Backpacking Light Podcast
Episodes
Episode 141 | Hiking at Night in a Blizzard
15 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
What gear do you actually need to hike out safely through a winter blizzard at night, in sub-freezing temps and high winds, when stopping isn't an opt...
Episode 140 | Winter Storm Decisions
09 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ryan walks through a structured, six-question framework for deciding whether to stay put or move when a winter storm deteriorates around you, using re...
Episode 139 | Repair Kits
20 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this Field Notes episode, Ryan breaks down ultralight repair kits using a simple framework: context, consequence, and capability. He compares short...
Episode 138 | Plan – Focus – Trust
10 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Ryan introduces the Plan-Focus-Trust framework - a simple but powerful approach to managing hard, uncertain objectives in the wild...
Episode 137 | The Risk Control Continuum
03 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we introduce the Risk Control Continuum - a practical, evidence-based framework for managing risk in the backcountry. He explores how...
Episode 136 | Fringe Season Layering
20 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
What is the difference in layering strategy from summertime to the fall-winter transition? In this episode, Ryan Jordan discusses how the environment ...
Episode 135 | Field Notes - The Metabolic Cost of Bushwhacking
13 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In the Field Notes episode, we explore why bushwhacking miles aren't just harder but metabolically different. The Metabolic Energy Mile (MEM) framewor...
Episode 134 | Sleep Quality in the Backcountry
06 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Backcountry sleep is fragile, and when it breaks down, recovery, judgment, and safety are at risk. In this episode, we examine the forces that fragmen...
Episode 133 | Human Waste Management
15 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Ryan Jordan examines why traditional cathole practices often fail in alpine, desert, and high-use environments. Drawing on scientific...
Episode 132 | Satellite Messenger Weather Forecasts
01 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Today's episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast is sponsored by Vaer Watches. A Vaer watch is an expedition-worthy, made in the USA, reliable, rugged...
Episode 131 | Ultralight First Aid Kit Strategies
19 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we discuss how to design scalable, evidence-informed first aid kits for backcountry travel. Grounded in the principles of context, co...
Episode 130 | Bivy Sack Camping
04 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Ryan shares his approach to bivy sack camping above treeline using a waterproof-breathable system built for stealth, weather protecti...
Episode 129 | Field Notes - The Limits of Wilderness Minimalism
28 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this Field Notes episode, Ryan Jordan explores what happens when wilderness minimalism reaches its limits. Through real-world examples and the lens...
Episode 128 | The Metabolic Cost of Carrying a Backpack
07 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
What does it really cost your body to carry a backpack in the backcountry? In this episode, we explore the science behind the metabolic demands of loa...
Episode 127 | Field Notes – Shelter Fabrics
23 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this Field Notes episode, Ryan Jordan explores the science of shelter fabrics - from strength-to-weight ratios and waterproofing to coating quality...
Episode 126 | Field Notes - Ultralight Chairs: Performance or Luxury?
02 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this Field Notes (shorts) episode, host Ryan Jordan challenges a widely held ultralight backpacking belief: that camp chairs are a luxury. Drawing ...
Episode 125 | How to Plan a Long Thru-Hike
19 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Many hikers dream of completing a long thru-hike, but face physical, mental, and logistical challenges that often lead to burnout, injury, or quitting...
Episode 124 | Fastpacking Pack Design with Black Diamond
05 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, host Ryan Jordan speaks with Black Diamond athlete Joe Grant and product designer Derick Noffsinger ...
Episode 123 | The 5 Fs of Fastpacking
21 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Learn how to fastpack smarter and lighter - Ryan Jordan breaks down the "Five F's of Fastpacking"—Focus, Fitness, Fuel, Footwear, and Fast & Light G...
Podcast 122 | Unconventional Sleep Systems
07 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Today's episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast is sponsored by Outdoor Vitals StormLoft Down Topquilt, featuring ExpeDry gold-treated water-resistan...
Episode 121 | What is Thru-hiking & GGG Giveaway
17 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 121 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about how to plan a short thru-hike. To view the shownotes for this episode, clic...
Episode 120 | Using Quilts in Cold Temperatures
03 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 120 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to continue our study of how to sleep warm in cold temperatures, focusing on the gear that...
Episode 119.5 (Bonus) | Trail Days Online! 2025 Preview
20 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we'll introduce you to the Trail Days speakers and give you a sneak peek at their presentation topics and expertise. From ultralight ...
