outcome possibly be? Let's just say there are explosive results!Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and their massive sale going on now!: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

295 Be A BACKPACKING SANTA with These Gear Shopping Lists Nov 28, 2025 00:33:13 In this episode, Jeremiah and JK want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. We're talking Black Friday shopping! What are some great gifts that you can get your favorite backpacker.....or maybe just yourself? Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and their massive sale going on now!: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

294 Bionic Legs, Floating Backpacks, and All Trails Hates Us! Nov 21, 2025 00:42:17 In this episode, we're discussing products that physically help backpackers hike easier. We're also discussing the updates to AllTrails that have hikers pulling their hair out.Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and their Black Friday Sale: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

293 Favorite Gear, Nature's TP, and Free Time Hobbies Nov 14, 2025 01:00:43 JK and Jeremiah go live with a Q&A Session. If we could have any gear, what would it be? What hobbies do we have outside of backpacking? These questions and more are answered in this episode.Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals and their Black Friday Sale: https://alnk.to/bPg5BoQ

292 Backcountry Fines, Expensive Parking, & Braindead Hikers Nov 7, 2025 01:02:45 Are large charges fair in National Parks? Should unprepared hikers have to pay for their own search and rescue? Hot takes incoming....Holiday Sale Incoming https://outdoorvitals.com/pages/holiday-deals-2025$50 off NovaPro Jacket https://outdoorvitals.com/products/novapro-jacket

291 Every Backpacker's WORST NIGHTMARE!!!! Nov 2, 2025 00:46:28 In this episode, Jeremiah and JK discuss the most terrifying Halloween costumes for backpackers from Backpacker Magazine. Holiday Sale Incoming https://outdoorvitals.com/pages/holiday-deals-2025$50 off NovaPro Jacket https://outdoorvitals.com/products/novapro-jacket

290 Lying About Trails, Paying to Park, and LIGHTSABERS!!!! Oct 24, 2025 01:09:01 JK and Jeremiah are finally back together again and ready to hang out with the BPP Nation. We talk about everything from misclassifying the difficulty of trails, the governement shutdown's affect on backpacking, and whether or not it's right to charge people to park in our national parks and forrests.Be the first to know when Outdoor Vitals will be having their Black Friday Sale by go to t

289 Finishing the Trail w/ a BROKEN HIP and hitting the SOS with Bronwyn Preece Oct 17, 2025 01:01:30 Writer and improvisational performance artist BRONWYN PREECE wrote the children's books Gulf Islands Alphabet and the upcoming ‘My Happy Hiking Trails’ and the ‘Canadian Rockies Alphabet’. Her next book of trail tails for adults, hiking beyond, will be released in March 2026. The pioneer of earthBODYment, an eco-somatic approach to exploring connections between mind, body, and earth, she also perf

288 - Inappropriate Things People Say On Trail Oct 11, 2025 00:51:52 Jeremiah is out of town, so JK is bringing in a guest cohost for the week, and that man is none other than Brad Felton of As the Crow Flies Hiking. We talk about inappropriate things people say on trail, falling, while hiking, and a number of other random topics.Check out the brand new Mountain Pursuit Apparel Line from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/2FE95c4

287 Bags of Poop, Stools & Showers: Trail Life Unfiltered Oct 2, 2025 00:59:09 Johnathan and Jeremiah unpack everything in the backcountry from bagging up your poop, surviving a tornado and the great stool/chair debate.Check out the brand new Mountain Pursuit Apparel Line from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/2FE95c4Red River Gorge Meetup 10/10/25 - 10/12/25:1. Easiest, but longest route: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/indian-staircase-via-indian-arch-easiest-19e12da?u

286 Snake Killing, Yellow Jackets, and BSA Rescues a Senior Citizen Sep 26, 2025 00:49:36 In this episode, JK and Jeremiah talk about everything from annoying hornets to unethical hunting practices on trail, and the reality of backpacking alone....even if you're a backpacking veteran. Go check out the new Shadowlight Backpack over at Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/eZJoZ31Red River Gorge Meetup 10/10/25 - 10/12/25:1. Easiest, but longest route: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map

