Budget-friendly Backpacking Fly Rod Combos

Budget Fly Rod Combos for Backpacking featured image showing a lady angler with a nice rainbow trout as she stands in a stream next to an image of Gerald Gerwick backpacking in the mountains.

Backpacking with a fly rod is a rewarding way to access overlooked fishing spots without breaking the bank or your back. As someone who spends a lot of time hiking into hidden creeks and high mountain lakes, I know it can be overwhelming to choose a rod and reel combo that fits both your pack … 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

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

8 Best Apps For Hikers And Backpackers

Apps for Hikers and Backpackers featured image showing a lady hiker standing on a boulder overlooking a lake in the mountains with an overlay image of 3 smartphone screens showing various hiking apps.

Since there are countless choices, narrowing down the absolute best apps for hikers and backpackers is super helpful for anyone who wants to get started or step up their outdoor experience. Hiking and backpacking bring a unique sense of adventure and freedom. QUICK LOOK: Apps for Hikers and Backpackers I’ve always found that using the … Read more

Planning Your First Backpacking Trip -The Ultimate 10-Step Guide

Planning Your First Backpacking Trip featured imaage showing young lady backpacker squirting water into the air with her pack on her back next to an enlarged image of a fully loaded backpack on the ground.

Backpacking for the first time feels both exciting and a bit scary. My first trip showed me that a little planning goes a long way in making the adventure much more enjoyable and stress-free. From scouting a destination to double-checking my gear for the trail, every detail mattered. I’m sharing this guide to help you … Read more

Beginner’s Guide To Backpacking: 9 Tips And Tricks

Beginners Guide to Backpacking featured image showing a group of three backpackers hiking up a mountain trail.

Backpacking offers an accessible way to enjoy nature, explore different landscapes, and experience adventure without the need for sophisticated planning or expensive equipment. I have found that a mix of careful preparation and flexibility can make even a first-time backpack trip a rewarding experience. QUICK LOOK: This guide provides straightforward advice and clear steps for … Read more