Category: Outdoors for Beginners

Fork And Spoon Vs Spork Backpacking

Post author By Dylan
Post date August 11, 2022

Fork And Spoon Vs Spork Backpacking:

Getting the right backpacking gear can be challenging, especially if you are a beginner. I know I had a tough time on my first backpacking trip. Boy, did I wish I had my backpacking gear guide before that one.

A common question new backpackers have regarding their cooking setup is whether they should use a fork and spoon vs. spork when backpacking. Let me clear this up right now. A spork should be your utensil of choice when backpacking. I honestly can’t even fathom a situation where I would elect to bring a fork and spoon over a spork on a backpacking trip. It’s preposterous. Sporks are the most versatile utensils on planet earth. Why add extra weight and things to carry when you could bring a spork?!

If you don’t have one yet, just click here and grab one. Sporks are super cheap, lightweight, and functional.

But if you aren’t convinced by my rant yet, let us jump into our two options and weigh the pros and cons.

Using A Spoon And A Fork For Backpacking:

The problem with using a spoon and fork is that there is no use in having both with you on a backpacking trip. No matter how extravagant of a backpacking banquet you plan on making, you can consume your food just as well with a spork and have one less utensil to carry.

Now having a fork may make eating some meals marginally easier, but I would still argue you could use a spork for practically anything without a hassle. If you don’t think that whatever you are preparing would be easy to eat with your standard spork, check out these dual-use sporks. They have a fork and a spoon on each side of it. Genius!

Using A Spork When Backpacking:

Ahh, the king of backpacking utensils. Lightweight, versatile, incredible name, the one the only the SPORK!!!!!

Let’s cut straight to the chase. This is the better option for a backpacking trip. I have eaten all kinds of meals with a spork while backpacking, soups, dehydrated meals, you name it, I shoved it in my mouth with a spork. Is there a “that’s what she said joke in there?” Probably anyway, spork all the way!

Do You Need To Have A Separate Knife As A Utensil When Backpacking?

No.

You shouldn’t need a knife as a utensil because if you have a decent multitool, the blade in that should more than suffice for all of your cooking needs. So as long as you have a multitool with a knife (which you absolutely should), you shouldn’t need an additional knife for cooking. If you are wondering whether you should bring a knife or multitool backpacking, you should check out my article all about it.

What About Car Camping?

Although this post is about backpacking, I figure I would make a suggestion for you car campers as well. Clearly, I am very adamant about using a spork for backpacking; however, if you are car camping that is an entirely different ballgame.

The reason being is that when you are car camping, you don’t have to worry about your pack weight. So you can get away with cooking whatever you want!

Depending on the campsite you are staying at, you may even have a grill grate where you can cook over a campfire. In such situations having a complete set of cutlery would be better (leave the nice china at home, though!). Cooking over a campfire is different than using a camp stove, so you would want everything you would typically use when grilling in your backyard when car camping, especially if you plan on making a campers feast!

Final Thoughts:

That’s all for this one! The highlight for this is when it comes to fork and spoon vs spork for backpacking spork wins every time! Let me know your thoughts on this battle!

Disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links, and if you go through them to make a purchase or a booking, I may earn a commission. Using these links DO NOT affect the cost of the product/booking. The price remains the same affiliate link or not. Thanks for supporting my small business!

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Should You Bring A Wallet Backpacking?

Post author By Dylan
Post date August 10, 2022

Should You Bring a Wallet Backpacking?

When I first started backpacking, I struggled with what gear I needed and what I should leave home. But one thing I never knew definitively is should you bring your wallet backpacking. I mean, it’s not like I will be buying stuff with my credit card when on the trail. I don’t need to show my ID to get into a bar while hiking. Why should I bring a wallet backpacking?

Well, I learned the hard way that you should definitely bring a wallet with you backpacking or at the very least some cash, credit, and ID wrapped with a rubber band. I wouldn’t bring my bulky wallet with me though. I would buy something more lightweight and packable like this one.

When I Realized I Need To Be Carrying My Wallet When Backpacking:

So to be clear, I would never bring a wallet backpacking with me because I didn’t see the point in having it out on the trail. I will not be paying off a bear not to eat my food. I’m not going to be buying a new hat in the backcountry. The most helpful thing I can think of for money is to use it as a fire starter…. Yea, I’m not doing that.

It wasn’t until I was on the last leg of my Enchantments Loop hiking through 6 Mile Ridge, a primitive route in Olympic National Park, that I realized I should’ve brought my wallet. That trail was one of the most poorly marked, treacherous trails I have ever encountered while backpacking. I was constantly using my trekking poles to peel back the brush to get a better visual of the trail found myself off track several times, and it felt like I was constantly bushwhacking. There was one point during this hike that I considered backtracking and bailing on the hike altogether due to the poor trail conditions. I figured I would get a ride share or a taxi back to my car, but then I realized I didn’t have my wallet!

I suppose I could have just hitchhiked, but with the covid pandemic, I didn’t think I would have much luck with it. So I had no other choice but the hike out. Fortunately, I got out of the backcountry safely, but I now bring my wallet on every backpacking trip I go on.

This experience got me thinking what the other reasons someone should bring their wallet on a backpacking trip are.

You Should Always Have Identification On Your Person:

Even though you are hiking in the middle of nowhere, you should always have some form of identification on you. This could come in handy if you encountered a park ranger who wanted to verify that you are the holder of your permit. Or if you get lost and die in the park, having some ID would be helpful… I’m joking…. sort of.

One Less Thing That Can Be Stolen From Your Car:

As a general life rule, you shouldn’t be leaving valuable things in your car unattended for long periods. By carrying your wallet with you on the trail, you can guarantee if someone were to break into your car, at least they ain’t getting your wallet

What Kind Of Wallet To Bring Backpacking?

