Backpacking & Blisters: A Hiking, Backpacking, and Adventure Show
Episodes
130 - Dear Derek (A Marginal Advice Episode)
22 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Fellow adventurers from across the nation and beyond submitted a number of backpacking related questions to the podcast seeking the advice and wisdom ...
129 - ’Alone’ Winner Dave McIntyre!
15 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Season 2 winner of the hit TV show 'Alone', Dave McIntyre, joins the show and discusses survival, behind-the-scenes details, life after the victory an...
128 - Derek vs. Carl - Debating Trail Controversies
08 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Strangely, this is the first time Derek and Carl have had a formal debate episode. Five "hot" topics were chosen for the guys to debate. Derek comes p...
127 - The Top 5 ”Easiest” Ways to Lighten Your Load
01 Feb 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Can you shave pounds without spending any money? Yes! A number of options discussed by Derek and Carl are free! Are all of them 'easy' as the title su...
126 - Stop Making These 8 Mistakes!
25 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
This is not your typical record of mistakes. Whether you're a beginner or a trail veteran, you're probably making one or eight from Derek and Carl's l...
125 -Fun Facts for Gear Nerds (and Normal People)
20 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Derek and Carl explore some details about gear that you just may not know...and may actually help you. Carl attempts to lay some ground rules for the ...
124 - Trendy Ideas That Are Going to Die
11 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Derek and Carl discuss trends related to backpacking and the outdoors that they will predict will soon die out. They, of course, completely disagree w...
123 - 9 Lies Your Sales Clerk Told You
04 Jan 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Derek and Carl address some information passed on by outdoor sales clerks that might not be completely true. Some of them are funny and absurd while o...
122 - B&B Radio Volume 2
28 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Derek and Carl field a variety of questions and comments from fellow adventurers. Just a few questions/topics that came up: how do you handle a creepy...
121 - Monster Miles with Sam
21 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
What does it take to hike monster miles? Sam Bonnecroy made an attempt at the Fastest Known Time record on the Centennial Trail last summer. He shares...
120 - NATHAN PETTIJOHN: Travels With Hafa
14 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Author Nathan Pettijohn joins the show to share his story Travels With Hafa. Billed for adventurers, vagabonds, and dog lovers there's a little someth...
119 - Talk to Yourself...From the Future
07 Dec 2020
Contributed by Lukas
In this awkwardly named, Derek-themed episode, the guys discuss each of their top 3 pieces of advice to their younger selves. Carl then brings up the ...
118: SONJA WIECK: The World’s Toughest Race
30 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
The World's Toughest Race (The Eco Challenge) is currently the best running adventure-based series on Amazon Prime. Sonja Wieck, from team Iron Cowboy...
117 - JESSE MANTAI: Spice Up Your Meals (Without a Spice Wheel)
23 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Jesse from the famous Backcountry Forward Youtube channel joins the show as a guest host. He brings helpful tips and comedic genius to an episode that...
116 - A Series of Unfortunate Canyonlands Events
16 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Derek and Carl recount a series of bad decisions from preparation to execution that led to another backcountry debacle. Fellow adventurer, Nate from t...
115 - ”Small” Upgrades That Make a Big Difference
09 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Derek and Carl discuss "minor" adjustments that they've tried over the years that improved their outdoor adventures. The word "small&qu...
114 - The Random Gear Box
02 Nov 2020
Contributed by Lukas
We all have gear that's been collecting dust for years. What do we do with it? And are any of us at risk of becoming a gear hoarder? (Derek certainly ...
113 - Cold Soaking & Other Terrible Ideas
26 Oct 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Season 4 is underway! Derek and Carl kick things off by discussing some outdoor trends that simply are not very good. And, regarding Derek's list, &qu...
112 - 10 Strangers In The Winds
14 Sep 2020
Contributed by Lukas
What happens when you invite 10 strangers to attend a backpacking trip in a remote part of Wyoming? The trip includes a high mileage day, a multiple m...
111 - Calling Upon Search & Rescue...for the 2nd Time
24 Aug 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Derek and Carl recount the narrative of the disastrous FKT attempt in Yosemite last summer. Carl thought pulling out of the event prior to the trip wo...
