What They Don’t Tell You About Your Outdoor Gear

One thing they don’t tell you about outdoor gear is that it is ok to modify it! This doesn’t mean chopping up perfectly good gear, but you should feel empowered to make small tweaks to your gear to make it work better for you. 

For example on your packs, you can sew in new cinch straps to better secure your load. You can even remove pockets or straps that are unnecessary (although I suggest doing this cautiously!) On the pack pictured, I added a row of webbing (brown)  for attaching longer straps and then also added the two black cinch straps to close down the bottom of the back when it is not full. 

Another example is what we discussed in our video clip this week. You can add a quick detach connection to your water bladder hose to make it easier to refill it using your filter in the field. 

I think it is also important to modify your first aid kit based on the duration of your trip and the number of people in your group, especially if there are group members who are less experienced. The basics of your kit will be the same but the quantity of things like bandages and medication can change. Don’t just throw a premade kit in your bag without thinking through and modifying it as needed. 

Bottom line, with your entire hiking kit, make it work for you! Make changes that make your gear work as a system and work for you! This way you will be more prepared to successfully complete your hike.