Backpacking Articles and Videos
Whether you’re planning a weekend summit trip or a month-long trek on the Appalachian Trail, Trails.com has all the backpacking information you could possibly need to see your next trip from start to finish. Covering rail trails, trail-less excursions, and scrambles, as well as offering reviews on gear, Trails.com is your index for the backcountry. Learn to read a topographic map, clean sap off a jacket, pack a backpack, travel light or just pick out hiking boots -- all the information is at your fingertips.
Crossing a border now requires a passport to return to the United States no matter what country is visited. For backpack-bound and outdoors travelers, it's an easy step to forget while planning an eco-vacation or active vacation. The Department o...
A mid-sized European country of 60 million, Italy wields a disproportionate influence on the world stage. Renowned for its food, landscape, architecture and history, Italy has a magnetic draw for many tourists. Unfortunately, this means that visi...
London hotels are charming and remarkably diverse. Two-star hotels offer safe, clean rooms with individuality, minus the frills and extra expense. The city of London also has a surprising number of green spaces and activities for nature lovers. ...
An exceptional alpine climbing backpack, the Black Diamond Quantum costs $230 as of 2009. The Quantum is available in 45- and 55-liter capacity models, both of which weigh around 4 pounds. The Quantum is top-loading, with a full-length access zip...
A Global Positioning System (GPS) uses satellites to pinpoint a location anywhere on Earth. GPS is by far the best navigational technology with accuracy levels from 4 to 20 meters of the actual position.
A pocket knife is an essential piece of equipment for any backpacker or hiker. Even if you are only taking day trips, some basic survival necessities should always be with you, and a pocket knife is one of those items. A simple pouch to hold your...
Using a lightweight backpacking tarp to replace a tent enhances a backpacking trip by saving weight, increasing living space, and reducing trapped moisture, which increases warmth. Even if the tent comes along for the trip, a lightweight tarp can...
There are a few steps you need to take to get the longest life out of your down sleeping bag. When not in use, hang it up and do not store it compacted in its bag. Store it at room temperature and not where it is damp or very humid. If it gets we...
Sierra Designs offers several models of the Lightning XT, but the two-person version is the most versatile and the most emblematic of the model. It combines the lightweight, backpack-readiness of the one-person model, while having more room, just...
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a device that utilizes signals from satellites to pinpoint your location almost anywhere on earth. While GPS units are very useful and popular with hikers and backpackers, they do not replace the conventiona...
Wildlife cameras operate automatically when wildlife triggers the infrared beam. Mount the camera in an area where wildlife frequent and the camera will photograph any animal that passes by. Although wildlife cameras were developed for photograph...
Switzerland offers excellent hiking. From the towering Alps to lakeshore day trips, this small country offers unparalleled and exciting views. With the unique scenery and terrain in Switzerland you should keep in mind a few particular things for ...
Backpacking vacations in Tennessee run the gamut--from harsh and difficult challenges to rewarding and awe-inspiring respites. The state is home to an incredible number of hiking and backpacking opportunities, with trails of all lengths and diffi...
Callaway Gardens is a great Georgia destination. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, hiker or fisher, any traveler vacationing in Callaway Gardens will benefit from the beaches, trails and lakes that surround the resort. Start early and pace y...
Costa Rica is an incredible paradise that has been rapidly discovered by tourists. This small country is filled with pristine beaches, ancient forests and towering volcanoes, but its new popularity has taken its toll on the culture in many areas....
Whether you are backpacking through Europe, kayaking in Hawaii or just sightseeing in the United States, there are a few items that every traveler and outdoor enthusiast ought to pack. Having an organized and comprehensive list of these important...
One of the best rules to follow when it comes to outdoor gear is K.I.S.S. (keep it simple, stupid). This also applies when you're thinking about what foods to take on the trail with you. The best backpacking foods are light, nutritious, durable a...
The North Face Solo tent is the lightest and most durable tent on the market. Using DAC Featherlite aluminum poles and silicone coated nylon materials, the Solo was developed to withstand winds of 95 miles per hour and monsoon-type rain. The Fusi...
Dunoon is located on the Cowal Peninsula in Argyll, Scotland. This resort town boasts lovely scenery, a number of outdoor activities and historic locations, all within easy walking distance.
The Kelty Crestone 2 tent was developed for the serious backpacker looking for a simple lightweight tent that will hold up against the elements. The Crestone sets up with two lightweight aluminum poles that create 30 square feet of interior room....
Many hikers and backpackers underestimate the help trekking poles can provide over the course of a long trip. They can make a huge difference when carrying a heavy load, taking anywhere from 15 to 25 pounds of weight off your feet and lower back....
Traveling across Ireland by backpack can be a great way to experience the full breadth of this entrancing nation. From Galway to Dublin, there are a number of sights worth visiting and places worth experiencing. Planning ahead and being prepared ...
The Vasque Breeze Low VST GTX Hiking Boot is a lightweight hiking shoe designed for trekking without the weight of a higher top boot. It weighs 1 lb. 13 oz. with a Vibran Contact Lite sole--traction is superior for a hiking shoe of this weight. T...
With all the planning that goes into a vacation trip, it's tempting to leave the task of car rental for the last minute. Many travelers opt to just walk into the first rental place they see and drop some money for a vehicle. Unfortunately, this s...
