EP 211 - Ask OV 14: Keeping an Ultralight Mindset in Hunting and Family Trips

What crossover does ultralight backpacking have with backcountry hunting? In this episode of Ask OV, we cover the crossover and how to use it; wisdom learned from the tradeoffs; and how to maintain your mind while you're on trail.

Things we cover in this episode:

- What weight threshold requires a heavy-duty hunting pack over an ultralight pack?

- How do you reduce backpack weight when carrying gear for family or kids?

- Can you use an ultralight backpacking tent for late-season backcountry hunting?

- How often should you take breaks when backpacking uphill?

- How do you apply an ultralight (UL) mentality to backcountry hunting gear?

- What are the strategic trade-offs of using a sub-2-pound spotting scope?

- Is it better to push through gear durability concerns or buy heavier hunting clothes?

- How do I know if my body is actually fatigued or if my brain is trying to make me quit?

- What is the difference between taking a break and quitting on the trail?

- How do you prevent yourself from taking too many impulsive breaks while hiking?

- What should I do if I want to quit my thru-hike or backpacking trip due to exhaustion?

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to the Ask OV Podcast

01:05 - Pack Weight Thresholds: Ultralight vs. Sturdy Hunting Packs

07:04 - Favorite Hunting and Hauling Packs Outside the OV Line

07:36 - Applying Ultralight Concepts to Backcountry Hunting

15:52 - Evaluating Lightweight Gear vs. Durability in the Field

22:54 - The Mental Side of Hiking: Overcoming Psychological Limits

28:07 - How the Body Lies: Recognizing Dehydration, Cramping, and Fatigue

35:01 - Taking Purposeful Breaks vs. Quitting

How to Submit Questions Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi