Backpacking & Blisters: A Hiking, Backpacking, and Adventure Show
A hiking and backpacking podcast that blends practical tips with humorous tales from the trail. Hosts Derek and Carl share decades of experience covering gear, trail situations, and interviews with popular guests. The show aims to entertain and inform outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.
Episodes
Ultralight SCAMS: Don't Fall For These Booby Traps
You might be getting scammed by companies, the ultralight narrative, or even yourself. Jesse and Carl have 8 ultralight backpacking scams that you might be falling victim to. And some of them are also ripping off Jesse and Carl. Also, can ‘Scam Trivia’ help save you some money?
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Ultralight backpacking gear
-Unnecessary upgrades and purchases
-Rip-offs
If you’re interes
BROOKE WHIPPLE 'Girl in the Woods': She Canoed the Yukon But Did Not Expect This to Happen... (TT)
One of the B&B favorites – Brooke Whipple – joins the show to discuss an unexpected and concerning experience on one of her backcountry adventures.
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Stranger Danger
-Off grid living
-Backcountry Fear
Check Brooke’s awesome YouTube Channel!
And check out her latest channel inspiring women to stay healthy over the long haul!
If you’re interested in joining us for the
We Tested the NEWEST & Most POPULAR Tents. Which One is BEST?
Michael from ‘Open Air Problems’ joins the show to discuss the best new and most popular tents on the market. And he previews the latest Durston X-Dome Pro. Carl also shares a 1 star tent he owns.
Some of the Tents Discussed
-Durston Tents
-Zpacks Tents
-Big Agens Sarvis VST
-Nemo Hornet Elite
Check Michael’s awesome YouTube Channel!
If you’re interested in joining us for the monthly B&B Bible
2027 FUTURE GEAR That You'll Love - Sneak Preview w/ Outdoor Empire
Chase Fly from Outdoor Empire and Carl got a preview of future outdoor and backpacking gear coming 2027. They each picked their favorite 4 pieces that they’re most excited about and discuss the highlights (and lowlights). Also, Chase has one of the weirdest non-backpacking skills you’ve ever heard.
Some of the Gear The Discussed
-Nemo Hornet Update and New Tent
-New Rab Quilt
-Ultralight Osprey Th
3 Cottage Gear Companies You Should Check Out! (Bonus Thursday)
Cottage companies in the outdoor world are on the rise! This episode features 3 that are up and coming. They’re innovative, creative and just solid good people. Two of them have gear in Carl’s pack on every trip this summer. But...can they help you?
The Companies Discussed
-Igneous Gear
-Magnet Designs
-ULA Packs
If you’re interested in joining us for the monthly B&B Bible Study, please reach
13 Weird SURVIVAL Tips You Need to Know w/ Gordon Crum (Grim Granite)
Whether you’re waiting for help to arrive after pressing the red button or you’re looking to hone your survival skills, Gordon and Carl share 13 weird survival tips that just might save your life. Also, Gordon shares some strange stories he’s investigating for his environmental true crime channel. And they are strange.
Some of Topics Discussed
-Weird Survival Tips
-Best (and worst) Backcountry Saf
6 Calculated RISKS That Will Really LIGHTEN YOUR LOAD!
Are you trying to lighten your backpacking load? You’ve heard all of the same strategies…until now! Carl and Jesse have 6+ calculated risks that you could take to really reduce pack weight. And we’ve got new backpacking gear products that might be up your alley.
Some of Topics Discussed
-Reducing Backpacking Weight
-The Top 5 Best Ways to Reduce Pack Weight
-New Backpacking Gear and Food
If you’re
I Brought Gear I Think is DUMB to Yosemite -- This is What Changed My Mind
Carl brought 7 pieces of gear to Yosemite that he’s been poking fun at for a while now. He gave everything a fair shake. Which pieces of “dumb gear” actually changed his mind? Also, a game-changing sleeping pad is reviewed and the story of an awesome prank is shared.
Some of Gear Discussed
-Exped Ultra 6.5R
-Igneous Nobo Water Bottle
-Gossamer Gear Little Sit Pad
-Gossamer Gear Bumster
-Aardwolf S
STEVEN 'MY LIFE OUTDOORS': Backpacking SECRETS Only the Pros Know
Steven Smith from ‘My Life Outdoors’ joins the show to help reveal backpacking secrets that took years to learn. He also gives compelling behind-the-scenes stories to his videos on quicksand and soon-to-be released videos that will knock your socks off. Also, Carl pitches four YouTube ideas to Steven.
