Podcast · Sport

The Backpacking Podcast

by John Kelley, Jeremiah Stringer · English · Sport

Be prepared to listen to great stories, hear from incredible guests, and laugh until your stomach hurts. Jeremiah Stringer and John Kelley share from experiences and knowledge from the trail while bringing the fun back to backpacking podcasts. The main goal here is to make you smile, and you'll quic

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 59 min
Latest: 9 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

9 Oct 2026 · 1 hr

440 Upgrading Your Backpacking For Pennies or Free

Outdoor Vitals Resolve Down Anorak: https://alnk.to/cwX2fyNMeetup AllTrails Link: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/creator-meetup-route-to-camp-a0671d7?u=i&sh=luwlk4Permit Link: https://www.nps.gov/biso/planyourvisit/permits.htm 🥾 IN THIS EPISODE💰 Backpacking Upgrades for Pennies or FreeWe take on five ideas from a list of 42 low-cost backpacking upgrades, including using fishing line for repairs, keeping your pillow in place with a T-shirt, trimming unnecessary gear, and intelligently downsizing your first aid kit. We also debate whether an $80 tree table deserves a place at…

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

S8 · E4 · 2 Oct 2026 · 1 hr 3 min
339 UL Backpacking Gear, Bear Attacks & 4 A.M. Amazon Deliveries
Meetup AllTrails Link: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/creator-meetup-route-to-camp-a0671d7?u=i&sh=luwlk4This week on **The Backpacking Podcast**, John and Jeremiah are back with backpacking news, questionable gear, wildlife encounters, and plenty of opinions along the way.We kick things off with our first-ever **Pro Tip** segment: if you’re hiking with people who are faster than you, make sure YOU have the car keys. 😂Then things get serious in **Hiker News** as we discuss the disappearance of well-known hiker **Chris “Mischief” Phillips**, a double amputee who has logged…
S8 · E3 · 25 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 3 min
338 - 5,000 Gallons of Diesel, Yellowstone Trash & Trail Court?!
Meetup AllTrails Link: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/creator-meetup-route-to-camp-a0671d7?u=i&sh=luwlk4Outdoor Vitals Mountain Pursuit Line: https://alnk.to/dLmgnji📧 Send us your photos, guest ideas, and ridiculous theme-song genre combinations:[[email protected]](mailto:[email protected])Welcome back to The Backpacking Podcast! This episode has a little bit of everything: backpacking news, gear, ridiculous outdoor stories, Appalachian Trail discussion, Trail Court, and one of the most ridiculous boating stories we've told yet.We kick things off…
S8 · E2 · 18 Sep 2026 · 1 hr
337 Biggest Backpacking Gear Trends of 2026
GPS Pin For Parking Meetup (Oct 9th-11th, 2026): https://maps.app.goo.gl/7NFAWh3hv4ajryKN6Trail Map From Car to Campsite (1.3 miles): https://www.ccl-bsf.com/mapsCharit Creek Lodge Website: https://www.ccl-bsf.com/ Gear, hiker news, trail trends, and a little “poop with a view” — this episode of The Backpacking Podcast has a bit of everything!We’re checking out the 3FUL water filter and other gear, talking about what’s happening on the trails, looking at the biggest gear trends of 2026, and, if there’s time, we might be talking about some animal encounters.Trails, campfires, good…
S8 · E1 · 11 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 2 min
336 You Might Not Be A Backpacker If...
GPS Pin For Parking Meetup (Oct 9th-11th, 2026): https://maps.app.goo.gl/7NFAWh3hv4ajryKN6Trail Map From Car to Campsite (1.3 miles): https://www.ccl-bsf.com/mapsCharit Creek Lodge Website: https://www.ccl-bsf.com/ In this episode, we explore humorous and practical aspects of backpacking, including gear reviews, funny anecdotes, and safety tips for encounters with wildlife. Join us for a lighthearted yet informative discussion perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
S7 · E109 · 4 Sep 2026 · 53 min
335 Chiggers Ate Us Up, Even THERE! Welcome to Backpacking
