Hiking Gear Must-Have: Satellite Communicator or Locator Beacon

One of the most crucial pieces of hiking gear is a satellite communicator or personal locator beacon (PLB). In areas with no cell service, these devices connect you to satellites so you can send out messages, or in emergencies, activate an SOS alert. Mike highlighted the Zoleo satellite communicator, which pairs with your phone to let you stay connected even in the most remote backcountry.

While a PLB is more limited, functioning only as an SOS signal and it doesn’t require ongoing subscription fees. A communicator like Zoleo, on the other hand, may cost about $20 per month for a basic plan. Both options provide peace of mind, and either can be a literal lifesaver when venturing far from civilization.

Gear Essential: Portable Water Filter

Even if you think you’ve packed enough water, things can change quickly in the wilderness. That’s why a portable water filter is one of the smartest additions to your hiking gear. Unlike larger filtration systems that can be bulky, compact filters, like the Platypus model Mike recommends, are lightweight, simple to use, and small enough to forget they’re even in your bag.

In an emergency, you can scoop up water from a creek or river, attach the filter, and safely drink. For an item that takes up so little space, it offers huge benefits in terms of safety and peace of mind.

Reliable Headlamp: Hiking Gear You Shouldn’t Skip

The third must-have item is a dependable headlamp. While rechargeable models are environmentally friendly, they can leave you stranded if you forget to recharge before a trip. That’s why Mike suggests carrying a hybrid headlamp that works with both rechargeable packs and replaceable AAA batteries.

Being able to swap batteries on the trail ensures you’re never stuck in the dark. A reliable light source should live in your pack at all times, even for short day hikes—you never know when plans will change or emergencies will arise.

Safety Starts in Your Pack

Every outdoor adventure comes with unknowns, but carrying the right hiking gear can make all the difference. A satellite communicator or PLB, a portable water filter, and a hybrid headlamp are three compact, lightweight, and potentially life-saving tools worth keeping in your pack year-round.

As Mike emphasizes, it’s not about the length or difficulty of your hike, things happen. Having the right gear ensures you’re ready when they do.

To ensure you’ve got all the essentials and room to carry them, check out this quick guide on choosing the right backpack size for your adventures.

The post Hiking Gear That Can Save Your Life appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Therm-a-Rest Parsec Zero Degree Bag

What is the best cold weather sleeping bag?

When it comes to staying warm, dry, and making sound economic decisions, the Therm-a-Rest Parsec 0F/-18C Sleeping Bag is a top contender. This cold weather sleeping bag costs $529 (USD), which is far less than heavy-duty (i.e. -10 to -20F) expedition bags, but it still has some clutch features for those winter camping trips.

Nikwax Hydrophobic Down

It is stuffed with 800-Fill Nikwax Hydrophobic Down. This is an environmentally-friendly way to treat the individual feathers so that they repel moisture and dry faster. This means the down doesn't clump and you stay warmer, longer. I think the fabric on this cold weather sleeping bag is right up there with the most comfortable that I've experienced. And then the little touches really help elevate this bag even further.

Winter sleeping bag with cell phone pocket and draft collar

The Therm-a-Rest Parsec 0F/-18C Sleeping Bag has a cell-phone pocket helps keep your battery alive through those cold nights, and the air-mattress straps anchor you comfortably in place, even if you stir frantically while sleeping. And finally, the Parsec has a draft collar, which you've heard me say before, is critical for getting a quality sleep in cold conditions. And just a friendly reminder that the 0-degree (F) rating is the lower limit. The comfort-rating for the Parsec is 14-degrees (-10C). 

Lightweight Backpacking Chair – Hillsound BTR Stool 

If you've been following along with BackpackingTV and/or Hazeadventure.com, then you know that I've experienced a bit of a camping chair renaissance lately. In the past, I never bothered with the extra weight/bulk – choosing instead to park my keister wherever made sense. But lately I've come across a couple of stools that are so light, and so packable, that I can't resist.

