Tag: hiking

backpackingcampingessentialsThe art of winter campingultralight backpacking

Chapter 1: Safety and Planning for Winter Adventures

on January 8, 2025

A few people have been caught out in the cold this year alone in Northern Sweden on their hiking trips; even with emergency SOS devices, maps, and contacts, these unfortunate hikers froze to death. That is the reality of hiking, especially winter hiking if you go into these situations unprepared. And even if you are prepared, the risk in winter hiking is still very real. You have to be prepared for even the worst outcomes. In one of these unfortunate accidents, the hiker, even with an SOS device sending a GPS signal, no emergency service could get to him in time because of the storms that had trapped him. I want to start my deep dive into winter hiking by stressing this point: Be prepared, even for the worst-case scenario, and don’t expect somebody to come out and save you if things turn for the worse.

So my first chapter and parts here in my Mastering ultralight winter hiking series will be specifically based on safety protocols and navigation.

Part 1: Safey and planning

Embarking on winter adventures requires careful attention to safety and meticulous planning, especially when embracing ultralight camping principles. Preparation is key to addressing the unique challenges of cold weather, snow-covered landscapes, and potentially harsh conditions. This chapter delves into essential practices that lay a foundation for safe and effective experiences in the wilderness during winter months. By prioritizing thorough preparation and understanding the nuances of winter camping, adventurers can ensure both safety and enjoyment amidst nature’s more intense elements.

This text will guide readers through establishing an emergency contact plan, a fundamental aspect of winter adventure safety. It emphasizes selecting reliable individuals who can act swiftly in emergencies, maintaining clear communication protocols, and integrating regular check-ins into your routine. Additional focus is given to identifying trustworthy contacts, ensuring their availability, and understanding the value of local knowledge and relevant skills. This approach prepares explorers for potential risks and fosters a support network, enhancing overall preparedness and confidence while navigating winter terrains. The strategies outlined aim to empower beginners and seasoned outdoor enthusiasts, equipping them with the tools needed for a secure and memorable experience in the winter wilderness.

Importance of Creating an Emergency Contact Plan

Establishing an emergency contact plan ensures safety in ultralight winter camping. Having reliable contacts can significantly enhance your safety and peace of mind when adventuring into the wilderness, particularly under challenging winter conditions. These individuals are pivotal in acting swiftly if something goes wrong, ensuring that emergency responses are prompt and appropriate.

In selecting your emergency contacts, focus on identifying trustworthy individuals who understand the significance of their role. They should be reliable and available to act decisively in unexpected situations. This implies not just availability but also the willingness to intervene when necessary. The dependability of your contacts directly influences the effectiveness of any response during emergencies.

Developing clear communication protocols is another crucial aspect of an emergency plan. Communicating your location and plans effectively reduces confusion, ensuring clarity during emergencies, which can expedite search and rescue operations. For instance, you might consider utilizing devices such as satellite phones or personal locator beacons (PLBs) that work efficiently in remote areas where traditional mobile networks may fail. These tools guarantee that your position is continually known and that you can send distress signals when required. The key is ensuring that all parties understand how these communication tools function and the specific scenarios in which they’ll be used.

Integrating set check-in times into your communication protocol is also vital. Scheduling regular check-ins ensures that your chosen contacts are updated on your status, safeguarding your well-being. For example, before heading out, you could agree on specific times and intervals for these check-ins, such as sending updates upon reaching particular landmarks or whenever practical, given weather conditions and itinerary specifics. This habit ensures someone is always aware of your last known location, acting as an early warning system should a check-in be missed. Moreover, these check-in arrangements enhance personal responsibility and encourage consistent progress monitoring.

Creating a comprehensive emergency contact list is another step in preparing a robust safety system. This list must be easily accessible, both digitally and physically. While electronic formats offer convenience and ease of updating, it’s wise to have physical copies available in case digital devices fail or power sources become unavailable. Ensure that this list contains up-to-date information, including names, phone numbers, email addresses, and any additional details like medical conditions or preferences pertinent in emergencies.

Finally, understanding the broader context and risks associated with ultralight winter camping enhances the effectiveness of your emergency contact plan. Familiarizing yourself with potential hazards—from severe weather changes to navigation challenges—allows you to prepare more thoroughly and adapt your plan to meet those needs. Discuss these potential scenarios with your contacts so they are well informed about the nature of your excursion.

Implementing a rigorous emergency contact plan creates a safety net that protects against unpredictable winter camping challenges. Ensuring the selection of reliable individuals, setting clear communication standards, maintaining regular check-ins, and keeping updated contact lists is a comprehensive safety approach. These strategies mitigate risks and empower you to enjoy the beauty and serenity of winter adventures with greater confidence and security.

Setting Check-in Times

Scheduling regular check-ins with your contacts is crucial in ensuring safety and communication during an ultralight winter camping expedition. This practice involves updating your chosen contacts on your location and condition at scheduled intervals, providing consistent information and support throughout your adventure. The effectiveness of this strategy hinges on several key factors, which we will explore below.

Firstly, these regular updates are vital in informing your contacts about your current location and overall condition. By maintaining a steady flow of information, you ensure those on the ground have an accurate understanding of your journey’s progress and any potential challenges you might face. This could be as simple as sending a text or making a quick call to share your GPS coordinates, allowing contacts to track your movements and be prepared to assist if needed. Consistent communication is especially important in remote areas where unforeseen changes in weather or terrain can rapidly alter plans.

Moreover, having scheduled check-ins acts as an early warning system. If you miss a designated check-in time, it immediately signals your contacts that something may be amiss. In such instances, they can initiate appropriate measures based on predetermined protocols to ensure your well-being. This system mitigates risks by providing timely intervention and offers peace of mind, knowing there is a safety net if things go awry.

Timing considerations are essential when setting up your check-in schedule. Selecting appropriate times that align with your camping routine and environmental conditions is vital. For instance, scheduling check-ins during breaks or meal times when you are momentarily stationary and have stable communication access might be more practical. Adverse weather conditions may impact signal availability, so incorporating flexibility into timing can help accommodate unexpected delays or difficulties in connecting with your contacts.

The primary goal is to establish a convenient and effective routine without being overly burdensome or disruptive to your camping experience. As adjustments may be necessary, feedback from team members or fellow campers can further refine the frequency and timing of these check-ins, making them more responsive to real-time conditions and personal preferences.

While planning check-ins, employing multiple communication methods, where possible, also boosts reliability. Using digital and physical means like satellite phones, GPS devices with messaging capabilities, or low-tech options like leaving marker notes at designated waypoints can strengthen communication, ensuring messages reach intended recipients across various circumstances.

Additionally, staying flexible with your check-in procedures is critical. As you gain more experience or if your journey deviates significantly from initial plans, revisit and adjust your check-in strategies to align with new realities. This adaptability ensures your methods remain efficient and responsive, enhancing safety and enjoyment during your winter adventure.

Concluding Thoughts

This chapter explores the essential steps for establishing a robust foundation for safe and efficient ultralight winter camping. A well-planned emergency contact plan is central to this preparation, ensuring you have reliable communication links in place should an unexpected situation arise. By selecting trustworthy contacts familiar with your plans and capable of acting decisively in emergencies, you build a network that enhances safety and provides peace of mind. Simple measures like setting clear check-in schedules contribute significantly to maintaining a consistent flow of information, keeping all parties updated on your status, and serving as an early warning system if plans go astray.

We’ve also discussed the importance of adaptability and using available technology to support these strategies effectively. Whether it’s incorporating satellite phones or personal locator beacons or simply being aware of local conditions through informed contacts, these tools help ensure your position is known and that aid can arrive swiftly if needed. Regularly reviewing and updating your emergency plans and contact lists is vital to keeping them effective and relevant, allowing you to focus on enjoying the beauty of winter camping while feeling secure in your preparedness. As you venture into the winter wilderness, these carefully laid plans enable you to embrace the adventure with confidence and assurance.