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Backpacking Gear
-How to find the right backpacking pack
-Solutions
BIG AGNES Co-Founder Bill Gamber: The Future of ULTRALIGHT GEAR (Bonus Thursday)
Big Agnes' Bill Gamber joins the show to discuss the path BA took to be at the front edge of the ultralight movement, what the future holds in the ultralight industry, what people think of when they hear 'Big Agnes', and which of the 3 products Carl pitches would BA most likely produce.
If you’re interested in joining us for the monthly B&B Bible Study, please reach out to Carl: backpackingblister
Top 10 Reasons YOU WILL QUIT on a Backpacking Trip w/ Christine Reed
What are the top 10 reasons you will quit on a backpacking trip, thru hike or just regular hike? And how can you avoid them? Christine Reed joins the show to discuss experiences surrounding all of these issues. If you listen to this episode, you will never quit on a hike again (maybe).
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Backpacking Gear
-Biggest Issues Facing Hikers and Backpackers on a Trail
-Solution
Yosemite SAR Shares SHOCKING but True Wilderness Tales w/ Moose Mutlow (Throwback Thursday)
Yosemite Search and Rescue Operator Moose Mutlow joins the show! He might literally be the most interesting man in the world. Share in the crazy stories he shares with his experience on the job as well as the critical feedback he gives Carl about being a frequent flyer in the SAR network. This is one you won’t want to miss.
Some of the topics discussed:
-Yosemite Search and Rescue Stories
-Real/Fa
12 Signs You Don't Know What You're Doing on a Backpacking Trip
Have you seen some weird stuff out on the trail like we have? We’ve got 12 signs that you (or somebody you know) simply doesn’t know what they’re doing. And don’t worry, we’ve got the solutions to overcome these odd situations.
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Inappropriate Backpacking Gear
-Weird Ways to Hike
-Useless Hiking & Planning Tools
If you’re interested in joining us for the monthly B&a
DAN DURSTON: Harsh Truths Behind the Ultralight Gear You're Buying
Dan Durston joins the show to discuss the harsh truths behind the ultralight gear you’re buying. This is a real behind-the-scenes look at how the gear industry really works. There are a lot of misconceptions, lies and false accusations out there. Durston tries to shed some light in these dark places. Also, Jesse and Carl pitch Dan on the next great piece of Durston Gear.
Some of the Topics Discuss
6 Reasons Your Bucket List Trip Will Fail w/ Rob Pelton (Throwback Thursday)
Rob Pelton's joins the show to discuss why your bucket list trips will fail...and how to overcome the issues. Also, are Canadian computer hackers helping people get permits. And Rob has a big and exciting announcement!
Check out Rob’s Awesome YouTube Channel
Follow Rob on Instagram
If you’re interested in joining us for the monthly B&B Bible Study, please reach out to Carl: backpackingblisters
10 Backpacking EXPERTS Share the BEST Meals (Darwin, Dixie, Hanson, Ashby, Coach & More!)
10 backpacking experts share their favorite backcountry meals and other food ideas. Some of them are creative, some are good and some may be yucky. Which one(s) would you be willing to try.
The Backpacking Experts
-Darwin on the Trail
-Dixie ‘Homemade Wanderlust’
-Eric Hanson
-Devin Ashby ‘Backcountry Exposure'
-Glen Van Peski ‘Gossamer Gear Owner’
-Mike Wanders
-Coach ‘Marion Outdoors
-Chris Cage
10 LIES the "Backpacking Experts" Told You
Who are these “backpacking experts” that are telling us lies? And have what lies have we believed that should be cleared up? Jesse and Carl discuss 10 lies from a variety of sources that we should all stop believing. From backpacking gear to reviews to secret agendas to items you “have to” bring.
Some of Topics Discussed
-Ultralight Sleeping Pads
-Sleeping Bag Nonsense
-Gear Reviews You Can’t Trus
Thru-Hikers vs. REAL BACKPACKERS with Vince Strawbridge (Bonus Thursday)
Vince Strawbridge joins the show to debate this very issue. Carl and Vince make strong accusations at one another in this semi-heated debate.
Check out Vince Strawbridge's Book "Pretty Good at Walking".
If you’re interested in joining us for the monthly B&B Bible Study, please reach out to Carl: backpackingblisters@gmail.com
The ‘SUMMIT ANSWER’ comes from our latest partner, Summit Something!
We Tested the NEWEST, Most POPULAR Packs. Which One is BEST?
We’ve got the latest, greatest, most popular packs and we’ll tell you which ones are worth investing in, who they’re best for and our personal experiences with them. Michael from the ‘Open Air Problems’ joins the show to provide his thru-hiking, gear testing expertise. From Durston to Zpacks to Gossamer Gear to Gregory (and more) – which one is best for you?