Hillsound BTR Stool vs Grand Trunk Stool for backpacking

I've raved recently about the Grand Trunk Stool, and now I want to point you towards the Hillsound BTR Stool. Its minimal design is easy to use/pack, and it weighs only 14.7 ounces (17-inch version). Now, the downside of stools is that they lack the back support of a trustee chair. But, of course, chairs are also heavier. Chairs take up more space in your pack and good ones are quite a bit more expensive. So the never-ending list of backpacking trade-off calculations continues!

Backpacking Meals by Itacate

I love supporting small companies that contribute to the backpacking world in creative ways. Itacate was started by Martha Diaz. She is a fellow adventurer who decided to combine her Mexican cuisine sensibilities with her love of the outdoors. I tested out her Charge-up Chilaquiles the other night. I loved the flavor and enjoyed how spicy it was. But a note of caution for some, I suppose, since it is spicy. I just wish there was more.

The whole pack delivers 490 calories. I usually like to aim for that 600 – 700 range after a solid day of hiking. Be aware that these meals need to be added to a pot of boiling water. The package itself can't be cooked in like with some other dehydrated meals. I didn't mind this at all, but it's something worth mentioning. 

Thus concludes my triple-threat of recommendations to fantasize about over the weekend and into those post-seasonal sales. If you want to learn more about cold weather sleeping bags, backpacking chairs, or backpacking meals head on over to BackpackingTV for loads of other hiking tips and gear reviews. Also, get on the Hazeadventure mailing list so that you don't miss out on all our latest outdoor-adventure content. 

For more suggestions on how to sleep well while winter camping, click here. 

Sleeping Bag: Therm-a-Rest Parsec 0F/-18C Sleeping Bag
Camp Stool: Grand Trunk Stool, Hillsound BTR Stool
Food: Itacate

The post Fresh Gear Friday: Cold Weather Sleeping Bags and Other Gear appeared first on Hazeadventure.

What length backpack do I need?

Let's start from square one and assume you're on the hunt for your first backpack. You are staring at a wall of options while at a reputable outdoor dealer. The first thing to note is that sizing is based on torso length, not your overall height. People, both tall and small, are surprised to learn that their ideal backpack size doesn't match their expectations. Most popular backpacks come in small, medium, and large offerings. Packs will also indicate a suggested range in torso length for each increment.

To give you an idea, 18 – 22 inches is the typical range for a medium pack. Shorter than 18″ will drop you to a small backpack, and over 22″ will shift you into large territory. If you're at a place like REI or MEC, one of their staff will be happy to take your measurements. If you want to get a basic idea, then pull out the tape measure and go from the prominent vertebrae just below the base of your neck (C7), to your lumbar spine. Nailing your size is essential for the rest of the fitting process.

How to adjust a backpack correctly?

Once you've properly sized your backpack for your torso length, the next important step is to dial in your backpack's yoke system. There is a suggested range in torso length for each corresponding size pack. You may have to adjust the length of your backpack yolk up or down (typically with some kind of Velcro system) to tailor a specific fit.

From there, it's time to figure out all of those straps and buckles. I can't tell you how many times I pass people on the trail who are lugging a pack that just looks off and uncomfortable.

Pay close attention to your hip belt. This is the main feature that separates a multi-day backpacking pack from any old school pack. Ideally, you want about 50% of the load to sit on your hips. To achieve this, tighten the hip belt securely above the belt line on your pants, and just below your belly button.

Next, you may notice a gap form at your shoulder straps (especially if you had been wearing your pack too low). So give those straps a pull until they form a snug fit. Finally, turn your attention to those mystery straps above the shoulders that so few people utilize (which I'll get into next).

What are the top straps on a backpack for?

These important straps (i.e. the ones above the main shoulder straps) are often overlooked by backpackers. They control how far your pack falls away from your body, or how tightly it hugs against you. It's the latter position that you want to achieve because this will create the impression of a lighter burden.

Your fully-loaded pack will act like a lever that pulls against you if there's a gap between your upper back. This is not only counterproductive, but will probably negatively impact your posture too. This can lead you to hunch forward to compensate, or lean back in submission. So cinch these suckers up, not just at the trailhead, but throughout your hike. The weight and movement will naturally loosen them over time, and you'll have a much nicer experience.

