Posted on June 22, 2024October 31, 2024Categories Backpacking   Leave a comment on My 3-Day Backpacking Checklist (with PDF)

My 3-Day Backpacking Checklist (with PDF)

Packing for a backpacking trip always feels a little stressful. It’s a careful balance between overpacking and underpacking. Bring too much, and your pack will be uncomfortably heavy. Bring too little, and you could end up cold, hungry and miserable. I know because I experienced both situations when I first started backpacking 20 years ago. Since then, I’ve backpacked more than a thousand miles which has given me lots of opportunities to dial in my backpacking checklist so it has … Continue reading “My 3-Day Backpacking Checklist (with PDF)”

Posted on June 19, 2024October 31, 2024Categories Backpacking   Leave a comment on 17 Beginner Backpacking Mistakes to Avoid

17 Beginner Backpacking Mistakes to Avoid

Embarking on your first backpacking trip can be an empowering, fun, and adventurous experience, however, the path to becoming a seasoned backpacker is often paved with a few avoidable missteps. I started backpacking in 2005, and my first few backpacking trips did not go smoothly. My first time was near Mt. Rainier in Washington, and when we got to the trailhead, I realized I forgot my hiking boots. Not wanting to drive all the way home, I ended up hiking … Continue reading “17 Beginner Backpacking Mistakes to Avoid”

Posted on June 17, 2024October 31, 2024Categories Backpacking   Leave a comment on Zpacks Duplex Ultralight Tent Review

Zpacks Duplex Ultralight Tent Review

If you’re in the market for an ultralight backpacking tent, there’s no doubt you’ve seen the Zpacks Duplex pop up on lists of the best tents for backpacking, often being upheld as the gold standard of ultralight shelters. And this reputation is no coincidence. The Zpacks Duplex tent has earned its place in the ultralight spotlight by consistently proving itself in the backcountry – it’s also a favorite of PCT and John Muir Trail thru-hikers who really put gear through … Continue reading “Zpacks Duplex Ultralight Tent Review”

Posted on May 17, 2024October 31, 2024Categories Backpacking   Leave a comment on 2024 REI Anniversary Sale: 36 Amazing Outdoor Gear Deals

2024 REI Anniversary Sale: 36 Amazing Outdoor Gear Deals

It’s almost time for summer, which means my favorite sale of the year – REI’s Anniversary Sale – is here! Taking place May 17-27th, 2024, this is the REI Co-op’s biggest sale, and it’s a chance to score big savings on top outdoor gear. During the sale, you can save up to 30%, making it a great time to pick up those big-ticket items just in time for your summer adventures. To save you time and make your shopping easy, … Continue reading “2024 REI Anniversary Sale: 36 Amazing Outdoor Gear Deals”

Posted on May 8, 2024October 31, 2024Categories Backpacking   Leave a comment on 10 Tips For Staying Hydrated While Hiking

10 Tips For Staying Hydrated While Hiking

If you’ve ever been dehydrated while hiking it can be really scary. For me, it usually starts out as a headache, but for severe cases, it can lead to muscle cramps, dizziness, and confusion – none of which are good if you are miles away from your car. Fortunately, it’s pretty easy to stay hydrated on the trail if you are consuming enough water and have the right tools. With a little preparation, some simple gear, and paying attention to … Continue reading “10 Tips For Staying Hydrated While Hiking”

Posted on May 8, 2024October 31, 2024Categories Backpacking   Leave a comment on Best Sun Protection Shirts for Women in 2024 (Reviewed)

Best Sun Protection Shirts for Women in 2024 (Reviewed)

Long gone are my days of wearing tank tops on the trail. With all of the time I spend outside, all of that sun exposure really adds up. Between painful sunburns, visible aging, and my concern over skin cancer, protecting my skin when I’m outdoors has become a much bigger priority as I’ve gotten older.  Rather than constantly needing to lather up with sunscreen, which gets expensive and can be loaded with chemicals, I’ve opted to simply cover up. Over … Continue reading “Best Sun Protection Shirts for Women in 2024 (Reviewed)”