Some of Backpacks Discussed
-Gossamer G
ERIC HANSON: REI's Best Selling Gear - What Passes? What Fails?
TV host, YouTuber Eric Hanson joins the show to discuss REI’s best-selling gear. Which items will he bring on future trips that will earn a ‘pass’ and which does he ‘fail’? And Carl, of course, will weigh in with his own opinions. Eric also shares some very compelling stories from a wide variety of adventures – including his brush with the law.
Some of the Topics Discussed
-REI’s Best-Selling Back
10 Ways to Go Super Duper Extra Ultralight Backpacking w/ Brad 'Crow' Felton
If you’ve heard all of the ultralight backpacking tips out there, then this episode is for you! We’ve got 10 super duper extra ultralight hacks that will shave pounds off of your pack. Brad ‘Crow’ Felton joins me in discussing ideas you’ve simply never heard of.
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Ultralight Backpacking Gear
-Ultralight Backpacking Strategies
-Weird Ideas
Follow Crow on his awesome YouT
How Much Weight Can You Shave with $150? with JUSTIN OUTDOORS (Throwback Thursday)
Justin Outdoors joins the show to discuss how to upgrade a gear setup and shave weight with $150. Just how much weight can you reduce with $150 these days? Let’s find out from the best gear expert going.
Some of the topics discussed in this week’s episode:
-Reducing pack weight
-Budget Backpacking Gear
-The best backpacks, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, tents & more
-Using Pack Wizard to shop f
Get Out of Camp in 30 MINUTES! Here's How!
How do you go from waking up to on the trail in 30 minutes? Carl will tell you how. Why could this be a bad idea? Jesse will tell you that too. Who’s morning routine is better? And Carl and Jesse also debate whether Outdoor Vitals is a premium brand (like it says) or not.
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Efficient Backpacking Strategies and Skills
-Backpacking Gear that has straight up broken
-Outdoo
2026 *NEW* Backpacking Gear You Should Check Out! with DEVIN ASHBY
Devin, from Backcountry Exposure, joins the show to discuss 10 new pieces of 2026 backpacking gear including: sleeping bags, a sleeping pad, a backpack, tents, a stove, etc. Which ones are worth the investment? Which ones might end up on the clearance rack?
Some of the Gear Discussed
-Bear Vault BV One
-Nemo Eclipse
-MSR Hubba Hubba HD Tent
-Mountain Hardwear Ghoul 20 Sleeping Bag
-Outdoor Vitals
Why You SLEEP LIKE TRASH in the Backcountry (and How to Fix It!) with Mowser (Bonus Thursday)
Mowser joins the show from Tasmania to break down why you sleep like trash in the backcountry. He gives a step-by-step guide to give you the best opportunity to get good sleep. There are, of course, no guarantees. But his 35 years of experience takes care of the things that we can control. Also, has he developed a backpacking app that takes the best features of the existing apps and puts them into
Is Your BACKPACKING IQ Over 100? Find Out Now!
Can you answer these 10 questions/scenarios correctly (or mostly correctly) to show that you’ve got a backpacking IQ over 100? And do you agree with the answers and outcomes?
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Backpacking gear
-Backpacking situations and scenarios
-Ultralight backpacking information
If you’re interested in joining us for the monthly B&B Bible Study, please reach out to Carl: backpa
JON CONTI: Top Luxury Items for the LAZY Backpacker
Jon Conti joins the show to discuss the top luxury items for the lazy backpacker. This could include backpackers who truly have a focus on lounging around or hikers that still put in a lot of trail time but don’t mind carrying the extra weight. And that could be pounds of extra weight! This is not your ultralight backpacking gear episode.
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Luxury backpacking gear
-Best
5 Pro Tips Gear Stores Tell OVERLOADED Backpackers with COACH Marion Outdoors (Bonus Thursday!)
Coach from Marion Outdoors joins the show to discuss what an Appalachian Trail shop tells overloaded backpackers and thru-hikers when they arrive frustrated. What gear should be swapped out? What changeshttps://www.marionoutdoors.com/ should they make? Also, what is the one characteristic annoying customers share?
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Ultralight backpacking gear
-The most popular footwear
GLEN VAN PESKI: Gossamer Gear Owner's 3 Unorthodox Ultralight Strategies
Glen Van Peski – owner of Gossamer Gear – joins the show to discuss some truly unorthodox ultralight strategies. With his 13lb total pack and years of backpacking experience, he definitely knows what he’s talking about. Will any of the these strategies lighten your load or are they too extreme?
