While many hikes require as little as a good pair of hikers and a bottle of water, longer hikes demand extra equipment including food, extra clothes, extra water, navigation equipment, maps and other supplies. To carry all this gear, hikers… read more
When traveling through Europe or Asia or even the Himalayan razorbacks, it's important to carefully consider the type of luggage you'll be strapping to your back. Though backpacking packs are multipurpose and often large enough to haul all… read more
Traveling lets you take on new outdoor adventures on different terrain. Before you leave home, it's important to have gear that will handle both trekking in solitude and navigating the bustle of an airport. When you match the right travel… read more
With so many backpack designs, sizes and brands to choose from, the task of choosing one for hiking and backpacking may seem slightly daunting. Following a few guidelines for what to look for in a hiking pack can help. read more
"The biggest factor in my past misery has been picking the wrong shelter," says Steve Casimiro, in National Geographic's "Gear Guide: Ultralight Tents." Choosing a backpacking tent is a matter of balance: space with weight; hubbed pole setu… read more
Buying a tent for camping is relatively easy: You buy the biggest, most comfortable tent you can afford. Choosing a backpacking tent, on the other hand, requires a careful consideration. When you're hauling your tent on your back for miles… read more
By using a backpacking stove to cook your meals in the backcountry, you are less of an impact on the land than campfires and will also be able to cook more quickly and more efficiently in all conditions. Choosing the right backpacking stov… read more
Choosing the right backpack for hiking or camping is more important than you might assume. There are thousands of makes and models out there, and of course, some are of better quality than others. Some have external frames, others internal.… read more
Gearing up for your first backpacking trip builds anticipation and a healthy respect for the equipment needed to survive in nature. Whether you're getting ready for your first wilderness adventure or are a seasoned hiker, make sure to purch… read more
When rain hits in the backcountry and you still have places to go, a pack cover keeps your backpack clean and dry. An often overlooked item, pack covers are thin and lightweight enough to slip into your pack without much thought. But choosi… read more
Learn how to choose sleeping bags and sleeping pads for multi day hiking and backpacking, in this free backpacking guide. read more
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