Episode 119 | Sleep Warmer: Evening Routines
17 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about bedtime routines and practices for sleeping warm in the backcountry. To...
Episode 118 | Traction Spikes
03 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 118 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about traction systems for snow travel. To view the show notes for this episode, ...
Podcast 117 | Snowshoe Sizing | GGG
27 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 115 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn how to size snowshoes, minimize sinkage, and save energy for your next winter adv...
Episode 116 | Slope Angles
13 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode you'll learn how to measure and interpret slope angles to help you navigate steep terrain and assess hazards in the backcountry. To vi...
Episode 115 | Tiny Things
30 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 115 of the Backpacking Light Podcast we're sharing Big Talk about Tiny Things: Those little ultralight bits of gear that have an outsized i...
Episode 114 | Synthetic Fabric Structures
24 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 114 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about the different types of synthetic fibers and fabrics used in outdoor apparel...
Episode 113 | Pad Pumps
26 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 113 of the Backpacking Light Podcast, we talk about current PAD PUMP trends in the ultralight cottage industry, the challenges faced by sma...
Episode 112 | The Analog Backcountry Experience
11 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 112 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about the analog Backcountry experience and some of the gear that can help feed y...
Episode 111 | Business Lessons for Outdoor Industry Startups
29 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, Ryan and Lloyd discuss lessons learned from starting a business in the outdoor industry. To view the...
Episode 110 | Natural vs Synthetic Fibers
23 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 110 of the Backpacking Light Podcast, we talk about how natural and synthetic fibers influence thermoregulation. To view the shownotes for ...
Episode 109 | How Fishnet Works
16 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn how fishnet base layers work, we're gonna talk about a bigger battery and why...
Episode 108 | EI Coyote Quilts and Photo Satellite Messaging
30 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
On today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, Nikki Stavile interviews Brian Noakes of El Coyote quilts, and we talk about a new satellite mess...
Episode 107 | Backpack Ventilation with Vaucluse
25 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 107 of the Backpacking Light Podcast, we are going to learn about backpack ventilation and have a chat about pack design and its impact on ...
Episode 106 | Tent Stake Holding Power
26 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 106 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about tent stake holding power and have a chat about tent stake design with Suluk...
Episode 105 | Expedition Kite Skiing Across Greenland with Jesse Crocker
31 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about traveling off-trail responsibly, a rain jacket that defines new standar...
Episode 104 | Outdoor Industry Hiring + Bennett Fisher (Jolly Gear)
25 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In Episode 104 of the Backpacking Light Podcast, Ryan and Lloyd interview Jolly Gear founder Bennett Fisher, chat about what is in their day packs, an...
Episode 103 | Cottage Industry Trends
17 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Episode 103 of the Backpacking Light Podcast is a collaboration between Backpacking Light and Garage Grown Gear, home to more than 200 small, startup,...
Episode 102 | Polartec Alpha Direct
31 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 102 of the Backpacking Light podcast you're going to learn about the origin, evolution, and use of Polartec Alpha Direct in modern ultralig...
Episode 101 | Take Less, Do More, With Glen Van Peski
08 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to talk to Glen Van Peski about the life lessons we can learn from ultralight backpack...
Episode 100 | Celebrating our Listeners and Gear for Hiking in the Sun
25 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In Episode 100 of the Backpacking Light Podcast we're going to celebrate sunshine and the one hundredth episode of the backpacking light podcast featu...
Episode 99 | How to Hide Your Food from Bears
12 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about how bears smell, and what you can do to hide your food from the nose of...
Episode 98 | Canister Stoves in the Winter
19 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 98 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn how to get the most out of your ultralight canister stove for winter backpacking. ...
Episode 97 | Backpacking with Dogs
05 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 97 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn what it's like to hike with your dog in the backcountry. To view the show notes fo...
Episode 96 | Building Resilience for Backcountry Adversity
22 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 96 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn how to build resilience in the backcountry. To view the show notes, click here!
Episode 95 | Natural Fibers in Outdoor Performance Apparel
08 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 95 of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to learn about the types of natural fibers that make up the fabrics we use for base layer a...
Episode 94 | Backcountry Cooking + SOS Buttons
18 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to talk about pressing the SOS button, as well as gear and best practices for backcoun...
Episode 93 | Wilderness Emergency Rescue
04 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we're going to talk about wilderness emergency rescue from the very different and unique persp...
Episode 92 | Tenkara, Ultrarunning, and Performance Minimalism
20 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast we're going to talk about a very unique way to enjoy tenkara fly fishing in the backcountry, and t...