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Ultralight backpacking gear
-Ultralight strategies
-Upcoming Backpacking I
8 Ways Trip Planners Get the SHAFT with JOHN KELLEY
John Kelley joins the show to discuss 8 ways trip planners get the shaft. Are some of this avoidable if you sprinkle in a bit of wisdom and common sense? Yes. Are some unavoidable? Yes. Find out what you should beware if you’re trip planner. Or, find out how to not sabotage a backpacking trip if you’re not.
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Backpacking trip planning
-Sabotaged Backpacking trips
-Commo
JEFF PELLETIER: Controversial Gear Decisions For The Last Great Adventure (Throwback Thursday)
Jeff Pelletier joins the show to discuss shaving weight, ultralight strategies, and to give advice to Carl about some of his controversial gear decisions about an upcoming adventure.
Check out Jeff's awesome YouTube Channel!
If you’re interested in joining us for the monthly B&B Bible Study, please reach out to Carl: backpackingblisters@gmail.com
Check out Magnet Designs for the best, US-made
STOP Bringing These 6 Pieces of Gear You Never Use!
Don’t you hate it when you find gear you don’t use left in your pack after a trip? How about when it’s the same unused gear over the course of multiple trips? We’ve got 6-8 pieces of gear you can simply ditch, shave some weight and save some money…because you’re not using it anyway.
Some of the Topics Discussed
-New Backpacking Gear Being Released
-Gear that ends up being useless and costing you w
Beginning Backpackers: BUY THIS GEAR!
If you’re a beginning backpacker, we’ve got the gear you should buy – from budget to mid level to premium. If you’re an experienced backpacker, please let us know where we went right and wrong with our choices. Also we have a previously unreleased segment with Shug.
Some of the Gear Discussed
-Budget Backpack Option
-Premium Backpack Option
-Budget Tent Option
-Premium Tent Option
-Premium Pad Opt
6 Gear Trends That Are DISRUPTING Hiking This Year with CHRIS CAGE (Bonus Thursday)
Chris Cage from Greenbelly Meals and YouTube joins the show to discuss gear trends that are disrupting the industry this year! From sleeping pads to food to clothing to cottage companies, what is happening in the world of backpacking and thru-hiking?
Some of the Topics Discussed
-20206 Backpacking Gear Trends
-Backpacking Food Mistakes
-Sleeping Pad Trend
Check out Chris’ awesome YouTube Channel!
Top 10 Most OVERPACKED Gear You Need to Stop Bringing
Derek and Carl discuss the top 10 most overpacked items for backpacking. This is not only from personal experience but also from what they continue to see on trail and online. If you want to lighten your load and become and ultralight backpacker, this could be the first step. Are you bringing any gear that makes this list?
Some of the Topics Discussed
-How to Ultralight backpack by getting rid of
DARWIN: Watch Out! 3 Gear FAILURES You Need to Know!
Darwin on the Trail joins the show to discuss 3 gear failures he experienced while in Gates of the Arctic National Park. What caused him to chuck one of those pieces of gear into the wilderness? He also shares some unexpected challenges that made this trip epic but extremely difficult. Also, what’s new from Evolved Supply?
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Evolved Supply Co – New Gear!
-Epic Gear Fail
7 Hikes YOU Should DO Before YOU DIE! with MIKE WANDERS
Mike Wanders joins the show to help highlight 7 hikes (or backpacking trips) you have to do…before you die. These are the best hiking locations that we have collectively experienced. Trail challenges, permit strategies and general warnings will all be part of the conversation.
Some of the Topics Discussed
-The absolute best hiking and backpacking trails
-Pro tips for obtaining permits
-Bigfoot
Che
JOE ROBINET: 'You Need to Know These 3 Bushcraft Skills. Period.' (Throwback Thursday)
Epic bushcraft expert Joe Robinet joins the show! What are the 3 essential bushcraft skills every outdoorsperson should know? Joe will tell you. And how to Derek and Carl measure up with these skills? Joe also shares stories about meeting Survivorman Les Stroud in a Blockbuster Video and he responds to Carl’s outlandish scenarios for future video ideas. And finally, it’s a Derek trivia week. You k
8 Laws Backpackers Break (Without Getting Caught)
What are 8 laws and serious rules that backpackers truly violate and, frequently, get away with? Carl and Jesse have 8 of them. And they have certainly been a party to these violations. Also, what is the worst law that they’ve broken off the trail? You’ll be surprised to find out.
Some of the Topics Discussed
-The Leave No Trace Scam
-Illegal use of gear
-Genuine trail theft
If you’re interested i
DIXIE: The BEST (and Worst) Gear After 10 Years
Dixie from Homemade Wanderlust joins the show to discuss the absolute best (and worse) pieces of gear she’s used the last 10 years. What makes the cut? She also shares some of the craziest, most unexpected stories from the trail. And Derek attempts to pass Trail Magic trivia.
