How to Backpack More Efficiently for Older Hikers

[@JasmineSinclair-i3n]

Keep up the great job! I'm in my late 60s, and I hike and camp full time across National Forest in several states. I haven't slept indoors in a couple of years. What I do is travel into the backcountry with a four wheel drive and set up camp. My tent is large enough to walk around in. I then hike the trails. Sometimes I leave my tent, and drive the forest road to another trailhead a couple of miles away. In the warmer months, I'm in one of the mountain ranges at higher attitudes, usually not over 11,000ft. In the three coldest months, I'm in the desert close to the Mexican border, or in Florida. Like you, I will do it while I still can.

[@TheHikingRev]

You are very fortunate Jasmine. Living in nature is the ultimate experience. 😁

[@JasmineSinclair-i3n]

@TheHikingRev It beats cities and crowds! But if I had lots of kids, and grand kids like you, I would prefer, as you, to be around them. Take care!

[@TheHikingRev]

@@JasmineSinclair-i3n Very true.

[@Esther-ps3vx]

I always like your videos before watching them because I know that they will be good. Now back to watching the video. Edit: Thank you for another wonderful video. Next time I feel lazy to go on a hike, I should watch one of your videos for motivation. Or set a reminder saying, Here is Rev reminding you to go on your hike 😃

[@ruthgoebel723]

I do that too!

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks. If I provided motivation to get outside and enjoy God’s creation, then…mission accomplished! 😁

[@M_Bamboozled]

It is a contest...vs mother nature and father time 😂 Thanks for the tips Rev, you're an inspiration 👍

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re right! Thanks for watching! 😎

[@Danilyn_Livao]

You’ve really thought about everything in this video!💯 It’s encouraging to know that age doesn’t have to limit our hiking adventures! Keep sharing your great contents!

[@TheHikingRev]

Thank you Danilyn. I’m glad you enjoyed it. 😁

[@ChiknWing62]

I totally agree with the mental challenges. I found that if I set small goals such as looking ahead on the trail, find a target, set a goal to reach that target, achieve my goal, I won a small battle. Then find another target, repeat, until I’ve reached my destination for that day, then I’ve won my challenge for the day. It just makes me feel better.

[@TheHikingRev]

Whatever it takes to motivate you. 😁

[@anitasimmons3599]

Thank you, Rev, for another great video. As older Backpackers, we have a little different requirements when it comes to our gear... I am an older verticality challenged woman, and I am a widow now, so my requirements have changed yet again... Keeping my gear to under a 12 pound base weight is my goal, yes I know, not UL, but this works for me. Yes foreign travel and backpacking is enlightening, and a great goal. I suggest, getting a renter, preferably a young professional so you don't have to deal with your homebase when you are out adventuring. Thank you again for the video. Blessings.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks Anita.😎

[@bser2293]

Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us.

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re welcome. Hope it helped. 😁

[@ervinslens]

Outstanding topic and so brilliantly presented man! Brilliant content

[@TheHikingRev]

Thank you Ervin. I’m glad you enjoyed it. 😁

[@rrichardson53]

Nice to see you Rev! Great vid with excellent advice. I hope 2025 provides us with some exciting hiking adventures 🥾⛺️🗻

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks Rebecca. Sounds great. 😁

[@Brett_Noll]

Thanks, Rev! Appreciate the tips-always good to have a little extra help for us seasoned folks!

[@TheHikingRev]

Yes. Sometimes it’s great to just be reminded of some things. 😁

[@peterjohnson6273]

Always good, Rev. Thanks.

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re quite welcome, Peter.😁

[@kristymoore7052]

Thanks Rev. I completed the John Muir Trail earlier this year at 61. First long trail and 1st time over 4 nights. I researched and planed extensively. I also became a gram weenie in some respects, not others. I was unwilling to switch out my ULA Circuit to something like you have as I would not have had the time to really try it out. I also had to carry a bear can and I did plop the money down for a Carbon fiber bearikade after I tried a gear load out 40 mile trip with my bv 500 and all of my gear. I realized my gear was TOO MUCH. I did ok on the JMT meaning I completed it, but if I were to do it again I would have considered a brush or comb and more ibuprofen and Imodium unfortunately. I would have reconsidered my food and resupply. I skimped on, at first, a lot of sunscreen, realized I needed a lot as I was going NOBO in very exposed areas and then carried the weight.

