Category Archives: Backpacking Gear

Svea 123 Backpacking Stove: 48 Year Review

Backpacking Gear,

I have often written that a piece of gear ought to be tested for at least 10 years before doing an in-depth product review. Unfortunately a lot of gear these days is discontinued in just a few years, so there might not be a compelling reason to discuss gear that is no longer made. The Svea has been produced since 1955 and is still sold today.

The Svea 123 is probably the most reliable backpacking stove ever made. It is by far my favorite stove. It doesn’t do any one thing particularly well, but it ALWAYS works. Mine has worked flawlessly for 48 years. Continue reading Svea 123 Backpacking Stove: 48 Year Review →

Senior Moments – Declining Eyesight (or how I returned my vision to normal)

Backpacking Gear, Senior Moments, , ,

A question that gets asked often in backpacking circles is, “How do I deal with my glasses/contacts on backpacking trips?” It’s a great question, especially for those who are new to backpacking or those who just got their first pair of glasses or contact lenses. 

The bad news is there isn’t a good answer. This is one of those things you just have to figure out for yourself. 

In this post, I’ll share my personal experiences. Probably best if you don’t expect an “ah ha” moment. On the other hand, I might share something you haven’t thought about or tried. For those who don’t need vision correction, you might want to read this anyway because the odds are you will need vision correction in the future.

Continue reading Senior Moments – Declining Eyesight (or how I returned my vision to normal) →

The “Top Ten Lists” – Can You Trust Them?

Backpacking Gear, Camping, Hiking, Shelters, Tents, , , , , , ,

It sounds counter intuitive, but I spend much less time on the Internet since I retired, even though all my time is free time, that is, I can do whatever I like, as long as Joyce is happy. I keep myself busy around the house with many tasks, plus we camp more often, not to mention my time spent backpacking.

One thing I am seeing more and more on the Internet are Top Ten Lists for all kinds of consumer goods. Given a good portion of my readers are backpackers, this begs the question, “Can you trust these reviews?” The short, quick answer is, “No.” If it is, “No,” then where can one find good quality trusted reviews?

Continue reading The “Top Ten Lists” – Can You Trust Them? →

Preventing Blisters with Leukotape: a 10+ year review

Backpacking, Backpacking Gear, Hiking

A common ailment for hikers are foot blisters, and I would imagine more backpacking trips are cut short due to blisters than any other cause. 

Typically I want to use a product for at least 10 years before recommending it. Leukotape not only meets this standard but it is an amazing product – the best I have ever used for preventing and treating blisters.

Continue reading Preventing Blisters with Leukotape: a 10+ year review →

Katadyn BeFree Water Filter

Backpacking Gear

This is not a Product Review

I just bought a Katadyn BeFree Filter. It came with a 1.0 liter soft-sided water bottle.

Back in 2013 I wrote about water filters and how they weren’t on my radar as something to purchase. So why did I buy this thing? Am I compromising perceived convenience for more weight and more hassle? Or am I open to considering things that just make sense? Continue reading Katadyn BeFree Water Filter →