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Zpacks, Hyperlite, Thermarest, Sierra Designs, Sawyer Gear
-Trail Magic
-Best backpacking bac
10 BAFFLING Rookie Mistakes YOU Might Be Making
What are some baffling rookie mistakes that you might be making? Whether new to backpacking or an experienced veteran there are certainly some surprising miscues we’ve made and continue to make. The hosts are no exception. Is there anything you do that’s on the list?
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Backpacking gear
-Backpacking skills
-Shaving pack weight properly
Check out Magnet Designs for the be
99% of Backpackers Can't Do These 6 Things with Chris Baron (Bonus Thursday)
National Geographic producer and host of the 'No Ordinary Monday' podcast, Chris Baron, joins the show to discuss 6 things that 99% of backpackers and adventurers can’t do (that are important).
Check out the ‘No Ordinary Monday’ Podcast that Chris hosts for more interesting stories and adventures!
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Trip planning and managing
-How to handle chaos in the backcountry
-Tri
We Asked 100K ULTRALIGHTERS for Their MOST Aggressive Weight-Saving Tips
Derek and Carl asked 100,000 Ultralight Backpackers and Thru-Hikers for their most aggressive weight saving tips. They share and respond to the best answers. And there are definitely some weird ones. Also, Carl accuses Derek of asking the single worst trivia question ever.
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Ultralight Backpacking Gear
-Water Filters, Personal Locator Beacons and First Aid Kits
-Gear Yo
DAN DURSTON: Why Do Some Tents Cost More Than a Used Car (Throwback Thursday)
Derek and Carl have Gear Designer and Company Owner Dan Durston on the show to discuss advances in ultralight tents, upcoming gear and the origin story of a cottage gear company.
Check out Durston Gear for some great ultralight options.
Check out Dan's documentary on one of his Bob Marshall Wilderness Open adventures!
Check out Magnet Designs for the best, US-made backpacking clothing on the marke
JUSTIN OUTDOORS' Backpacking Gear Awards for 'ULTRALIGHT', 'Budget' & 'FANCY'
Justin Outdoors joins the show to share the best of the best gear in the categories of ultralight, budget and fancy. What are his top 2 pieces of gear for these categories? And what is fancy gear? Also, it’s time to introduce the Backpacking Magazine support line. There is now a spot devoted to all of your tough trail questions.
Some of the Gear Discussed
-Fancy Sleeping Pad
-Ultralight Pillow
-Bu
2026 Backpacking Trends That Should DIE a HORRIFIC DEATH!
Derek and Carl discuss the growing backpacking trends of 2026…and why many of them should simply die. From the latest gear trends and hot sellers to backpacking ‘style’ and fashion there’s got to be at least 1 thing you both agree and disagree with. Also, did Derek have a meltdown during trivia?
Some of the Topics Discussed
-The Latest Backpacking Gear
-Backpacking Clothing
-Water Bottle Innovatio
DAN BECKER: The Harsh TRUTH Behind the Gear Reviews You See
Dan Becker joins the show to discuss some of things your average YouTube watcher doesn’t know about the gear reviews and reviewers. He also shares the twists and turns of his story and how he continues to evolve as a content creator. Dan has a lot of different and unexpected things coming.
Some of the Topics Discussed
-The Behind-the-Scenes of Gear Reviews
-From Zero to Backpacking Hero
-The most
10 LIES The Gear Companies Are Telling Us (Throwback Thursday)
Derek is back and better than ever! Are we being deceived by gear companies or just general beliefs about certain pieces of backpacking gear? Derek and Carl pull back the curtain and reveal the TRUTH!
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Stove boiling times
-Water Filter Details
-False Advertising
Check out Magnet Designs for the best, US-made backpacking clothing on the market!
Enlightened Equipment: Ch
You're a TRAIL VILLAIN! Pass This TEST to Prove Otherwise!
You might encounter a trail villain. There might be a trail villain in your backpacking crew. Or…you might be the trail villain! Take this 10-question test to prove otherwise. Also, Carl puts Derek through the Lightning Round. Will he even answer the questions correctly?
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Trail social skills
-Odd Backpacking encounters
-Strange but true trail villain stories
Check out
How to Find $3 MILLION Hidden in the Woods with Jon Collins-Black
There are 5 treasure chests worth up to $3 million hidden for you to find. Jon Collins-Black joins the show to discuss some clues and insight into the treasure hunt that he created. What skills would you need to find the treasure? What highly interested valuables are hidden? What weird questions will be asked of him?
Check out ‘There’s Treasure Inside’ to get all of the information!