The next chapter will discuss Navigation Strategies Using Digital and Analog Tools. So that you can navigate your way through the mountains even if your digital gear breaks down. (which happens often in winter camping – the cold kills batteries)

Reference List

A Hiking Emergency Evac Plan—What to Do When a Crisis Strikes. (n.d.). Www.mossyoak.com. https://www.mossyoak.com/our-obsession/blogs/a-hiking-emergency-evac-plan-what-to-do-when-a-crisis-strikes

Huden, Z. (2024, October 13). 4 Winter Camping Safety Tips for All Skill Levels. Cascade Designs. https://cascadedesigns.com/de-eu/blogs/thermarest-tips/winter-camping-safety-tips-all-skill-levels?srsltid=AfmBOoorUNq6ICoJE8cXP6aokXD8GsJlUYG7oxiKtIOPxhN1ghbA1Jwb

Prohens, L. (2024, June 18). Effective Communication in Crisis Situations: The Role of Language Services | Global Interpreting Network. Global Interpreting Network. https://globalinterpreting.com/blog/effective-communication-in-crisis-situations-the-role-of-language-services/

Simon, T., Goldberg, A., & Adini, B. (2015, October). Socializing in emergencies—A review of the use of social media in emergency situations. International Journal of Information Management. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijinfomgt.2015.07.001

The Power of Check-Ins: 7 Proven Strategies. (2024, April 25). https://easy.jobs/blog/proven-strategies-of-routine-check-ins/

greggwirth. (2022, October 5). Custom & Advisory: Regular Check-ins on work & well-being are at the nexus of associate retention, say CTOs. Thomson Reuters Institute. https://www.thomsonreuters.com/en-us/posts/legal/custom-advisory-check-ins-retention/

Gear reviews

This will be my go to footwear for the majority of my trips! Linn tests the Altra Olympus 5 Hike Mid GTX for women.

on June 4, 2023

I would guess that over 95% of all online equipment reviews come from men. At Backpackinglight, we will be providing more opportunities for women to test and contribute here throughout the year. We would love to have more female reviews on items you have purchased from us. Please feel free to email us at info@backpackinglight.se or use #backpackinglightse and let’s help each other find the right gear. Here is the outdoor enthusiast Linn review of the Altra Olympus Hike Mid GTX:

About a month ago, @backpackinglight.se posted a message seeking a female test pilot to evaluate Altras @altrarunning new Olympus Hike Mid GTX for women.

I usually never express interest through similar posts because I always approach them with the wonderfully positive attitude that “they will choose someone else anyway” or “I never win anything anyway.” But then a DM from @backpackinglight.se arrived, and my initial feeling was overwhelming joy. Then, it turned into “damn it, they will never work for my knee” (for those who don’t know, I have dislocated my right knee numerous times and had even more surgeries). I had convinced myself that the only thing that works for my knee, when it comes to hiking with a backpack, is heavy boots like my Meindl Island.

But I was wrong. Altras Olympus Hike Mid GTX is simply incredibly comfortable, whether I hike without a backpack or with one (a ten-mile hike with a 20 kg backpack was no problem). They are really stable with excellent grip despite their low weight, and it feels like walking in a pair of sneakers with cloud-like cushioning rather than boots. This is probably due to the Vibram sole design and the comfortably wide toe box.

Altras Olympus Hike Mid GTX is simply incredibly comfortable, whether I hike without a backpack or with one (a ten-mile hike with a 20 kg backpack was no problem). They are really stable with excellent grip despite their low weight, and it feels like walking in a pair of sneakers with cloud-like cushioning rather than boots. This is probably due to the Vibram sole design and the comfortably wide toe box.

I have hiked over 50 km in my Olympus since I received them, and they have performed exceptionally well on any surface. During my trip to the Ovik Mountains with my sister, we walked through soaking wet bogs, and I can confirm that the boots are waterproof since my feet (unlike my sister’s 🥲😂) remained dry throughout the hike.

They don’t replace my Meindls because I prefer higher shafts for extremely wet hikes like the one in the Ovik Mountains (as I mentioned, they kept me dry, but I wouldn’t have needed to worry about where I stepped if I had worn my Meindls), and I still find a sense of (probably unfounded) security in the stiffness of my Meindls. However, my Olympus will be my go-to footwear for the majority of my trips; I love them. And I wear them casually too—fashion is not my thing.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to test this fantastic boot, @backpackinglight.se 🥾💚

Features

  • Weight: 15 oz / 436 g
  • Midsole: Compression Molded EVA
  • Outsole: Vibram® Megagrip
  • Cushion: Max
  • Stack Height: 33 mm
  • Upper: GORE-TEX PRODUCT

Feel free to leave a comment:

backpackingenlightened equipmentessentialsGoing Lighterkids

Vandra lätt med små barn.

on April 18, 2023

Karl-Johan Piehl, van fjällfarare och tillika författaren bakom böcker såsom Sarek National Park Guide och Sarek – Vandring, löpning & klättring med lättviktspackning delar här sina erfarenheter efter en Sarekvandring med barn, 6 och 8 år gamla. Det här är hans story.

Sommaren 2022 begav jag mig genom Sarek i 10 dagar med mina barn, då 6 och 8 år gamla. Två vänner följde med oss på turen och vandringen blev fantastiskt lyckad. Barnen är fjällvana, gillar att gå och har tillbringat mycket tid i fjällen under hela sin uppväxt. Efter att vi sommaren 2021 gjort ett stort antal toppturer i Härjedalsfjällen hade barnen visat sig vara redo för längre turer med mer komplexa inslag såsom Sarek ofta bjuder på. Den största utmaningen var nog inte för barnen, utan för mig som vuxen att göra en bra planering. Barnen stortrivs på fjället, och livet är enkelt där. Vikten på ryggsäcken är en begränsande faktor för hur länge vi klarar vara ute. Här följer aspekter kring hur jag resonerat.

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Karl Johan med familj i Bierikvarasj

Förutsättningar jag ville få till för en lyckad tur

  • Storslagen miljö som lämnar intryck.
  • Barnen ska känna sig starka och kompetenta på fjället. Därför ska de bära så lite packning som möjligt, helst inget.
  • Inga hungriga barn, de ska ha välplanerad mat de kan äta i adekvat mängd.
  • Vi ska ha bra utrustning och kläder anpassade för kalla temperaturer, vind, väta och dåligt väder.
  • Barnens kläder ska lämna utrymme för lite slarv med väta och smuts.
  • Tidsschemat för turen ska ha goda marginaler.
  • Barnen ska ha så fria vingar som möjligt, dvs uppmuntras ta egna beslut, styra tempo och inte radiostyras av en vuxen.
  • Jag bär så lite som möjligt.
En tarp i dcf fungerar som ett vind och regnskydd vid pauser och vid tältlägret. Tarpen på bild är från svenska Skalmo Gear

Packning

  • 6åringen bar en ryggsäck med alla sina kläder som vägde cirka 2kg.
  • 8åringen bar en ryggsäck med alla sina kläder som vägde cirka 2.2kg.
  • Jag bar en ryggsäck som vägde cirka 35kg, fick dock avlastning av en vän första 3 dagarna på turen. Maten vägde 25kg, övriga grejer cirka 10kg.

Fritt fram att räkna på vad som hänt med ryggsäcksvikter här ovan om vi använt mer traditionell fjällpackning, låt säga 10-15kg var i basvikt (exklusive mat).

