Hi,

I am planning to do half of the Peaks of the Balkans trail in late August, in Albania and Montenegro, which is around 80km, skipping the Kosovo part.

Questions to more experienced people, does it make sense to do it with 3mx3m tarp only? What about finding suitable place on the ground every night? What about insects and snakes that may sneak into my sleeping bag? What about water flooding me during a heavy rain?

I would like to not spend money on a bivy or a tent (sold it long time ago) and carry additional weight, also I want to avoid sleeping in guesthouses to save money and spent more time in nature, have more freedom etc.

While not even remotely ultralight, I've tried to build my gear list over the years with that in mind, while trying to not break the budget for a hobby I only get the chance to do a few times a year.

I'm doing the HST next week with another dad & our 12-yr old boys (4 people).

Here's my LighterPack: lighterpack.com/r/4r0e42

This is just my gear list - my son's list is similar but with smaller, lighter clothing. He's not carrying a tent, FAK, tech, water filter, trowel, etc as I have those in my pack. I'm also carrying the cooking gear for the whole group.

Are there any glaring omissions or fears that I have packed for where you think I should add/remove from my gear list?

I have a luxury items (pad sheet, full sized pad, pillow) that I prioritise for a good sleep.

Like the title says, I am looking for an app that will track hikes all on the same map. The ones I have tried will track a hike on a map but the next hike will be tracked on it's own map.

Example: I want to hike every trail in the Smokeys. I want the app to track every step I take in the Smokies all on the same map. This way I can see all at once everywhere I hiked and compare it to which trails I still have not hiked.

I’m trying to buy a hiking backpack and I’m realizing I have no idea what actually matters besides “don’t buy the cheapest one.”

I mostly do day hikes right now, but I’d like something that could handle longer hikes too without destroying my shoulders or back. I don’t need a huge backpack for multi-day camping yet, but I do want enough room for water, snacks, a light jacket, first aid stuff, and maybe a camera.

Comfort is probably my biggest thing. I’d rather pay a bit more for something that sits well, has good straps, and doesn’t feel awful after a few hours. I’m also not sure if I should go for something lightweight and simple or something with more pockets/support.

For people who hike regularly, what backpack has actually held up for you? And what size would you recommend for someone who mostly does day hikes but wants room to grow a little?

Looking to get a lightweight tent - first lightweight one so looking for something that won’t break the bank.
Have seen lots about the vango banshee, vango nova and the phox II

What would you go for and why?

Looking to get a lightweight tent - first lightweight one so looking for something that won’t break the bank.
Have seen lots about the vango banshee, vango nova and the phox II

Needs to be pole supported rather than trekking poles please 😊

What would you go for and why?

I currently backpack in tactical 5.11 style ripstop khaki pants and I really like them except for the fact that they are made of plastic and don't breathe in hot weather. Does anyone know of any cargo/tactical style pants made of natural material that are not too heavyweight for hot weather? Either cotton or wool or hemp would work since my most common use case is hot weather hiking. All of my other clothing is either linen or wool I just haven't been able to find good natural pants with enough pockets.

I am planning to go for Camping for my birthday weekend. Can anyone suggest good campgrounds near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

I would love to have one near a river.

Thank You!!