Thru-Hiking 101

Certain equipment is so important it deserves to be carried on every hike. This list of essential hiking items can be a lifesaver if you're ever in an emergency.

How much does a thru-hike cost? We put together a thru-hike cost calculator so you can estimate the cost of your next long-distance hike based on your own hiking style.

This post covers one of the most expensive things you can do in town: stay the night. Here are options from camping outside of town to staying in a motel.

We took 4 types of tent stakes to the JMT to do a real field test over 17 days and 240 miles of hiking. Find out which one is best for you!

I tested a brand new Sawyer Squeeze on my 17 day thru-hike of the 211 mile John Muir Trail (250 actual miles).

Even after hiking for many years, I learn something new every time I adventure out into the wild. Check out these 7 hiking tips before your next hike!

Vacuum sealers are great for preparing backpacking meals for on trail, as well as preserving food you have at home.

A ground cloth or footprint is used to protect your tent floor from sharp objects that can easily puncture the bottom of your shelter.

If you're going on a thru-hike, you should try to keep your pack weight low. Here are different types of scales that could help prepare you!

The majority of people don't apply enough sunscreen when they adventure outdoors. Here are 7 tips to stay protected while on trail!

Plastic sealable bags are a great way to organize your food and gear without adding a lot of weight. Find out which bag is best for you!

Before you head out for your thru-hike or backpacking trip, it's important to ensure your tent seams are adequately sealed.

A sewing kit is one of the most underrated hiking necessities. Here is what should be included in your sewing kit to be most prepared.

If you're not careful, you may end up carrying an unnecessary heavy case while backpacking. Find out which cases you should leave at home!

Reducing your pack weight is very important for thru-hikers and long-distance backpackers. To help reduce the total pack weight it's important to focus on the pack's base weight.

Lightweight backpacking or thru-hiking doesn't need to be expensive. Following these ten tips will help you along the way to packing a lighter pack.

The head represents about 10% of the body's total surface area and leaving this exposed to the cold can rapidly reduce your body temperature. Here are three different types of hoods you can wear in the outdoors to keep you warm.

Having a few purification tablets in your pack provides a great backup in case you need to purify water while you are hiking.

Tent stakes should be placed all the way into the ground with no angle. Here we show you how to properly place a tent stake while camping.

The two most popular insulators are made from synthetic fibers or down. When preparing for your thru-hike or backpacking trip, you should know which type of insulation is best for your needs.

A dull knife can become more dangerous than a sharp knife so it's important to know how to keep your knife sharp to maintain its full utility.

The insect repellant, Permethrin, is designed for clothing and is effective against mosquitoes, ticks, spiders, chiggers, and mites.

We tested the holding power of four of the most popular and commonly used tent stakes to see how they performed. Here is what we found...

If you have tent stakes that are silver and are not colored at the top, they will likely be hard to see when you put them in the ground. Try this easy hack!

There are four basic types of commonly used tent stakes: the Y-stake, V-stake, Shepherd's Hook stake, and the nail stake.

Every thru-hiker and backpacker should carry a knife. The best knife is one that can carry out multiple functions and remain lightweight.

We have identified two types of water containers you should avoid and two types you should consider using for your next thru-hike or backpacking trip.

If you are going on an overnight backpacking trip or a thru-hike, you should really carry a shovel with you to dig your cat holes.

If you are hiking the entire PCT or CDT, you will likely need an ice axe at some point. Learn how to securely attach one to your backpack.

A hiker box is a box or area where hikers, trail angels, or others leave items for other hikers. They can be filled with all types of things.

In some hiking areas, people are leaving a negative impact by littering toilet paper. The outdoor bidet can help alleviate this problem.

Certain equipment is so important it deserves to be carried on every hike. This list of essential hiking items can be a lifesaver if you're ever in an emergency.

We compared four headlamps so you can see the advantages and disadvantages of the different types. The ideal headlamp for your hike will depend on your individual needs.

In a pinch, you can use duct tape to repair a tear, but for a more permanent repair I recommend using repair tape.

It's super important to keep your water bottles clean on your thru-hike. Using bleach crystals is an easy, lightweight solution.

If backwashing your Sawyer water filter doesn't help clear it, you might have calcium deposits. Try this easy trick to fix it.

We reviewed the PETZL e+LITE emergency headlamp and found it is incredibly light and puts out a minimum amount illumination.

The PETZL Tactikka 300 lumen headlamp puts out enough illumination for night hiking the less groomed trails.