Some of the To
SURVIVING a DEADLY Underground Flood (No Ordinary Monday Podcast)
Meet Dr. Hazel Barton, a remarkable scientist who descends into Earth's darkest corners in search of microscopic life that could transform our future. Nicknamed the "Lara Croft of microbiology," Hazel combines cutting-edge science with death-defying exploration in some of the most remote cave systems on our planet.
The heart of this episode recounts Hazel's terrifying near-death experien
JOHN MACKEY: Whole Foods CEO, Backpacking Myth-Buster
Former CEO of Whole Foods and one of the most famous backpackers of all time, John Mackey, joins Derek and Carl to bust backpacking myths, discuss gear strategies and give some insider information about backpacking food. And Mackey has some very interesting answers in this week’s lightning round.
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Busting backpacking myths
-Backpacking gear
-Backpacking Food
Check out
2025's Top LUXURY ITEMS (For ELITE Backpackers Only)
Gear expert Villain Jesse joins the show to discuss the top luxury items of 2025. Luxuries include items that are not necessities, upgrade of essential items or simply really expensive items that might be worth having on the trail.
Buy the Multi Tool Glove Prototype: https://www.ebay.com/itm/326900498222
Some of the Gear Discussed
-Bend Alpha 90 Hoodie
-Most comfortable Sleeping pad
-Best backpack
8 BIG GEAR MISTAKES You're Still Making (Throwback Thursday)
Derek and Carl discuss all sorts of gear mistakes they've made, you've made, we've all made...and how to fix them. Derek gives Carl advice about first aid kits. And Carl doesn't understand adjustable trekking poles.
Check out Magnet Designs for the best, US-made backpacking clothing on the market!
Enlightened Equipment: Check out the best Ultralight Quilts on the market!
GET BONUS SEGMENTS & E
The 9 MOST DERANGED Outdoor Adventures for Your Bucket List
Derek and Carl discuss deranged, irrational, unusual, odd, weird and funky outdoor adventures that you might consider adding to your bucket list. Are you tired of loops, out and backs and point-to-point hiking trails? It’s time to increase the intensity, purpose and strangeness of your trips with this list.
Some of the Topics Discussed
-National Park Adventures
-Area 51 and Area 51 Trivia
-Traveli
The Best TROLL Comments & CRITICISMS -- We Respond
Derek and Carl have gotten some serious troll comments, criticisms, critiques and strange requests over the years. They have compiled the most interesting feedback and will respond. Not surprisingly, each of them got riled up by somebody.
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Backpacking Gear
-Breaking Backcountry Rules and Protocols
-Trolls
Check out Magnet Designs for the best, US-made backpacking cloth
'I Bought the WEIRDEST CAMPING GEAR I Could Find' with Steven Smith (Throwback Thursday)
Steven from 'My Life Outdoors' joins the show to discuss a variety of topics that include weird backpacking/camping gear, the best and worst backpacking gear of 2023 and an amazing story that involves one of our favorite characters, the ranger.
Check out Steven's Awesome YouTube Channel!
Gear Discussed This Episode
-Thermarest Neo Air Xlite NXT
-Miksa Pot Lifter
-High Tail Ultralight Dyneema Rain
Are EXPENSIVE Zpacks, Hyperlite & Other Cottage Brands Really WORTH IT? with Rob Pelton
Rob Pelton joins the show to pull back the curtain on cottage brands. Are brands like Zpacks, Hyperlite, Enlightened Equipment really worth the price? And Carl has a theory about why tent prices suddenly skyrocketed a few years ago.
Check out Rob Pelton’s awesome YouTube Channel!
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Backpacking Gear
-Cottage Brands
-How to not get scammed by gear prices
Check out Magnet
ANDREW SKURKA: 3 Things PRO Backpackers Do That You Don't
Andrew Skurka – one of the most famous backpackers of all time – joins the show to discuss some 3 or 4 things professional backpackers do that most of us don’t. Also, what characteristics make the best guides? And how can trekking poles stop a bear attack? How will Skurka handle the lightning round? Derek and Carl also share the top 3 things they are experts at – not related to backpacking.
If you
10K SOS Calls Logged on Garmin! But is it SAVING LIVES? (Throwback Thursday)
Derek and Carl 'break down' the data released by Garmin and share some of the interesting stories that involve pushing the red button. Also, somehow, Derek and Carl were able to get ahold of an actual SOS call made from a Sat phone.
Some of the Topics Discussed:
-Garmin inReach
-Crazy Search and Rescue Stories
-Weird Data
Check out Magnet Designs for the best, US-made backpacking clothing on the m
8 ABSURD Backpacking GADGETS You Might Purchase with Alex Hatlevig
Alex Hatlevig joins the show to discuss backpacking gadgets and trinkets that you might be buying that are useless (or mostly useless). Sure, you can come up with scenarios where they could potentially be useful. But are you really going to need them? Are they necessary?