What are chest straps on backpacks for?

The yoke system, hip belt, shoulder straps, and top, load-tightening straps, are all supportive systems. Whereas the chest strap is simply for comfort. By buckling this up and pulling it taught, the shoulder straps will transition out of your armpit area. Depending on the dimensions of your upper body, this may reduce friction while you're hiking.

However, if things are too tight across your chest, then your breathing might be restricted. Breathing is kind of important while hiking. Don't let the chest strap ride too high. Keep it well below your collar bones, but still above your nipples. Women may have another variable or two to consider here.

I recommend playing around with the chest strap to see what works best – and what works best may actually entail not using it at all (which I often don't). 

Those are the key areas to pay attention to when purchasing and fitting your backpack. There's no substitute for getting the proper size. So devote the necessary time to that task, and then the rest can be sorted out in front of the TV at home, or on the trail. But one last thing to keep in mind, your bag's best set-up may change depending on how full/heavy you pack it. So learn to love messing around with your backpack; you'll be doing it a lot!

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Stay tuned for notes on how to properly pack for your next trek. And until then, read more about hiking and backpacking, or subscribe to our newsletter for more hiking news!

The post How to Properly Fit a Backpack for Hiking appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Step 1: Use the best sleeping bags

Big Agnes Lost Ranger UL 3N1 Review

If you follow along with Backpacking TV, then you've heard me recently brag about this brand new sleeping bag. When I first saw it, I hardly knew what to think. I had never seen a sleeping bag like this. Probably because the Lost Ranger Ultralight is more of a comprehensive system, rather than a single unit that you haphazardly climb into at night. This 3-in-1 package was originally rated to 20-degrees fahrenheit. It has recently been revised to 15-degrees, due to its exceptional performance. 

The first thing to note is that you essentially get 2 sleeping bags when you buy this system. There is the inner, mummy bag, which on its own is rated to 35-degrees. So in a good range of conditions, this is all you will need.

When the occasion calls for it, the inner bag easily slides into the outer layer, which ends up looking more like a cozy quilt. The outer bag, on its own, is rated to 50-degrees. If you're a fan of fastpacking and you have the right weather-window, this baby will be your best friend.

What's even better is that the quilt wraps around and attaches to your sleeping mattress. AND it has a pocket for your pillow! No more wrestling with your balled up bag, or blindly searching for your errant pillow in the middle of the night. Cursing your one cold leg and stiff neck in a fit of frustration will no longer be required. This whole system stays in place for that REM-inducing goodness. 

Another fun fact about the Big Agnes system is that the full-length side zipper can attach to a 2nd unit, if you feel like expanding the slumber to 2 people. Oh, how we have been historically misled about the potential romance of backcountry camping. But no more! Just don't eat too much of those dehydrated meals before bed (if you catch my drift).  

A final hot-tip about the Lost Ranger 3N1

is that you can rotate in your existing sleeping bags for even more refined temperature ratings. The updated limit of 15-degrees is certainly impressive, but I'm no stranger to winter camping. I sometimes will need that extra boost. I have another 20-degree bag that I've leaned on a lot in the past. The other night when I saw that the nighttime low would drop to a mere 14-degrees I used this mix. This turned out to be a great call as I slept comfortably through the night. 

The bottom line is that the core elements of the Lost Ranger make me feel like I'm at home in bed. At first glance, I had my reservations, but now I'm a tried-and-true convert. I do recognize that the price point ($549.95 USD) might be a bit intimidating for the average camper.

Going with the non-ultralight version is still a great choice and will save you a few extra bucks. The Big Agnes Lost Ranger 3N1 will give you excellent range and a comfortable homebase, which will ultimately lead to improved sleep.  

If you want more info on this sleep system, check out my video: Gear I'm Stoked About.

Step 2: Use wider sleeping pads

How wide should a sleeping pad be?