GPS Pin For Parking Meetup (Oct 9th-11th, 2026): https://maps.app.goo.gl/7NFAWh3hv4ajryKN6Trail Map From Car to Campsite (1.3 miles): https://www.ccl-bsf.com/mapsCharit Creek Lodge Website: https://www.ccl-bsf.com/Season 7 comes to an end with one of our wildest and most packed episodes yet! We talk backpacking, hiking, trail conditions, upcoming meetups, outdoor adventures, crazy trail stories, and some of the biggest backpacking and outdoor news making headlines.We also take a look at the upcoming YouTuber backpacking meetup in the Big South Fork area of Tennessee, including the campsite,…
S7 · E108 · 28 Aug 2026 · 59 min
334 - The Gub-ment HATES the Outdoors
In this episode, John Kelley and Jeremiah Stringer explore a wide range of topics from AI and social media controversies to outdoor adventures and environmental policies. They share personal stories, current events, and practical advice, making it a must-listen for outdoor enthusiasts and curious minds alike.
S7 · E107 · 21 Aug 2026 · 1 hr 2 min
333 A Naked Man, a Missing Nun & The Park Ranger Who SAW IT ALL w/Kristy Slaven
Outdoor Vitals Tern Merino Wool Hoodie & Tee: https://alnk.to/bEmXZ6e In this episode, we sit down with retired park ranger Kristy Slaven to hear some of the strangest, funniest, and most unbelievable experiences from her time working in and around the great outdoors. From bizarre encounters with people in the wilderness to mysterious situations and stories that sound almost too strange to be true, Kristy shares what life was really like as a park ranger. If you've ever wondered what park rangers actually deal with, what can happen in the woods, or what kinds of strange people and situations…
S7 · E106 · 14 Aug 2026 · 54 min
332 I Thought Bigfoot Was a Joke… Until This - w/ MK Ultra (Michael Kirkpatrick)
What if the thing you thought was just a legend actually changed the way you look at the wilderness?In this episode, we dive deep into Bigfoot, strange encounters, backpacking, camping, the wilderness, and the unsettling stories that make you question what might really be out there. What starts as a conversation about Bigfoot quickly becomes a fascinating look at the experiences, evidence, and questions surrounding one of the most famous mysteries in the world.Joining the conversation is Michael Kirkpatrick (MK Ultra) as we talk about Bigfoot sightings, unexplained encounters, what people…
S7 · E105 · 7 Aug 2026 · 1 hr 1 min
331 Backpack or Send It Back
Tushar Rain Jacket from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/3U5xxk6 John Kelley and Jeremiah Stringer go live for a wide-ranging backpacking hangout packed with trail talk, gear opinions, and chat-driven detours. They compare trusted weather sources, weigh the changing role of satellite messaging, and put new gear through a round of “Backpack or Send It Back”—including Yeti’s active packs, a high-powered Petzl headlamp, and HydroPak’s updated filter cap.The conversation also covers Garmin subscription changes, favorite trail meals, fast-food fries and chicken sandwiches, plus a preview of what’s…
S7 · E104 · 31 Jul 2026 · 43 min
330 Even This Won't Stop a Bear
In this episode, Jeremiah Stringer and JK discuss bear activity updates along the Appalachian Trail, creative and humorous bear deterrent ideas, and share personal stories about neighbors, HOA regulations, and hiking injuries. They also send heartfelt prayers to Danny Warnock after his son's passing.
S7 · E103 · 24 Jul 2026 · 50 min
329 We Slept In 1 Sleeping Bag Together For 150 Nights w/ Justin C. (Let's Hit The Trail - YouTube)
Let's Hit The Trail YT https://www.youtube.com/@JustinAndAnna key topics Trail partnership secrets: communication and honesty Wildlife encounters: bears, sheep, and more Trail mishaps: poops, gear, and surprises Long-distance hiking: PCT, Wonderland Trail, Santa Fe to Taos Trail gear and camping setups for comfort and safety Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Justin and his trail adventures 01:58 Justin's recent hikes: Santa Fe to Taos and PCT 03:56 Secrets to successful trail partnerships 05:58 The story of losing each other on the trail 07:53 Wildlife encounters: bears, sheep, and deer 12:14…
