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SUDS
A simple flask does the job for transporting booze into the backcountry. photo by Tiona Eversole
SIPS
Backpacking with Booze Bring your favorite imbibement on your next wilderness excursion BY TIONA EVERSOLE
Weight is a backpacker’s worst enemy. So when we think about packing non-essential items, alcohol tends to fall into a gray area. How badly do we want that pint of whiskey to warm up with on a chilly evening? What about a celebration toast after successfully reaching a summit or other backpacking milestone? If the thought of leaving that flask at home doesn't sounds appealing, here’s how to properly and safely enjoy your favorite alcoholic beverage in the backcountry. BEST ALCOHOL FOR BACKPACKING We’ll just come out and say it: Whiskey is perfect for fireside nips, tastes fine warm or cold and is great as is or in a cocktail. Other spirits that are good for backpacking include tequila for most of the same reasons as whiskey (although we haven’t found a hot tequila drink we enjoy) and vodka for its versatility. Wine is another good option, with some companies now offering small boxes of wine that are perfect for backpacking trips. Otherwise, fill up a flask or stainless steel bottle with a nice red or white (or rosé) to compliment a backcountry dinner. Beer is a tough one due to its weight, but tastes so good after a long day. If you want to bring beer, consider only bringing one or two (or a tall can) for the first night. Toast to a good first day, and enjoy drinking ounces off your total pack weight for the next day.
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