
The Backpacking Podcast presented by Outdoor Vitals
By John Kelley, Jeremiah Stringer


269 Tackling Tornadoes & Wrong Turns on Trail
Outdoor Vitals Tarp: https://alnk.to/aLKyeIPWe are joined by WoodAllTrails today to talk about his trip surviving a tornado while backpacking and lots of other fun topics.
WoodAllTrails Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WoodAllTrails

268 Trading a Heat Wave for Snow Capped Mountains with Steven Smith
This week, we are excited to have Steven Smith join us for the podcast. In a very short time, My Life Outdoors has become the gold standard of backpacking YouTube channels and information on gear, tips, and the science behind backpacking. Hang out with us in the chat as we celebrate his most recent milestones, discuss new gear, and talk the future of backpacking.Check out our title sponsor, Outdoor Vitals at: www.outdoorvitals.com

267 Follow the Yellow Brick Cairn?
Check out the Ventus Active Hoodie from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/cb4x1CE
Garage Grown Gear Sale (90+ Brands) https://alnk.to/apUXnooThis week, we’re discussing the dangers of following cairns on trail, the excitement behind trail days beginning this weekend, and discussing the latest ground-breaking tent from Durston Gear.

266 Feeding Grizzly Bears Bacon In The Backcountry
Free Gear Outdoor Vitals Live UL Membership: https://alnk.to/1N3KpTVToday, we finish off the list of the 8 most controversial topics in the backcountry. We discuss the age-old debate of how to put your shoes on correctly, and we ask “Will it Bacon?” to something many of us enjoy daily.

265 The Greatest CONTROVERSIES of the Last Year
Check out our good friends at Outdoor Vitals (Live Ultralight Membership): https://alnk.to/1N3KpTV
What were the top 8 controversies of the last year in Backpacking? What is good bathroom etiquette in other peoples’ homes, and did Dan Durston just drop another game changer tent?

264 Will Logging Destroy National Forests?
Skyline Trail Joggers by Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/gVMS3Nh
Today, we’re talking about increased logging in our national forests. Is it to help with forest fire prevention? Make the US more self-reliant? Or is it just another money grab for the lumber industry?

263 Never Trust a TSA AGENT on Your Way To ARKANSAS
Check out the Neebo Windbreaker (up to 22% off): https://alnk.to/gKS4xGN
What happened when JK went to Arkansas with a bunch of strangers? Why does he avoid the TSA like the plague? Find out answers to these questions and more as we chat about John's trip to Devil's Den State Park in Arkansas.

262 Too Much Food, Too Little Warmth, and Not Enough Sleep with Devin Ashby
How do you train up a new backpacker to be ready for the backcountry? What does that first trip look like? We’ll be answering these questions and more with our good friend, Devin Ashby.
Check out Devin's website and new gear: backcountryexposure.com
(use code EXPOSURE10 to get 10% off)
Also check out Outdoor Vitals' 100 Mile Challenge: https://alnk.to/faDcBZY

261 Backpacking On A Budget with WoodAllTrails
Join us breaking down budget backpacking and Cranberry Wilderness with Johnathan Woodall from WoodAllTrails.Outdoor Vitals trekking poles ALL ON SALE: https://outdoorvitals.com/collections/trekking-poles

260 Broken Ankle Redemption with Jason Waugh
In this episode, Jason Waugh from the YouTube channel "Backpacking with Jason" jumps on the show to tell us about his epic adventure on the John Muir Trail in Northern Tennessee. After severely breaking his ankle last year, how did he do as he put that ankle through its first major test?Check out the Outdoor Vitals Stormloft Topquilt here: https://bit.ly/4c2Kugi

259 National Forests are Burning Down.....sorta
What is getting ready to happen in the Daniel Boone National Forest?!?!? Discover how prescribed burns are crucial for maintaining forest health and reducing wildfire risks. We explore the strategies used by the National Forest Service and focus on areas like Dania Boone National Forest and River Gorge to help preserve our natural landscapes. We also introduce the backpacking March Madness Bracket for trail runners. #WildfirePrevention #ForestManagement #PrescribedBurns #NationalForestService #EnvironmentalProtection #FireSafety #CommunityAwareness #DaniaBoone #RiverGorge #WildlifeHabitatCheck out the Skyline 30 Fastpack from Outdoor Vitals, ON SALE NOW!!! https://alnk.to/1N3uRV5

258 Could Tariffs Shut Down Cottage Companies?
Regardless of political leanings, recent tariffs placed on other countries from the US will have an effect on American consumers and companies. In this episode, JK sits down with the owner of Hilltop Packs, Ben McMillen to talk about a volatile topic in a way that may surprise a lot of people.
Check out the Shadowlight Backpack by Outdoor Vitals (27% off): https://alnk.to/31sMVXg

