Adventure

We set out for a bit of backpacking in Red River Gorge within Daniel Boone National Forest in Kentucky not long ago and had trouble finding solid information on how …

As vegans, we get asked a lot: what do we eat when we’re backpacking? I personally enjoy a witty response like “food,” but I appreciate that that’s not a terribly helpful answer, especially for those who might be genuinely curious about eating plant-based in the outdoors. That’s why we created a whole e-book full of plant-based backpacking recipes! But let’s be honest: 15 recipes are really only a starting point for a lifetime of backcountry meals and if you’re just looking for an idea or two to get your creative juices flowing, well, this post has you covered. So here’s a breakdown of a simple 3-day backpacking menu, including what we actually ate on our last backpacking trip. So chow down, cause there’s no hiker hunger here. (And if you’re not vegan, yes, you can make these meals, too. You don’t need meat to survive in the wilderness, promise.)

We’ve all been new at something at some point in our lives. And chances are, we weren’t great at that something right out of the gate. There’s a learning curve with most activities that can only be gained through experience. And that includes backpacking. But if you’re new to shouldering a pack and hiking off into the woods to spend a few nights under a canopy of trees, we’ve got your back. Here are 5 mistakes beginner backpackers make (so you can get them right and stop looking like such a noob).

I’m pretty sure no one wants to go backpacking in the rain. If those people exist, I haven’t met them yet. But I’m dubious of their existence because, generally speaking, not many people enjoy being soaking wet for days on end. Which is what happens when you go backpacking in the rain. Especially in cooler climates. But sometimes it’s unavoidable. Maybe you booked a campsite months ago and can’t get a refund. Maybe these are the only vacation days you get all year and you have to make the most of them. Maybe you’re traveling and this is your only chance to get out there and explore. Whatever the reason, if you’re going to go backpacking in the rain, there are ways to make it more enjoyable (and less miserable). And we’re gonna show you how!

Want to get into backpacking? We understand why. The call of the wild, sleeping under a canopy of stars, communing with nature, testing your survival skills, it’s a balm to the soul. But a lot of folks aren’t sure where to start when it comes to preparing for their first backpacking trip. Well, fortunately for you, we’ve put together this handy list of 10 backpacking essentials to help you on your way in our first of a series of Backpacking 101 posts. So gear up and wander on!

Nature therapy doesn’t get much better than solo backpacking. But I find that most people, especially women, aren’t all that interested in solo backpacking. Whether it’s because they think it sounds boring or lonely or they’re worried about safety, many will never attempt it. They’ll see this title and instantly shake their heads and utter a resounding, “Nope.” But you totally and absolutely should try solo backpacking! Especially if you’re female! Read on to find out how to do it right.

Whether you’re in new, unfamiliar territory or your own backyard, we all need a little help locating the best hikes nearby from time to time. Sometimes it’s simply because you …

Here are a handful of wilderness first aid training courses you can take online now or in-person later. Happy learning! And stay safe out there!

Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor person or simply want to be prepared, here’s what you should know about backpacking water filters and how to purify water.

Familiar with the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics? You should be. Whether you consider yourself an “outdoorsy” person or not, everybody can leave no trace, whether you’re taking …