10 Backpacking Hacks That Actually Work (After Real Miles)

Most backpacking “hacks” sound good on the internet… but don’t survive real miles on trail. In this video, I’m sharing 10 backpacking hacks I still use after hundreds of miles — from foot care and food organization to packing systems and small gear tweaks that actually make life easier when you’re tired, dirty, or deep into a long hike. These aren’t gimmicks. They’re simple trail-tested systems that reduce friction and help you hike smarter. ---------------------------------------------------------- P.S. Some of the links in this description are affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them. It helps support the channel at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! ---------------------------------------------------------- Ways to Support the Channel: Venmo: @colbyonthetrail ---------------------------------------------------------- Discount Codes: Tell Your Trail 12% off: ColbyontheTrail12 https://tellyourtrail.com/?ref=ColbyontheTrail12 Hilltop Packs 10% off: COLBYONTHETRAIL https://hilltoppacks.com/colbyonthetrail Backcountry Foodie 20% off: COLBYONTHETRAIL https://backcountryfoodie.com/aff/73/ ---------------------------------------------------------- My Favorite Gear: Sleeping Pad: https://amzn.to/4kLxv71 Titanium 750ml Pot: https://amzn.to/4kWEk5t Ultralight Stove: https://amzn.to/4kUKbbr Water Filter: https://amzn.to/4o45itc Ultralight Trowel: https://amzn.to/4iaU7Mr Summit Suds Powdered Soap: https://amzn.to/3FyXOgx Unpaste Toothpaste Tablets: https://amzn.to/3DUGIJh Outdoor Research Echo Sun Hoodie: https://amzn.to/4iay6gG Nike Men's Challenger Dri-fit 5" Lined Running Shorts: https://amzn.to/4kq1S2B Garmin inReach Mini 2: https://amzn.to/4kAYVML inCharge XL 6-in-1 Multi Charging Cable: https://amzn.to/41QdkMh Camera Gear: Camera Gear: DJI Pocket Osmo 3: https://amzn.to/3QVjNRi DJI Osmo Action 6 : https://amzn.to/4axDqtE Insta360 X5: https://amzn.to/4qm7qOw Sony A6700: https://amzn.to/4qkKwa5 Sony G Master 15mm f1.4 Lens: https://amzn.to/4b7pyX9 ---------------------------------------------------------- Timestamps: 0:00 – Why Most Backpacking Hacks Don’t Work 0:52 – Hack 1: Lay on Your Tent Before Staking 1:38 – Hack 2: Keep a Stake In When Rolling Your Tent 2:16 – Hack 3: Pack Your Tent on Top of Your Pack 3:09 – Hack 4: Bring a 1/8" Foam Pad (Multiple Uses) 4:13 – Hack 5: Clean & Elevate Your Feet Daily 5:30 – Hack 6: Use a Spoon for Trail Mix & Chips 6:11 – Hack 7: Don’t Cut Your Toothbrush Too Short 6:59 – Hack 8: Bring an Extra Smart Water Bottle Cap 7:55 – Hack 9: Organize Your Food by Day 9:06 – Hack 10: Embrace the Stink (Save Weight) 9:40 – Final Thoughts ---------------------------------------------------------- #hiking #thruhiking #backpacking