S7 · E102 · 17 Jul 2026 · 29 min
328 Ultimate Vibe Killers Of The Outdoors
Barking dogs, fire bans, and snoring campers.....oh my! JK and Jeremiah discuss the things that can derail the vibe of any backpacking trip .
S7 · E101 · 10 Jul 2026 · 58 min
327 They Hiked For Children With Cancer
They just hiked 10 miles in 10 days in 10 states!!! And we get the lowdown on all of it. Welcome Rugged Mountain Dad, Sister and Mister to the show, otherwise known as DMS Adventures.Be sure to give to St. Jude on behalf of DMS Adventures: https://tiltify.com/@dmsadventures2020/backpacking-10-10-10-challenge?origin=dashboard
S7 · E100 · 3 Jul 2026 · 1 hr
326 When Nature Calls... But You're Too Late w/ Marion Outdoors
Coach's Website: https://www.marionoutdoors.com/ Coach's Social Media: @MarionOutdoors Join us as we chat with Coach Livingston from Marion Outdoors about his journey from theater to outdoor outfitter, the importance of community in hiking, and practical tips like using a backpacking bidet. Discover how passion, family, and a love for the outdoors come together in this inspiring episode.
S7 · E99 · 26 Jun 2026 · 51 min
325 Protecting Your Most Important Asset on trail: Your Feet
Jeremiah and JK talk all things foot care. Blister control, Plantar fasciitis, and issues with Achilles tendons. If it's dealing with your feet, we'll be talking about it in this episode.
S7 · E98 · 19 Jun 2026 · 46 min
324 When Hammock Camping Goes Wrong
Jeremiah shares his most recent hammock camping experience on his wife's first night in a hammock. Of course, things go off the rails, and we even share some hammock camping tips. Check out the Stormloft Topquilt from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/cm1DdTd
S7 · E97 · 12 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 3 min
323 Best Backpacking Gear Is NOT In Stores... w/ Ben McMillen
Founder's Sale by Outdoor Vitals (Early-Bird List): https://bit.ly/4v2qWkY Jeremiah and John sit down with Ben McMillen, owner of Hilltop Packs, to talk about the world of cottage gear, building a backpacking business, and what sets small outdoor brands apart from the big manufacturers. Ben shares the story behind Hilltop Packs, the importance of customer connection, company culture, American-made gear, tariffs, product innovation, and the surprising item that became one of Hilltop's biggest sellers. Whether you're a gear nerd, small business supporter, or backpacker looking for insight into…
S7 · E96 · 5 Jun 2026 · 59 min
322 The POOP EPISODE
It's all about number 2 and how it affects our time in the outdoors. We're discussing "would you rather" scenarios and revealing personal moments on trail.Check out the Outdoor Vitals StormLoft Down TopQuilt: https://alnk.to/aARYkpC
S7 · E95 · 29 May 2026 · 1 hr 10 min
321 Best Backpacking Gear of 2026
What is the best tent, backpack, sleeping bag, and more on this episode of the Backpacking Podcast.If you want to check out two of our favorite backpacks, go over to Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/aARVPc7
S7 · E94 · 22 May 2026 · 59 min
320 Is AI Ruining the Appalachian Trail?
700 Acres of land are being used to build an AI data center, only 1/3 of a mile from the Appalachian Trail. What will this do to scenic views, pollution, and noise on trail? Was the ATC even contacted about it?Check out our friends at Outdoor Vitals and their Carbon EVO 50 Backpack: https://alnk.to/8PIgYvd
S7 · E93 · 15 May 2026 · 51 min
319 Should We Fear BEAVER ATTACKS on Trail?
Do you have to be a person of privilege to thru-hike? Should we be worried about beaver attacks? This and more on today's episode. Check out this great gear from Outdoor Vitals:Pursuit Hybrid Fleece: https://alnk.to/gKUn7dSVentus Hoodie: https://alnk.to/31vgBB4Carbon EVO 50 Backpack: https://alnk.to/8PIgYvd
S7 · E92 · 8 May 2026 · 1 hr 8 min
