#171 - Ranking the Best and Worst Backpacking Foods (Tier List)

In this episode, I rate backpacking and thru-hiking foods from S through D tier based on what I actually carry and why, using my experience on trails like the John Muir Trail, Wonderland Trail, and Colorado Trail. I explain my three main criteria—calorie density, cost, and weight—then give my takes on staples like beef jerky (overrated and not calorie-dense), Snickers (bonk-saving S-tier), Idahoan potatoes (D-tier), ramen (S-tier), tortillas, olive oil, tuna/salmon, peanut butter, trail mix, and various bars. I also talk about GI issues from processed trail food, why I sometimes bring probiotics, how I combine ramen/Knorr sides with fish and olive oil for big dinners, and why Mountain House meals can be worth it for morale even if they’re bulky and expensive.-- S and A Tier Food -- ProBars: LaraBar Chocolate Chip | Ramen Noodles: Couglan's Squeeze Tubes (for PB): Salmon Packets:Snickers: Knorr Rice Sides | Trail Mix | ---My Socials---⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ *If you'd like to support the channel, please consider buying from the above links! If you buy, I'll receive a small compensation from the sale - at no extra cost to you!! Thank you so much.

The video uses an S–D tier list to give my blunt, experience-based take on what’s actually worth prioritizing for hiking and backpacking. I focu on efficiency, safety, comfort, and simplicity, emphasizing how decisions change depending on conditions (like season, terrain, and trip style such as thru-hiking versus more relaxed camping). Throughout, I explains his reasoning in practical terms—what saves time, reduces hassle, improves recovery, and provides redundancy—while pushing back on common assumptions and encouraging viewers to think critically, train appropriately, and choose systems that match their goals.-- S/A/B Tier List Gear I use -- - OnX Backcountry - Go Long Gaiters - Suunto Vertical Watch - Black Diamond Distance Z Trekking Poles - Columbia Sunshirt - Klymit Luxe Pillow ---My Socials---⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

The conversation follows Kurt Belding of Western Obsessions TV discussing his decision to stop doing work he didn’t enjoy and pursue epic hunting adventures, driven by the belief that life is short and retirement can come too late to have the physical ability to live fully. He explains the challenges of self-filming hunts—especially spot-and-stalk archery—how storytelling is built in the edit when footage or in-field audio is missing, and how filming can ruin shot opportunities. Kurt shares his background as an entrepreneur who built multiple fitness and nutrition businesses, then around age 40 sold or closed them to hunt and create content, initially running out of money and figuring it out over five years. He credits entrepreneurship with mental toughness, patience, and faster business learning, outlines training focused on discomfort and endurance, and says quitting alcohol supports his goals.-- Kurt's Links -- InstagramWebsiteYouTube ---My Socials---⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Jason, a recently retired Air Force command senior enlisted leader with 31+ years of service, explains how he got the trail name “Meat Grinder” after severe nipple chafing on the PCT and how quickly it stuck. He describes the difficult transition from decades of military structure to the unstructured freedom of thru-hiking, finding the same powerful bonding through shared hardship and joy. He compares solo hiking versus hiking with partners, including a rainy 16-day JMT where he and a friend skipped Whitney for safety, and discusses how fishing forces him to slow down. Jason recounts struggling through the NorCal heat, smoke, fires, and “NorCal blues,” and how the trail removed distractions, helping him process combat memories and release guilt. He shares lasting takeaways of gratitude and simplicity, plus why he wrote his book, 5 Million Steps.-- Jason's Links -- Five Million Steps Book ⁠Instagram---My Socials---⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Today I interview hiking trainer Chase Tucker about improving hiking performance and longevity by identifying and delaying a person’s “breakdown point.” We discuss why many hikers only address fitness after pain starts, how knee pain often traces back to hip and foot mechanics, and how trekking poles can provide forward propulsion and downhill support when used correctly. Chase explains assessing movement from the foot up, building foot-to-hip connection for uphill efficiency, and why heavy lifters may still struggle on long hikes without aerobic capacity and proper biomechanics. He introduces breath training via the BOLT (body oxygen level) test to measure carbon dioxide tolerance, demonstrates it live, and connects improved breathing to altitude comfort and reduced altitude sickness. They also cover dopamine fasting to reduce constant stimulation and increase presence.-- Chase Tucker's Links ---YoutubeBook an assessment Join his Free Skool---My Socials---⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

In this episode, I dive into my life-altering decision to move out west from my hometown. I discuss the challenges, the emotional hurdles, the culture shock, and the ultimate transformation that came from leaving my comfort zone. By sharing my story, I aim to inspire anyone feeling stuck to consider the profound effects location changes can have on personal growth and happiness. From snowboarding in Colorado to wrestling with loneliness and forming new friendships through shared hobbies, this episode encompasses the highs and lows that reshaped my life. Join me as I reflect on the pros and cons and hopefully, motivate you to seek your own new beginnings.---My Socials---⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

