Welcome to episode 13 of the first 40 miles. If you're new to

backpacking or if you're hopelessly in love with someone who wants you to

love backpacking, then this podcast is for you. We'll talk about the essentials, how to lighten your load,

and how to make the most of your time on the trail. I'm your host Heather Legler.

And I'm Josh Legler. And this is the first 40 miles. Today on the first 40 miles

we'll give you the top five tips for hiking your own hike. The Summit Gear Review will show your mother-in-law that yes, there is a better way to boil water.

The backpack hack of the week, you'll stun your trailmates with a three ounce solution to a 200 pound problem and

we'll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from an old friend who's not afraid

to wear a Toga in public. All this and that's about it. Today on the first 40 miles.

You know I think all backpackers can agree that one of the hardest parts of

backpacking is those eight hours when your feet aren't moving.

Sleeping while on a backpacking trip can be tricky.

What are some things that have come between you

and a good night's sleep, Josh?

I think one of the things is noise,

especially if I'm camping near a river. I mean, if it's very quiet then it's nice because it actually covers up some of the

other noises but when it's a rushing river it's just I mean it's constantly in

your ears or a waterfall and then little you know

critter noises that happen or the wind starts blowing it doesn't take much of a

wind to really get the forest excited well I've had some issues with sleep well, camping and backpacking, and I would have to say my number one thing that I've had to figure out is how to sleep comfortably on my side.

That's been kind of a, I was going to say

thorn in my side.

...