Övre Rapadalen

Klädsystem för mig som vuxen: ett par ullstrumpor, syntetkallingar, löptights, ullunderställströja, vindtröja, keps, solglasögon och trailrunningskor. Förstärkningskläder: termobyxor, dunjacka, syntetdunjacka, mössa, fleecehandskar, regnställ, goretexstrumpor och regnskalvantar. Extrakläder: ett par ullstrumpor.

Klädsystem för barnen: ett par ullstrumpor, syntetkallingar, tunna softshellbyxor, ullunderställströja, vindtröja, keps, solglasögon och trailrunningskor. Förstärkningskläder: termobyxor, tjock syntetdunjacka, fleecetröja, mössa, myggnät, montagehandskar, fleecehandskar, regnställ, goretexstrumpor och regnskalvantar. Extrakläder: två par ullstrumpor, ett par syntetkallingar, ett par extra softshellbyxor. Fryspåsar att ha i skorna vid läger.

Varje detalj i klädsystemen har jag valt ut efter bästa förmåga för att vara så lätt som möjligt men ändå fylla sin funktion. I stort sett ser valen liknande ut för mig som vuxen som för barnen, undantaget att de fick kraftigare regnbyxor, mer extrakläder och tjockare förstärkningsplagg än mig. Till barn är det dock betydligt svårare att hitta bra lättviktsprodukter. Mycket av deras klädsystem köptes i slutänden från gneis.se som är bland de bästa tillverkarna jag kunnat hitta för barnfriluftskläder. Själv väljer jag ofta kläder från bland andra Rab, Salomon, OMM, Enlightened equipment, inov8, patagonia, mountain hardware mm. Ofta kläder för löpning.

Underkläder, och även barnens byxor fick jag tvätta ett par gånger längs vägen och sedan torka i armhålan eftersom utemiljön inte bjöd på torkmöjligheter.

Sovsystem

  • Tält: zpack triplex. Inköpt specifikt för turen och numera mitt enda tält. Det finns flera saker som kan göras bättre vad gäller design och slittålighet, men samtidigt så är det ett fullt fungerande 3p-fjälltält som väger 700 gram. Det är svårt att konkurrera med.
  • Varsin vuxensovsäck fyllda med 3-400gram 800+FP dun. Barnen har inte egna sovsäckar då jag har flera sen tidigare.
  • 2st 3mm cellplastliggunderlag från skalmo kombinerat med 2 st therm-a-rest uberlight
  • 1st therm-a-rest neoair
  • Vi sover med thermobyxor, syntetdunjacka, mössa och strumpor på
Kartläsning

Ryggsäckar

Barnen hade varsin 16l ryggsäck från vaude som väger in på cirka 300 gram. Min ryggsäck är en 10 år gammal 75l ryggsäck som en kompis sytt till mig i x-pack. Den rymde maten, övrig utrustning fick fästas utanpå initialt.

Övrig utrustning

Stavar till mig och barnen, microspikes till mig och barnen, Garmin inreach, tarp från skalmo för raster och läger, drybags för kläder och sovsäckar, första hjälpen, myggmedel, hygienartiklar, lagningsgrejer, solkräm, kondenstrasa, telefon, klocka, kameror, powerbanks, laddkablar, betalkort, läsplatta, karta och kompass.

Mat

Enskilt viktigaste posten att lyckas med. Jag räknade på hur mycket energi barnen behövde och kom fram till cirka 2500-2700kcal per dygn. Månaderna innan avresa torkade jag mat hemma som barnen fick prova. Mycket inspiration från boken “Snabblagat på tur” av Eric Tornblad. All mat portionsförpackades i ziplockpåsar, var livsmedel för sig. Exempelvis torkade köttbullar, skinka, fetaost, ketchup, oliver, rivna morötter, ost, pasta, tonfisk, köttfärssås mm. Köpte även med en större mängd godis, chips, varm choklad, nyponsoppa, dextrosol, sportdryck, kakor mm. I slutänden hade vi med oss cirka 2.5kg mat med låg vattenhalt per dygn för oss tre, och det var mitt i prick.

Eftersom all mat var förberedd för att endast behöva tillsättas kokande vatten behövde vi inget kök för avancerad matlagning. Min to-go-brännare Soto windmaster med tillhörande 650ml toaks titankastrull och 550 gram gas räckte gott och väl för oss i 10 dagar. Maten åt vi ur findus soppskålar med titanskedar. Utöver det hade vi plastmuggar för varm dryck, och vattenflaskor för vatten.

Camp med Ahkka bakom

För mycket packning

Vi saknade inga grejer under turen, men vissa saker kunde göras bättre. Barnen ligger dåligt på uppblåsbara liggunderlag. Ofta fungerade liggunderlaget som täcke istället – eller bara utfyllnadsmaterial i tältet. Framöver blir det bara cellplatstliggunderlag, 10-15mm tjockt. Barnen hade inte behövt fleecetröjor, myggnät eller solglasögon. Eventuellt hade även microspikes kunnat lämnats hemma, de är dock sköna att ha i svåra vad och i blöt blockterräng. 8 av 10 dagar hade vi lätt regn, kalla temperaturer och ibland vind. Mitt eget klädsystem var jag trygg med sen innan, men barnen fick prova sina – vilka fungerade bra. För kortare fjällturer med god väderprognos hade vi kunnat skala bort en del.

Vad

Det finns många olika aspekter kring att passera vattendrag. Vi gick genom Sarek i början av Juli och startade vår vandring direkt efter den värsta snösmältningen var klar. Det innebar att vi de första två dagarna hade mer vatten än normalt. Barnen är dock vana i terräng och kunde stabilt korsa de flesta vattendrag utan hjälp av vuxen. De växte under turen och upplevde sig ha god kontroll. Jag gick oftast strax nedströms och samtidigt som dem som extra säkerhet. Över de kraftigaste vattendragen höll de mig i handen, vilket nog inte var nödvändigt. Två vattendrag bar jag dem över. Som vuxen tror jag det är nödvändigt att vara van vid vad för att göra adekvata bedömningar kring vad som är lämpligt eller inte om man ska göra såna här turer. Snöbryggor över bäckar höll vi oss borta från, det är alldeles för farligt.

Vad i Rouhtesvagge

Dagsetapper

För oss är 10-15km per dag lagom dagsetapp, det går dem gladeligen. Barnen och jag har förmåga att gå betydligt längre än så i obanad terräng, men vi ville ha gott om tid för lek, utforskande och sidoutflykter.

Ekonomi

Vår Sarektur med utgångspunkt från Stockholm kostade hutlösa summor pengar. Tågbiljetter 5.5k, bussresor cirka 2.5k, båt och övernattning 4,5k och vi gjorde även ett helikopterlyft upp på fjället för 5.2k för att få en enklare och roligare start för barnen. Utöver detta tillkom utrustning som barnen visserligen kan använda hemmavid också – men en hel del är i mina ögon väl lyxigt för hemmabruk. Som tur är hade jag mycket av utrustningen sen tidigare. För en del kanske det är normalt att två veckors semester kostar 25-30k. Men det går inte att påstå att det är billigt att ta familjen till Sarek. För mig som ensamstående förälder med ett normalt jobb är det prioriteringar som gäller för att en sån här resa ska vara görbar. Hyra stuga med dagsturer från Härjedalen kan ge en fin och betydligt billigare fjällsemester, men inte lika storslagen natur!

