Pee rag – Kula Cloth vs. cotton bandanna
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 …
Category: Getting Started
Some articles if you are just starting in the outdoors. Or want to pick up some new ideas.
Training for a long distance hike?
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 …
Best shoes for water crossings?
My opinion on the best shoes for water crossings. Read More …
Bear spray canister copy/pasta
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 …
Budget camping gear
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? Read More …
There’s an app for that – 2021 edition
The outdoor apps I use for my mobile device currently and plan on using in the coming year. Read More …
Start here: My unofficial outdoor guidebook
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 Nov 2020. Read More …
How to get outdoor trip ideas
How to get ideas for backcountry trips? Here’s how I do it. Updated for 2020. Read More …
Dealing with Reynaud’s Syndrome – Gear and techniques
Joan shares some thoughts on gear, techniques, and skills she uses to deal with Reynaud’s Syndrome while in the outdoors. Read More …
A properly attired hiker: Blaze orange in hunting season
Different options for the wearing of blaze orange while hiking during hunting season. Read More …
Sleeping systems – Joan’s Picks
Joan’s thoughts on sleeping systems for winter, cowboy camping, hammock camping, and more and what works best for her. Read More …
How to get ultralight?
Going ultralight with your gear is a Holy Grail of sorts for many new to backpacking. Here are some thoughts on achieving that goal. Read More …
Intro to Backpacking: Part 6 – Navigation Basics
The sixth chapter in our series – An introductory look at map, compass, and electronic navigation resources. Read More …
Intro to Backpacking: Part 5 – Water Treatment Concepts
Why and how to treat water; and why washing those hands might be just as important. Read More …
Intro to Backpacking: Part 4 – Backcountry Food
Part 4 in this series will discuss options for food in the backcountry with an emphasis on food purchased at the local grocery store. Read More …
Intro to Backpacking: Part 3 – Deciding where to go: risk management & factors to consider
Part 3 – Deciding where to go: risk management & factors to consider. I discuss different factors on deciding where to go. Read More …
Intro to Backpacking Pt 2- Shelter options
In this video, we’ll look at different shelter options available to backpackers ranging, why cowboy camping works so well, and some info on groundsheets. Read More …
Intro to Backpacking Pt 1- Backpacking vs Car Camping Gear
Part One of a multi-part video series I’m doing on Intro to Backpacking. Looking at car camping and backpacking gear differences with some budget options. Read More …