If you're new to backpacking, or if you’re hopelessly in love with someone who wants you to love backpacking, then this podcast is for you. We’ll talk about the essentials, how to lighten your load, and how to make the most of your time on the trail.
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201: Cowboy Camping
Show Notes: Episode 201
Today on the First 40 Miles, we’ll talk about cowboy camping and why we tried it. Then a story from a listener about how she transitioned from car camping to backpacking. Today’s hack is a great way to repurpose an old towel, and we’ll wrap up with a little trail wisdom from someone who knew the answer to life’s question!
Opening
* What is Cowboy Camping?
* Why we did it
* Why we didn’t do it sooner
* Who inspired us
* What we’ve learned
* How it’s changed the way we backpack
* https://boundlessroamad.com/2018/01/17/the-art-to-cowboy-camping/
Top 5 Tips for Cowboy Camping
Pick a warmish, dry night
* Low 50s
* Dry
Pack a waterproof ground cover
* We used a patio window insulation kit
* $12
Pack warmer
* You’ll be missing the 5-10 degrees of warmth and wind protection that a tent provides
Plan for bugs
* Permethrin is a great way to treat clothes/sleeping bag exterior
* Ticks, mosquitoes
Have an emergency shelter on hand
* Something that can keep you dry in case it starts raining or snowing
* We brought the Appy Trails Mark V tent with us on our PCT Section hike so we could fit us and our two boys–just in case
NOTE:
Be sure to open your eyes in the middle of the night—the stars are amazing!
Story from Listener Michelle G.
Backpack Hack of the Week™: Terrycloth Cotton Towel Squares
* 3”x3”
* Repurposed towel
* Perfect for scrubbing feet at night
* Can be reused
Trail Wisdom
“The only question in life is whether or not you are going to answer a hearty ‘YES!’ to your adventure.”
—Joseph Campbell