Hjälpmedel för turplanering

För dig som är intresserad av Sarek på egen hand eller med barnen vill jag tipsa om min sarekguidebok som bland annat säljs på backpackinglight.se: Sarek: vandring, löpning och klättring med lättviktspackning. Där finns detaljerade färdvägar i Sareks dalgångar, och jag vågar påstå att det inte någon annanstans finns mer precisa eller omfattande ruttbeskrivningar för Sareks högalpina områden än de jag redogör för i min bok. Utöver det så finns även all utrustning beskrivet här ovan nedbrutet i detaljer som kan leda dig till korrekta och konkreta val av lämplig utrustning.

backpack with dogbackpackingDestinationsGearGear list

Att vandra lätt och långt med hund, går det?

on March 4, 2022

Att ta sig an Gröna bandet, 130 mil genom den Nordiska fjällkedjan kräver en mix av noga planering, bra utrustning och pannben utöver det vanliga. Men hur ska man tänka och framförallt packa när man ska ta med sin fyrfotade vän på ett sådant massivt äventyr? Under våren 2021 fick jag och min vapendragare Ken äran att hjälpa det trevliga paret Elisabeth och Per Erik med att sondera fram lättare utrustning för det stundande äventyret. Det känns därför extra kul att nu får dela deras upplevelse och erfarenheter.

Foto: Elisabeth Hägglund

Berätta, vilka är ni? 

Vi är två ganska vanliga 50+ som gillar att träna och vara ute i naturen. Per-Erik har egen golvfirma och kan styra över sin tid och kunde därför ta sig ledigt över sommaren och jag, Elisabeth är fysioterapeut och hade många sparade semesterdagar som jag passade på att ta ut. Black är en mycket vänlig och sällskaplig fågeltokig treårig Engelsk setter med italienskt påbrå. 

Hur kom ni på tanken att vandra Gröna bandet?

Efter flera kortare fjällvandringar och sedan Kungsledenvandringen 2020 då vi insåg hur mycket behagligare det är att vandra under en längre tid blev vi sugna att prova att uppleva fjällen och vandra ännu lite längre. Under vandringen 2020 träffade vi även gröna bandarna Peter Bergström på fjället men kanske framförallt inspirerade Signe Johansson oss, som vi träffade i Jäkkvik och som ung tjej då valt att gå Gröna Bandet ensam. 

Foto: Elisabeth Hägglund
Foto: Elisabeth Hägglund
Foto: Elisabeth Hägglund

-Ni vandrade med hund, hur fungerade det?

Det fungerar utmärkt att vandra med hund, man har alltid ett glatt sällskap med sig. Hundsällskapet styr förstås vägvalet eftersom man inte får gå i varken Sarek eller Padjelanta med hund utan är tvungen att ta Kungsleden den biten. Vi hade inga problem med några djupare vad eller besvärliga broar men annars är förstås något som man måste ta med vid planering av vägval. En hund som vandrar 10-12 timmar kräver mycket mer energi än i vanliga fall. Black åt nästan tre gånger så mycket kalorier än han brukar så man måste säkerställa att man har tillräckligt med energirik hundmat under vandringen och depålådor med bra hundmat är därför ett måste. Likväl måste man se till att hunden är rabiesvaccinerad och avmaskad för att komma in i både Norge och Finland vilket kräver sina förberedelser.

Foto: Elisabeth Hägglund

Har ni några tips till framtida bandare som vill ta med sin hund? 

-Vi har ju ett Tarptent Stratosphire Li och hade fått tips om en sidecar till just det tältet, dvs ett separat innertält i mesh till ena absiden som Black fick husera i. Där kunde han lugnt ligga utan att vare sig bli störd eller riskera att trampa sönder våra uppblåsbara liggunderlag eller vara i vägen vid matlagning etc. Han kastade sig in i sitt eget lilla innertält så fort tältet var riggat och somnade som en stock så fort han ätit upp sin middagsmat. Sidecaren är dessutom så stor att vi fick plats med en del av övrig packning där med.
-Självklart måste man hålla koll på tassarna för att se så det inte blir nån oönskad nötning när man går så många timmar varje dag. Är det riktigt varmt och soligt kan asfalt ibland bli brännhet, då får man helt enkelt gå vid sidan av vägen. Träna hunden på att gå långt, se till att eventuella klövjeväskor sitter bra och inte ger skav – vi valde till slut att skicka hem väskorna i första hand p g a värmen. Vi hade hundvänligt myggmedel med oss men använde mest ett myggnät över huvet på Black vid raster – det funkade toppen. 

-Ha en plan för vad man gör om nåt händer hunden, om nån kan hämta, ta över om olyckan är framme. Det hade inte vi – men vi hade tur och fixade det ändå!

Tarptent Stratospire Li
En Sidecar, går också att beställa som tillägg till tältet. Bilden tagen från Tarptent.

–Hur var upplevelsen?

-Det är en speciell känsla att vara ute så länge och vandra, man kommer in i en behaglig nästan meditativ lunk som tycks passa oss. 

-Vi hade båda trott att Gröna bandet vandringen skulle vara tuffare mentalt än den var, kanske underlättade det att vi var tre (ja hunden gör stor skillnad när det känns lite tungt) och vi hade ju gått Kungsledens 42 mil året innan och visste lite vad vi givit oss in på redan.

-Vandringen är fylld av möten med andra vandrare, lokalbefolkning, stugvärdar, alla lika vänliga och hjälpsamma. På instagram är det möjligt att ha kontakt med andra vandrare, få tips om sevärdheter eller möjligen sträckor man borde undvika. 

-Väldigt många långvandrare lovprisar trailskor nu och lämnar sina tunga kängor hemma. Vi ville förstås testa detsamma, allt för att få en lättare vandring. Per-Erik var mycket nöjd med det valet i kombination med Rockysockar i gore tex vid blötväder. Jag, däremot trampade mycket tidigt i vandringen snett och sedan om och om igen som det lätt blir. Till sin stora lycka fick jag dock återse sina förhållandevis lätta Lundhagskängor i Åre och kunde därefter fortsätta vandringen norrut utan ytterligare snedtramp. Således – alla fixar inte att gå i trailskor hur gärna man än vill!

-Det största missödet under vandringen blev även nästan det största guldkornet. Plötsligt från ingenstans blev Black halt när vi kom till Hemavan. Vi hade gått hela dagen utan problem men när vi efter inkvartering på vandrarhemmet skulle ta en sväng ut igen vägrade han gå på en framtass. Vi klämde och kände på tassen men noterade inget konstigt med den och morgonen efter tycktes han vara återställd. Vi vilade en halvdag och kom iväg sent på eftermiddagen utan missöden men halvvägs till Viterstugan ville Black plötsligt inte gå längre. Vad gör man? Vi ville inte gå längre från civilisationen förstås utan valde att vända åter i sakta mak. Klockan var ganska mycket på söndagskvällen, Per-Erik chansade och ringde till Trolltunet nere i Hemavan där man var vänliga nog att ta emot oss sent på kvällen. Dagen efter blev det bilhyra och veterinärbesök, ingen allvarlig skada, lite piller till hunden och ordinerad vila helst en vecka… Hur skulle vi gör nu? Avbryta alla tre, eller skulle Per-Erik gå ensam vidare? Kunde någon komma och hämta Black, ta hem honom till Övik? Vi hade ju flera veckor kvar att vandra! 

Foto: Elisabeth Hägglund

Black blev snabbt pigg igen men skulle vi våga oss iväg igen med risk att han skulle bli halt igen inne i fjällvärlden? Det kändes absolut inte som vi ville riskera hans hälsa. Då erbjöd sig Malin som jobbar på Trolltunet att ta hand om Black så länge vi behövde, hela vår resterande vandring om det skulle behövas, så vi tvåbenta kunde efter tre dagar på Trolltunet fortsätta vår vandring utan Black. Malin tog hand om Black som om han vore en kunglighet, han fick fin mat, sova på soffan, åka gondol, vara på svamputflykter på fjället och mysa med sin nya familj medan Malin hade stenkoll efter ev. hälta. Black var pigg som en mört efter en veckas vila och efter ett samtal till ArcticAir i Hemavan fick han själv flyga helikopter till Ammarnäs där vi kunde återförenas alla tre och vandringen kunde fortsätta. Vilken lycka för oss alla och vilken fantastisk vänlighet av Malin på Trolltunet som spontant erbjöd sin ovärdeliga hjälp!

