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Backpacking

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

Unsure of how to cook outdoors? Check out our easy-to-use cooking gear list for both campers and backpackers, which will bring out your inner gourmet chef!
Hiking and outdoor gear

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

Most outdoor gear nowadays is designed to last for years, even decades, of use. Here are five of the best places to stock up on dirt-cheap camping gear.
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

Learn how to tie the double figure-eight knot, perhaps the most secure knot in the world.
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

When you’re out for an overnight hike in the wilderness, you want to be amply prepared for the experience. Here's a guide for how to pack a tent in a backpack.
A clove hitch tied to a fixed point

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

The clove hitch is the ultimate answer when it comes to tying an adjustable knot. Our guide teaches you to tie this hitch to a fixed point and for a carabiner.
how to waterproof a jacket man in rain

How to waterproof a jacket in 3 simple steps

Waterproofing your jacket can transform a comfortable wardrobe staple into the ultimate waterproof rain jacket, and it’s really not as hard as you might think.
A reef knot is tied against a tree

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

There are a lot of knots that any boater or outdoorsman needs to know. The square knot will help with tying bundles or packages.
Two people hiking the W Trek in Chile, mountains in the background.

Upgrade to the best warm-weather hiking gear of 2023

We’ve rounded up the best new gear for hiking (and camping and kayaking and whatever else you’re getting into) this spring and summer.
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

If you're insatiably curious about the natural world, these mobile nature apps will help you identify almost any unknown plant or critter.
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.
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.
how to clean your hydro flask 1024x1024

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.
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.
Best Hiking and Backpacking Tents

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

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

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

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

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 woman sitting and drinking a warm beverage by a green tent.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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.
camping gear list under 200 people backpacking with dog

The 8 Best Pieces of Camping Gear Under $200 on Amazon

Not everyone has a couple grand to drop on the best camping gear out there. The Manual has got your back with all your camping essentials on a $200 budget.
People swapping out one of the best portable power pack batteries.

The 7 Best Portable Power Packs for Car Camping Like a Pro

With these beefy power packs, you can explore far off-grid with the juice to charge all your electronics.
Ozark Trail 10-Person Instant Camping Tent set up on white background.

This TEN PERSON Tent Is Insanely Cheap at Walmart Today

Getting ready to go camping with a large group or your entire family? Walmart is offering an Ozark Trail 10-Person tent for a crazy low price today!
Winter Camping Tents

The 7 Best Four-Season Tents for All Your Weather Adventures in 2021

Gear up with a real all-weather tent. Stay protected from the elements of spring, summer, winter, and fall all year-round in one of the best 4-season tents.
Adventurers leaving footprints on the sand along the shores of California’s Lost Coast.

The 10 Best Backpacking Trips for Adventurers To Take at Least Once

America boasts plenty of iconic trails. So, pack your bags and take on one of these best backpacking trips because it's going to be one epic outdoor adventure.

How to Sleep Outdoors: The Best Gear for a Good Night’s Sleep

There is no one perfect backcountry sleep system. The top solution is the one that’s right for you. Find the best camping gear for a good night's sleep.
campfire site picnic table

How to Enjoy Your Campfires Responsibly This Summer

Campfires are a natural hazard, especially when left unattended. Here's how you can enjoy your campfires safely to prevent wildfires from devastating nature.
Best Multipurpose Hiking Gear

Multipurpose Hiking Gear: 8 Outdoor Tools That Do More Than One Job

Multipurpose gear lets you do more with less. The less junk in your trunk — er, backpack — the lighter it will be. The lighter it is, the happier you are.
best dehydrated meals 2021

The 7 Best Dehydrated Meals to Fuel Your Adventures

Dehydrated food used to be unrecognizable mush, but that has changed drastically in the last decade. These are the best bag meals you can get today.