318 We're Spraying ROUNDUP in our National Forests?
Is the Forest Service really spraying Round Up in our forests? Is the Garmin InReach Mini 3 worth the money you'd spend on it? How likely are you to be attacked by a grizzly bear in Yellowstone? All this and more in this episode of the Backpacking Podcast.Get signed up for the Live Ultralight Membership at Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/fSkxDxLGive us your thoughts on this article: https://www.backpacker.com/stories/essays/opinion/thru-hiking-demands-sacrifice-but-it-still-favors-privilege/
S7 · E88 · 1 May 2026 · 1 hr 2 min
317 Jessica "Dixie" Mills - Mom-Life and Getting Eaten by Coyotes
In this episode, we have the honor of spending an hour with a true treasure in the backpacking world, Jessica Mills, AKA "Dixie". We'll be talking about everything from her new podcast to the challenges of Backpacking as a new mom.Looking for a new backpack? Check out the new Showdowlight Carbon 60 from Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/cHQRrZL
S7 · E87 · 24 Apr 2026 · 57 min
316 Horse Diapers On Trail? Hut to Hut Backpacking, and Wildfires in KY
Wildfires in KY? Should horses have doggy bags for on trail? Hut to Hut Backpacking. Is this really a thing? All this and we find out who has the most rock and roll knowledge in this episode of the Backpacking Podcast.Get your hands on the Pursuit Hybrid Fleece over at Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/cHQOQG7
S7 · E86 · 17 Apr 2026 · 1 hr 6 min
315 Has Government Overreach Finally Happened in the Outdoors?
What happened on Jeremiah's Top Secret Vacation? Is the US Forest Service being dismantled, and what happened to the Trek correspondent who died on the PCT? All this and more on the Backpacking Podcast.The Satu Adventure Pants are on an insane sale right now! Check them out over at Outdoor Vitals: https://alnk.to/8PI6JGr
S7 · E85 · 10 Apr 2026 · 33 min
314 Jeremiah's Spirit Animal, Poisonous Snakes, and Mystery Vacations
Jeremiah daydreams about singing on The Voice. Are "surprise" vacations a GOOD thing? What are the most poisonous snakes in the world? All of this and more on an unexpected livestream episode of the podcast.Check out Outdoor Vitals' most recent piece of gear, the Cirq Tent: https://alnk.to/3nkuzzm
S7 · E84 · 3 Apr 2026 · 58 min
313 - Our FINAL Livestream - April 1st Edition
All things must come to an end, and that includes this podcast. What does the future hold for the BPP and its hosts, John Kelley and Jeremiah Stringer?Check out the Cirq Tent: https://alnk.to/3nkuzzm
S7 · E83 · 27 Mar 2026 · 55 min
312 JK Hates Hammocks?!?!?!?!?!
Today, some of your favorite backpacking gear is going to court.....TRAIL COURT! What gear comes out better on the other side, and what fails to live up to the hype? Find out on today's livestream. Cirq Tent Deep Dive with OV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuWEYDjQneACheck out the Cirq Tent: https://alnk.to/3nkuzzmSign up for the OV 100 Mile Challenge: https://alnk.to/5joN1Jm
S7 · E82 · 20 Mar 2026 · 1 hr 2 min
311 Worst Meals, Cabin Break-ins, and Squeaky Backpacks - a BPP Q&A
You send in the questions, and we answer them....probably in the worst way possible. In this episode, we open ourselves up to answer questions sent in by BPP fans, and the results are hilarious. Cirq Tent Deep Dive with OV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuWEYDjQneACheck out the Cirq Tent: https://alnk.to/eDUX0X4Sign up for the OV 100 Mile Challenge: https://alnk.to/5joN1Jm

About The Backpacking Podcast

The Backpacking Podcast is a English sport podcast from John Kelley, Jeremiah Stringer. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: John Kelley, Jeremiah Stringer
Language: English
Category: Sport
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 59 min
Latest episode: 9 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1495047937
Rights: John Kelley, Jeremiah Stringer

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