285 $700 Sleeping Bags, New Backpacks, and 4 Day Old Tuna Packets Sep 19, 2025 01:13:45 285 $700 Sleeping Bags, New Backpacks, and 4 Day Old Tuna Packets

284 Psychedelics Are A BAD IDEA In The Backcountry Sep 13, 2025 00:49:59 In this episode, Jeremiah and JK talk about a recent incident that occurred in the Catskill Mountains in New York where psychedelic mushrooms caused a major issue. We also talk about some interesting "would you rather "s and so much more.Check out the brand new Pursuit Apparel Line from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/2FE95c4

283 Conquering the AT w/ Metro On The Move and Kriz Akoni Sep 4, 2025 00:55:32 Today, we’ve got two AT thru-hikers, Kriz Akoni and Metro on the Move. Both recently summited Mt Katahdin and claimed their place in hiking history. We share in the victories, the struggles, and some of the most disgusting things that backpackers never talk about from the trail.Check out the brand new Pursuit Apparel Line from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/2FE95c4

282 Dirty Secrets of the Backcountry Aug 28, 2025 00:47:51 In this episode, Jeremiah shares the dirt on his most recent trip with Mr. Backpacking With Jason Sir. JK shares a list of things that most backpackers know but don't talk about. Check out the brand new Pursuit Apparel Line from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/2FE95c4

281 Blinded by EXPLODING WATER BOTTLES!!! Aug 21, 2025 00:44:27 On this episode, JK and Jeremiah revisit our most recent poll about where everyone prefers to do the "number 2", we discuss Wal-Mart's recall on exploding water bottles, and we decide which drinking water is the best to take on trail.Check out the brand new Pursuit Apparel Line from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/2FE95c4

280 Crocs, and Hippos, and Wolves...Oh My! with Moose Mutlow Aug 14, 2025 01:00:36 Check out the brand new Pursuit Apparel Line from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/2FE95c4Moose Mutlow is a senior trainer and family liaison officer of Yosemite Search & Rescue, one of the world's busiest organizations of its kind…and he’s bringing his years of experience to the Backpacking Podcast. We talk about everything from swimming with crocs in Australia to Navigating thick patches

279 Escaping Wild Fires On Trail With Tim Buckley Aug 7, 2025 01:00:59 He survived wildfires, and now he’s surviving Ben McMillan at Hilltop Packs. Welcome Tim Buckley to the livestream.Check out Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/9TbbnVq

278 There are 268 Mistakes Hikers Make with Ben McMillen Jul 31, 2025 01:01:07 He’s a DJ, a YouTuber, a photographer, owner of Hiltop Packs and Apex Giant Gear, and now you can call him an author. Come hang out with us while we talk to Ben McMillen about his new book, and we discuss mistakes we’ve all made on trail.Be sure to check out our title sponsors, Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/6mRM7ET

277 Bear Attacks A Sleeping Hiker On The AT Jul 24, 2025 00:35:47 In this episode, JK and Jeremiah hit several topics, from a recent bear attack caught on camera, dodging the rain on backpacking trips, and alternatives to hiking in the hot summer months. Be sure to check out our title sponsors, Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/6mRM7ET

276 Giant Spiders, International Travel, and A Pick-Ax Trowel with Adam Roy Jul 17, 2025 00:59:56 We’ve broken down many of his articles from Backpacker.com, and now we get to sit down and chat with the editor in chief himself, Adam Roy. We chat about everything from family to his passion for spiders, and some great gear info.Be sure to check out our title sponsors, Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/6mRM7ET

275 95 Degrees with No Shade or 25 With The Wrong Gear? Jul 10, 2025 00:40:26 In this episode, JK and Jeremiah play a little game of "Would You Rather." They hilariously discuss which choices they would make given extreme situations. How would you respond to these?Be sure to check out our title sponsors, Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/6mRM7ET

