The Backpacking Light Podcast
The Backpacking Light Podcast explores the technology, gear, skills, and philosophy of backcountry wilderness travel through stories, interviews, and investigative reports.
Latest Podcast Episodes
Episode 61 | Frameless Pack Best Practices
In this episode, Ryan and Andrew discuss how and why to use a frameless pack while backpacking.
Episode 60 | Willow Belden of Out There
Ryan chats with Willow Belden from Out There. Also in this episode: updates on some new packs and the How to Use Gaia GPS masterclass.
Episode 59 | Ben Kilbourne Reads “Good Gear Lets You Be Present”
Ben Kilbourne reads his essay on the balance between caring about gear and being present on adventures.
Episode 58 | Benny Braden on Public Lands Stewardship
Andrew and Ryan talk with public lands advocate and accomplished backpacker Benny Braden about vandalism, stewardship, and social media.
Episode 57 | Cottage Industry Interview: Food for the Sole
Andrew talks to Food for the Sole founders Julie and Henry Mosier about running a food production business, scaling, staff management, recipe iteration, and more.
Episode 56 | Portable Battery Chargers for Backpacking
In this episode, we chat with longtime Backpacking Light contributor Rex Sanders about his ongoing tests of portable battery chargers. Also, Ryan and Andrew chat about vandalism on public lands, electronic device management, new gear from Atom Packs, and the benefits of freeze-drying.
Episode 55 | Managing Perspiration in Layering Systems: Wicking, Evaporation, and Ventilation
Ryan and Andrew discuss strategies and gear for managing perspiration in layering systems, including the processes of wicking, evaporation, and ventilation.
Episode 54 | Foot Injuries, Training, and Rehabilitation for Hikers with John Zombro
Physical therapist and athletic performance coach John Zombro chats with Ryan and Andrew about foot injuries, training strategies, and rehabilitation in the context of hiking and long-distance backpacking.
Episode 53 | Ben Kilbourne Reads “Going Home”
Backpacking Light contributor Ben Kilbourne reads his meditation on the transition from wilderness to trail to parking lot.
Episode 52 | Gear We Love (2021 Edition)
Andrew, Ryan, and the Backpacking Light team chat about their favorite gear they used in 2021.