Welcome to episode 192 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, sometimes life gets out of control. And when that it's time to get back to basics.

We'll talk a little bit about how you can simplify your backpacking trips.

Then the top five ways that

backpacking can make you more effective, more productive, and

less stressed. Next, if you've always wondered how Native Americans hung their laundry to dry before clothespins were invented,

we've got something you might be interested in.

Then we'll share a simple one ingredient backpack hack for your next trip.

All this and that's about it today on the first 40 miles.

Life can get complicated. But sometimes this even spills over into backpacking. We can overcomplicate things even in something that's supposed to be really simple.

Are we guilty of overambitious planning, unrealistic expectations, or even like

redefining the necessities. I know a lot of that can happen when we look at REI catalogs or browse through the outdoor store.

We look at all these things that are basically screaming at us, bring us along.

You need me.

Yeah, take me on your next backpacking trip. Or even, what you have isn't good enough. You could have a much better time if you brought me along. I have all of these features that your current gear doesn't have.

Look at this picture on my packaging. You'll be happier if you have me on your backpacking

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