110 - Uncommon Gear Reviews & Trip Report
10 Aug 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Back from Ansel Adams Wilderness, Derek and Carl review a number of items not commonly referenced by most critics (including some that really have no ...
109 - On The Trail 2020 with the Entire Crew
27 Jul 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Derek and Carl are out with the crew in Ansel Adams Wilderness. Each member offers up opinions and tips from their own experiences. Carl accuses Derek...
108 - ROWAN SMITH: How To Avoid These 3 Common Hiking Problems
23 Jun 2020
Contributed by Lukas
In the first summer episode, Derek and Carl are joined by Rowan from Summit Strength to address some common physical problems people experience on the...
107 - The Season Finale
03 Jun 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Derek and Carl cover a lot of ground in this episode. Derek challenges Carl to a What's that sound? game with backpacking related noises. Everyone lis...
106 - The First 40 Miles
25 May 2020
Contributed by Lukas
The pioneers of the backpacking podcast join the show to reflect upon the ups and downs of their trail experiences. Heather and Josh from the First 40...
105 - The Junk Drawer of Backpacking
18 May 2020
Contributed by Lukas
What is the junk drawer of backpacking? And why do we put so many different items there? Derek and Carl each suggest tips for organizing a particular ...
104 - Backpacking Shark Tank with Tayson Whittaker
11 May 2020
Contributed by Lukas
The concept of Shark Tank revolves around entrepreneurs pitching their inventions to potential investors. Derek and Carl have come up with their own b...
103 - B&B Radio
04 May 2020
Contributed by Lukas
A variety of topics are discussed on this "call-in" show where fellow adventurers pose questions and comments about all things backpacking. ...
102 - Where to Hide Your Wallet & Other Weird Tips
27 Apr 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Do you pack your wallet or hide it in the car? How do you overcome a trail argument? How do you keep chips intact? This is just scratching the surface...
101 - JIM MYERS: Derek Challenges a Bigfoot Expert!
20 Apr 2020
Contributed by Lukas
It took a while but Derek and Carl finally convinced a Bigfoot expert to the join the show. Owner of the Sasquatch Outpost in Bailey, Colorado and coh...
100 - CHRIS SMEAD & MATT FAVERO: Highline
14 Apr 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Chris Smead made a full, feature length backpacking movie called Highline! This episode features an interview with Chris along with Matt "Details...
99 - JUSTIN OUTDOORS: Budget vs. Premium Gear
07 Apr 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Gear expert Justin Outdoors joins the show and reveals some gear you should consider that is high quality and highly affordable. Check out his awesome...
98 - JESSE MANTAI: Ramen Bombs, Spam & Jetboil Hate?
30 Mar 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Derek and Carl and joined by Youtuber Jesse from Backcountry Forward for an in depth discussion regarding cooking setups. They discuss budget cookware...
97 - A Prepper’s Paradise
23 Mar 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Fieldcraft expert Bill Stoker from Stokermatic Youtube Channel joins the show to discuss essential skills while out in the wilderness. He is a wealth ...
96 - Trail...Conspiracies?
16 Mar 2020
Contributed by Lukas
At times there are some strange things afoot on the trail. Derek and Carl explore some of these strange cases. Carl thinks Derek struggles with his st...
95 - The Best (and Worst) Gear of...1995
09 Mar 2020
Contributed by Lukas
It's that time of year when everybody comes out with their "best of" gear list for current and new models. If you've been listening for long...
94 - Your Longest Day Yet!
02 Mar 2020
Contributed by Lukas
This is not a training episode! At least it's not in the traditional sense. Whether you're looking to knock down some miles or your permit dictates a ...
93 - 9 Pieces of Bad Advice You Should Stop Taking
24 Feb 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Women should never hike alone. Your pack weight should be about 25% of your body weight. These pieces of advice (and more) were submitted to Derek and...
92 - Love It or Ditch It?
17 Feb 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Are you bringing items that should be left home? Everybody has an item or two (or more) in their pack that could easily be replaced with a lighter opt...
91 - Don’t Go Out There Alone!
10 Feb 2020
Contributed by Lukas
It's hard to find the right people to go with...but it's worth it! Expert Devin Ashby from famed Youtube Channel Backcountry Exposure joins the show t...