Episode 91 | Fishnet Mesh Base Layers
13 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to talk about fishnet base layers. To view the show notes for this podcast, click her...
Episode 90 | Alpaca Wool Baselayers
06 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to talk about four season tents, a new ABC watch that could dethrone the Garmin Fenix,...
Podcast 89 | Fall Layering Systems
02 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, we are going to talk about fall layering systems. To view the show notes for this episode, visit ...
Episode 88 | 2023 Ultralight Gear Update
10 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Episode 88 of the Backpacking Light podcast features nine pieces of gear from Ryan's kit that he liked, didn't like, and is sitting on the fence about...
Episode 87 | Publisher's Gear Guide
23 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Episode 87 of the Backpacking Light podcast features highlights from our new Publisher's Gear Guide - the gear that I actually own and use on my backc...
Podcast 86 | Ultralight Shelter Fabrics
08 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to talk about ultralight fabrics used in backpacking shelters. To view the show notes for...
Episode 85 | Backcountry Lightning Risk Management
10 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to talk about lightning storm risk management in the backcountry. To view the show notes ...
Episode 84 | Satellite Messaging (ZOLEO)
03 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, we interview Morris Shawn, President of Roadpost and Zoleo, about satellite messaging and the evolut...
Episode 83 | Shelter Condensation
09 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we're going to talk about managing condensation in shelters. To view the show notes, click here.
Episode 82 | Fabric Repairs in the Backcountry
23 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This episode features fabric repair kits for hiking and backpacking, including various fabric repair scenarios, strategies, and supplies. Check out th...
Episode 81 | Unresting Event
15 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, Ryan interviews Ben Kilbourne about his recent album, Unresting Event, and they discuss creating in ...
Episode 80 | Backcountry First Aid Kits
17 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, Ryan discusses ultralight first aid kits for backcountry use. Check out the program notes here.
Episode 79 | The 12 Stages of Backcountry Tenkara
27 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This episode is targeted to the backcountry angler who may be new to tenkara fly fishing, to help them understand (1) how tenkara fishing fits into th...
Episode 78 | Stove System Performance (Flame Power vs. Fuel Efficiency)
20 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we're going to address stove system performance and specifically, flame power versus fuel efficiency. To view the show notes for this...
Episode 77 | Planning, Pooping, and Campfires: Backcountry Leave No Trace Challenges During the Winter
22 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we're going to examine some of the principles of Leave No Trace in the context of winter backcountry...
Episode 76 | Vapor Barrier Gloves and Socks
13 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we are going to explore vapor barrier systems for the hands and feet. To view the podcast shownot...
Episode 75 | Winter Layering for the Legs
08 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Much attention is paid to layering for the torso, head, hands, and feet - but the legs are often ignored. However, during winter conditions, an intent...
Episode 74 | Shelter Stakes for Winter Camping
23 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we address winter shelter stakes for frozen ground, hard snow, and unconsolidated snow. To view the shownotes for this podcast, click...
Episode 73 | Avalanche Awareness for Backpackers
09 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, you're going to learn about avalanche awareness in the context of winter hiking, snowshoeing, and sk...
Episode 72 | The Cottage Industry
23 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode we talk to Garage Grown Gear CEO and co-founder Lloyd Vogel where we'll be diving into the outdoor gear cottage industry. To view the ...
Episode 71 | Sleeping Bag Layering Systems
15 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we're going to talk about how to use multi-layered sleep systems to stay warmer on multi-day trip...
Episode 70 | Fall Backpacking & Cold Feet
02 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we're going to talk about how to mitigate cold feet during fall-season backpacking conditions.
Episode 69 | Ultralight Shelters in Inclement Weather
11 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we're going to talk about gear and skills for pitching ultralight shelters in inclement condition...
Episode 68 | Unpacking the New Garmin inReach Messenger
30 Sep 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In today's gear short episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we're going to talk about the brand new Garmin inReach Messenger and how it fits into ...
Episode 67 | How to Poop in the Woods (Skills and Tools for Backcountry Pooping)
09 Sep 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this skills short episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, Andrew and Ryan talk sh**, a.k.a, 💩. How to poop in the woods? It's an age-old que...
Episode 66 | Hiking Cameras: Compact, Durable, and Lightweight Cameras for Hiking and Backpacking
26 Aug 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this skills short episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, Ryan and Andrew discuss small cameras for backpacking. Today's episode is very focused ...