In this video, I share a complete list of essential gear for tackling 14,000-foot peaks. Covering items like the Petzel meteor helmet, Oakley Sutro sunglasses, and various clothing layers, the guide emphasizes safety and practical choices for both technical and non-technical climbs. Additional recommendations include trekking poles, specific vests, water filters, and first aid essentials. For navigation, the Onyx Backcountry and 14ers.com apps are highlighted. Tips for handling vehicle access to trailheads and filming hikes round out this comprehensive gear overview.-- 💥 My 14er Gear -- Packs/Vests- Black Diamond 15L Pack | https://rei.rockporch.com/prdlink/G1RKdoVPbf- Salomon 12L Vest | https://rei.rockporch.com/prdlink/Y2FyuIPnlMShoes- La Sportiva Approach Shoes | https://rei.rockporch.com/prdlink/wbF4efJded- Saucony Excursion TR16 | https://amzn.to/3LVwvAELayers- Baleaf UV SPF Tshirt | https://amzn.to/4rJdD7b- Columbia Sunshirt | https://app.rockporch.com/prdlink/zS53pBScQ4- Shorts | https://amzn.to/4jRVi3S- Columbia Arctic Peak Gloves | https://app.rockporch.com/prdlink/PQadRqA3bt- Mammut Aenergy Hooded Jacket | https://app.rockporch.com/prdlink/J6EEuyhTuD- Merino Socks | https://amzn.to/3O0yzbaGear- Black Diamond Distance Z Trekking Poles | https://rei.rockporch.com/prdlink/f3uAEx8ws7- Inreach Mini 2 | ​​https://amzn.to/4af7zMs- Suunto Vertical Watch | https://rei.rockporch.com/prdlink/gQZPKN1Yr7- Oakley Sutro Sunglasses | https://amzn.to/4apby9f- Petzl Meteor Helmet | https://rei.rockporch.com/prdlink/NOsbqcPRdl- Insta 360 X5 | https://app.rockporch.com/prdlink/WlQiDNt7Tg- Foxelli Rechargeable Headlamp | https://amzn.to/4qu2ohR- Go Long Gaiters | https://amzn.to/4tu7iya- Kahltoolah Microspikes | https://app.rockporch.com/prdlink/agCVUdkv6h- Salomon Quiver | https://app.rockporch.com/prdlink/hPklFibzWP- Salomon XA Filter | https://amzn.to/3LVwRY0- 2L Water Flask | https://amzn.to/4asR9Am- Maltodextrin Powder | https://amzn.to/4rCc6iY- Evoc Helmet Holder | https://amzn.to/4cgjpIE- Petzl Gully | https://amzn.to/4apcmLj- Black Diamond Whippet | https://app.rockporch.com/prdlink/6OBnDZ5Yk4- Suunto Wing | https://amzn.to/4rffQHt- OnX Backcountry | https://alnk.to/8tQz3wqFirst Aid -Emergency Blanket | https://amzn.to/4tnBpHp- Gin Gin Ginger Chews | https://amzn.to/4tGIWRV- Wound Sealer | https://amzn.to/4qzwRew- Stormproof Matches | https://amzn.to/4kkSmxQ- Rollins Glasses | https://amzn.to/4ruUBRy---My Socials---⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

In this episode, we explore the profound impact that your environment and the people you surround yourself with have on your personal and professional growth. Referred to as 'killers,' these individuals are your role models who embody the skills, motivation, and mindset you aspire to have. We delve into how subconsciously or consciously, your environment and the people in it can either elevate you or cap your potential. The discussion covers how shifting from a limiting environment to one filled with high performers can radically transform your mindset, outlook on life, and ultimately your success. The speaker shares personal anecdotes, the importance of being reliable, and practical tips on how to meet and connect with these high achievers. The episode ends with a challenge for the audience to identify and replace one low-standard individual in their life with a high achiever in the coming year.  ---My Socials---⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

In this episode, we welcome Eileen Kopsaftis to discuss strategies for maintaining health as you age. We dive into mindset shifts, the seven pillars of a healthy body, and the importance of consistent habits. Eileen shares insights on dealing with common pain points like knee and back pain, and the significance of mobility, expert guidance, and community support. She also highlights the critical role of sleep and offers practical tips for maintaining physical and mental well-being at any age.-- Eileen's Links -- WebsiteBook---My Socials---⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

In this episode, we dive deep into van living with guest Josh Stuart, a seasoned mountain guide and van-life enthusiast. Josh shares his experiences and insights from living in and working on vans, covering essential upgrades, challenges, and how this lifestyle has influenced his next business venture focused on affordable housing and minimalism. From common misconceptions about van necessities to the intricacies of van build-outs and the importance of organization, Josh provides valuable tips for those considering the van life. He also discusses his upcoming venture, Halcyon, aimed at creating affordable and dignified housing solutions.-- Josh's Socials -- Instagram  ---My Socials---⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