Hiking
Why turning back is the best decision a hiker can make
A short column on why turning back before the summit is a skill, how to set a turnaround time and why it keeps you hiking for years.
Karim Belkacem4 min read
Pack for the trip you are actually taking.
Gear lists by trip type, with tickable checklists and plain advice for beginners.
Topic
Gear lists
Gear lists
Sleeping pad vs air mattress for camping: which to pick
Sleeping pad vs air mattress for camping: a pad keeps you warmer and lasts longer, an air mattress feels more like a bed. Here is how to choose for your trip.
Karim Belkacem4 min read
Gear lists
Gas stove vs wood fire for desert trips
A gas stove is the default for desert camping. A wood fire adds warmth and mood but depends on local rules, fuel supply and wind. Here is how to choose.
Élodie Fontaine3 min read
Gear lists
Headlamp vs flashlight for camping: which should you bring
Headlamp vs flashlight for camping: a headlamp frees your hands and suits most jobs, a flashlight throws light farther. Bring one of each if you can.
Karim Belkacem4 min read
Gear lists
How to keep a cooler cold while camping for days
How to keep a cooler cold while camping: pre-chill, pack in layers, use block ice, keep it in shade and open it less. A simple plan for a weekend.
Karim Belkacem4 min read
Topic
Beginner camping
Beginner camping
Easy camping meals for beginners with one pot or no stove
Easy camping meals for beginners: one-pot dinners, no-cook backups and a simple plan for breakfast, lunch and dinner on a two-night trip.
Élodie Fontaine4 min read
Editors' picks
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Topic
Family camping
Family camping
Kids sleeping bag vs adult sleeping bag: which to buy
Kids sleeping bag vs adult sleeping bag: a child-sized bag keeps a small body warmer because there is less empty space. Here is when to size up.
Élodie Fontaine4 min read
Family camping
How to get kids to sleep in a tent on a camping trip
How to get kids to sleep in a tent: keep the home routine, make it dark and warm, tire them out in the day and plan for a late first night.
Élodie Fontaine2 min read
Family camping
Why the second night of family camping is easier
A short column on why the first night of a family camping trip is the hardest, and why most families settle in by the second night.
Élodie Fontaine4 min read
Family camping
Camping with toddlers: how to plan a first trip
Camping with toddlers can work if you keep it close to home, short and simple. Here is how to plan sleep, safety and snacks for a first trip.
Élodie Fontaine4 min read
Topic
Cold weather
Cold weather
Sleeping bag temperature rating explained: comfort vs limit
Sleeping bag temperature rating explained: what comfort, limit and extreme numbers mean, and how to pick a bag for the coldest night of your trip.
Élodie Fontaine4 min read
Cold weather
Sleeping pad R-value for cold weather camping
Sleeping pad R-value for cold weather camping: what the number means, what to buy for frost and snow, and how to add warmth under you cheaply.
Élodie Fontaine2 min read
Cold weather
What to wear camping in cold weather: a three layer plan
What to wear camping in cold weather: a base layer to wipe away sweat, a warm middle layer and a shell for wind and rain, plus what to avoid.
Élodie Fontaine5 min read
Cold weather
Is it safe to use a heater in a tent? What to know
Is it safe to use a heater in a tent? Fuel and flame heaters can cause carbon monoxide poisoning and fires, so read this before you bring one camping.
Élodie Fontaine2 min read
Topic
Desert camping
Desert camping
What makes a night in the desert different
Field notes on the dark, the quiet, the cold and the wind that set a desert night apart, and what that changes about how you camp.
Karim Belkacem3 min read
Topic
Hiking
Hiking
Why turning back is the best decision a hiker can make
A short column on why turning back before the summit is a skill, how to set a turnaround time and why it keeps you hiking for years.
Karim Belkacem4 min read
Hiking
How to prevent blisters when hiking
How to prevent blisters when hiking: fit, socks, lacing and the moment to stop. A simple plan to keep your feet from rubbing raw on the trail.
Élodie Fontaine2 min read
Hiking
Hiking boots vs trail runners: which is better for you
Hiking boots vs trail runners: boots give ankle support and protection on rough ground, trail runners are lighter and dry faster. Here is how to choose.
Élodie Fontaine3 min read
Hiking
Day hike essentials checklist: what to carry in your pack
A day hike essentials checklist for beginners: water, food, layers, navigation, light, first aid and a plan, with a rule for how much to carry.
Élodie Fontaine4 min read