274 MORE Hot Takes from the Backcountry! Jul 3, 2025 00:51:30 JK and Jeremiah discuss more hot takes and get your opinions in real time! What does the B.P. nation think about these ridiculous takes?Be sure to check out our title sponsors, Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/6mRM7ET

273 Hot Takes from the Backcountry Jun 26, 2025 00:42:01 We look at hot takes from the people who should know best…backpackers. Backpacker magazine lists some of the hottest takes in the backcountry, and we give you our hot takes on them! https://www.backpacker.com/stories/essays/opinion/your-most-unhinged-hiking-takes-made-even-our-editors-uncomfortable/Be sure to check out our title sponsor, Outdoor Vitals! - https://alnk.to/6mRM7ET

272 Has All-Trails Lost Their MINDS?!?!?! 🤬 Jun 19, 2025 00:59:58 Jeremiah goes on a trip to West Virginia, and there's a lot of disappointment in the new tier system with All Trails. If you want to hear a good, old-fashioned Jeremiah Stringer rant, tune in!

271 Cartels, Rednecks with Guns, and a Taste of Americana with Lucy Barnard Jun 12, 2025 01:03:15 She started hiking at the southern tip of South America and has made her way through Central America and Mexico. Now she’s joining us from Montana! Please welcome Lucy Barnard to the podcast as she shares from her adventures and thousands of miles that she has hiked.

270 Underworld of Sleeping Bags & Quilts with Chad Houghton of UGQ Jun 5, 2025 00:59:54 Tushar Rain Jacket by Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/8PGgizAJoin us as we chat with longtime friend of the podcast and backcountry innovator, Chad Houghton, owner of UGQ Outdoor.

269 Tackling Tornadoes & Wrong Turns on Trail May 29, 2025 00:50:28 Outdoor Vitals Tarp: https://alnk.to/aLKyeIPWe are joined by WoodAllTrails today to talk about his trip surviving a tornado while backpacking and lots of other fun topics.WoodAllTrails Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WoodAllTrails

268 Trading a Heat Wave for Snow Capped Mountains with Steven Smith May 22, 2025 01:07:27 This week, we are excited to have Steven Smith join us for the podcast. In a very short time, My Life Outdoors has become the gold standard of backpacking YouTube channels and information on gear, tips, and the science behind backpacking. Hang out with us in the chat as we celebrate his most recent milestones, discuss new gear, and talk the future of backpacking.Check out our title sponsor, Outdoo

267 Follow the Yellow Brick Cairn? May 15, 2025 01:05:25 Check out the Ventus Active Hoodie from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/cb4x1CEGarage Grown Gear Sale (90+ Brands) https://alnk.to/apUXnooThis week, we’re discussing the dangers of following cairns on trail, the excitement behind trail days beginning this weekend, and discussing the latest ground-breaking tent from Durston Gear.

266 Feeding Grizzly Bears Bacon In The Backcountry May 8, 2025 01:04:45 Free Gear Outdoor Vitals Live UL Membership: https://alnk.to/1N3KpTVToday, we finish off the list of the 8 most controversial topics in the backcountry. We discuss the age-old debate of how to put your shoes on correctly, and we ask “Will it Bacon?” to something many of us enjoy daily.

265 The Greatest CONTROVERSIES of the Last Year May 1, 2025 01:02:18 Check out our good friends at Outdoor Vitals (Live Ultralight Membership): https://alnk.to/1N3KpTVWhat were the top 8 controversies of the last year in Backpacking? What is good bathroom etiquette in other peoples’ homes, and did Dan Durston just drop another game changer tent?

264 Will Logging Destroy National Forests? Apr 24, 2025 01:00:24 Skyline Trail Joggers by Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/gVMS3NhToday, we’re talking about increased logging in our national forests. Is it to help with forest fire prevention? Make the US more self-reliant? Or is it just another money grab for the lumber industry?

263 Never Trust a TSA AGENT on Your Way To ARKANSAS Apr 17, 2025 00:56:01 Check out the Neebo Windbreaker (up to 22% off): https://alnk.to/gKS4xGNWhat happened when JK went to Arkansas with a bunch of strangers? Why does he avoid the TSA like the plague? Find out answers to these questions and more as we chat about John's trip to Devil's Den State Park in Arkansas.

