ULA Circuit Versus Granite Gear Crown: Comparison and Review
The ULA Circuit and Granite Gear Crown are both popular lightweight backpacking packs with similar features. This side-by-side review explains how they compare.
Hiking and Backpacking Gear
Ursack Major vs. Minor: Side-by-Side Comparison and Review
Wondering whether an Ursack Major or Minor will better protect your food on the trail? Here are my thoughts after using both.
Six Moon Designs Haven Tarp: Gear Review After 1300 Miles
The Haven Tarp by Six Moon Designs is a lightweight two person trekking pole tarp. Here’s how we feel about it after 1300 miles on the Colorado and Arizona Trails.
ULA Circuit Backpack Review After 1300 Miles
Detailed review and description of the ULA Circuit 68 liter pack, the lightweight backpack I used on the Arizona and Colorado Trails.
What’s in My Lightweight Toiletries Kit For Backpacking and Bikepacking
Here’s what to include in a simple lightweight toiletries kit for backpacking, plus hygiene tips and other backcountry toiletries how-to’s.
How to Use Your Garmin InReach Mini (Without Driving Loved Ones Crazy)
How messaging works on the Garmin InReach Mini, and how to use it effectively without driving yourself and your contacts nuts.
Best Lightweight Solo Tents by Price, Weight, and Style (Visual Guide)
Sorting through the options for the best lightweight solo tent? This visual chart organized by price and weight will help you see which tents stand out for their weight, value, and design.
Review: BigBlue 28W Solar Charger After 90 Days on the Trail
Here’s why we chose the BigBlue Solar Charger, how it held up on our thru hike, and why we think it’s the best solar panel charger for backpacking.
38 Tips for Staying Warm While Backpacking
It’s hard to enjoy the backcountry when you’re freezing your buns off. Here are all my best tips for staying warm while backpacking, even if you get cold as easily as I do.
My Favorite Backpacking Gear – A Peek Into My Garage
After years of trial and error, here is the backpacking gear and clothing that I return to over and over again.
Bearikade Expedition Bear Canister – Gear Review
If you need a really big bear canister, the Bearikade Expedition should be at the top of your list. Here’s a review to help you decide if all the fancy carbon fiber is worth your money.
Borah Gear Cuben Bivy – Gear Review After 100+ Nights
The Borah Gear Cuben bivy is an ultralight, ultra-packable, water resistant bivy with bug netting top. It’s not right for every adventure, but here’s where it shines.
CNOC Vecto as Alternative to Sawyer Squeeze Bags – Gear Review
Love your Sawyer water filter but hate those darn dirty bag pouches? Me too! Here’s a Sawyer squeeze pouch alternative for less squeezing and more gravity filtering.
How to Choose (And Use) A Bear Canister for Backpacking
Bear canisters keep you, your food, and the bears safe. Here’s a deep-dive guide to choosing, using, carrying, and packing your bear canister for backpacking trips.
Trekking Poles: How to Choose and Use Them Like a Pro
Hiking pole deep dive: how to use hiking poles, do they really help anyway, and how to choose the best hiking poles for your needs.
Water Filters for Backpacking: What Experienced Hikers Actually Use
These are the best water filters for backpacking according to experienced hikers, plus a few considerations to prevent intestinal distress and make life easier on the trail.
Gear Review: Big Sky Soul 1P Solo Tent
Detailed review of the Big Sky Soul 1P, an affordable, lightweight, versatile freestanding solo tent. Here’s why I love it for backpacking, bikepacking, and travel.
Hiking Gift Ideas Your Favorite Hiker Will Actually Use
Finding the perfect gift for a hiker in your life, something they’ll actually use, can be a challenge. Fear not! These hiking gifts are universally useful.
PreCip vs. Helium II vs. Arc’teryx Beta AR: What’s the Best Rain Jacket for Outdoor Adventure?
How do the Marmot PreCip, OR Helium II, and Arc’teryx Beta AR compare? Learn what type of hiking and outdoor adventure each is ideal for.
The Most Popular Sleeping Pads for Backpacking: Lessons from the JMT
Choosing a backpacking sleeping pad? Learn from the thru-hikers. Here’s how to select the best sleeping pad for your next night in the backcountry.
The Most Popular Backpacking Packs: Lessons from the John Muir Trail
Finding the best pack for the JMT is no easy task. To help, here’s an analysis of the most common packs from JMT gear lists, and what they have in common.
Clothing For Lightweight Backpacking: A Minimalist Full-Comfort Packing List
Choosing your hiking clothes wisely can shave pounds off your pack weight. Here’s an overview of what to wear backpacking when you’re trying to keep your backpack light.
Should You Be Hiking in Trail Running Shoes?
Tired of big heavy boots? Here’s how to decide if hiking in trail running shoes is right for you, plus how to transition safely and which shoe models to consider.
Honest Answers About Menstrual Cups for Camping, Backpacking, and Travel
Thinking about making the switch to a menstrual cup? I outline the pros and cons of the Diva Cup and answer some awkward personal questions about how to use it.
