11 things backpackers should do in the offseason

I live in a northern climate, so this time of year I'm not doing many overnight backpacking or hiking trips. However, that doesn't mean that there's nothing to be done. In this video I share a whole bunch of things you can do to prep for next year and make it the best hiking season ever.
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[@JM.5387]

Winter is a great time to try new trail recipes, and to dehydrate trail staples like macaroni and beans. (I prefer to dehydrate veg and fruits during gardening season, but bags of frozen veg and jars of apple sauce are also good options for winter time.)

[@jonallenoutside]

Good call. Homemade dehydrated meals are always tasty.

[@backkat9475]

Thanks for the reminder about my filter!

[@andymytys]

Late November through mid-December is when a lot of companies have 20-30% off sales. REI, Moosejaw, Backcountry, Enlightened Equipment, Granite Gear, and Gossamer Gear just had theirs. There will be more sales, even from the above, closer to Christmas. Because of this I spend a lot on gear this time of year. I also buy physical books and maps. I love sitting at the table with a warm blanket and a glass of whiskey, planning trips for the following year.

[@jonallenoutside]

Sounds amazing!

[@CastawayHikes]

The fall and winter is prime time to hike in Florida if that would interest you, I live in the panhandle and could help with logistics and shuttle if you're interested in doing a section hike

[@jonallenoutside]

I’m jealous of people that live in warmer climates. I’m not able to pull it off this winter, but I’ll keep you in mind for next year. Much appreciated!

[@bionicdan1959]

Jon, I always look forward to your videos. This one is another exceptional, timely video to help us become better hikes and to enjoy our time on the trail! 👍👍

[@jonallenoutside]

Thank you!

[@andymytys]

I see someone already mentioned Florida (Ocean to Lake Trail). On top of that, it’s a good time to go to the Grand Canyon. I also live in the Midwest and see RT tickets to Phoenix for around $120. Nights in the GC can be in the 20s so there’s not a big draw for permits. 8-10 weeks in advance and you can get permits for Jan/Feb. Highs get into the 50s, even 60s, at the bottom of the Canyon.

[@lightwalker4558]

Very good suggestions Jon. Thank you! I just replaced my 6 year old Squeeze because it was barely working, even after a back-flush. Last month I washed my down jacket for the first time on delicate cycle (wash & dryer). I forgot to put tennis balls in the dryer so the down got clumped up. I'm hoping it will separate better w/ tennis balls w/out having to re-wash it. I also hope to lose 10 of the 20 lbs I gained during Covid., followed by 10 more lbs. across the 8 weeks of pre-hike conditioning. I find that proper weight management and conditioning make a lot of difference. After all, the goal is to enjoy these trips, not just survive them. 😊

[@jonallenoutside]

Thank you! I think the tennis balls should work. 10 minutes on very low heat and then repeat if it’s not evenly distributed.

[@JM.5387]

brb going to back flush my filter 🙂