Backpacks

I have been looking into backpacks. Not because I know much about it — I do not. But that is usually the best place to start.

I read through a bunch of notes, found some things worth passing along, plus a few product recommendations, and figured I would share what stood out.

Here is what I found.

Things to Know

• → The paper towel trick actually works
• → Skip the buckles. Get the lunch box a toddler can actually open.
• → Zip Top is the best silicone lunch box. But a Stasher bag might do you better.
• → Skip the cooler. Just pack foods that don’t care about the heat.
• → Glass is better for reheating. Just don’t drop it.

Stuff to Buy

• ↗ Lodge 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet — Lasts forever. Gets better with age.
• ↗ Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-inch — The gold standard charcoal grill.
• ↗ ThermoPro TP20 Digital Meat Thermometer — Remote reading so you don’t have to stand next to the fire.

Archived from the Work Notes Daily Edition — 2026-08-10