Hello everyone!

I am a mama of two little boys, wife to a computer geek, and a life long girl scout.

We own a pop-up camper, are avid geocachers, and love horseback riding.

Our interest in backpacking is new, and think we will start by just doing overnights or day-long hikes when we are already camping in the pop-up.

I am interested in learning more about dehydrating food, buying a backpacking stove (preferably one that could take either wood and/or a compact fuel), and choosing the right type of backpacks for us and the boys (ages 4 and 6).

I appreciate any help and advice!

Welcome HF! You've found a great community here, and there's lots to learn from them.

Welcome! We do indeed have many experienced and helpful members who will be glad to answer most, if not all, your questions. The more details you give about your situation, the more specific the answers can get. For example, a wood-burning backpack stove you mentioned wanting is excellent for large swaths of the eastern, southern and midwestern USA, but is not very adaptable for most of the western states.

Anyway, feel free to ask. We'll do our best to answer.

Welcome! You can help get questions answered by telling us what region you plan to hike in, what gear you have already (tent, sleeping gear?) which will help us recommend pack size. It helps to know what contingencies you need to plan for such as , insect bites, cool weather, unexpected thunderstorms etc... A little preparedness goes a long way, as you know. The little guys aren't going to carry too much beyond a toy, a jacket and a snack in a daypack. Some very short trips to start and you'll be off and hiking.