Learn the backpacking tricks to become a seasoned pro. Here's a few things you may not have thought about. But it will make your backpacking experience better and easier!

1.) Use dirt to clean your dishes.

Dirt to clean? It sounds counter-intuitive. But dirt is a surprisingly effective cleaning agent. It soaks up grease and food particles and can be wiped out fully, leaving nothing but shiny clean dishes behind.

2.) Use the red light setting on your headlamp.

The benefits are many: Bugs are not attracted to the red light, so no annoying buzzy bugs in your face. You won't blind your camp mates when you look at them, that's annoying and nobody likes high beams in their eyes. Maintain your night vision. You can read a book and stargaze at the same time! It also conserves battery compared to the white bright light function.

3.) Carry dry firestarter with you to start a fire in any weather.

I prefer dried out juniper bark. It's fibrous, so it burns easily and hot. It's the best material ever for starting a fire. Cat tails, pine needles are great too. Or bring dryer lint or cottonballs soaked in vaseline from home (but I prefer natural materials).

4.) Wet wipes on the pits and bits.

Bathing in the backcountry is great if you can. But most times, it's not feasible or comfortable. But if you bring wet wipes, a quick swap of your armpits and groin will leave you feeling refreshed. Just make sure you pack out the wipes please.

5.) Nalgene + hot water = comfy sleep all night long.

This is the tried and true method for keeping warm throughout the night while camping. People often complain of cold feet in the middle of the night. But a hot water bottle in the sleeping bag (just make sure it's sealed tight!) does wonders.