It's a great idea to get information so you can be prepared!  I took a Wilderness Basics course that made a huge difference for me.  I found a few online courses that might work.  I haven't taken them, but they may be worth checking out!   https://www.udemy.com/course/backpackingbasics/ https://www.aimadventureu.com/catalog?labels=%5B%22Courses%20by%20Activity%22%5D&values=%5B%22Backpacking%22%5D ... View more

I have made my own meals using recipes from the Dirty Gourmet and they came out great!  I also have their cookbook 🙂   The coconut curry soup is delicious! ... View more

I use a Bauerfeind brace.  They make them for specific knee issues and they come in more custom-fit sizes than the regular S/M/L/XL.  Like you, I use poles for descents... but with arthritis and a torn meniscus, I need more support.  It is a pull-on brace, so that does involve the hassle of removing my boots to get it on/off, but I find that it helps to wear it for my entire hike (I love to bag peaks in the White Mountains!).  It is designed to keep my knee cap in the proper location and prevent additional wear—my doctor recommended it.  I have the one designed to help with arthritis and I highly recommend it! ... View more

Another option to consider is the Leatherman Signal.  It's a bit heavy for backpacking, but specifically designed for camping.  I have used the small hammer and stake puller for my tent stakes many times.  The saw is very effective and can cut through thick branches.  It can also be used to start a fire.  It would be a great tool for teaching camping skills! ... View more

I got an REI Kindom 6 tent for 2 of us to have a luxurious camping experience.  It fit 2 cots and a small table comfortably, with room stand and move around.  We were very happy with our choice!  For camping, I highly recommend a tent in which you can stand.  The REI Grand Hut tents are also nice 🙂 ... View more

I've been using my Apple watch to track the calories I burn along with an app called MyPlate.  I have also been tracking what I eat and like having a general idea of how I'm doing.  I needed to lose about 10 pounds and it worked!   ... View more

Perhaps paddle sports would be a good way to go - kayaking and SUP?  They allow you to enjoy the peace and wonder of the outdoors, while maintining control of how hard you work.  If you get tired - you can enjoy floating 🙂   Bring binoculars and maybe do some bird watching, too.  I wish you the best! ... View more

Our favorite is the Backpacker's Pantry Veggi Pad Thai - it even comes with a little packet of peanut butter to stir in - yum! ... View more

I want to backpack in all of the National Parks!  My current list: Grand Canyon, Lassen, and Glacier.  I backpacked in Yellowstone last summer - it was incredible!  Also, I thought it would be crowded and difficult to get permits, but it wasn't.  I think most people stay in their cars and go to the main attractions.  It didn't take long on the trail to get away from the crowds.  I highly recommend backpacking there! ... View more