257 Ride Along, Search and Rescue, and Landscaping
Check out the Vario jacket from Outdoor Vitals: https://outdoorvitals.com/products/vario-ultralight-jacketIn this video, we recount our recent off-roading adventure along the scenic Red River Gorge Byway. Join us as we welcome Jeremy Rodeffer (All Things Out Doors on YouTube), who shares his insights and experiences from the trip. Additionally, we dig into a discussion comparing off-roading and backpacking, exploring the advantages and disadvantages of various gear options. Whether you are an off-roading enthusiast or a backpacking aficionado, this video offers valuable information and tips for your next outdoor excursion. #OffRoading #Backpacking #adventuretravel

256 Car Camping Gourmet, Bidets, and Colonic Viruses
In the first livestream of 2025, we find ourselves talking about just about anything! Between what kind of food we like to eat when camping out to understanding how we start our days and get our minds right, this episode should have you laughing till your ribs hurt.Check out the Summit Down Sleeping Bag over at Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/3J7I5rt

255 HIgh Quality H2O: The WATER Episode
Join us as we dive into the crucial role water plays in backpacking! We cover essential topics like effective filtration techniques, personal tips, and unforgettable experiences. Discover how to stay hydrated on the trail, overcome challenges, and ensure your water sources are safe. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a newbie, there may be something here to elevate your backpacking experience!Check out The OV 100 Mile Challenge: https://alnk.to/aWEHdOt#backpacking #water #waterfiltration

254 It's ILLEGAL to HIKE into CANADA from the USA
In this podcast, we delve into the newly enacted laws that make crossing the Canadian border illegal for hikers on the Pacific Crest Trail. Join us as we explore the implications of these regulations on outdoor enthusiasts, hear firsthand accounts from Jeremiah's international hikes, and discuss the environmental and safety concerns that led to these changes. Stay informed and prepare yourself for your next adventure on this iconic trail!Check out The OV 100 Mile Challenge: https://alnk.to/aWEHdOt

253 R-Value is For Sissies!!!!
Today we talk about myths within the realm of sleeping bags and quilts. What makes them warm? How should they be used? Find out in today's episode. Join the 100 Mile Challenge with Outdoor Vitals! Find out more information here: https://outdoorvitals.com/products/2931759

252 When The Stupid Cold Becomes the Unexpected
Jeremiah and JK talk about Jeremiah's recent trip out into the snow and cold here in the Bluegrass state. What happened and who did Jeremiah drag into the woods with him?
Check out our title sponsor, Outdoor Vitals: www.outdoorvitals.com

251 Treadhead Money Scams
What would you do if someone asked for your help financially only to find out it's a deliberate scheme to get money from hikers? That's what we're talking about on this episode. We'll also get an update on Jeremiah's incident hitting a dog with his truck. Check out the Vario Jacket from Outdoor Vitals: https://outdoorvitals.com/products/vario-ultralight-jacket

250 HOAs are EVIL! So are Privacy Fences and Stray Dogs
It's episode 250 of the Backpacking Podcast!!! What have we learned? Are we growing as backpackers? Do we still succumb to our ADHD during each episode? Tune in and find out! Check out our title sponsor, Outdoor Vitals: www.outdoorvitals.com

249 Winter Backpacking Is For Insane People
JK and Jeremiah discuss the plusses and minuses of backpacking in the cold.
Be sure to check out our title sponsors, Outdoor Vitals and their Vario Jacket currently on sale right now! https://outdoorvitals.com/products/vario-ultralight-jacket

248 Hiking Bibs, Tree Stands, and Abnormal Backpacking Food w/ Mr. Backpacking with Jason, Sir!
Join us as we ring in the new year with one of our best friends and chat about new gear, trips, and whatever comes to our twisted minds. https://www.youtube.com/@BackpackingWithJason Be sure to check out our title sponsors, Outdoor Vitals and their Vario Jacket currently on sale right now! https://outdoorvitals.com/products/vario-ultralight-jacket

247 Backpacking Gear UPGRADES w/ Johnathan Woodall
We all start out somewhere with our gear, and we progressively update as we learn more. Join JK, Jeremiah, and special guest Johnathan Woodall from the YouTube channel, Woodall Trails, as we discuss our gear journeys and where we've come from. Be sure to check out our title sponsor, Outdoor Vitals: www.outdoorvitals.com Check out Johnathan's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WoodAllTrails