A quality sleeping bag is only part of the equation. Don't discount the power of the sleeping pad/mattress. I used to strictly prioritize minimalism, which led me to balancing on a piddly 20-inch-wide mattress. Lately, I've upgraded to a 25-inch one, and I can't believe the difference it has made. That increase in width means that my arms can rest comfortably at my side, rather than slipping off the edges onto the cold, hard ground. And more importantly, in the middle of the night, my inevitable adjustments don't send half my body confusingly into no-man's-land. 

The funny thing about this discovery is I happened upon it by accident. I went with the Big Agnes Q-Core SLX Insulated Sleeping Pad, which was definitely the one I wanted. When I got home, I realized that I accidentally bought the 25-inch version, rather than the intended 20. Taking this as a sign from the Sandman, I decided to give it a whirl. I awoke 3 days later in an unexpected reverie. I knew that I had been living a lie up to that point. Screw the slight extra bulk and miniscule weight difference, a good night's rest is well-worth other sacrifices. 

Best night sleep backpacking

Usually getting through the night is just a grind-it-out means to completing otherwise incredible hiking trips. But nowadays, I'm legitimately enjoying my time in the tent. When you actually catch some zzzs, it makes recovering from the previous day's efforts that much easier. Therefore, sets you up for a noticeably better day 2, 3, and beyond. Once you figure out your best set-up, just get someone to read this article to you in their best ASMR voice and you'll be all set! Sleep well friends. 
If you enjoyed this rundown and want to learn more, check out all my gear reviews and other tips on BackpackingTV.

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links where Eric Hanson earns a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you, but it’s a great way to show your support. Thanks!

My favorite backpacking gear list

NOTE: These are affiliate links where I’ll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you, but it’s a great way to show your support. Thanks!

Backpack

Sleeping Bag

Satellite Communicator

Camp Stove

Cook pot

Freeze dried Food

Headlamp

Rain Jacket

Fleece Mid-layer | ALL-PACA Fleece Hoodie

Down Puffy Jacket (warm!)

Down Puffy Jacket (lightweight)

Hiking Boots

Hiking Socks

Gloves | Hestra Bike Ergo Grip Glove

Water Filter

Water Bladder

Camp Pillow

Folding Knife

Trekking Poles

Sunglasses

The post Sleeping Tips for Backpacking appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Backpacking Rule #1: Be prepared and plan your hike

If you were a Scout like me, or if you've watched the Lion King a few too many times, then you've had this mantra drilled into you. I know, it sounds obvious, but what does this actually mean? Being prepared entails having the right equipment for whatever could come about. Many environments that beckon us can be the types of places where the weather varies widely, and can change on a dime.

Plan for changes in the temperature

Make sure that you're sufficiently equipped for the daytime highs in the desert, but also the surprising nighttime lows. Likewise, pack not only for the windy mountain ridges, but also for the unexpected snow or rainstorm.

Being prepared for inclement weather means not only multiple layers that are up to the task (i.e. rain jacket, down jacket, thermal base layers, cozy mid-layers, additional sets of dry clothes, etc.), but also an adequate shelter and a solid sleep system (i.e. a sleeping bag with an appropriate temperature rating, an insulating sleeping pad, etc.).  

Being prepared also means having appropriate footwear, that is broken in and ready to log miles over specific terrain. A “good” pair of hiking boots or shoes might mean different things for different trails. You'll want to make sure your shoes are comfortable, not just out of the box, but on mile-10 and beyond, and that they are calibrated to the conditions.

Things like ankle support, waterproofing, breathability, cushioning, durability, sizing etc., can be both inadequate or overdone, depending on the terrain. Too much, or too little of these things and you might find yourself tending to blisters, nursing black toenails, getting soaked/chilled, or sweating up a storm. 

Navigation and route finding are critical skills

Being prepared also means knowing your route and how to navigate it. I always like to have a paper map and a compass on me. Sure, phone stuff helps a lot, but batteries die and you don't want to be left hanging in the middle of nowhere. Having the basic know-how to get yourself from point A to point B, without the unreliable crutch of technology is a backpacking must. 