Foto: Elisabeth Hägglund
Foto: Elisabeth Hägglund

-vill ni lyfta fram utrustning som motsvarade era förväntningar? Och även om det är något som inte motsvarade dina förväntningar.

Vi är sena in i lättviktsvärlden men insåg då vi vandrade Kungsleden med 22-25kg på ryggen att andra vandrade samma sträcka med mycket lättare packning och som dessutom fungerade alldeles utmärkt. Kommer man från Övik är det lätt att tro att det enda som funkar är rejäla grejer med en liten räv på… Vi började söka oss fram på nätet men vill egentligen handla lokalt och hittade Backpackinglight.se som med norrländska mått finns i närheten (10 mil till Umeå) där vi fick personlig och kunnig service och kunde klämma och känna lite på grejerna innan vi bestämde oss. Vi bytte raskt ut vårt tält, ryggsäckar, liggunderlag och sovsäck och har nästan halverat vår vikt på ryggen. 

Vi har varit mycket nöjda med tältlösningen inklusive hundens sidecar och likaså våra sovsäckar från Sierra Design.

Det är lätt att tänka att man borde ha med sig reservutrustning men vill man vandra lätt måste man se över packningen speciellt när man är två, inte ha dubbel utrustning och man kan faktiskt komplettera på vägen om man skulle sakna något. 

Foto: Elisabeth Hägglund

 Om ni skulle vandra Gröna bandet igen, är det något som ni önskar komplettera då? 

Per-Erik planerar en repris av vandringen i år och nu utan hund och med större frihet att välja väg. Försöker nu förfina packningen ytterligare, byter ut successivt till lite lättare alternativ och självklart ett enmanstält denna gång, ett Sarek the Mid. Får vi det att fungera så går vi sista sträckan från Abisko till Treriksröset tillsammans alla tre.

Hur mycket mat hade ni med er,  fyllde ni på längs vägen? 

Vi hade mat för tre dagar enligt vår packlista på Lighterpack (se längre ned), en dag extra för hunden dock och sedan hade vi skickat depåer med jämna mellanrum (för 3-6 beräknade vandringsdagar). I depålådorna hade vi förutom mat till oss och hunden även toapapper, aktuella kartor, ulltvättmedel, lite specialgodis, en skvätt whisky mm.

Hur håller man en bra hygien under resan. Ni har med er ganska lite kläder likt många andra lättviktare. Går det bra attt tvätta/torka ? 

Vi tvättade oss så gott vi kunde i vattendrag och sjöar, tvättade kläderna när vi kom till campingar och mer civiliserade boenden och däremellan blev det handtvätt av underkläder och strumpor. Vi upplevde aldrig något problem med detta, man måste ju bara vänja sig med det lite mer primitiva och med ullkläder på kroppen håller man sig ju rätt fräsch ändå!

Foto: Elisabeth Hägglund

Per Erik och Elisabeths packlistor:

https://lighterpack.com/r/oj98od

https://lighterpack.com/r/ki4c2a

Vill du se mer av Per-Eriks och Elisabeths resa och framtida äventyr så rekommenderar jag starkt att du spanar in deras Intagramkonto: @blackpatur • Foton och videoklipp på Instagram

Är du intresserad att läsa mer eller anmäla dig till Vita eller Gröna bandet. Gör det här:

Hoppas ni tyckte artikeln var intressant. Kommentera gärna! Har du varit med om ett äventyr som du vill dela med dig av, eller berätta om utrustning som du testat? Ris och ros, vi uppskattar ärliga recensioner! Skriv isf ett mail till marcus@backpackinglight.se.

The White and Green Ribbon

Making memories together

on November 17, 2021

Katrin and Elva Petersson, mother and daughter (14 years old) performed the Green Ribbon (1300 km) together in the summer of -21.

Tell me a little bit about you? 

-We, mother and daughter, Katrin and Elva Petersson (14 years old) are very fond of enjoying adventures together, especially in the mountains. There have been a couple of long hikes last summer holidays where we have been out for several weeks at a time, most recently for 11 weeks. It’s something special to be out for a long time, hard to find words for it but it does very good on the inside, empowering and so we have so much fun together out there. 

You made the green ribbon together for the first time in the summer of -21. How was it? 

-It was absolutely the funniest thing we’ve ever done together, me and my daughter. It was insanely challenging with the heatwave day and night for at least a week and then the blizzard on what lasted at least as long where everything was basically wet. For several hours we walked our way through knee-deep marshes and we chose a lot of unedited trails where it was horribly exciting at times when we found bear poos, absolutely amazingly strengthening in every way, just everything!

How did you prepare? 

-We walk a lot in everyday life as both me and my daughter grew up without a car. Just before the Green Ribbon we walked for 1 1/2 years, 2 hours was weekday morning to school & work in all weathers. On weekends we often took a trip in the forest at home on a trail that is 10 km. A couple of weeks before the start, we stepped up and walked with the gasket/ weight. both on the weekend tours and on the everyday walks. For example, I came to work every morning with my backpack filled with 6-8 L of water.

-The mental preparation and the challenge it will be I was confident with, from our previous long trips and certainly also that out there our routines, day rhythm and small chores fall into place quite quickly. 

Rapadalen, view from Skierfe in Sarek

Do you have any more exciting tours ahead? 

-At the time of writing, it is exactly 1 month since we got to the finish line on our Green Ribbon, out there on our day no 65 and it has not been a single day since we came home without sharing lovely memories and challenging strengthening memories here at home which has contributed to us now having thoughts of going the Green Ribbon again. The next Band will then start from the north, (we started from the south this year) and we plan to explore new hiking trails along the band and visit favorite places again such as Skierfe in Sarek that we have climbed now 3 years in a row. The most beautiful place I know!  Would also like to explore the Norwegian mountains a little more, as well as cross Sarek National Park and visit the caves of little Vadvetjåkka National Park.


What if you were to give any advice to future Ribbon mountaineers? 

-If you are already a hiker and have been to the mountains before, you really just have to put one foot in front of the other and welcome the weather you are offered. A hefty dose of stubbornness and purposefulness is a great advantage while being able to enjoy right here and now in everything you are offered. It’s out there between the start and the finish that all the nice things are created. Before the band, the best tip is to go as much as you can everyday. I strongly believe in a good basic condition and walking in all environments, forest, asphalt etc. it is so much more than hiking trails out there. Get your shoes in properly, really properly! (We recommend light trail shoes) practice with the packing as well, several miles and pack with you absolutely ONLY the most necessary! It is the food that is heaviest so send up depots that you pick up along the trail. You’ll also pass a couple of grocery stores.

Out packing


Highlight equipment that you recommend?

 -I am very happy with the equipment we have, like to stay warm while the backpack is light. I am very fond of equipment that can be used in several different ways, for example we set up our tent with the Fizan trekking poles, use hair clips as washing clips for the laundry that get to dry at the back of the backpack etc. when we hike. All to make the gasket as small and light as possible. I myself am small and light in the body and then it is extra important that the packing is easy, not only to make it as enjoyable as possible, but simply for a long walk to be possible.   Some absolute favorites in the equipment are: Altra Lone Peak trail shoes, love them, both me and the daughter have had these on all our hikes and have Altra even everyday.  Are also very fond of our backpacks, Hyperlite Mountaingear, 45 L, holds all the little you need and is very comfortable to carry.  