90 - Don’t Pack Your Fears!
03 Feb 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Are you packing extra items because you're simply concerned about the 'what if?' Probably. Most of us do that. But there are ways to prevent overpacki...
89 - These Gear Companies Can Help You!
27 Jan 2020
Contributed by Lukas
When you go to your local outdoor store or shop online you find the usual big name gear companies that dominate the market. Derek and Carl have 5 up a...
88 - 5 Skills That Will Improve Your Trip!
20 Jan 2020
Contributed by Lukas
This is not your typical list of backpacking skills. Youtuber Kevin Outdoors joins the show to provide some insight on a few skills that will make you...
87 - Trust the Trail
13 Jan 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Derek and Carl are joined in this episode by the Trust the Trail podcast. GET MORE CONTENT! Please support us at Patreon to get bonus episodes, videos...
86 - Trip Planning Tips, Tricks and Tools
06 Jan 2020
Contributed by Lukas
It's time to start putting trips on the calendar! Whether you're an experienced planner or it's your first crack at it, Derek and Carl explore a varie...
85 - The Razor’s Edge of Funk
30 Dec 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Just how dirty is too dirty? Just how smelly is too smelly? What should we really bring in our toiletry kits and what can we leave at home? These ques...
84 - Listener Trivia
23 Dec 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Since it's Christmas week Derek and Carl have an abbreviated episode. For those that have listened since toward the beginning or those that have gone ...
83 - Blisters...And Backpacking
16 Dec 2019
Contributed by Lukas
There's more to blister prevention than simply wearing the right socks. Derek and Carl give a thorough explanation of how to find the right footwear i...
82 - 20 Uses For This Underrated Item
09 Dec 2019
Contributed by Lukas
There's a piece of gear that almost everyone brings with them on every trip. Sometimes it's used sparingly and sometimes it's not used at all. Derek a...
81 - Your Problems, Our ”Solutions”
02 Dec 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Problems out on the trail range from minor annoyances to major issues. And some are more likely to be solved than others. Derek and Carl tackle proble...
80 - Strange But True
18 Nov 2019
Contributed by Lukas
What does Deet actually do to a mosquito? Is it possible to get mold inside your sleeping pad? Can marmots break your car? These questions and much mo...
79 - The Worst Case Scenario Podcast Handbook
11 Nov 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Derek and Carl have researched worst case scenarios related to the trail. They challenge each other with how to properly handle them. How would each f...
78 - The Best (and Worst) Trails of All Time
04 Nov 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Depending upon what you're looking for, how long you plan to go, or the region you're in, there are obviously a lot of options. Derek and Carl attempt...
77 - Don’t Trust This Gear List!
28 Oct 2019
Contributed by Lukas
This is not an episode listing all of the items you have on your gear list. Derek and Carl each examine a gear list that pops up in top search results...
76 - Embarrassing Questions You’re Afraid to Ask!
21 Oct 2019
Contributed by Lukas
What backpacking questions are too uncomfortable to ask? Derek and Carl each bring a few to the table and discuss both the questions and the answers. ...
75 - Overcoming Water Filter Hate
14 Oct 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Carl thinks there's an issue with every type of filter and every brand of filter. But...after trying a bunch of them he has a solution that should wor...
74 - This Gear Might Break On You!
07 Oct 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Which gear is most likely to break on you out in the field? Derek and Carl each have their list of items to watch out for and "solutions" if...
73 - Do You Have Camp...Manners?
30 Sep 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Should notorious snorers bring earplugs for everyone? Is there a passive aggressive way to get people to go to bed at a reasonable hour? How much of a...
72 - Revamp Your Daytime Menu!
23 Sep 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Oatmeal, energy bars, and trail mix are the most common items on a hiker's daytime menu. It's time to mix it up! Derek and Carl suggest some other bre...
71 - Seven Deadly Backpacking Blunders
16 Sep 2019
Contributed by Lukas
This is not your typical list of hypothermia, getting lost, and broken bones. This list involves common tasks, scenarios and decisions trail users enc...
70 - 8-10ish Gear Hacks That Might Change Your Life
09 Sep 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Season 3 has begun! This episode explores using gear in creative ways and learning how to handle gear more efficiently to make for more successful tra...
