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

• → Skip the lemon—a salt water dip holds up better
• → The paper towel trick is the real secret
• → The paper towel trick actually works for fruit salad
• → Salt water is the best lemon-free trick for cut apples
• → Airtight lunch boxes don’t stop condensation. Here’s what does.

Stuff to Buy

• ↗ ThermoPro TP20 Digital Meat Thermometer — Remote reading so you don’t have to stand next to the fire.
• ↗ Lodge 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet — Lasts forever. Gets better with age.
• ↗ Oxo Good Grips Kitchen Shears — You will use these more than any knife.

Archived from the Work Notes Daily Edition — 2026-08-11