Backpacking involves a long and steady aerobic workout with fitness benefits that rival other more intense, higher impact activities. Although backpacking is a non-competitive recreational activity with a low chance of burn-out, the constant climbing and descending can lead to cramping and injury. Besides the overuse of the muscles, leg cramping is exacerbated by inadequate eccentric contraction strength, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance from sweating, and insufficient carbohydrate intake. Common Causes of Leg Cramps When Hiking When you are backpacking, the muscles in your leg contract while in motion and stretch out […]
Backpacking Tips
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If you hike with your dog in the U.S., you know how frustrating it can be to find a dog-friendly destination. Many of the national parks do not allow dogs on trails and state parks vary by state. Some U.S. states allow dogs on state managed lands while others, such as California, mostly prohibit dogs. This is why we’ve put together these useful resources to help you find tail friendly hiking and travel spots. What should I bring for my dog on the trail? Collar & Leash (with ID tag […]
Remember this helpful tip if you are ever lost during the dark when the moon is visible in the sky: mentally draw a line that connects the endpoints of the crescent moon and then extend this line to the horizon. This point where it touches the horizon indicates South.
Peak performance on the trail requires food that nourishes and strengthens you. Some tips on how to find it.
Suppose you are going on a last-minute overnight backpacking trip and have no backpacking food in storage. In that case, you’d be surprised to know how many choices you have at your local grocery store besides the Knorr dry pasta and rice meals, ramen noodles, and trail bars. Everyday Grocery Items Suitable for Backpacking While these items are not marketed as backpacking foods, they serve well on the trail or for traveling. For a hot meal, the general rule is to look for instant items with a cooking time of […]