Check out Alex Hatlevig’s awesome YouTube channel!
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Backpacking Gear
-Backpacking Gadgets from Gara
VOMIT in a Bag! The WORST Freeze Dried Meals in the Universe?
What are the worst backpacking freeze dried meals? And are some of them really as bad as people say? Derek and Carl asked over 40,000 members of the backpacking community what their least favorite meals were. After compiling the results, they discuss, and even taste-test, the top (or bottom answers). There were some very surprising results…both ways. Also, Carl shares one of his best (or possibly
6 Pieces of Bad Advice You Should Stop Taking with John Kelley (Throwback Thursday)
What are 6 pieces of backpacking advice that are just plain bad? John Kelley joins the Backpacking & Blisters podcast to co-host and discuss a lot of information and mis-information you might be hearing.
Check out John Kelley’s ‘Backpacking Podcast’
Some of the Topics Discussed
-Backpacking Gear
-Overkill Backpacking Gear
-Testing out and prepping gear
Check out Magnet Designs for the best, US
A CONTROVERSIAL New ULTRALIGHT Strategy That Will Blow Your Mind...with Alisha McDarris
If you’re looking to shave about a pound off of your pack weight without spending any money (potentially), Alisha McDarris from Terradrift will tell you how! Last year she was challenged by the B&B podcast to 3 video options. She is the first one to try and execute one of them.
Some of the Topics Covered:
-Ultralight backpacking strategies
-Controversial ways to shave weight
-What goes in cath
Top 10 MOST BIZARRE Camp Experiences We've Ever Had (and You Can Too!)
Bizarre trail and camp experience stories are the backbone of the B&B community. Derek and Carl run down their top 10. Some you’ve heard, some you haven’t. Either way, they’re weird. Even more weird is the episode trivia. This includes the most bizarre stories you’ve ever heard.
Some of the Topics Covered:
-Odd backpacking encounters
-Camp antics
-Unsolved backpacking mysteries
Check out Magne
Death Wish Backcountry Skills That You Might Use (Throwback Thursday)
One of the most experienced, adventurous, death-defying backcountry experts, Marty Morissette, joins the show to discuss some of the tactics he’s employed that one might consider ‘death wish skills’. And, strangely, they might actually be helpful for your future adventures.
Follow Marty on Instagram!
Check out Magnet Designs, our latest partnership: https://www.magnetdsigns.com/
Some of the Topics
The WORST REVIEWED Backpacking Gear in the World
What is the worst reviewed backpacking gear? And does that mean that reviews are terrible or that the gear is terrible? Maybe both. And how does a 20 minute task take 15 hours? One of the guys finds a way.
Check out Magnet Designs, our latest partnership! And follow Magnet on Instagram!
Some of the Topics Covered:
-Terrible backpacking gear
-The best backpacking gear
-Solutions to terribly reviewe
2025's MOST POPULAR Backpacking Gear & Trends with Lloyd Vogel
Lloyd Vogel, CEO of Garage Grown Gear, joins the show to discuss 2025’s best backpacking gear and trends. He also shares items that are losing steam. And Carl, of course, has a couple of “innovative” gear ideas he’s willing to share.
Check out Garage Grown Gear’s newest arrivals!
Some of the Topics Covered:
-Best Backpacking Gear from 2025
-Backpacking Gear Trends
-Gear People Have Stopped Using
E
10 Things Only ADVANCED BACKPACKERS Do...with Huck Outdoors (Bonus Thursday)
What are the 10 things that only advanced backpackers do? Huck Outdoors joins the show to discuss skills, gear and knowledge that only advanced backpackers have. Rocky also chimes in with a list of his top 5.
Follow Huck on Youtube!
Check out Huck’s awesome photography!
Some of the Topics Covered:
-Backpacking trip planning tips and tricks
-Backpacking gear
-Backpacking skills
Enlightened Equipmen
5 Backpacking CRISES on the TIMBERLINE TRAIL: How Would You Handle Them?
There were 5 Backpacking Crises on the Timberline Trail Patreon trip this year! Five might be a stretch but you be the judge? How would you handle them? How would Derek have handled them (if had the courage to attend)? Veteran backpacker Christine Marsh joins the show to discuss the color she added to the trip. And this is probably not something you’ve seen or heard before.
Some of the Topics Cove
The 8 MOST DANGEROUS Creatures That Will KILL YOU!
