Hikers often report feeling mentally and physically better when on a gluten-free or gluten-light diet while on the trail. However, gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, can be challenging to eliminate. Gluten is present in most high-carbohydrate backpacking foods, such as pasta and rice meals, cereals, and packaged snacks. Preparation is key when it comes to gluten-free backpacking food. Before embarking on your journey: Take the time to plan your meals and snacks carefully. Consider factors such as caloric density and ease of preparation. Opt for lightweight, non-perishable ingredients that sustain energy throughout your trek. Learn to […]
Life
46 posts
No cotton. Cotton absorbs perspiration and does not dry quickly. It also takes up too much space and weight for packing. A better option is organic cotton blended with faster-drying natural fabrics, such as Tencel (lyocell) or Bamboo. Tencel is a fabric produced from the pulp of the eucalyptus tree. Bamboo is a type of rayon produced from the fast-growing bamboo plant. Both dry more quickly than cotton. If you must wear 100% cotton, try a lighter-weight fabric. Generally, more lightweight fabric will dry quicker and feel more comfortable. Tencel absorbs 50% more sweat than cotton but contains tiny fibrils, or small hairs, that give it sweat-wicking properties. Cotton does […]
A review of UV Water Sterilization using the SteriPEN Journey Collecting water from a nearby river, stream or spring can often mean the water is contaminated with a host of bacteria, parasites and other organisms resulting from animal waste or decay. Fortunately, sterilizing water using ultraviolet (UV) light is quick, easy, and works without the use of any chemicals. This portable UV sterilizing device is perfect for treating water while backpacking or foreign travel. How does it work? The SteriPEN (manufactured by Hydro-Photon) is equipped with an optical grade quartz lamp which emits a shortwave germicidal ultraviolet (UV) light to […]
This 5 minute video gives you some tips you might not think of when selecting boots or shoes for hiking. Do you find videos like these helpful? What else would you like to see? Please let us know! We are considering offering more videos and tips related to camp cooking and backpacking as well. Before we invest the time, we’d like to get your feedback.
Motion sickness? These natural remedies may be worth a try if you or your passengers start feeling queasy while traveling