Episode 65 | Empowering Young Women in the Outdoors with Amanda Hatley
09 Aug 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, Andrew and Ryan chat with She Summits Co. founder and director Amanda Hatley. She Summits is a femal...
Episode 64 | BPL Author Spotlight: Contributor Drew Smith
22 Jul 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Andrew chats with Backpacking Light Staff contributor Drew Smith. If you are a reader of the website, you may know Drew from his love...
Episode 63 | BPL Author Spotlight: Staff Writer Mark Wetherington
21 Jun 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Andrew chats with Backpacking Light Staff writer Mark Wetherington. Mark began backpacking in 2007 as a student at the University of ...
Episode 62 | Dan Durston Talks X-mid and More
10 Jun 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Andrew chats with gear designer and biologist Dan Durston. Dan is an accomplished backpacker and longtime Backpacking Light member. H...
Episode 61 | Frameless Pack Best Practices
17 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Ryan and Andrew discuss how and why to use a frameless pack while backpacking. click here for show notes
Episode 60 | Willow Belden of Out There
03 May 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Ryan chats with Willow Belden of Out There. Out There is a podcast that tackles big questions through intimate storytelling and is co...
Episode 59 | Ben Kilbourne Reads "Good Gear Lets You Be Present"
12 Apr 2022
Contributed by Lukas
We talk a lot about gear on this podcast. Gear is fun, and if you are a fan of this pod, you probably have an interest not only in if something works,...
Backpacking Light Podcast | Episode 58 | Benny Braden on Public Lands Stewardship
29 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Benny Braden is a public lands advocate and accomplished long-distance hiker. In this episode, Andrew and Ryan chat with him about public lands stewar...
Backpacking Light Podcast | Episode 57 | Cottage Industry Interview: Food for the Sole
15 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Andrew chats with Henry and Julie Mosier of Food for the Sole about running a small business in the outdoor industry, idea iteration,...
Backpacking Light Podcast | Episode 56 | Portable Battery Chargers for Backpacking
04 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we chat with longtime Backpacking Light contributor Rex Sanders about his ongoing tests of portable battery chargers. Also, Ryan and ...
Episode 55 | Managing Perspiration in Layering Systems: Wicking, Evaporation, and Ventilation
01 Feb 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Ryan and Andrew discuss strategies and gear for managing perspiration in layering systems, including the processes of wicking, evaporation, and ventil...
Episode 54 | Foot Injuries, Training, and Rehabilitation for Hikers with John Zombro
19 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the backpacking Light Podcast, we interview physical therapist and athletic performance coach John Zombro about foot health, footwe...
Ben Kilbourne Reads "Going Home"
03 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Backpacking Light contributor Ben Kilbourne reads his meditation on the transition from wilderness to trail to parking lot. Click here for show notes...
Episode 52 | Gear We Love 2021 Edition
20 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
We're gonna wrap up the year with a survey of gear we loved using in 2021. We polled the Backpacking Light staff and contributors and asked them to ta...
Cottage Industry Interview: Livio Melo of allmansright
30 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
This is the first installment of the Backpacking Light Podcast's new series of cottage industry interviews - where Andrew and Ryan chat with some of t...
Episode 50 | Listener Q & A
23 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
It's our 50th episode! To celebrate, we reached out to listeners and asked them to submit their big backpacking questions. We received fantastic quest...
Skills Short: Untraditional Layers
09 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
In this SKILLS SHORT, Andrew and Ryan chat about layers that don't quite fit into the traditional three-layer system. Click here for show notes: http...
Waterproof Breathable Fabrics
26 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, Ryan and Andrew chat with Backpacking Light author and materials tester Stephen Seeber about layerin...
Mark Wetherington Reads "The Backpacking Tithe Project"
12 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, longtime Backpacking Light contributor Mark Wetherington reads his essay The Backpacking Tithe Proje...
Water-resistant Down
23 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
In today's podcast, Andrew chats with some of the folks from IDFL Laboratory and Institute (originally known as the International Down and Feather Tes...
Skills Short: Backcountry Creativity
03 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
In this SKILLS SHORT EPISODE, Ryan and Andrew talk about strategies and techniques for creative pursuits in the backcountry: painting, writing, compos...
The New Reality of Western Wildfires
20 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Andrew chats with Jadon Bales (Communications Director, Wyoming Wildlife Federation) about the new reality of wildfire behavior in th...
Observing Transition Season
06 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, author Ben Kilbourne uses the writing of Aldo Leopold to examine his motivations when exploring the ...