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Backpacking

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When it’s time to leave Outlook, Teams, Slack, and the rest of your connected life behind, many prefer backpacking. Whether you’re a well-traveled backpacker or new to the hobby, this is your destination for backpacking essentials, the best gear on the market, and tips that will make your time in the backcountry even more enjoyable.

Tick on human finger

Tick safety 101: How to safely remove ticks (and avoid them in the first place)

Going out for a hike and worried about ticks? We give you some tips on how to avoid ticks while hiking to prevent Lyme disease.
best national parks rv camping yellowstone 2

Here’s everything you need to pack for a trip to Yellowstone National Park

Hand holding a flipper knife

Upgrade your everyday carry with these best-in-class, fast-action flipper knives

Full dinner grilling on a metal grate over an open campfire with a blurred couple in the background.

Stock your on-the-go outdoor kitchen with the best camping cookware

Hiking and outdoor gear

Stock up on hiking and camping gear at the best places to shop for outdoor equipment deals

A fully tied figure-eight knot being rethreaded. Yellow and red rope tied around a stump on the grass.

Learn to tie (and untie) a double figure-eight knot

Big camping green backpack and yellow tent in the mountains.

How to pack a tent in a backpack: A pro guide for beginners in 6 easy steps

A clove hitch tied to a fixed point

Learn to tie the clove hitch for when you need a secure, adjustable knot

how to waterproof a jacket man in rain

How to waterproof a jacket in 3 simple steps

A reef knot is tied against a tree

Learn to tie a square knot to secure loads when you’re out camping

Two people hiking the W Trek in Chile, mountains in the background.

Upgrade to the best warm-weather hiking gear of 2023

Closeup of a hand holding a smartphone with a picture of a small seedling on the screen.

Get the best nature apps for identifying unknown plants and critters right from your smartphone

Man using a portable outdoor shower near the beach.

Keep clean anytime, anywhere with the best portable showers for camping

A portable camping shower can get you clean with minimal effort and water. We’ve found the 10 best models worth shopping in 2023.
EDC knife

When you need the very best EDC knife, these 8 knives make the cut

The best EDC knives come in all shapes, styles, and sizes, but these top-of-the-line blades are our favorite go-to picks.
iPhone 14 Plus.

Review: Does the iPhone 14 Plus live up to its outdoorsy reputation?

Apple has marketed the iPhone 14 as the ideal phone for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. Our review takes a look at its travel chops.
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How to clean your hydro flask for tang-free hydration

Using your Hydro Flask daily can take a toll on its cleanliness and condition. Here's a guide on how to clean your Hydro Flask properly so it'll last for years.
A man on a beach using a smoke signal.

These SOS signals could save your life

Whether you're lost in a forest or trapped in a confined space, be sure to read up on our list of SOS signals to save you from potential danger.
Dangerous hiking at Mount Washington

Type 2 fun: Do we love to suffer?

There are different types of fun when it comes to any outdoor experience, and this article looks at the psychology of enjoying your time outside.
Man with backpack looks out over Yellowstone National Park's wilderness on overcast day

What’s the difference between 2 and 3 layer Gore-Tex?

As part of the description on a waterproof jacket, you'll see that it says 2, 2.5, or 3 layer GORE-TEX, but what does this really mean? We'll take a look.
A man treks through the Scottish highlands with mountains all around

Pack your multiday backpack for comfort with our guide

Learn to pack your overnight backpack to keep important items close at hand and save yourself hassle when you arrive at camp.
A reef knot is tied against a tree

6 essential knots for every outdoorsman to learn

Every outdoorsman needs to know how to tie a knot for all occasions. Here are our top six outdoor knots for camping, backpacking, and survival.
Mountain photo

Third Man Syndrome: The weird phenomenon extreme mountain climbers experience

The Third Man has acted as a guide, advisor, companion, and much more to those in need, but who or what is this presence and does it really exist?
Young man using a portable water filter near a backcountry stream.

Hydrate safely with the best portable water filters

A durable, compact, simple, and reliable water filter is indispensable. There are plenty of great ones on the market today, and we’ve rounded up the best.
Man looking over a trail's vista

3 lesser-known tips that can save your life on the trail

Make your next hike a safe and enjoyable one with our brief guide on survival tips and hacks, which includes fighting off bears and navigating the wild.
tips for hiking in the spring hike

Dust off your gear, it’s time to hit the trail: The spring hiking tips you need

Embrace the rainy weather and muddy terrain with these springtime hiking tips, as well as what to pack for a fun and successful hike!
Taking a break from hiking to drink some water from an insulated water bottle

Up your hydration game with one of the best insulated water bottles

Whether you're hiking, backpacking, heading to the gym, or just in the office, stay hydrated with these insulated water bottles.
best national parks to visit in spring summer warm weather great sand dunes park and preserve colorado getty images

These are the best national parks to visit when the weather warms up

With the arrival of spring (and summer just around the corner), now is the time to explore the best U.S. National Parks.
Collection of survival food and dehydrated meals.

Stock up for emergencies with these great survival food packs

Having a survival food kit stashed away in your apartment or your car might come in handy sooner than you think. Here are the best survival food kits this year.

Stay hydrated on the go with our bulletproof water purification tips

Staying hydrated is key to days on the hill but carrying heavy water bottles weighs you down. Stay ahead of the game with our water purification tips.
Person camping on a river using a one person tent.

The ultimate guide to choosing the perfect one-person tent for your next outing

Ready to commit to the one-person tent life but don't know where to start your search? Here's the lowdown on what makes any 1P tent great.
People kayaking down the river at the Big Bend National Park.

