What’s an ideal pack weight? Is down better than synthetics for a sleeping bag? Should my footwear be waterproofed? How big of a tent do I need? And how do I poop in the woods??
HYOH in social media platforms for backpackers means “Hike Your Own Hike”. It’s a saying that acknowledges there are lots of right answers to these questions, and only a few absolutely wrong answers. If you’re a beginner and you’re looking for guidance, posting questions like this on social media may serve only to confuse. “What’s the best boot for backpacking?” This question is likely to get a dozen or more different answers, each one adamant that the boot being recommended is the best one. The truth is, the answers to all of these questions should be qualified by the phrase, “It depends…”
But don’t despair! This book will help educate you on the many possibilities, right answers and wrong answers to questions about backpacking gear. It will also give you sound rationale for deciding what is right for you. Whether you are a beginner looking for a starting point, or someone who has mastered the basics and wants to up their game, check it out!