What are the 8 deadliest creatures known to mankind? And how can you avoid them on a backpacking trip? Derek and Carl discuss the method these creatures attack humans as well as simple ways to avoid and survive these attacks. Maybe it’s time to micromanage your friends and make sure their tent zipper is closed.
Some of the Topics Covered:
-The deadliest creatures on Earth
-Backpacking tips and tri
JUSTIN OUTDOORS: Game-changing GEAR That's 'The Best I've Ever Used' (Throwback Thursday)
On this Throwback Thursday episode, Justin Outdoors joins the show. He is our #1 seed for gear expertise on YouTube. Check out what he has to say regarding the game-changing gear that’s the best he’s ever used.
Find the best gear reviews on Justin’s YouTube Channel!
Enlightened Equipment: Check out the best Ultralight Quilts on the market!
GET BONUS SEGMENTS & EPISODES ON PATREON: There are ov
SAR Veteran Evaluates 6 Famous Movie Stunts That Could Save Your Life...with Moose Mutlow
Veteran Search and Rescue Yosemite team member Moose Mutlow joins the show to evaluate 6 famous movie scenes. He brings his expertise to rate the plausibility of the outdoor stunts pulled off by Rambo, Indiana Jones and others. He also shares some crazy SAR stories of his own. Moose is one of the top B&B guests over the years. This is one you won’t want to miss!
Some of the Topics Covered:
-Cr
Take the RED PILL! How You're Getting FOOLED by the Backpacking Matrix
Derek and Carl discuss the lies that you, fellow backpackers, believe. Some of them have been told to you. Some of you have convinced yourselves to believe these deceptive backpacking details. But don’t panic! Derek and Carl will clear things up and give you alternative courses of action to live a trail life independent of the backpacking matrix.
Some of the Topics Covered:
-Backpacking gear
-Back
MARTY RANEY: 'Not Everyone Made it Back From the Mountain.' (Bonus Thursday)
TV Star, homesteader, Denali guide…Marty Raney joins Derek and Carl to discuss a story he’s never shared before: a fateful trip to the highest peak in America and the unfortunate disaster that ensued. What happened on the mountain? Why did the rangers target Marty? And how did a small fortune go missing in the process? Also discussed is a crazy story from Marty’s adventure series ‘Ultimate Surviva
JEFF PELLETIER: You're Backpacking 'Stupid Light' IF You're Doing These 4 Things
The trusted authority on going ultralight over long distances, Jeff Pelletier, joins the show to discuss how you might be cutting corners to go ‘stupid light’. Or how Carl continues to take calculated risks that are unwise in Jeff’s opinion. Also, gear suggestions, hiking efficiencies, and pro tips are shared.
Subscribe to Jeff Pelletier’s awesome YouTube channel!
Some of the Topics Covered:
-Ultr
National Park Director CHUCK SAMS: Everything You Expect Us to Ask
Derek and Carl are joined by the most recent National Park Service Director, Chuck Sams. Topics include everything from getting blacklisted to Bigfoot to 3 suggestions Carl makes to improve the NPS system for backpackers and visitors. And, of course, there’s National Parks trivia.
Some of the Topics Covered:
-Getting rid of Recreation.gov
-How to become the next NPS director
-National Parks trivia
FAT MAN LITTLE TRAIL: 4-5ish Trail Snacks You've Never Heard Of (Bonus Thursday)
Comedian, Inspirer Greg Sakowicz (AKA Fat Man Little Trail) joins the show to discuss everything from new trail snacks to hiking tips to intense trail encounters.
Follow Greg on Instagram!
Get some amazing resources from the Fat Man Little Trail website!
Some of the Topics Covered:
-Hiking and Backpacking Snacks
-Life or Death Trail Situations
-Hiking Tips
Enlightened Equipment: Check out the best
3 Reasons I Hiked Faster & Farther 26 Years Later on the Collegiate Loop
Derek and Carl discuss what it takes to hike faster and farther with significantly more daily elevation gain for a broken-down guy who’s trying to thru hike the Collegiate Loop in Colorado. And, of course, there’s always the weird stuff that happens along the way. How would you handle the strange scenarios on this epic 10 day journey?
Some of the Topics Covered:
-3 ways to hike faster and farther
CIA Counter-Terrorism Analyst: The 3 Most Dangerous Places in the World to Backpack (and How to Get In)...with Brent Giannotta
What are the 3 most dangerous countries to visit for a backpacking trip? And how can you get in? Former CIA Counter-Terrorism Analyst Brent Giannotta joins the show to share his expertise. Carl and Ben also pepper him with every CIA movie reference and conspiracy theory they can muster.
Please follow Brent and subscribe to his Substack!
Some of the Topics Covered:
-Most Dangerous Places to Backpac
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