262 Too Much Food, Too Little Warmth, and Not Enough Sleep with Devin Ashby Apr 10, 2025 01:03:40 How do you train up a new backpacker to be ready for the backcountry? What does that first trip look like? We’ll be answering these questions and more with our good friend, Devin Ashby.Check out Devin's website and new gear: backcountryexposure.com(use code EXPOSURE10 to get 10% off)Also check out Outdoor Vitals' 100 Mile Challenge: https://alnk.to/faDcBZY

261 Backpacking On A Budget with WoodAllTrails Apr 3, 2025 01:10:16 Join us breaking down budget backpacking and Cranberry Wilderness with Johnathan Woodall from WoodAllTrails.Outdoor Vitals trekking poles ALL ON SALE: https://outdoorvitals.com/collections/trekking-poles

260 Broken Ankle Redemption with Jason Waugh Mar 27, 2025 01:01:59 In this episode, Jason Waugh from the YouTube channel "Backpacking with Jason" jumps on the show to tell us about his epic adventure on the John Muir Trail in Northern Tennessee. After severely breaking his ankle last year, how did he do as he put that ankle through its first major test?Check out the Outdoor Vitals Stormloft Topquilt here: https://bit.ly/4c2Kugi

259 National Forests are Burning Down.....sorta Mar 20, 2025 00:59:35 What is getting ready to happen in the Daniel Boone National Forest?!?!? Discover how prescribed burns are crucial for maintaining forest health and reducing wildfire risks. We explore the strategies used by the National Forest Service and focus on areas like Dania Boone National Forest and River Gorge to help preserve our natural landscapes. We also introduce the backpacking March Madness Bracket

258 Could Tariffs Shut Down Cottage Companies? Mar 15, 2025 01:03:10 Regardless of political leanings, recent tariffs placed on other countries from the US will have an effect on American consumers and companies. In this episode, JK sits down with the owner of Hilltop Packs, Ben McMillen to talk about a volatile topic in a way that may surprise a lot of people.Check out the Shadowlight Backpack by Outdoor Vitals (27% off): https://alnk.to/31sMVXg

257 Ride Along, Search and Rescue, and Landscaping Mar 6, 2025 01:02:41 Check out the Vario jacket from Outdoor Vitals: https://outdoorvitals.com/products/vario-ultralight-jacketIn this video, we recount our recent off-roading adventure along the scenic Red River Gorge Byway. Join us as we welcome Jeremy Rodeffer (All Things Out Doors on YouTube), who shares his insights and experiences from the trip. Additionally, we dig into a discussion comparing off-roading and ba

256 Car Camping Gourmet, Bidets, and Colonic Viruses Feb 27, 2025 01:01:56 In the first livestream of 2025, we find ourselves talking about just about anything! Between what kind of food we like to eat when camping out to understanding how we start our days and get our minds right, this episode should have you laughing till your ribs hurt.Check out the Summit Down Sleeping Bag over at Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/3J7I5rt

255 HIgh Quality H2O: The WATER Episode Feb 20, 2025 01:04:34 Join us as we dive into the crucial role water plays in backpacking! We cover essential topics like effective filtration techniques, personal tips, and unforgettable experiences. Discover how to stay hydrated on the trail, overcome challenges, and ensure your water sources are safe. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a newbie, there may be something here to elevate your backpacking experience!

254 It's ILLEGAL to HIKE into CANADA from the USA Feb 13, 2025 00:36:16 In this podcast, we delve into the newly enacted laws that make crossing the Canadian border illegal for hikers on the Pacific Crest Trail. Join us as we explore the implications of these regulations on outdoor enthusiasts, hear firsthand accounts from Jeremiah's international hikes, and discuss the environmental and safety concerns that led to these changes. Stay informed and prepare yourself

The Backpacking Podcast presented by Outdoor Vitals

Episodes

Recommended