The most and least visited National Parks: See popular sites (or avoid crowds)

If you're looking for new spots, we have the list of the most and least visited National Parks for you to plan your next visit around where to go.
is expensive winter gear worth it man camping in snow outside unsplash

Good investment or an elitist ripoff: Is expensive winter gear worth the money?

Want to know the truth about buying expensive outdoor gear? Well, I've used everything, from bargain-bucket to big brands, and here's what I've found.

The ultimate ultralight backpacking gear list: This is everything you need

If you want to move fast on the trail, you need ultralight backpacking gear. Here's our ultimate packing list for ultralight adventures.
Person with a trekking pole and backpack standing atop of a mountain, looking at a view of the forest

The Ultimate Guide for Fastpacking Success

The Ultimate Guide for Fastpacking Success

Here's our guide on how to fastpack. Learn what you need to consider before heading out on the trail.
Best Hiking and Backpacking Tents

The 11 Best Backpacking Tents for Hiking and Camping

The 11 Best Backpacking Tents for Hiking and Camping

The best backpacking shelters balance weight, bulk, affordability, and wet-weather protection.
A trail runner overlooks a rocky pathway up the next incline.

Fast and Light Overnight: A Newbie’s Guide to Fastpacking

Fast and Light Overnight: A Newbie’s Guide to Fastpacking

Going ultralight is the new trend, but what about fastpacking? Learn all you need to know about covering maximum distance, with minimal equipment.
Fingers holding a map and compass in the outdoors.

Ditch the GPS: How to Navigate Using a Map and Compass

Ditch the GPS: How to Navigate Using a Map and Compass

No matter how advanced technology is, the age-old map and compass are indispensable. Learn how to use them with our quick and easy guide.
A man in beanie and backpack standing atop of a mountain with his arms stretched out.

Backpacking Checklist: 13 Things You Need for Hiking

Backpacking Checklist: 13 Things You Need for Hiking

No matter how far you’re trekking or how long you’re planning to be offline, these are the best backpacking essentials you need to survive.
A Nemo Dagger OSMO 2P backpacking tent out in the backcountry.

Nemo Dagger OSMO 2P Review: Why I Love This Do-It-All Tent

Nemo Dagger OSMO 2P Review: Why I Love This Do-It-All Tent

After spending a month with the new Nemo Dagger OSMO 2P, I've gotta say I'm a fan. Here are my takeaways from my time with the latest Dagger backpacking tent.
A man relaxing on a red camping hammock by a body of water.

The 7 Best Camping Hammocks to Swing Yourself to Sleep

The 7 Best Camping Hammocks to Swing Yourself to Sleep

The gentle rocking of a hammock is perhaps the greatest way to sleep in the backcountry. Try it out yourself with our best camping hammocks of 2022.
A woman sitting and drinking a warm beverage by a green tent.

Our 9 Best Camp Coffee Makers for Fresh Morning Java

Our 9 Best Camp Coffee Makers for Fresh Morning Java

Take your morning coffee with you on any backpacking or camping adventure! Try our best camp coffee makers and mugs for an energy boost in the great outdoors.
Tents at the Karanga Camp.

The Ultimate Beginner’s Backpacking Guide

The Ultimate Beginner’s Backpacking Guide

Hiking with your world on your back is the purest form of travel. Set yourself up for success with our beginner's guide to backpacking essentials.
best camping grills on amazon

The Best Camping Grills for Outdoor Cooking

The Best Camping Grills for Outdoor Cooking

From lightweight, backpack-friendly models to large alternatives that can cook up dinner for the whole family, these are our favorite camping grills.
A camping sleeping pad sitting outside at sunrise.

The 10 Best Sleeping Pads for Every Kind of Camping

The 10 Best Sleeping Pads for Every Kind of Camping

Sleeping outdoors doesn't have to be a pain in your butt ... or side ... or back. The best sleeping pads of 2022 keep you comfy no matter where you're sleeping.
A man with a backpack standing on a rocky ledge.

The 11 Best Backpacking Gear Items for Hitting the Trail in 2022

The 11 Best Backpacking Gear Items for Hitting the Trail in 2022

Spend less time hauling and more time exploring with the best backpacking gear for 2022. These lightweight options are essential for any adventure.

The 9 Best Camping Lights To Brighten Your Campsite

The 9 Best Camping Lights To Brighten Your Campsite

Don't get lost in the dark if you're out camping. Check out our top 9 camping light picks to brighten your campsite any time of the year!

Tent Buying Guide: How To Find the Best Tent for Your Trip

Tent Buying Guide: How To Find the Best Tent for Your Trip

We put together this handy tent buying guide to help you find a good shelter quickly so you can get off your computer and be back outdoors.
The best 3-person backpacking tents are durable, lightweight, and roomy.

The 9 Best 3-Person Backpacking Tents of 2022

The 9 Best 3-Person Backpacking Tents of 2022

The best three-person backpacking tents are durable, roomy, water-resistant, and, most importantly, lightweight.
The best backpacking tents under $100 offer many of the same features of their brand-name alternatives.

7 Best Backpacking Tents Under $100 in 2022

7 Best Backpacking Tents Under $100 in 2022

The first step in building out a new backpacking gear closet is finding a reliable and affordable tent.
best lighteight camping stove for backpacking biolite full

The Best Lightweight Camping Stoves for Backcountry Cooking

The Best Lightweight Camping Stoves for Backcountry Cooking

If you want to experience what the backcountry has to offer but still want to eat as if you're in the city, we've listed the best camping stoves for you.

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