246 When AI Teaches Us How To BACKPACK!
Jeremiah and JK ask Chat GPT to give us tips on how to start backpacking. Were they good ideas? Were they awful?
Get your own Backpacking Podcast Swag over at shop.backpackingpodcast.com
Check out our title sponsor, Outdoor Vitals, over at www.outdoorvitals.com

245 Our FAVORITE BACKPACKING GEAR For 2024
Jeremiah and JK discuss their choices for favorite gear for 2024.
Check out some of the gear in this video:
Rain Jacket: https://alnk.to/3ycvzHT
Pants: https://alnk.to/6xLofCv
Pot: https://amzn.to/4gB0aJ3
Utensils: https://alnk.to/c08SEXk
Hygiene Kit: https://alnk.to/fShy7PS
Trekking Poles: https://alnk.to/7BfW1qL
Trail Runners: https://alnk.to/4qMimLP
Go over to Outdoor Vitals and check out all the great sales they have going on right now! https://alnk.to/58rkpaQ

244 All I Want For A BACKPACKING CHRISTMAS
Jeremiah and JK talk about the recent temperature drop and what they would want for Christmas this season. Check out our title sponsors, Outdoor Vitals, and their 12 Days of Christmas sale: https://outdoorvitals.com/

243 How to ALMOST DIE, Then COME BACK for More with Gordon Crum
Tonight, we hang out with a true backcountry creative. He’s skilled in bushcraft, backpacking, and survival. But there’s a lot more to Gordon Crum than you may know.

242 Microspikes, Ramen Noodles, and Conquering the CDT with Ben Minegar
He’s a long trail veteran who has recently conquered the Continental Divide Trail. We’ll pick his brain on how he prepared, planned, and accomplished the amazing 3100 miles-plus trail.
Check out Outdoor Vitals at www.outdoorvitals.com

241 Hypothermia, Survival Failures, and Taking Celebrities Snowmobiling with Brent Fuchs
This Veterans Day, we’re having former US Special Forces medic Brent Fuchs on the show. Brent is an avid outdoorsman and professional speaker who is impassioned about positive mindset and resilience. Join us as we learn about Brent’s past adventures and what adventures lie ahead. You can learn more about Brent at: https://www.brent-fuchs.com Check out a cause that Brent is passionate about: https://www.shieldingourfuture.com Be sure to visit our title sponsor, Outdoor Vitals, and get in on their early Black Friday Sale now: https://www.outdoorvitals.com

240 Saving Lives While Almost Losing His Own - John May
Get you BPP Swag here: shop.backpackingpodcast.com
In this podcast, we’re hanging out with John May, the Chief of the Wolfe County Search and Rescue in Wolfe County, KY. We’ll see what it’s really like for the first responders of the backcountry and how they keep us safe in the outdoors.
Check out John May's podcast with the Wolfe County Search and Rescue: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wolfe-county-search-rescue-team-life-saving-stories/id1769029601Go and visit our title sponsor, Outdoor Vitals' website: www.outdoorvitals.com

239 The BPP Halloween Special
Join us for a spooky night of mayhem and madness on this episode. We’ll hit on a number of scary topics sure to keep you up at night.
Be sure to check out our Title Sponsors Outdoor Vitals: www.outdoorvitals.com
Go to the Backpacking Podcast Shop: https://shop.backpackingpodcast.com

238 Turkey Pew Pews & Baby Doo Doos
In this episode, JK and Jeremiah talk about everything from trail maintenance in emergency situations, to turkey hunting, to baby poo stories. This is definitely NOT one of your typical podcasts. Check out our title sponsors, Outdoor Vitals at www.outdoorvitals.com

237 Epic Camp Food, Northern Lights and Hiking with Your Kids w/ Phillip Barker
In this episode, we chat with Phillip Barker, founder and owner of Delicioats and the director of the Bonding Through Backpacking Summit. We also chat about the recent Kentucky Backpacking YouTubers Meetup. Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals at outdoorvitals.com Get your hands on some sweet BPP swag today! https://the-backpacking-podcast-shop.myspreadshop.com/ https://delicioats.com/ https://www.bondingthroughbackpacking.com/access What happens when over 20 youtubers get together for a weekend in the red river gorge? Find out tonight.