A lumen is a measure of the total quantity of visible light emitted by a light source. Generally the higher lumens the better illumination.

We reviewed the Princeton Tec Byte 200 lumen headlamp and found it is lightweight & puts out a good amount of illumination for night hiking.

We reviewed the Princeton Tec Byte 100 lumen headlamp and found it is lightweight and puts out just enough illumination for night hiking.

We tested five of the most popular lightweight backpacking stoves in various controlled wind conditions to see which stove performed the best in fuel efficiency and boil times.

We tested the newly released Jetboil Stash backpacking stove and this is what we found.

We tested three of the most popular disposable lighters based on cost, weight, packed dimensions, and number of lights. Find out which one was rated the best.

The BIC full sized lighter is the most common disposable lighter in the United States. We ran some tests to see how long it would last.

The Clipper Mini lighter is a compact, refillable lighter popular in Europe and the UK. We ran some tests to see how long the Clipper Mini lighter would last.

We know that in order to use our app out on the trail, you have to keep your phone battery alive! Here are some tips to try and keep your phone from dying quickly while you’re out hiking off the grid.

A luxury item can make a huge difference on your thru-hike. Here are some items you may want to consider bringing with you on your next thru-hike or backpacking trip.

We tested the difference between five different diameter pots to see if one size performed better than another. This is what we learned...

I always wondered whether I should leave my stove connected to my fuel canister or if it was better to take it off. Here's what I found...

Regular glasses cases are heavy. We came up with a better, more ultralight idea for you to consider on your thru-hiking or backpacking trip.

As one of the most popular lighters for thru-hiking and backpacking, we decided to conduct a test and see how long a BIC Mini lighter would last.

We analyzed the calorie density of 12 different backpacking food items to illustrate the theoretical maximum number of calories that can be placed in a BearVault BV500 bear canister.

Are you going to bring a bear canister on your next thru-hike or backpacking trip? Here are some helpful tips to consider!

A backpacking spoon is one of the most cherished pieces of gear a hiker carries. We tested seven different spoons for performance, price, and weight to help you make your utensil decision!

Paul conducted an experiment to set out and see if he can provide scientific evidence that a lighter shoe is better for long-distance hiking.

Have you ever wondered how long a travel-size tube of toothpaste should last? We did the research so you will know.

We disassembled a Sawyer Squeeze filter to show you how it filters water and why you should backflush it to keep it clean.

I wrap up my series of Sawyer filter reviews by testing the flow rate of the Sawyer Mini against the Squeeze and Micro.

It is more effective to use the Sawyer coupler or a Smartwater bottle nozzle to backflush your Sawyer Squeeze filter than to use the Sawyer syringe that comes packaged with the Sawyer Squeeze filter.

We continue our review of the Sawyer Micro Squeeze and Sawyer Squeeze, this time with different squeeze containers, including the Vecto, Evernew, Smartwater Bottle, and Sawyer Squeeze Pouch.

We review Sawyer's new Micro Squeeze water filtration system.

Ten affordable lightweight backpacking items that are a must for any trip.

The majority of people don't apply enough sunscreen when they adventure outdoors. Here are 7 tips to stay protected while on trail!

We analyzed the calorie density of 12 different backpacking food items to illustrate the theoretical maximum number of calories that can be placed in a BearVault BV500 bear canister.

Are you going to bring a bear canister on your next thru-hike or backpacking trip? Here are some helpful tips to consider!

Snickers bars are a very popular thru-hiking and backpacking food because of the high-calorie density they have. We decided to test it out and see how many Snickers we could fit into the average bear canister.

Calculate how many calories you'll burn while hiking and plan how much food you'll need to bring on your trip using our Calorie & Food Weight Calculator.

Cooking a meal on the trail can be more difficult than cooking meals at home. Here are some tips and hacks to convert your cooking pot into a measuring cup.

When it comes to purchasing backpacking food, taking advantage of warehouse stores like Costco or Sams Club can save time and money. Here are some tips to help you shop smart for your hike.

Town food can be one of the most expensive parts of long-distance hiking. Here are some tips on where to eat and how to best spend your money when in town.

Preparing food for a long backpacking trip can be overwhelming. We provide some tips on how to choose the right food for you!

This blog post considers different body weights and hiking styles to provide a better estimate of the number of calories you will burn while backpacking.

We taste-tested 10 different instant coffees and a few mocha mixes. Find out how they taste, how much they cost, and whether this is a good choice for your backpacking trip.