Any things there that you want to replace for the next tour?  I’m very happy with everything, but for the next long hike we might invest in a new tent. Our current tent Tarptent stratosphire 1 with solid inner tent, (a one-man tent that we slept really well in together in weather and wind on all previous mountain tours) but which now after 135 mountain nights has been worn in the zippers. The daughter has also become bigger since our first mountain tour so we may invest in something bigger and even lighter in weight.  

If anyone want to follow your journey forward?
Please follow us on instagram @make.memories.together 

Packing list : https://lighterpack.com/r/1xsvvu

Recommended Gear. At Backpackinglight.se you can find recommended equipment for the White and green Ribbon

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1300 km over the Swedish Mountains. Torkel Ideström gives us the facts about the The White and Green Ribbon

on November 9, 2021

In 1997, The swedish newsmagazine Expressen noticed a rather unusual achievement. An achievement that later founded the idea for which became Fjällfararna’s White & Green Ribbon.  During the expedition “Sweden Around -97”, Torkel and Annica Ideström made their own way around the country’s borders. The tour started at Treriksröset, with skis to Grövelsjön, and then switched to cycling to Svinesundsbron for the start of the Blue ribbon of the Sea paddles (HBB). In Haparanda, the mode of travel was again changed to bicycle to close the circle at Treriksröset. Since HBB has been an accepted challenge for many years, Torkel and Annika felt natural to manifest an equivalent challange for the mountain range. Then with two different variants, one each for winter and summer respectively. The White and Green Robbon was founded.

Today, the Ideström couple live in a house in the small mountain village Östra Vålådalen in Jämtland. From here they now run the White and Green Ribbon and annually inspire more and more people to go on long expeditions. It feels natural to start our series of articles about the White and Green Ribbon here, meeting the adventurer behind the adventure; Torkel Ideström:

Torkel Ideström

What’s the White and Green Ribbon (WGR)?

 -The idea behind the ribbons is that you can make your own way from Grövelsjön in the south to Treriksröset in the north, or vice versa, a distance of about 1300 km through our Scandinavian mountain chain. The journey shall be carried out without a long stop and without outside assistance. The tour can be carried out all year round. The color of the bands indicates the season in which the tour was conducted. We try to draw attention to the fact that all hikers should respect and consider the environment, nature and culture they travel through. It’s an approach when you’re going to execute the band.

Are there any rules?

 It is important to point out that WGR is not a competition. There are no times that you have to keep as long as the tour is carried out in a succession, without breaks. In order to avoid excessively strict rules, there are no restrictions on modes of travel, except that you should pass west of a number of places (see map below) and that you are not allowed to travel motorized. The use of dogs, kite, is allowed but will be registered as such variant. This is so that certain comparisons can be made and that it is also easier to draw experience from a particular mode of travel.

Can anyone do it?

-The challenge requires both physical and mental strength, as well as a healthy “public conscience” and safety mindset. At the same time, it is up to each mountaineer to complete the tour entirely based on their own circumstances, which means that those who complete the tour get a fantastic experience for the rest of their lives. Our youngest participant who has passed the band is 11 years old and the oldest is 73 years old. However, the severity should not be underestimated.

Tell us about the 2021 season?

-It has been a fantastic year, when many people chose to stay in Sweden because of the pandemic. Provided the perfect opportunity to complete a real adventure and a great experience at home. Admittedly a bit messy with accommodation in cottages and crossings across borders on, but which most people still took with peace. An adaptation on our VGB’s part was to approve Abisko as a start or finish place, as the possibility of reaching Treriksröset was considered too tough as you could not enter either Finland or Norway. For 2022, however, order has been restored. The Treriksröset is and remains our outpost to the north.

What does the future look like?

-One of the goals has been to establish The Ribbons as a real outdoor classic, which it has really become. Interest in long-distance tours looks to be growing steadily and is just right in time for a sustainable transition. The great adventure is on our own home mountains. Long all-inclusive flights don’t have to be our biggest dream. In order to further facilitate the Bands and strengthen the local, Svante Sundelin at VGB’s assignment has made a large compilation of so-called ” verified pit stops” that will be posted on the Banden website shortly. We have also headhunted Sara Wänseth, former CEO of SOG (Swedish Outdoor Group). First and foremost, she will now be project manager for FJÄLLTRÄFFEN in Grövelsjön this spring. More information will be provided about the ;). Sara’s going to “just” ski her White Band this winter, too. We have been telling you for some time that we are going to introduce the possibility of making the Bands in STAGES. The idea now is also that it will be in RELAY form. Well, it might be a little while. The technical challenge, and therefore the economic challenge of putting this into a functional platform, is not small. So work is underway to find funding and as soon as we solve it, the initiative starts.


Do you have any tips for those who are going to walk the green ribbon?


– Do your homework! This is an expedition, so prepare by finding out the facts, gaining experience and training. Then the mental preparation also comes along, which is crucial if you are to succeed. 
 
· Think about the importance of weight! The tour is about. 1,300 km and approx. 20,000 meters in height. Weight makes a difference. Do what you can with the budget you have. Since this year we have a collaboration with Backpackinglight.se that fits as a hand in the glove. Relevant lightweight equipment and professional know-how needed to implement in a fun, safe and responsible manner. 
 
·  Have air in the schedule for spontaneous whims. A meeting might be well worth spending extra time on. Many have made a friend for life or met their love during their turn.
 
· Thoughtful depots are good, but not always necessary. It is possible to shop along the way and thus support local shops. This also opens up to change your luck in the meantime, as you are not locked to certain depots.
 
·  Let the body get used to it. Add shorter day lengths at the beginning. Most people who break do it in the first part. Healing out an overwork during the tour rarely succeeds. The body’s hardness increases over time, as does the ability to absorb food.
 
·  A couple of bonus tips – dishcloth to condensation in the tent and a “quick” (light, sound-dried) towel is great!

And to those who are going to take turns the white ribbon?

-(The above, the tips for the Green Ribbon, of course also apply to the White Ribbon)

-Bring a retaining wax. Do not only trust your skins, in case of strong cold they can let go. A green cold wax can also keep the clatter away from the skis when nothing else helps.

Moisture barrier in the boots. Thin wool or synthetic stocking closest to the foot, then (ordinary) freezer bag, over it a warmer wool sock. Most often it is the moisture from the inside that soaks down the boots – and wet, icy boots in the morning are no hit. Alternatively, boots with loose lining e.g. Lundhags Guide Expedition, where you can change.

-Thin hooded windbreaker. Then the shell jacket can mostly be in the sled. Protection of the face. Find a good system of goggles and face mask that doesn’t leave the nose or cheekbones alone. In addition to the obvious danger of ostracized, when this works well you become less stressed.

The Green Ribbon starts (or ends) in Grövelsjön.

Fun Facts about the WGR

RECORD YEAR 2021 In the current year 2021, the following “Band record” has been broken:

Number of notifications GR: 93 pcs (approx. 60 pcs 2020)  

Number of GR completed: 71 pcs (40 pcs 2020)

Fastest on foot:  Simon Österlin La Mont, 22 days (21 days 7 hours and 38 minutes. 6.5 hours faster than previous record) Gröv-Treriksröset.  

Fastest cycling/running: Jörgen Johansson, 16 days, Grövelsjön-Abisko.

Youngest:  Karl Nordborg, 11 years old (with his father), 65 days, Grövelsjön-Treriksröset  

Farthest: Peter Bergström 63 years, 76 days, Gröv-Trer-Gröv. 1,500 miles. – “yo-yo hike”  

Most GR: Peter Bergström, total – with this summer’s “yo-yo” – 5 times Gröna Band.  

