Green Garden 004: How to Close the Backpack Gap – GWC Mag gwcmagJanuary 1, 2024063 views Podcast: Download (Duration: 23:38 — 24.5MB) When was your last hiking or backpacking adventure? We’ll talk about how to close the gap between your last adventure and your next one. Next, learn the secrets to avoid losing your backpacking gear on the trail. We’ll review a low cost, lightweight piece of truly breathable rain gear. And you’ll learn how to make a high calorie Mediterranean favorite on the trail that will go perfectly with that smashed pita bread in your pack. Opening When was your last BP or hiking adventure? When is your next adventure? How do you close the gap? Causes of the gap Time off/injury/family responsibilities/weather Start small Practice “Planned Spontaneity” Make it a monthly ritual with your family Know your purpose Start closing the gap between your last adventure and your next adventure The Top 5 Ways to Avoid Losing Your Gear Shaker method “A Place for Everything, And Everything in its Place” Designated pocket, predetermined pouch, specific stuff sack Put everything away in the same place every time. Put it away NOW An item can get lost in the dark Items can also blow away WHEN you put it away is just as important as WHERE you put it away Site Check Every time you leave a site do a thorough walk through or visual scan of the area Found items: Trail Magic vs. Trail Tragic No Loose Gear If you have things hanging off pack, a tree branch can snag your stuff Sitting down can knock things off or loosen them Zippered pouch Attach gear with carabineers Document Your Gear Loans Take a picture of friend with loaned gear It’s amazing how many times we loan something out and can even remember if the person returned it or not. Let technology help you… Structure Ultra-light, nonwoven polypropylene material Patented bi-laminate technology welded seams for complete waterproof protection sweat-free breathability Closures: Drawstring hood, front zipper (covered to prevent leakage) Cuffs are elasticized Utility Comes in adult and youth sizes No pockets which I don’t feel detracted from its utility Comes with stuff sack Mass Packaging says under 12 oz. Youth large 8 oz with stuff sack and the adult is 10.4 ounces Sizing chart is on the back, accurate Maintenance Can be repaired with duct tape or Gorilla tape Washing: can be hand washed Let air dry when done using Investment Under $20 for youth and adult sizes A few bucks for a roll of duct tape or Gorilla Tape Trial Seems large, but that’s because you’re fitting over clothing Easy to wipe down 12 y.o. wore on scout camp out, pants seam ripped, but easily repaired He reported that it was comfortable, easy to put on, stayed dry and didn’t get hot/sweaty Backpack Hack of the Week™: DIY Instant Pesto Peanut butter alternative Pesto: spread or dip that is made with basil, parmesan and garlic (sometimes nuts) Backpack version of pesto Lightweight and easy to make on the trail. 1 Tbs dried basil, 1 Tbs parmesan from the green shaker can, 1/4 tsp garlic powder Pairs perfectly with some squished pita bread from the bottom of your pack and some pepper-crusted salami 156 Calories per serving!! When ready: add a teeny bit of water to rehydrate basil, 1 Tbs olive oil (or 3 Subway oil packets) Trail Wisdom “In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous.” -Aristotle Share the post “004: How to Close the Backpack Gap”