Etsy – lightweight, inexpensive, and useful gear
Etsy often means tchotchkes for oddball things. But it also offers a surprising array of backpacking items from individuals or small businesses. Read More …
Category: Gear
The most popular topic of the outdoors it seems.
Review: NoBox – A two knife review
A look at two knives from NoBox. NoBox makes camping equipment suitable for the outdoors, everyday use, and those who tend to not make a distinction. Read More …
Review: Ventury Silverlight Socks
The Ventury Silverlight socks are an alternative to the well-regarded Darn Tough socks with claimed anti-microbial properties. Read More …
Gear Review: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm MAX
A one year+ review of the NeoAir XTherm MAX (rectangular) for cold weather backpacking. The non-WingLock version can be bought at a discount as of 1/2020. Read More …
Jack of All Trades gear
Limited budget, space, or time? Here is a Jack of All Trades gear kit for backpacking, camping, trail work, day hikes, and mild winter activities. Read More …
Top gear of the decade
Items of gear and clothing that I used consistently over the decade. Read More …
Gear review: TSLA 1/4 Zip HyperDri shirt
A light layer excellent for cooler three-season conditions. And only $17. A women’s version is also available for $14. Read More …
Gear pick of the year 2019 – A beat-up Coleman cooler
Utilitarian, effective, it stood the test of time, and cheap – a beat-up 28 qt Coleman Cooler Read More …
Review – Zoner Photo Studio X
If you want an affordable Abode Lightroom alternative or better support and smoother operation than GIMP, get Zoner Photo Stuido X. Read More …
The Joy of Car Camping – Base Camping for the active outdoors person
An extensive guide to car camping. Includes suggested equipment, clothing, gear and a gear checklist. Read More …
Long Term Review: Champion Brand Wind Pants (Target)
Some “shell” pants for winter use. Discount store wind pants are inexpensive, light, and effective. And I’ve used the same pair for nearly a decade. Read More …
Quick Tip: Firearms oil for pole maintenance
With oil used to lubricate and clean firearms and some simple scrub brushes, you’ll keep your hiking and ski poles in optimal condition. Read More …
STCT USB Headlight – The poor person’s Nitecore
The STCT USB Headlight is a $17 headlamp with 145 Lumens and high water resistance that boasts similar features of more expensive models. Read More …
The Budget Backpacking Kit
A sequel of sorts to my $300 gear challenge. A little under $800 for a kit that is light, functional, and easily, assembled. Read More …
Communication technology options: A vendor neutral view
An overlook at various options for communication technology in the backcountry for personal use, emergency, commercial, or search and rescue applications. Read More …
Getting organized, some light construction, and a sewing room
What I’ve been up to and answering the occasional questions of how we organize all our gear and clothing. Read More …
What’s in your mail drop?
Joan details what she places in her maildrops for long hikes and why. With a focus on her cold food (no stove) strategy.
My day pack – what I have prepacked
Rather than accidentally forget the gear, I always have my ~3 lb daypack pre-staged. Here’s what’s in my day pack. Read More …
Lightweight Backpacking: BassPro and Cabela’s
Going lightweight (sub-20lbs) with gear and clothing from BassPro and Cabela’s. Yes, the 8 billion dollar company sells “real” outdoor gear not in camo! Read More …
Quick Tip: Dishwashing gloves for rain
A budget item that is readily available for keeping your hands warm and dry in cold rain. Read More …