[@TheHikingRev]

Sounds like you had a great trip. Congrats. I find that, with each hike, I learn a little bit more. 😁

[@LittleTalksWithMyles]

That’s a fantastic focus for a video, and it's so valuable, especially for older hikers who might be looking for ways to continue enjoying the great outdoors comfortably and safely. Sharing tips on efficiency can really enhance the backpacking experience, making it more enjoyable and accessible. As I have hit my 50s, I can definitely tell the difference... and that I should start being a little more cautious.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks. I want to be more efficient in all that I do and I hope my viewers do as well. 😁

[@shawnrobbins7615]

Hello Rev, great subject. Enjoying your videos. Keep ‘‘em coming.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thank you Shawn. I’m thrilled that you enjoy them. 😁

[@Lennen-N-Motion]

Excellent advice Rev. As always, you’ve taught me a few things I didn’t consider. I’ve been hiking since 1996 and I still learn how to be more efficient everyday. Thanks for the wisdom.

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re quite welcome. The secret to success is to always be learning. 😁

[@PrebenElkjaer1974]

Thank you rev. You are the first hiker I saw on YT around two years ago. You got me to believe I can do it at 50years - and I have now had my first couple of 3-day hikes and realy enjoy it. Next is longer hikes, and helping other hikers at a lokal annual hike here in Denmark. Thanks again. Take care 🤗

[@TheHikingRev]

Wow…that’s great! Sounds like you’re on your way. 😁

[@BarnCatGary]

Thanks Rev! Fantastic videos. Preparation, efficiency, planning, contingencies, trying new things, challenge yourself, at home responsibilities, mental challenges - such great advice!

[@TheHikingRev]

Sounds like you took notes. Good student! 😂😁

[@MikeRiggsAdventures]

Solid advice that everyone can learn from. Great video

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks Mike. 😁

[@Brockoshikesandmusic]

Love ya videos big fella !!! Very insightful you have definitely helped me 😊

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks. Knowing that someone was helped by my videos makes my day. 😁

[@SheGoneAgain]

Good to see you again! Glad you are still at it!

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks Mary. I’ll still be at it until I can’t. 😁

[@SheGoneAgain]

@ Me too!

[@unfi6798]

Great motivation Rev. Cheers from Australia.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks. 😁

[@davesanders9203]

Hard to believe you're still "hiking"! Great video! All great info as usual.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks, Dave.😁

[@heathere8066]

Great advice 😊

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks. 😁

[@joanne8126]

Great information, thank you for your video❤

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re quite welcome, JoAnne.😁

[@anitasimmons3599]

Thank you for another informative and entertaining video. Being an older verticality challenged female backpacker and totally agree with your video. I have dialed in my gear now and though my base weight is around 10.5, to 13.5 pounds., but I really like the fit and carry of my backpacks. No they are not UL, but after carrying and owning a few UL backpacks, I just could not find one that fits me properly. I also could not stand the stuffy feeling and humidity with the Dyneema tents and have been carrying the SMD Gatewood Cape for over 10 years. As far as listening to something when out backpacking, my late brother had the bible in a MP3 type device that he listened to while he drove over the road for a career. It uses AA batteries, but I my have to test drive it around town, Thank you for the reminder. Thank you again for taking the time to create this video. Blessings.

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re quite welcome, Anita. My backpack is not the most lightweight. But it carries my stuff very comfortably.😁

[@markgoodsmith7229]

I just found you. I think we are about the same age. I once went hiking with a bunch of scouts in the Rockies. My pack was 75 pounds. Crazy. I was carrying their weeks worth of food because they were unable to carry much weight. Funny thing is, I had a heart attack a year earlier. But I did ok. I am learning a lot from you on how to travel lighter and more efficient. I hope to grow beyond my day hikes that I do now. Maybe take on some more challenging hikes. I have another medical condition that scares the compost out of me, so we shall see. Anyway…. Thank you for sharing your expertise, wisdom and lessons learned.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thank you Mark. You’re very kind. 😁

[@davidripley3945]

Good tips Rev! Thanks for the update!

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re welcome David. 😁

[@melindakier1661]

Great vid. Very informative and loved the various hiking spots. Wish I lived close enuf to hike with you. You look very healthy and pic of you and your wife is great. Glad you’re still out there.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks Melinda. Would love to hike with you. 😁

[@ruthgoebel723]

We have had a mountain fire here in eastern PA that has affected the AT in Northhampton County. If you do the AT you will see the burned area. We haven't had rain in over a month and a burn ban has been in force for a while. I can see the smoke from where I live but we are a good hours west of there along the Blue Mountain. The AT has really taken a hit this year between Helene, fires and hogh winds in places. Thanks for the good advice!

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re welcome Ruth. Yeah, I heard about the fire. 😢. Perhaps they’ll have it all repaired by next year. 😁

[@ruthgoebel723]

@TheHikingRev We shall see. Still smoky over that way today and I could smell the smoke.

[@hikingwithjackieboy]

Very good advice, Rev.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks. 😁

[@hikingwithjackieboy]

@@TheHikingRev you're welcome

[@MarmaladeOutdoors]

Very well done and said my friend!

[@TheHikingRev]

Thank you. 😁

[@elizabethclark4722]

Love listening to books on audio! Ever heard of Dallas Willard? Or John Ortberg? “When the game is over it all goes back in the box“… GREAT BOOK! also, I figured out the green vest people….a little slow but… Slow and steady DOES win the race… Thanks for all your great videos and ideas for older hikers !

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re welcome. Sounds like a great book/authors. I’ll have to check it out. 😁

[@ekimpp]

Golden nuggets!! Thank you so much!

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re quite welcome. 😁

[@planesandbikes7353]

thanks, very helpful. I just retired at 57 and plan to get doing more frequent treks. Wife and I have done a few 4-7 day treks over the past decade. Complication is I am better off if I sleep with a CPAP, and I have one that can do 2 nights on trail between charges. But it is heavy, and now I like carrying a chair too, adding 4 lbs to my younger-age ultralight base load. Still typical weekend pack load is 22 lbs, max I have carried is 30 lbs for 7 days in the Sierras.

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re welcome. Try to cut back where you can and where you can’t, don’t. 😁

[@roamingrick8736]

Thanks Rev always good information from you.

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re welcome. 😁

[@dorlajacobson3077]

Thanks for the good tips!

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re welcome. 😁

[@monaangeloutdoors514]

Great video. Thank you very good information. 🎉

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re welcome. 😁

[@Thedagoneman]

Great things to think about

[@TheHikingRev]

Thank you. 😁

[@billseay6399]

Hey thanks as always appreciate the information

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re quite welcome Bill, as always. 😁

[@musingwithreba9667]

God-cast 😂 good one!

[@TheHikingRev]

😂

[@luannproctor672]

Useful!! Just I just started hiking because I gave up my road bicycle. Hiking is so much better, I wish I had known …..65 years old in two weeks. 🎉😂

[@TheHikingRev]

Congrats. Happy birthday. 😁

[@woodchip2782]

As to multiple use, I use rain gear against moskitos even if it’s hot on trail. I rather suffer heat than bug bites.😮

[@TheHikingRev]

Ain’t that the truth. 😁

[@micksmith2929]

I want to go hiking with you!

[@TheHikingRev]

Sounds good. I may hold you back though. 😁

[@micheldumont4619]

Just found your podcast. Subscribed. Going to be 70 in April and want to start hiking again. Been many many years since I did any adventures. Got to get back into shape. Used to roam the woodlands. Love doing it walking the dogs. Got all my gear (honestly way too much- compulsive buyer). Know can’t use it all in one hike, but can plan for different situations. Will follow your advice and pace myself gradually. Any advice would be appreciated.

[@TheHikingRev]

It’s never too late to start or start again. And yes, don’t forget to pace yourself. 😁

[@eleanoreadams]

Shout out to Richmond CA !!