We tested eight different methods for making coffee in the outdoors, each with varying taste, cost, and weight.

How much food do you take backpacking? How much SHOULD you pack? Read how Guthook plans the right amount.

We tested five of the most popular lightweight backpacking stoves in various controlled wind conditions to see which stove performed the best in fuel efficiency and boil times.

We tested the newly released Jetboil Stash backpacking stove and this is what we found.

We tested three of the most popular disposable lighters based on cost, weight, packed dimensions, and number of lights. Find out which one was rated the best.

The BIC full sized lighter is the most common disposable lighter in the United States. We ran some tests to see how long it would last.

The Clipper Mini lighter is a compact, refillable lighter popular in Europe and the UK. We ran some tests to see how long the Clipper Mini lighter would last.

We tested the difference between five different diameter pots to see if one size performed better than another. This is what we learned...

I always wondered whether I should leave my stove connected to my fuel canister or if it was better to take it off. Here's what I found...

As one of the most popular lighters for thru-hiking and backpacking, we decided to conduct a test and see how long a BIC Mini lighter would last.

We tested five of the most popular lightweight backpacking stoves to see which performed the best and which is the most affordable.

Should you carry the cap that comes with your fuel canister? We describe the reasons you should.

I analyzed the differences between the MSR IsoPro, Snow Peak Giga Power, OLicamp and the Jet Boil Jetpower fuel canisters to see which performed the best.

The best way to make your fuel last is to follow these five simple stove tips. Doing so can potentially double the life of your fuel canister.

The best way to determine how much fuel you will need while hiking is to test your stove at home before your hike. Here are some equations to help you out.

Cooking a meal on the trail can be more difficult than cooking meals at home. Here are some tips and hacks to convert your cooking pot into a measuring cup.

Sending out resupply packages before your hike can be tricky. Follow these easy tips to have a stress free day when picking up your package.

A ground cloth or footprint is used to protect your tent floor from sharp objects that can easily puncture the bottom of your shelter.

If you're going on a thru-hike, you should try to keep your pack weight low. Here are different types of scales that could help prepare you!

The majority of people don't apply enough sunscreen when they adventure outdoors. Here are 7 tips to stay protected while on trail!

Plastic sealable bags are a great way to organize your food and gear without adding a lot of weight. Find out which bag is best for you!

Before you head out for your thru-hike or backpacking trip, it's important to ensure your tent seams are adequately sealed.

A sewing kit is one of the most underrated hiking necessities. Here is what should be included in your sewing kit to be most prepared.

If you're not careful, you may end up carrying an unnecessary heavy case while backpacking. Find out which cases you should leave at home!

Reducing your pack weight is very important for thru-hikers and long-distance backpackers. To help reduce the total pack weight it's important to focus on the pack's base weight.

Lightweight backpacking or thru-hiking doesn't need to be expensive. Following these ten tips will help you along the way to packing a lighter pack.

Having a few purification tablets in your pack provides a great backup in case you need to purify water while you are hiking.

It's always important to check the most current TSA rules before traveling to your thru-hiking or backpacking destination by plane.

We tested the holding power of four of the most popular and commonly used tent stakes to see how they performed. Here is what we found...

If you have tent stakes that are silver and are not colored at the top, they will likely be hard to see when you put them in the ground. Try this easy hack!

There are four basic types of commonly used tent stakes: the Y-stake, V-stake, Shepherd's Hook stake, and the nail stake.

Every thru-hiker and backpacker should carry a knife. The best knife is one that can carry out multiple functions and remain lightweight.

If you are going on an overnight backpacking trip or a thru-hike, you should really carry a shovel with you to dig your cat holes.

Before every hike you should carefully inspect all your backpacking equipment to make sure everything is in good working order. For thru-hikers, gear should be thoroughly inspected and maintained at every town stop along their hike.

In this experiment we tested out the maximum amount of fluid a WAG (Waste Alleviation and Gelling) bag could absorb.

Certain equipment is so important it deserves to be carried on every hike. This list of essential hiking items can be a lifesaver if you're ever in an emergency.

Some trails you can hike all year round, but other trails are best hiked during specific seasons. See when the best time to hike each of our trails is, and start planning your next hike today!

It's important to know how to safely do laundry in the outdoors. If you're a thru-hiker keeping your socks clean should be a top priority.

In a pinch, you can use duct tape to repair a tear, but for a more permanent repair I recommend using repair tape.