236 New Food, New Gear, New Life with Devin Ashby
After spending a year as a full-time podcaster, Devin Ashby sits down with JK to share about what this last year has looked like, what gear he's most excited about, and what the future looks like.
Be sure to check out Outdoor Vitals at outdoorvitals.com
Get your hands on some sweet BPP swag today! https://the-backpacking-podcast-shop.myspreadshop.com/

235 Pee In Bottles, Poop In Bags & Hiking For Mental Health with Woody Ellis
Woody's Bio: Charity hike 2.0. 2,000+ miles across North America for mental health awareness and healing. Join me for a stretch and we will feature the charity of your choice!
WoodyWalks.com
Get your hands on some sweet BPP swag today! https://the-backpacking-podcast-shop.myspreadshop.com/
Be sure to check out our title sponsor, Outdoor Vitals to pick up some amazing backpacking gear at www.outdoorvitals.com

234 50 Year Old Gear on a 50 Year Old Trail with Jared Champion
In this livestream, we’re hanging out with Jared Champion, who just hiked the Colorado Trail using gear that would’ve been used the year the trail was established. What were the struggles and highlights of this trip? Find out in the next hour.
Get your hands on some sweet BPP swag today! https://the-backpacking-podcast-shop.myspreadshop.com/
Be sure to check out our title sponsor, Outdoor Vitals to pick up some amazing backpacking gear at www.outdoorvitals.com

233 Two Guys, One Bronco, Driving in a Lake! David Gray and Jeremy Rodeffer
All they do is drive SUVs over really big rocks and video it! We’re here for all of it in this episode as we have two backpacking vets joining us to talk about their overlanding adventures together. Get your hands on some sweet BPP swag today! https://the-backpacking-podcast-shop.myspreadshop.com/ Be sure to check out our title sponsor, Outdoor Vitals to pick up some amazing backpacking gear at www.outdoorvitals.com

232 Going to Maine with Sally Chaffin Brooks
Join us as we hang out with author, comedian, and Appalachian Trail thru hiker, Sally Chaffin Brooks. Be sure to check out Sally’s new book, “Going to Maine” out now!
Sally's Website: https://www.sallychaffinbrooks.com
Outdoor Vitals Windbreaker: https://outdoorvitals.com/products/nebo-windbreaker

231 National Park Reviews Gone WRONG!!!!
Jeremiah and JK discuss some of the worst reviews online for our national parks. Were they warranted, or were they ridiculous? Go check out our title sponsor, Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/9T97utj

230 Caves are BORING and Bears BITE!
Mammoth Caves National Park has the strangest advertising in USNP history, and what happens when two men go in the Alaska wild and are attacked by a brown bear?
Go check out our title sponsor, Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/9T97utj

229 Beef Jerkey, Salted Nuts, and Iodine
What happened when an 89 year old man got lost in the woods for 10 days? Watch the video and find out. Go check out our title sponsor, Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/9T97utj If you're needing beard care, go check out our friends over at Outdoor Beards and use the code BACKPACKING to get 10% off your order: outdoorbeards.com

228 Which LONG TRAIL Would You Hike?
If you could choose any long trail to hike, which one would it be? Which one do you have no interest in? Check out our title sponsor, Outdoor Vitals! https://alnk.to/4BGlySi

227 The Guide To Ruining Peoples Backpacking Trip
This episode covers more of the most annoying people to backpack with. A complete guide to ruining other's experiences backpacking. Check out Outdoor Vitals and their new Skyline Trail Joggers at: https://alnk.to/8PEarUg

226 How To Make Your Friends ANGRY On Trail
If you want to make campfires uncomfortable, hiking unbearable, and dinner time a chore, listen to this episode. Check out Outdoor Vitals and their new Skyline Trail Joggers at: https://alnk.to/8PEarUg

225 More DIRTY SECRETS Of Backpacking
225 More DIRTY SECRETS Of Backpacking

224 Dealing With A Softball Sized Ankle with Jason Waugh
In this episode we continue the story of Jason's ankle and how he was able to finish his most recent kayak camping trip.
Check out Outdoor Vitals and their new Skyline Trail Joggers at: https://alnk.to/8PEarUg

223 Broken Ankle On Jeremiah's Recent Trip... Backpacking With Jason
John, Jeremiah and Jason unpack the adventure that led to a broken ankle in part one of this epic tale.
Check out Outdoor Vitals and their new Skyline Trail Joggers at: https://alnk.to/8PEarUg

222 Jeremiah Puts JK To The TEST!!!!
Jeremiah quizzes JK about the top 10 Frequently Asked Questions from New Backpackers. Check out Outdoor Vitals and their new Skyline Trail Joggers at: https://alnk.to/8PEarUg

221 The SHELTER SYSTEMS We Love!
JK and Jeremiah share their favorite shelter systems they actually use on trail. Check out Outdoor Vitals and their new Skyline Trail Joggers at: https://alnk.to/8PEarUg

220 Offroading with Dad, Shelter Systems, and Jeremy Hates Bugnets
Jeremiah and JK spend too much time talking about an offroading trip trip before chatting about their favorite shelter systems...both tents AND hammocks! Check out Outdoor Vitals and their new Skyline Trail Joggers at: https://alnk.to/8PEarUg