Tell someone where you are going backpacking

Finally, being prepared means telling someone where you're going and having a backup plan in case you don't show up at your destination. There may come a day when this simple formula will save your life, but more often it will just give you and your loved ones some peace of mind. 

Rule #2: Pack light for your multi-day hike

I'm not advocating for some Kilian Jornet-style, ultralight fastpacking adventure, or even for counting every ounce, but just be aware of what you're bringing and if it is truly necessary. As a general rule, I recommend that beginners carry no more than 20% of their body weight. Obviously, there will be exceptions to this on the bookends of the bell-curve, but use this figure as a general reference-point. You'll be amazed how different a full-pack feels a few hours into a hike versus when you lifted it that morning in your bedroom. 

Tips to lighten the backpack

Carrying too much water is often the main culprit. Water weighs in at 2.2 pounds/liter. If you've packed 4, 5, maybe even 6 liters, then that is a substantial load. I like to carry what I realistically think I will need. Scouting water sources in advance, and bringing an effective filtration or treatment system can save you a lot of needless struggle.

Packing too much food can be a problem

Packing too much food is another thing that's really easy to do. I like to bring 2 pounds per day. Anything more than that gets to be excessive. I can't tell you how many times I've finished a hike with 6 – 8 pounds of extra food still in my pack. Sure, some redundancies are good practice, but don't overdo it, and certainly don't go too deep into the luxuries. Bring yourself a little treat, but then leave it at that. 

Get your backpack fitted properly

Another thing that can help reduce pack weight is getting your backpack properly fitted in the first place. It's often not as simple as just eye-balling it based on how tall or short you are. People have different leg to torso ratios that can change the requirements in unexpected ways. If you're lucky enough to live near a specialty outdoorsy retailer then they will likely have staff on-hand who can assist you. Alternatively, I have a video on my YouTube channel that helps make sense of this process. 

Don't strap everything to the outside

My final tip to help lighten your load is don't be a junkshow! It's pretty impressive, but also disheartening to see what some people try to bring with them on a backpacking trip. I kid you not, last summer I saw someone carrying a full-size mattress over their head. If you find yourself attaching all kinds of things to the outside of your bag, or rigging up contraptions to increase your capacity, you might want to do another inventory and make some cuts. Outside of the obvious (like trekking poles, a sleeping pad, and maybe a tent), if you can't fit it in your pack, then there's a good chance you shouldn't be bringing it. So ditch the dangly bits! 

Rule #3: Leave no trace

As outdoor enthusiasts, we are the shepherds of the land. It's our duty to not only look after the environment on which we tread, but also to set a good example for those around us. To leave no trace takes a few different forms. First, as already discussed, tell someone where you're going. This is important if you actually do get lost or injured, as it could save a ton of resources compared to if rescue teams had to search aimlessly for you. 

Travel on durable surfaces

Secondly, travel on durable surfaces. This means sticking to the trails or rocky terrain, instead of virgin soil, through delicate plant-life, or any other vulnerable areas, whenever possible. Similarly, when you get to camp, aim to set up your tent on previously impacted sites. 

Dispose of your waste properly

Furthermore, make sure to dispose of your waste properly. This means packing out everything that you brought in (including seemingly compostable stuff). This also means abiding by regulations when it comes to your special business. Often this means burying it in what's known as a cathole.

Space the cathole away from water

The general rule for a cathole is to pick a spot 200 feet (or more) away from water sources, dig a hole 6 – 8 inches deep, and bury the deed along with any toilet paper. Sometimes, you may even need to pack-out your waste. There are special bags you can purchase for this that help minimize the unpleasantness. It's not actually that bad and think of the cumulative difference this can make in high-traffic, delicate areas. 

Don't take things you find

The fourth principle of leave no trace is to leave what you find. In the backcountry of Southwest Arizona, I often come across arrowheads and other artifacts that are rather alluring. Sometimes just a cool-looking rock will tempt me like Abu (Oh man, two Disney references in one blog, what's happening?). But I resist pocketing anything so that future explorers can enjoy these things too. One little rock may not seem like much, but again, some National Parks see millions of visitors each year, so this could have a huge cumulative impact on the environment. If I do it, then it gives everyone permission to do the same, and that's simply not sustainable. 

Minimize your fire impact

The fifth element of leave no trace is to minimize your fire impact. There's nothing better or more primal than having a fire while camping. But, for starters, make sure that there isn't a fire ban in effect. If you have the go-ahead, aim to use existing fire-rings. It can be rude/disruptive to build your own, and it can even be dangerous.

Those of you who follow my adventures have probably heard me talk about the near-disaster experience of my youth that stemmed from making a new fire site. If you are in a completely wild setting, please take the time to learn how to clean up your pit afterwards, so that humans and animals alike won't ever know what transpired. Also, strive to use dead/detached firewood, rather than chopping down trees or hacking off branches/bark.  

Respect wildlife

The sixth component of leave no trace is to respect the wildlife. Don't shoot at animals, don't throw rocks or shout at them (unless for protection), don't feed them, and don't take that selfie with the buffalo on the side of the road. Just…don't. Let the animals be wild so that both parties stay unaffected and can keep on keepin' on. Watch, listen, and admire from afar if you can; take a photo if you must. 

Be considerate of others

The final part of leave no trace is to be considerate of others. This might mean not blasting music while at camp or on the trail, keeping your voices down while in peaceful areas, maybe leaving the drone at home, etc. Nothing wrecks a beautiful retreat into nature like obnoxious people. Don't be that person. Follow THE golden rule. 

From one lover of the backcountry to another, those are my tips/requests. If you make some mistakes here and there, don't beat yourself up. But try your best to be respectful of the environment and mind your surroundings. That way we can all keep enjoying our awesome adventures, guilt-free. 

If you enjoyed this article and want to learn more, check out all my gear reviews, tips, and adventures on BackpackingTV.

My favorite backpacking gear list

NOTE: These are affiliate links where I’ll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you, but it’s a great way to show your support. Thanks!

Backpack

Sleeping Bag

Satellite Communicator

Camp Stove

Cook pot

Freeze dried Food

Headlamp

Rain Jacket

Fleece Mid-layer | ALL-PACA Fleece Hoodie

Down Puffy Jacket (warm!)

Down Puffy Jacket (lightweight)

Hiking Boots

Hiking Socks

Gloves | Hestra Bike Ergo Grip Glove

Water Filter

Water Bladder

Camp Pillow

Folding Knife

Trekking Poles

Sunglasses

The post Three Golden Rules Of Backpacking appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Extending the lifespan of your well-worn gear means more savings to put towards gas in your tank. Any money you save can pay for campsite permits and everything else that goes into supporting your backcountry adventures. And let's not forget, repairing gear makes you look rugged/experienced to any freshly decked-out onlookers. So let's go over some home-remedy hacks to help stretch out your weathered gear another season or two. 

How do you maintain a waterproof jacket?

First step wash the gear with Nikwax Tech Wash

The first step to restoring/maintaining the water repellency of your rain gear is to wash it using some Nikwax Tech Wash. This will get the old dirt and debris off your jacket/pants and help boost its overall vibrancy. After that, put another cycle on, this time using the Nikwax TX Direct Wash-In. This does the job of re-waterproofing any technical fabrics that can fit in your washing machine. 

It's common for rain gear to lose its repellent properties over time. Just remember that that is expected and can be easily addressed. You don't have to rush out and buy a new one right away. Just use this multi-wash cycle method every year, if you're getting a lot of use out of your gear, or maybe every 2 – 3 years, if it's only seeing occasional action. 

How to restore a down jacket

Nothing beats a good down jacket. One of my favorite pieces of gear is my orange ultralight. But these fluffy coats can easily catch on things and tear. In my case, my loveable dog was so overcome with excitement at seeing a spring snowstorm that he jumped up on me to share the news. This punctured my down jacket and caused it to leak some insulation. 