The Middle East, Canada, and South America are all beautiful places to thru-hike! Our 5 hiking guides provide an array of diverse hikes.

Central US is a prime place to thru-hike! Our 6 hiking guides offer a plethora of diverse and beautiful hikes.

The West Coast is the perfect place to explore! Our 11 hiking guides offer an abundance of diverse and beautiful hikes.

Australia and New Zealand are a hiker's paradise. With an amazing variety of natural landscapes, our 9 hiking guides offer an array of regional hikes.

From the Appalachian Trail to the thousands of miles of trails in the White Mountain National Forest, the East Coast is a hiker's dream.

Have you ever wanted to go on a thru-hike in Europe or the UK? Check out these 10 incredible trails!

We know that in order to use our app out on the trail, you have to keep your phone battery alive! Here are some tips to try and keep your phone from dying quickly while you’re out hiking off the grid.

A luxury item can make a huge difference on your thru-hike. Here are some items you may want to consider bringing with you on your next thru-hike or backpacking trip.

Preparing for a thru-hike can be overwhelming if you don't have a plan. Here are 8 steps to get you started on your incredible journey.

We talked to some of our favorite thru-hikers about their experiences and advice for newer hikers. Here is what we learned.

Calculate how many calories you'll burn while hiking and plan how much food you'll need to bring on your trip using our Calorie & Food Weight Calculator.

How much does a thru-hike cost? We put together a thru-hike cost calculator so you can estimate the cost of your next long-distance hike based on your own hiking style.

Leave No Trace is a broad set of principles that we should all use to guide our outdoor behavior. Here is our take on the Seven Principles as they apply to no-impact hiking.

This post covers one of the most expensive things you can do in town: stay the night. Here are options from camping outside of town to staying in a motel.

We've collected permit information for nearly all of the trails we offer guides to. Permits can be complicated, and we aim to make it simpler for you!

What is the optimal break time when you want to hike big miles?

New to the thru-hiking world? Don't worry! Check out these terms to learn the "thru-hiking lingo" and you'll be a part of the hiker trash fam in no time.

Would you like to hike for 5-6 months? A few weeks? A few days? We've got you covered. See how long each of our trails are by time and length.

How much food do you take backpacking? How much SHOULD you pack? Read how Guthook plans the right amount.

Lightweight backpacking or thru-hiking doesn't need to be expensive. Following these ten tips will help you along the way to packing a lighter pack.

If you are hiking the entire PCT or CDT, you will likely need an ice axe at some point. Learn how to securely attach one to your backpack.

In some hiking areas, people are leaving a negative impact by littering toilet paper. The outdoor bidet can help alleviate this problem.

The ability to find the North Star (Polaris) in the night sky is a very important navigational skill. Here is how to find it...

Some trails you can hike all year round, but other trails are best hiked during specific seasons. See when the best time to hike each of our trails is, and start planning your next hike today!

It's important to know how to safely do laundry in the outdoors. If you're a thru-hiker keeping your socks clean should be a top priority.

In a pinch, you can use duct tape to repair a tear, but for a more permanent repair I recommend using repair tape.

It's super important to keep your water bottles clean on your thru-hike. Using bleach crystals is an easy, lightweight solution.

If backwashing your Sawyer water filter doesn't help clear it, you might have calcium deposits. Try this easy trick to fix it.

You know that feeling when you have to go, but can't find a good place to drop a load off? Using a WAG bag is the perfect solution!

One of the most important knots a hiker can learn is called the "Sheet Bend." This knot is great for joining two lines together and can be very useful while out on the trail.

Leave No Trace is a broad set of principles that we should all use to guide our outdoor behavior. Here is our take on the Seven Principles as they apply to no-impact hiking.

When hiking or backpacking, it's very important to understand more about lightning and thunder to help keep you and your trail family safe.

This post covers one of the most expensive things you can do in town: stay the night. Here are options from camping outside of town to staying in a motel.

What is the optimal break time when you want to hike big miles?

The Bowline knot creates a secure loop that can be very useful while hiking.

The round turn and two half hitches is a useful knot for backpackers.

Here are step-by-step instructions to send a Check-in in the new social feature in your Android and iPhone Guthook Guides app.

Your battery indicator doesn't always tell you the truth. When hiking, here is what you should do if your phone battery gets too cold...

Since many hikers carry phones and portable batteries, we evaluated a variety of battery chargers and have some to recommend for long-distance hikers.