[@TheHikingRev]

RICHTOWN!!! Yea! 😁

[@shawnrobbins7615]

Great video Rev! What made you change over to the Durston 1P tent? I agree with most of your points but I think you need to protect your skin from the sun more. I used to wear shorts too and wear a cap like you but after a skin check a while back I’m covering up except in the hottest of weather. I live in Australia though. Skin cancer capital of the world!

[@TheHikingRev]

Whoa…be careful down unda! I put on sunscreen first thing in the morning every day on all of my hikes. 😁

[@romenhiking8623]

I was efficient and watched your video at 1.5x and finished in 10 min vs 15 min. Lol

[@TheHikingRev]

🤣😂🤣 That’s great! 😁

[@joebishop9063]

Rab, I haven’t seen your channel I’m 61 years old and hike the Appalachian Trail through hike in 1991 really enjoy your advice. I have a question what tent sleeping bag and the rest type. Do you use to keep your weight down but it’s efficient Joe Maine.

[@TheHikingRev]

Hey Joe. Congrats. 😁

[@joebishop9063]

@ you didn’t mention the tent and sleeping bag and the rest you used to keep your weight down in your pack??

[@TheHikingRev]

@@joebishop9063 Sorry. I use the Durston X-Mid Pro 1 for my shelter. Sleeping bag…Enlightened Equipment Enigma 30. BTW… there is a gear list and the weight of each item from all my hikes in the Description Section of all my KZbin videos.

[@josephmduvo326]

Rev, what was the total pack weight of your pack for any thru or section backpacking venture? Do you have an list of all items for a lightweight that is budget friendly? I'll be 70 next year. I do still do day hikes and backpacking and access myself after each one. Keep the faith.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks Joseph. Sadly, lightweight items are expensive. Check out my gear lists in the Description Section if any of my KZbin videos. My total pack weight for any Thruhike or otherwise was usually under 20 lbs. 😁

[@patricecohen6605]

@@josephmduvo326 maybe you should look at a carrier. I use one and it is amazing at removing the weight from your shoulder

[@evanshaw17]

Read the wonderful book Take Less Do More by Glen Van Peski founder of Gossamer Gear. A wonderful courageous and inspiring book about ultralight backpacking but so very much more about how to live how to give back to others in Loving Kindness. Wonderful person I met him many years ago when both of us were learning how to backpack and go light safe and happy

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks for the recommendation Evan. I’m going to check it out. 😁

[@chili1593]

Rev, by any chance were you a Scout?

[@TheHikingRev]

No. Wished I was though. 😁

[@chili1593]

@@TheHikingRev well their motto is "be prepared" so you have channeled it! thanks for what you do for us older guys.

[@margiegray6766]

Do you plan to do the CDT?

[@TheHikingRev]

Yes. Gotta do the AT first. 😁

[@susanellsworth1290]

You mentioned that you do 3 conditioning hikes of 8 miles with a pack...how much weight do you carry? This is something I need to do...carry a pack with weight when doing my conditioning hikes. I do approx. 5-6 miles 3x's a week...8 miles would consume too much time.

[@TheHikingRev]

Hey Susan. I carry a 20lb pack strictly for conditioning. (I carry several books in it). I don’t stop for breaks so it usually takes me about 2 1/2 hours. 😁

[@susanellsworth1290]

@@TheHikingRev Great idea...thank you...enjoy all your videos!

[@miken7629]

Recently got Hip Labrum Tear that got me walking like Biden, think i can walk my way to recovery, doin 7.5 miles a day on flat land but cant do anything strenuous, going uphill carrying 32 pound pack is strenuous. It took 1.5 years to recover from ACL tear, 11 months to recover from torn rotator cuff. Have no idea how long Hip tear will take, hoping to function well enough by spring.

[@TheHikingRev]

My hat is off to you. Just keep at it little by little.😁

[@jamespazera3038]

Rugged😊

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks…I think. 😁

[@CoachBill315]

Great tips... 👍🏔☕️🏕

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks Coach. 😁

[@GeezerBoy65]

Here's a tip. These beards on older men do not make them look rugged or manly. They make you positively look OLDER.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks. I was going for “cute” but I’ll take “older.” 😁

[@jsweevil]

As an older woman, I totally disagree.