025: AHEAD OF THE CURVE: The Women + Backpacking Episode

Today on The First 40 Miles, it’s our Women + Backpacking Episode! We’ll share the top 5 questions about Women and Backpacking and what to do to prepare for a successful trip. On the SUMMIT™ Gear Review, we’ll teach you the Mayan name for Bonefish and why it matters! On The Backpack Hack of the Week™ we’ll share a $1 solution to the most common female complaint on the trail. Then we’ll answer a question that applies to folks with long hair.

Show Notes: Episode 025

Opening



*  Data about women on the trail

* Advantages women have

* Trail is a great equalizer

* My first backpacking trip



Top 5 Questions about Women and Backpacking

Is it safe for women to backpack alone?



* Should any backpacker travel alone?

* Weapon: false sense of security

* Trekking Poles (provide extra support, extension of arms, some protection if an animal encounter occurs)

* Safe option for women who want to backpack “alone”: Tandem Solo Hikes

* There is value and safety in travelling together



Is backpacking gear for women really different or is it just purple?



* Notice difference: packs, sleeping bags, clothing (cut is different)

* Heather’s experience with a women’s pack



Girls can’t just find a tree…so what options are out there that can help?



* Female Urination Device or STP

* pStyle

* Try in shower before you try on the trail

* Overcoming bathroom anxiety (the more you go, the more you know)



What is the best solution for feminine hygiene products on the trail?



* Pads and tampons are still an option, however they must be packed out

* MaskIt for packing out feminine hygiene

* Some women prefer to use shots or pills to modify their monthly cycle

* Menstrual Cups: No waste involved, lightweight, not associated with toxic shock syndrome

* Use with a backup washable menstrual pad



Where can I find like-minded women backpackers who can share stories and give advice?

SnowqueenandScout.com

SUMMIT Gear Review™: Macabi Skirt

Structure



* Supplex Nylon (Cottony-soft, breathable)

* Pant Clip (fully adjustable length): Lets you adapt to changes in weather, activity or mood

* Wading Snaps: Lets you go amphibious without changing your clothes

* Fabric (SPF 25+) resists wrinkles, dries fast and wicks away moisture

* Oversized, self-draining pockets

* Zippered security pocket. Cell phone pocket. Tiny pocket within one of the main pockets

* Elastic waistband, drawstring and belt loops

* D-ring on side

* Available in multiple lengths, colors and sizes

* Inspector Gadget Skirt



Utility



* Skirt, Pants, Shorts

* Dries in 2 hours

* You can stuff the whole skirt into the zippered security pocket



Mass



* Hiking pants 13.8 ounces

* Macabi Skirt Small/Regular Length weighs in at just 10.5 ounces



Maintenance



* Machine wash or hand wash

* Dry

* No special maintenance



Investment



* $77



Trial



* This skirt is convertible in every sense of the word. It changes easily from skirt, to pants to shorts. And goes from survival mode to dressy mode.

* Women have the culturally acceptable option of wearing clothing on the trail that allows them to be a little more versatile

* Regular length was perfect hiking length

* Feminine, functional, comfortable, durable, versatile–a skirt when I want a skirt, and pants or shorts when I want pants or shorts



Backpack Hack of the Week™: Dollar Store STP Device