Tear-Aid Patch for down jackets

Something I like to use for these types of tears is the aptly named Tear-Aid Patch. Type-A is widely applicable, and therefore good for things like down jackets, whereas Type-B is better for vinyl materials. These patches are great because they're flexible and see-through, which means it will blend in with any color. Other options that I like are made by Gear Aid, No Sew, and Tenacious Tape.

Before applying, make sure the area is clean and dry, that you've re-stuffed as much of the insulation as you could round up, and that you've trimmed off any frayed fibers so that the patch has a nice surface to stick to. Also, take note of the size and shape of the tear so that you can cut an appropriate patch. I was dealing with a L-shaped tear, so I opted for a classic square patch to thoroughly and evenly cover it. 

How to fix holes in a backpack

It's natural for gear to get some battle scars, especially when hiking through rough-and-tumble areas, and especially when your camera guy jams a tripod in the backpack you lent him for a shoot in canyon country. If you put something hard next to an outer layer that's going to face abrasion, then holes will inevitably develop. 

Contact the manufacturer for complicated backpack repairs

If you're facing down a complicated repair then consider contacting the manufacturer for a potential warranty claim. A lot of environmentally conscious brands, and/or brands who stand by their quality, will take items back on a reasonable timeline if there was a clear defect, or if it's a manageable fix. Small things like buckles or straps can often be dealt with at your local outdoorsy store (REI, MEC, etc.). So before you throw out your pack, or any other high-end gear in the landfill, consider looking into warranty/repair options. 

How to patch small holes in the backpack

In the case of my tripod-induced holes, I simply opted to patch it myself. I did so from the inside, which can make for a more sustainable and aesthetically pleasing seal. Later, if I need a little extra oomph, I can add more patches on the outside too. Since this backpack's fateful last adventure was in the desert, I definitely needed to clean the area so that it would allow for a nice adhesive seal. To do this, I used an alcohol wipe (Wet Ones type deal). Next, I cut a generous-sized path and rounded off the corners to reduce the likelihood of it peeling off.  

How to fix a leaking sleeping pad 

My trustee cameraman's attempted sabotage spilled over to my inflatable sleeping pad. I lent it to him, for one night!, and it promptly sprung a pinprick leak. Thankfully, this too is common. The hardest part is actually finding the hole, but then patching it is easy. To accomplish this first task, fully inflate your mattress and then feel around/listen for the pesky air jet.

Seams and the nozzle are places to check

Remember to examine the seams and the nozzle, as they can often be the leaky culprits. If you've searched high and low and still can't find the source, you can apply some water and soap to the suspected general area. This will change the sound and even create a little bubble. My pad was so stubborn that I actually had to take it into the bathtub to locate the tiniest of holes (that sounds weird but you know what I mean!). Once you find it, make a little marker dab so that you don't immediately lose sight of it.  

Patch kits and Aquaseal

For the actual repair, you can continue to use any or all of the patch brands I've previously cited, plus, I've found Aquaseal to be quite useful, or you may find that your sleeping pad came with its own little patch kit that is conveniently color-matched. Whatever you choose, make sure to deflate the mattress before applying the patch to ensure a more effective seal. Give it some time to fully take hold (typically 1 – 2 hours, but as much as 8 -12 hours) before you jump back into using your pad, jackets, or any of the gear we've discussed. 

Creative fixes on the fly

I like to bring a patch kit with me into the field, but if you're ever in a pinch, you can get pretty creative with your temporary repairs. I once used a Band-aid to slow the leak in my sleeping pad, just so I could get through the night. It may not sound like much, but that saved me from having to reinflate it every 1 – 2 hours, and instead bought me a solid 4 – 6 hours stretch. 

These are just a few potential repairs that I thought would have immediate and broad appeal. There are plenty of other hacks we could get into, which may even pop up on a future list. Let me know if there's anything you need help fixing, or any solutions you've come up with to extend the lifespan of your prized backpacking gear. 

I hope you enjoyed this article. For more information, check out all my gear reviews and tips on BackpackingTV.

The post How to Waterproof Jackets, Repair Hiking Gear & More! appeared first on Hazeadventure.