Second Act Backpacking

Second Act Backpacking

The Second Act Backpacking Podcast is for those who didn’t start in their 20s or have been away for a long time but still want to get out there. We cover beginner backpacking, gear, lessons learned, and real-world experiences to help you confidently take on your next adventure.

Episodes

May 25, 2026 33 mins

In this episode of Second Act Backpacking, we take a practical look at modern backpacking clothing through the eyes of someone who remembers when 40 to 60-pound packs, heavy boots, military ponchos, and a full change of clothes for every day were considered normal.

A lot has changed. Some of it is better. Some of it is hype. And if you are getting into backpacking, returning after a long break, or trying to lighten your pack after ...

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What happens if your phone dies, breaks, or disappears over the edge of a mountain overlook?

In this episode of the Second Act Backpacking Podcast, we dig into one of the most important safety topics for backpackers, hikers, and anyone heading into the backcountry: navigation.

Modern GPS apps, smartphones, watches, and satellite communicators are incredible tools, but they are not foolproof. Batteries die. Phones break. Offline map...

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We're back from our shakedown trip with tales from the trail and lessons learned. This episode covers a short, low-stress overnight that tested gear, packing choices, and solo-safety routines.

Highlights include gear reviews and impressions — Garmin inReach, a Durston X‑Mid 2 tent, a lightweight stove and cook pot, sleep system adjustments, water filtration checks, and tech power planning — plus what worked and what still needs tes...

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In this episode of the Second Act Backpacking Podcast we continue the shakedown hike series with a clear, practical look at first aid for the trail — what injuries you’re most likely to face (blisters, minor cuts, and burns), how to prevent and treat them, and the basic lightweight items worth carrying.

We also cover decision-making zones (green, yellow, orange, red), when to self-evacuate or seek rescue, and encourage getting form...

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In this episode of The Second Act Backpacking Podcast, we’re recording on the road and in the backcountry as we break down two critical topics every backpacker needs to understand:

  • Why a shakedown trip is essential before any real adventure
  • How to stay safe using a simple framework: The 4 W’s

A shakedown trip isn’t about miles—it’s about making sure your gear works, your setup makes sense, and you don’t learn hard lesson...

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Ultralight backpacking dominates the conversation, but is it actually the best approach as you get older? In this episode, we break down the real trade-offs between weight, comfort, and mileage, and how to find your own sweet spot on the trail.

 

Full Description and Episode Guide:

In this episode, we take a realistic look at one of the biggest debates in backpacking: ultralight vs comfort.

While ultralight backpacking has exploded...

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If you’ve ever thought about getting into backpacking but felt like you missed your window, this episode is for you. Likewise, if you're looking to return after a long hiatus, there's a lot you're wondering now that you're older.

We break down what actually matters when starting later in life, and what doesn’t.

In this episode, we cover:

  • The biggest fears that stop people from starting
  • Fitness myths vs reality on the trail
  • Why...
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