Most Bands:  Lina Hallebratt, 7 times (6 Vita, 1 Green, of which 2 pcs in winter 2021’s yo-yo expedition). Lina has twice been named ADVENTURER OF THE YEAR for her tours of the White and Green Ribbon.

Lina Hallebratt has most bands, six white and one green.

Number of nationalities of approved “Bandare”: Germany, Finland, Denmark, Switzerland, England, Netherlands, Czech Republic, Greenland, USA, Austria, France, Sweden.

Completely a total of 265 approved Green Bands have now been implemented (in 2011-2021), of which 38% were women and 62% men, aged 11 to approx. 73 years old. For the White Ribbon the corresponding statistics are 81 approved bands (2010-2021), of which 32% are women and 68% are men. Of the notifications received to Green Ribbon is estimated approx. 65-70% complete the tour in its entirety and the mountainfarer has received his diploma. The corresponding figure for the White Ribbon is slightly lower and is about 60–65%.  

Recommended gear

At Backpackinglight.se you ca read more about recommended lightweight and robust gear that will hold through out the long hike. What has been used before and so on. Also, all future participants on WGR get a rebate code if they need to upgrade some gear. Have a look here

Booking, more info

For more information about the WGR, please visit their webbpage: https://www.vitagronabandet.se/en-GB

/Marcus Falck

backpackingLandscape photographyPhotographyTravel Photography

Hiking with the Mamiya 7ii

on September 24, 2020

A friend and I recently took a 7 day, 165 kilometer walk in Northern Sweden. Starting at Ritsem and walking along the Padjelantaleden then moving off to Nordkalottleden and finishing in Kvikkjokk. This isnt going to be a post about the hike itself, but rather about my choice to bring the Mamiya 7ii +43mm lens and a ton of film. The film I used for this trip was varied but mainly Fuji Velvia 100 and Portra 160, 400. All film processed myself at home.

As some of you might know from previous post I have been an avid analog photographer (hobby) forever. I never went total digital as I always preferred the look of analog. On this particular trip I wanted to bring my analog camera as it had been years since I actually went hiking with an analog camera. Though, because I am a lightweight backpacking nerd, its hard to justify 2 kilos of extra gear that can only take still photos. While my total backpacking gear weight with food for the entire trip came in at 11kg, with the camera that pushed everything to just shy of 14kg.

It really was an internal debate for weeks whether or not I would bring the camera and what camera for that matter. In fact, just before boarding the train to northern sweden, I was still changing out my different pre-packed cameras and camera cubes in my backpack. My biggest issue was mainly with volume. While 14kg would not kill me, and I knew after a few days of eating the food weight in my backpack, my kit would be under 10 kg in no time. It was the volume of my pack that bothered me. I normally dont need more than a 40 liter backpack, however, with the mamiya and a packing cube I would need a 70 liter pack. This sucked.

However, while debating whether to bring my Ricoh GR21, Nikon F5, Canon f-1 or Mamiya 7ii, I ended on the only choice that would make any sense: the Mamiya 7ii. WIth its built in meter, super sharp lenses and lightweight, it was a no brainer. Though, I do regret not bringing my 150mm lens for the Mamiya, as 43mm is arguably to wide for most landscape applications. (for the kind of photos I take). This choice was mainly due to weight, one lens was enough.

To protect my camera I kept it in a Wandrd camera cube, in a plastic ziploc bag, the bag filled with these gel packs that keep moisture out. This seemed to work really well as I didnt have fog or moisture in my camera at all despite several days of hard rain. I did have a tripod, which I used both for video and for photography, my tripod weighed about 400grams and gives about 150cm of height.

In the end I think the extra weight and effort was worth it. Though I think had I brough my 150mm lens I would have gotten a lot more quality shots – as it was, I think its hard to capture the “vastness” of an area with such a wide lens that I brought. Wide lenses have a tendency to “squish” and area into a small frame, so even large alpine like mountains, look like little hills. Live and learn.

Anyway, here are a few more shots from the Mamiya 7ii + 43mm lens (I didnt bring viewfinder for 43mm lens as I find its not really necessary). Scanned with Silverfast and no additional editing

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Nordisk Lofoten ULW 2: A review

on May 10, 2020

When I first reviewed Nordisk Lofoten a few years ago at the outdoor show in Munich, I couldn’t understand what it would be good for. Far too small for a tent, I wrote about it then that you might have it as a dog tent. Then I got some requests from customers who wanted to buy it, so I brought it home. Still, I wasn’t so keen to test it myself. Why should I? I don’t hate myself enough for that. I am 190cm tall and 95 kilos large. This tent barely accommodates a dog … or so I thought.

Then I brought home the Nordisk Lofoten ULW2 and tested it. First in the showroom then out in the wild. If I see it as a tent, well, then I think there are tents that are both bigger and better for most uses. But if I think “Bivy sack”, then we’re talking. Basically lighter than any waterproof bivy bag on the market, as well as with good ventilation and relatively good comfort compared to a standard Bivy bag. Beyond that, it is double walled, so you don’t get too much condensation in the tent or on yourself.

After sleeping in the Nordic Lofoten ULW 2 under various circumstances just over 6 nights from rain, sun and even snow, I can say that it is actually quite okay. I can also say that it is quite fun to use. I like the “big” awning, and its small footprint on the ground. One of the first nights I slept in it I couldn’t find a good spot to pitch the tent, it was raining and in the forest there was simply nowhere that a standard tent would fit. Then I found an extremely small area, basically the size of my body. In 5 minutes, the tent was set up, under two trees, near a beaver hole. Fun! No other tent I would be able to pitch in such a place with.

Then another night I woke up in the middle of the night because it was snowing and the whole tent sucked in on me, but shook the tent a few times and fell back asleep

The tent is small, no doubt about it. Both my feet and head Mush the inner tent, it was not easy to get in and out and trying to put on and off clothes in the tent was not so easy. Not to mention sitting in the tent and blowing up my sleeping mat and getting everything in order for bed. Basically things you want to do when it rains. But, I did it. And you can’t do that in a bivy bag. Sleeping in it is actually quite nice – you feel like a little sneaky spy hiding. It has good floor surface and a large pocket where you can have some things in.

Now I’m just talking about what it’s like to have the Nordisk lofoten as a standard tent, I don’t run mountain marathons for which it is really made. As a tent, I think it works well! And it’s something I will use more often when I don’t want to carry hiking poles.

Plus:

– Extremely small pack size. Does not take much room in the backpack
– Light weight
– Double walled bivy
– Good floor surface
– Large awning
– Easy to set up
– Fun to use
– Low condensation
– The best Bivy bag

Negative:

– Extremely small living space
– Not two-man tent
– Can hardly be counted as a tent

Specs

Weight: 500 grams

Material: 7d sil-nylon

Size: tiny

The Nordisk lofoten can be purchased in Europe at Https://www.backpackinglight.se

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My favorite 2-man tents for 2020

on May 1, 2020
  1. Big agnes Copper spur HV ul 2 – There is a reason the Copper Spur hv ul2 is one of the most popular tents in history. This tent is a fantastic balance of weight, stability and living comfort. At just 1220 grams and freestanding, the Copper spur can more or less put up with anything the mountains can throw at it. Granted, my size at 190cm, I would rather pick up the HV UL 3 version instead if I’m sharing the tent. But I can say that with just about any two man tent.