69 - DAN BECKER: Lighten Your Load!
19 Aug 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Famous Youtuber Dan Becker joins the show to share some of his insights on lightening one's load...without spending much (or any) money. He also outli...
68 - Olympic National Park Trip Report
29 Jul 2019
Contributed by Lukas
For all of their experience, Derek and Carl still manage to make significant blunders on backpacking trips. This episode answers questions like...when...
67 - 8 Rookie Mistakes You Might Be Making
17 Jun 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Sometimes we fall into bad habits and don't even realize it. This episode examines inefficiencies that occur due to lack of awareness, affordability, ...
66 - The Summer Challenge (Season Finale)
10 May 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Derek and Carl wrap up Season 2 reflecting on takeaways big and small. The Most Ridiculous Backpacker of All Time vote has concluded and the winner is...
65 - The Death Hike FKT Attempt
03 May 2019
Contributed by Lukas
This is an episode about embracing the challenge. Do you ever try to stretch yourself to your physical limits? Is there a high probability of disaster...
64 - The Most Ridiculous Backpacker of All Time & Trip Report
26 Apr 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Many of us have brought items into the backcountry that are regrettable. But some do this intentionally. Derek and Carl share the nominations for the ...
63 - The Trail Name Generator
12 Apr 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Where did trail names come from and how does one get one? Derek and Carl explore the idea of trail names and then really dig into the results of a qui...
62 - Fit to Get Packing OR Packing to Get Fit?
05 Apr 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Are the big trips your way to get your fitness on? Or do you train to dominate the trail? And which one will make for the better wilderness experience...
61 - Just Rub Some Dirt On It
29 Mar 2019
Contributed by Lukas
There's a fine line between foolish decisions and straight up adventure. When should we play it safe and when should we just go for it. No equation ha...
60 - GRADY POWELL: The Ursack Strikes Back!
22 Mar 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Green Beret, Ultimate Survival Alaska Star, Dual Survivalist and now, Ursack representative, Grady Powell joins the show to give a different perspecti...
59 - Is Celebrity Bushcraft a Joke?
15 Mar 2019
Contributed by Lukas
No doubt many of these celebrities know their stuff, but are some of them giving straight up bad advice? Derek and Carl weigh in on a couple of these ...
58 - Can Derek Plan a Backpacking Trip?
08 Mar 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Trip planning can be an art form. And it isn't for everybody. But is it for Derek? Carl challenges Derek to plan a specific trip for a group of people...
57 - Can Bears Make Ice Cream?
01 Mar 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Derek and Carl react to the information regarding bear canisters provided by Ranger Rick Sanger. They break down his arguments and provide "resea...
56 - RANGER RICK SANGER: The Ultimate Bear Discussion
22 Feb 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Over the course of the first two seasons Carl and Derek (mainly Carl) have challenged some wilderness regulations--especially related to bears. This e...
55 - Rite of Passage
15 Feb 2019
Contributed by Lukas
How come America does not have rites of passage for men and women? And is it really all that important? Derek and Carl explore the journey from adoles...
54 - Don’t Desert Dessert in the Desert
08 Feb 2019
Contributed by Lukas
The desert is an oft overlooked wilderness area. But it's a place of real beauty and it can extend your backpacking season if you prefer warm weather....
53 - MORE Tips, Tricks & MORE Hijinks!
01 Feb 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Can penny water keep bugs away? Can sheet metal screws help with traction? In this episode, Derek and Carl are joined by guest host, Steve, as they co...
52 - Trail Characters...The Dark Side
25 Jan 2019
Contributed by Lukas
This episode could also easily be called "Don't Be That Guy/Gal." Pulling from experiences (some of them personal), Derek and Carl identify ...
51 - BUZZ BURRELL: Fastest Known Time
18 Jan 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Trail legend Buzz Burrell joins Derek and Carl in this episode to discuss a growing movement based upon the Fastest Known Time website. Do average (or...
50 - The Backpacking Darwin Awards
11 Jan 2019
Contributed by Lukas
While the real Darwin Awards involve poking fun at others' misfortunate deaths, the Backpacking and Blisters version pokes fun at others' misfortunate...
49 - Answers to Age-Old Questions
04 Jan 2019
Contributed by Lukas
While philosophers and social experts ponder the chicken or the egg, nature vs. nurture, or where have all the Sasquatch gone, Derek and Carl come up ...
48 - Is Technology Ruining Our Wilderness Experience?
28 Dec 2018
Contributed by Lukas
Derek and Carl debate the merits of various electronics in the backcountry. Are they more likely to save your life or become a stronger leash to the &...
47 - Plug It In Hikes
14 Dec 2018
Contributed by Lukas
Who is the man with the trail name "Plug It In"? This episode is devoted to a powerful story from Benny Braden. He holds trail speed records...
46 - Punching Old Man Winter...in the Face!!!
07 Dec 2018
Contributed by Lukas
Why don't more people venture out in the winter? Derek and Carl try to come up with solutions to get you out there in cold season. Carl even tries to ...
45 - What’s Your Sleep Number?
30 Nov 2018
Contributed by Lukas
Is it possible to make an episode about sleep...interesting? Derek and Carl take a crack at it. Why is it so hard for campers to get good sleep in the...
44 - The Backpacking By-laws
16 Nov 2018
Contributed by Lukas
Is the establishment of a sort of 'user agreement' for a group backpacking trip really necessary? Are we establishing ground rules or simply trying to...
43 - Merit Badges for Grownups
09 Nov 2018
Contributed by Lukas
With all of the required skills to head out into the backcountry, how do you measure up? Carl and Derek have developed a fool-proof system (that might...
42 - Gearhead Mythbusters
02 Nov 2018
Contributed by Lukas
Derek and Carl are definitely not gear reviewers. However, there have been multiple requests to discuss the gear they use. Favorites, least favorites,...
41 - Freeze Dried Fraud
26 Oct 2018
Contributed by Lukas
Are the freeze dried food companies price gouging backpackers? Or is it simply okay to call it a splurge if you pay $8 for mac and cheese? Derek and C...
40 - What kind of TRAIL Character are you?
19 Oct 2018
Contributed by Lukas
Some companies spend thousands of dollars to learn about their employees' personalities. Derek and Carl have an easier, cheaper way to determine wha...
39 - Drama in the Backcountry
12 Oct 2018
Contributed by Lukas
Most of us go out into the wild to get away from it all, reset, gain perspective, etc. However, when we bring or encounter other people, inevitably th...
38 - Sneaky/Devious Ways to Shave Weight
05 Oct 2018
Contributed by Lukas
You can spend hundreds of dollars to shave a weigh pounds from your pack OR you can listen to this episode and shave weight for free! Who carries the ...
37 - How to Poop in the Woods & More of Derek’s Favorite Topics
28 Sep 2018
Contributed by Lukas
If you've been listening to the podcast long enough then you know that Derek brings up 'going to the bathroom in the woods' all too frequently. In thi...
36 - Can You Pass the Trail Lingo Test?
21 Sep 2018
Contributed by Lukas
Do you know your trail lingo? There is a lot of verbage out there that is unique to the hiking community. Some are more common thru-hiker conversation...
35 - You’re Never Too Old to Learn (or Relearn) Something
14 Sep 2018
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to Season 2!!! In the season opener, Derek and Carl recap some things learned and relearned from their July trip. How important are group dyna...
34 - TAYSON WHITTAKER: The Future of Ultralight Backpacking
24 Aug 2018
Contributed by Lukas
In the final "between-the-seasons" episode Derek and Carl are joined by Tayson Whittaker from Outdoor Vitals. The main topics on the table i...
33 - On the Trail 2018
20 Jul 2018
Contributed by Lukas
In the second of three "between seasons" episodes, Derek and Carl are in the midst of their annual trip. From inside their 4 man tent, they ...
32 - How to Bring the High Maintenance Folk
22 Jun 2018
Contributed by Lukas
In this "between seasons" episode, Derek and Carl address taking kids, teenagers and pretty much anybody who would be considered high mainte...
31 - The Six Conflicts of Backpacking
31 May 2018
Contributed by Lukas
This is the Season Finale!!! Derek and Carl do a play on the literary conflicts by applying them to backpacking. Strangely, they all fit in one way or...