Accessories

How to Maintain External Locking Trekking Poles

Despite the abundance of backpacking-specific terms and jargon, a backpack is a fairly utilitarian piece of gear—it’s designed to carry everything you need for a day, night, or even weeks in the woods. If you’re getting tripped up by complicated product descriptions and ever-evolving features, realize almost all backpacks share the same foundational parts. With this in mind, here’s the basic anatomy of a backpack.

Types of Backpacking Stoves

Learn about different types of backpacking stoves! See pros & cons of liquid fuel, canister, solid fuel and alternative fuel stoves.

Choosing Between MSR Canister and Liquid Fuel Stoves

From the classic liquid-fueled MSR Whisperlite to the superlight canister-powered PocketRocket Deluxe to quick-boiling integrated stove systems that run on canisters, there is seemingly an MSR stove for every type of activity and user. While it’s…

How to Adjust Your Trekking Poles for a Proper Fit

We explain how to adjust your trekking poles for a proper fit, plus fitting wrist straps and basic use.

How to Choose a Backcountry Water Filter

Proper hydration is essential for an enjoyable trip. Carrying water is manageable for short trips but as any wildland firefighter will tell you, water is not a lightweight liquid (1 gallon = 8 pounds). If you…

What is Trail Mix?

What is trail mix? Trail mix, or GORP, is the ultimate trail snack, popularized by endless variations. While ‘GORP’ is fairly specific – Good Old Raisins and Peanuts – the term ‘trail mix’ simply means a…

How to Choose a Pack for your Dog

Dogs packs have a simple goal: to allow your pet to share the load when you’re together on the trail. Dog packs come in many sizes and configurations, allowing you to find the perfect fit for…

IP Ratings: What Do They Mean?

You may have seen IP ratings when shopping for outdoor electronic gear like GPS units, headlamps, cameras and solar power devices. This very useful but sometimes mysterious rating system simply describes the ruggedness of your electronics.…

How to Choose a Backpacking Headlamp

A headlamp is a time-tested solution to the illumination needs of backpackers. Headlamps light the way when you’re pushing down the trail to cover a few extra miles before pitching camp, illuminate your dinner and allow…

Why Use Rubber Tips on Trekking Poles?

Trekking poles usually feature hard metal or carbide tips, which provide excellent traction on trails, snow and ice. Metal tips can wear down when used on ‘improved’ surfaces like asphalt or pavement. Metal tips can also…

How to Pick the Perfect Pair of Trekking Poles

A set of trekking poles is essential for many outdoor enthusiasts, whether they’re tackling high summits or exploring lowland traverses. With trekking poles being asked to serve such a wide range of activities, they have become…