Positives:

  • Fast and easy setup
  • Ultralight two man tent
  • Stable enough for most conditions
  • Great ventilation
  • Love the new awnings
  • Double entry and exits
  • Freestanding

Negatives:

  • Can be small for two people
  • There are lighter solutions – but not many
  • Outer tent and inner are pitched separately
  1. Hilleberg Anaris – A proper two man trekking pole tent from Hilleberg that can withstand anything the mountains throw at it. Fast and easy to pitch, this is a great two man tent for most people not looking for the lightest solution, but a long term solution that will last a lifetime and a great weight for two people at around 1309 grams ex tent pegs. The Anaris is also a very flexible tent which is why it kicks out several other similar solutions that might weigh less. Can be used as a simple tarp, or if you just want to pitch the inner, or half and half. Hilleberg is one of the originators of the trekking pole tent, in fact the design of the Anaris was more or less stolen from a tent they introduced in the early 70’s. Generous sizing and vestibules make the Anaris an excellent purchase.

Positives:

  • Generous sizing – a proper comfortable two man tent
  • Great weight for two man tent
  • Very flexible solution
  • Easy to pitch
  • Can withstand the mountains
  • Will last a lifetime

Negatives:

  • There are lighter solutions
  • When pitched in “shit weather mode” the ends can be a little low
  • Would like to see a single man version of the Anaris
  • I hate the tent pegs. The three star top always cuts my hands when I have to use force
  1. Luxe outdoor sil Hexpeak f6a – Big, light and cheap. A great combination! Granted, outer and inner together make this the heaviest combination of my recommendations. But a Tipi this size normally doesn’t need an inner tent. Pitch it close to the ground and you’re not going to be bothered with bugs. The Hexpeak 6a in a generous sized two man tent that comes complete with inner tent and tent pegs. I have used mine in some seriously bad weather above treeline on a few occasions with zero issues. If you’re looking for a great Tipi solution for two people or one big and a bunch of kids, the Hexpeak might be the perfect tent for you.
Not a pic of the f6 – this is the Hexpeak v8.. Similar but not the same. This is also the winter version with stove jack. I couldn’t find my pics of the V6

Positives:

  • Comes complete with everything that is needed
  • Generous sized two man tent
  • Robust material will hold a long time
  • Great price

Negatives:

  • Heavy compared to the other tents on my list (if bringing inner tent)
  • Massive footprint. You need to find a camp spot big enough
  • Needs to be seam sealed
  1. Tarptent Stratospire 2 – A massive two man tent that can withstand anything, more or less. If you want lots of room, the stratospire 2 is hard to beat. Many of the reasons I loved the Stratospire 1 apply for the Stratospire 2. My only complaint? Its really big. This size has a cost when trying to find a good flat surface to pitch your tent on.
The Tarptent Stratospire Li – DCF dyneema tent. Weighs just 750 grams with tent pegs

Positives:

  • Big and light
  • Stabile in most three season weather
  • Massive vestibules

Negatives:

  • Requires a lot of space to pitch
  • Needs to be seam sealed

Alternatively you can get the Stratospires LI DCF version of the Stratospire at just 750 grams!

  1. Hyperlite mountain gear Ultamid 2 – 471 gram alpine tent. I have used the Ultamid 2 and it’s bigger brother the Ultamid 4 year round above treeline. To say the Ultamid 2 is a competent tent in any conditions is an understatement. From being snowed in late April, to sunny hikes in Sarek the Ultamid 2 has never let me down. Now that 471g is the weight of the outer only, so if you need an inner add another 500 grams or so. The Ultamid 2 also makes for a great solo tent. If you are looking for the perfect solo tent that even works as an excellent 2 man tent, look no further than the Hyperlite mountain gear Ultamid 2.

Positives:

  • Ultralight 
  • True all season tent
  • Big
  • Takes little room in pack
  • Fast and easy to setup
  • Easy to repair

Negatives:

  • Inner tent isn’t included in sale price
  • Single walled tents = Condensation is more obvious
  • Tent pegs and Trekking pole extender not included

Bonus Tent:

The Vargo No-Fly 2 man tent – I couldn’t possibly leave the Vargo No-fly out here, so I am cheating on my own list. Anyway, the no-fly 2 probably has the biggest living area of any of the aforementioned tents as the sides are steep, so you don’t lose any length or width because of hard sloping sides like you get in a pyramid tent. The No-fly is also for the most part freestanding, and I have pitched it on tiny broken sidewalks on the edge of a river with no pegs. Two big vestibules, extremely easy to pitch, great ventilation and a lightweight at just 1195 grams. Did I mention everything you need is included in the package? Seam sealed, tent pegs and carbon fiber tent poles. Excellent creation from the Vargo team.

Positives:

  • Fast and easy to pitch
  • Freestanding
  • Great ventilation
  • Complete tent
  • Lightweight

Negatives:

  • I would have liked to see a bigger side opening with the vestibules. Demands a bit of trickery to open up completely on sunny days
  • Included is 4 vargo ti pegs, I think 6 would have been better as it requires 6-8 if you want it completely pitched. 

Runner up: Zpacks duplex,

Zpacks Duplex: I felt a lot of internal pressure to include the Zpacks Duplex here. But for me personally the tent doesn’t work. My head and feet push hard on the outer tent, meaning I get wet. Wind blows through it, so on top of being wet I also get cold. The tent also loves condensation, so morning rain showers are common. However, if I were to hike warmer climates, summertime, then I would definitely look hard at bringing the zpacks Duplex with me. However for me, in the swedish mountains in most of the conditions I find myself in, the Duplex simply is a no go.

These tents can be purchased in Sweden at https://www.backpackinglight.se

In Europe at: https://www.backpackinglight.dk

backpackingblogcampingGearGoing Lighter

What is tent comfort?

on April 27, 2020

I follow a lot of different groups on facebook, and one comment I am always surprised to read is when someone of say 180cm or less is saying a tent that I personally use and think works just fine is “Too small”. An example of this is a comment I recently received on my article “My favorite solo tents” about the Hilleberg Enan. I was a bit surprised when the comment was basically “I’m 170cm and i think the Enan is too small”. So this led me to start thinking about the concept of tent comfort. 

How can someone like myself at 190cm think the Enan is just fine and actually rather comfortable, while somebody at 170cm think it’s too small. I have a lot of theories on this, but I have kind of landed on one in particular: Tall people in general have to learn to like smaller tents. A tall person knows and in some cases actually likes their body squeezing against the inner tent. I know for example on the Enan I really like that I can mush my pillow into one side and kind of squeeze my head in there between the inner and pillow. I like it because it holds my pillow in place allowing me to fold the pillow a few times, to create height for my head for when I sleep. This means that I don’t get back pain while I sleep on my side as my head is elevated. 

I also know that having your bag mush on an inner tent is no issue at all, it doesn’t cause you to get wet from condensation, or your bag to get wet, or from some kind of chain reaction that will result in death. The bigger issue is if you are mushing against the outer tent – that should be avoided. In the Enan my head, squeezed against the inner tent, does of course touch the inner tent, but not the outer. No part of my body is even close to the outer. Which means I don’t have any issues with condensation showers. However in some single walled tents, like most zpacks tents, my feet or head, or both are mushed against the outer, leading always to a very uncomfortable and wet night.

Shorter people on the other hand never have to deal with issues of touching inner and outer tents. So the idea that a strand of hair is touching the inner tent will lead to one feeling that a tent is “too small”. We can make arguments that a tent is not as big as another tent, or that you feel a tent is small. But just because one can’t set up a lawn chair and do jumping jacks in a  tent doesn’t mean a tent is “too small”. It just means you prefer a larger tent. 

I think this is an important factor to take into consideration when buying a tent. At no time should you be terrified if some part of your body is touching the inner (there are exceptions to this – such as with the Nordisk tents where the inner is literally touching the outer). More important factors to take into consideration are: is my body touching the outer, is the tent big enough for what I want, is the tent too big where I can’t find anywhere to pitch, is the tent easy or hard to pitch, Trekking poles or not and so on. 

Anyway, just a quick thought on tent sizing and how to think about it!

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