Some articles if you are just starting in the outdoors. Or want to pick up some new ideas.
A collection of my Reddit posts. cleaned up and expanded, with thoughts on how maps, compasses, and GPS all work together in the field. It’s not about which tool is “better,” but how they complement each other. Read More …
How to Camp by John M. Gould was written 150 years ago. But it still has some practical advice applicable for any outdoors person today. Read More …
Car camping serves as a useful introduction to the outdoors for many. And a useful adjunct to other trips for the experienced. How to equip affordably? Updated March 2025. Read More …
Gatorade bottle is early 2000s, get the full one liter goodness of Arizona iced tea. Read More …
What are the functional differences between grid. Alpha, and solid (classic) fleece? Revised March 2024 Read More …
A sequel of sorts to my $300 gear challenge. A little over $800 and 10 lbs for a kit that is light, functional, and easily, assembled. Updated Mar 2024. Read More …
Winter backpacking means solitude, gorgeous winter light, and long nights. Here’s what Joan and I find works to make those long nights enjoyable. Read More …
How to build an inexpensive stove platform for winter backpacking. Bonus: doubles as a heat reflector.
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Here’s a quick reference to articles that will be useful for anyone starting out with camping, hiking, or backpacking in all four seasons. Updated Aug 2023. Read More …
Some of the gear, clothing, and techniques we use for sun protection when hiking and backpacking. Read More …
Different options for the wearing of blaze orange while hiking during hunting season. Read More …
Designated sites can be practical. But Joan and I prefer dispersed sites for our camping. Here are some ideas on how to find dispersed (free) campsites. Read More …
With over six months of active use, Joan looks at the well-known Kula Cloth and compares it to the more budget-minded bandanna from the past decade-plus of use. Read More …
Here are my thoughts on training for a thru-hike or any long hike. I don’t think of it as training; I think of it as part of daily life. Read More …
My opinion on the best shoes for water crossings. Read More …
More people insist they need bear spray when venturing into black bear country because “it is better to have it and not need it.”—my boilerplate response. Read More …
The outdoor apps I use for my mobile device currently and plan on using in the coming year. Read More …
How to get ideas for backcountry trips? Here’s how I do it. Updated for 2020. Read More …