6 Key Features of Ultralight Telescopic Fishing Rods For Backpackers

Telescopic Fishing Poles for Backpacking Feature Image showing a lady angler wading in a stream and fly fishing.

Ultralight telescopic fishing rods have become a favorite for backpackers who love both hiking and fishing. I enjoy how these rods collapse down to a size that fits comfortably in my pack, letting me explore new waters without carrying heavy, awkward gear. I want to share what makes these rods so practical and why they … Read more

5 Things To Look For In A Backpacking Sleeping Bag

What to Look for in a Backpacking Sleeping Bag featured image showing a lady backpacker in her sleeping bag in the middle of a snow field.

Finding a sleeping bag that fits your backpacking needs can have a big effect on how much you enjoy your nights outside. I remember my early trips, shivering through cold nights or fighting with bulky gear that wouldn’t fit in my bag. After a few seasons, I learned the value of paying attention to every … Read more

7 Tips on Fishing Gear For Backpacking

Fishing Gear for Backpacking featured image showing lady angler with a large trout as she kneels in a mountain stream, next to an image of Gerald Gerwick checking his GPS while backpacking in the South San Juan Wilderness of Colorado

Fishing while backpacking gives me a special kind of freedom. Nothing beats casting a line into a quiet stream after a long day on the trail. To pull this off, I need compact, lightweight fishing gear that fits easily in my pack. QUICK LOOK: Fishing Gear for Backpacking Tips Getting my setup right from the … Read more

6 Tips on How To Choose A Backpacking Tent

The How to Choose a Backpacking Tent featured image shows a man standing on a hillside just outside his backpacking tent and watching the sunrise over the mountain.

If you enjoy hiking into remote places or simply love sleeping under the stars, finding the right backpacking tent will make your trips a lot more comfortable. There are plenty of options out there, and choosing the right one comes down to a handful of practical details. I’ll walk you through everything I look for … Read more

5 Durable Hiking Boots Under $100 For New Hikers

Durable Hiking Boots Under $100 featured image showing the feet of a dad and a toddler both wearing hiking boots.

If you’re just getting into hiking and want durable hiking boots that won’t fall apart after the first few trails, without dropping more than $100, your options might seem limited at first glance. The good news is, you don’t have to settle for cheap boots that wear out fast. With some practical tips and careful … Read more

5 Top Hiking Boots with Performance Reviews And Comparisons

Hiking Boots Performance Comparison: Featured image showing two sets of hiking boots on the feet of two hikers overlooking a mountain hiking trail.

Finding the right pair of hiking boots can make a huge difference in how enjoyable your time outdoors will be. I’ve spent years hiking on trails ranging from easy walks in local parks to multiday treks over rocky mountains, and I want to share what I’ve learned from trying and comparing different boots. QUICK LOOK: … Read more

4 Critical features of Waterproof Hiking Boots For Wet Conditions

Essential Features of Waterproof Hiking Boots featured image showing Rex McMahon loaded down with his backpacking gear about to cross a mountain stream.

Exploring wet trails with the wrong footwear can easily leave you with soggy socks and sore feet, which is why picking the right waterproof hiking boots makes such a big difference. Boots made for wet conditions help keep you comfortable whether you’re tackling muddy mountain paths, rain-soaked forests, or tricky stream crossings. I put together … Read more

15 Beginner-Friendly Hiking Gear Essentials For Women

Essential HIking Gear for Women featured image showing two lady hikers and their hiking gear.

When you start hiking, you quickly realize how much having the right hiking gear matters, especially for comfort and safety. Starting with just the basics can make those first hiking experiences much more enjoyable. QUICK LOOK: Essential Gear to Pack for Your First Hike As a woman new to hiking, you will find that prioritizing … Read more

6 Key Features for Affordable Hiking Boots For Casual Hikers

Affordable Hiking Boots feature image showing a pair of Merrell Hiking Boots next to a photo of a lady hiker.

Affordable hiking boots are a game-changer for anyone wanting to spend more time outdoors without making a huge investment. When I picked my first pair, I quickly learned that the right boots add comfort, boost confidence, and open the door to hiking trails I once avoided. QUICK LOOK: Important Features for Affordable Hiking Boots For … Read more

6 High-Performance Hiking Boots For Backpackers

High-Performance Hiking Boots featured image showing a hiker sitting down and adjusting his hiking boots.

Backpacking in the outdoors puts every part of my body to the test, but nothing works harder than my feet. I’ve learned the value of high-performance hiking boots after a few long trips that left me dealing with blisters, sore arches, and wet socks. QUICK LOOK: High-Performance Hiking Boots for Backpacking The right pair of … Read more