So what not to get is a George Costanza wallet. Leave the bulk stuff at home and get a minimalist and lightweight wallet.

After some research, I found that a minimalist wallet like this one is probably your best bet when looking for a backpacking wallet. It is lightweight, carries what you need, and is easily packed down. If you don’t want to spend the money though, you could wrap a credit card, ID, and some cash in a rubber band. It’s janky, but it works!

Final Thoughts:

Knowing what to bring with you and what to leave home when going out for a backpacking trip is difficult, but it’s something you figure out after many trips into the backcountry. But I would say that a wallet is one of those items that you should be bringing with you on all of your backpacking trips.

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Is Backpacking Alone Dangerous? 9 Tips For Solo Backpacking

Post author By Dylan
Post date August 5, 2022

Is Backpacking Alone Dangerous? 9 Tips For Solo Backpacking

Since I set out on my van life adventure, I have been almost exclusively going on backpacking trips by myself, so much so that many of my New Yorker friends frequently ask, “is backpacking alone dangerous?”

In short, yea, it can be. Like any outdoor sport, the amount of danger and risk depends on your skill level and the difficulty of the activity you are doing. Doing a double black diamond ski run is dangerous if you’ve never skied before, but the same run would be a cakewalk for an Olympic-caliber skier.

The same applies to backpacking. The danger associated with each backpacking trip greatly depends on the trip type and the individual hiker’s skills. If you are brand new to hiking and don’t even have the necessary gear for a backpacking trip, your first trip shouldn’t be a solo one.

Let’s dive into the nitty gritty of what some of the dangers of backpacking alone are, when you should go on your first solo backpacking trip, and some tips for your first solo backpacking trip.

Why Can Backpacking Alone Be Dangerous

Backpacking alone can be dangerous because if you are not entirely self-sufficient when out on the trail, you can find yourself in hot water fast. When backpacking alone, you don’t have the luxury of forgetting an essential piece of gear or not knowing crucial skills like navigation or water filtration. You are alone and do not have other people to rely on for any situation you encounter on your trip. It is all on you.

A solo backpacking trip isn’t something that should be done on a whim. It requires diligent preparation, proficient outdoor skills, and practice.

When Should You Go On A Solo Backpacking Trip

Before you go on a solo backpacking trip, you should make sure you have the following:

Proper gear
Solid outdoor skills, including but not limited to:
- Navigation with a map and compass
- Know how to carry and filter water. To learn more, check out my post, “How To Carry And Treat Water When Backpacking Or Hiking.”
- know how to set up a shelter
- Basic first aid
- Know how to store food while backpacking if you want to learn more, check out my article.
- Thorough knowledge of the leave no trace principles.
Several backpacking trips under your belt
Adequate fitness for your intended route.

If any of these things are lacking or you are a complete beginner, you might want to hold off on your first solo backpacking trip. If you are completely new and looking to get into backpacking, you should check out “How To Start Backpacking.”

9 Tips For Solo Backpacking For The First Time:

If you have your backpacking skills down pat and have already gathered a bunch of experience backpacking, here are a couple of tips that will help make your first solo backpacking trip fun and safe!

#1. Have A Gear Checklist And Take Your Time Packing

Like I said, having the right gear is essential for any backpacking trip. But if you can be forgetful like me, make sure you have a gear checklist and take your time when packing. A solo backpacking trip is not the time to be forgetful.

#2. Make Sure Your Are Physically Fit For Your Planned Route

As with any backpacking trip having the proper fitness is an absolute must, and it is even more critical when you are going solo. You do not want to find out you are not in proper shape for your trip halfway through. That would be miserable. Properly prepare and train for your hike, so you can enjoy your time and aren’t struggling for days on end.

#3. Tell Someone Your Trip Information:

Every time you head into the backcountry, you should tell someone your trip details. I typically always let my mom know the following information before I go on a solo backpacking trip:

What park I’m in
When I am entering the park
When I am exiting the park/when she should expect to hear back from me.
My route itinerary
The ranger station number and when to call them, i.e., If I’m not back by so and so date, contact the ranger station and let them know I have been in the park later than intended.

#4. Consider Canceling Your Trip If Expecting Inclement Weather

Backpacking is a strenuous activity, and inclement weather can only serve to complicate things. If you are new to solo backpacking and see a forecast of bad weather, such as multiple days of rain or snow, it may be best to hold off until better weather comes around.

The reason being is that inclement weather makes every aspect of the trip more difficult, from following the trail to setting up shelter, and it may be best to avoid it if it is your first time backpacking alone. Safety first! The trail isn’t going anywhere.

#5. Consider A Shorter Trip:

If you are a newbie to solo backpacking, consider making your first trip an easier one. You can start with an overnighter and can build off of that. By starting slow, you can gradually build your confidence in hiking alone.

#6. Research Trip Reports On Your Planned Itinerary:

Before heading out, be sure to look at trip reports and comments about the trail you are about to hike so you are aware of any detours or difficulties you may encounter during your trek. This is especially important if hiking either earlier or later in the season because trip reports can give crucial information such as bridge washouts, downed trees, or heavy snow coverage.

Park rangers are another excellent resource for getting up-to-date trail information.

#7. Have A Bailout Plan:

If you are hiking solo in a park, it is a good idea to have some bailout plan to exit the route from a location different from your planned one. This can come in handy if you face injury, fatigue, or dangerous trail conditions during your trip.

While it is certainly not an ideal way to end a backpacking trip, having a bailout option can give you peace of mind during your hike should an emergency arise.

#8. Consider Bringing A GPS Device

Let me start by saying that this does NOT replace a map and compass, but they come in handy. I use the Garmin Fenix 6 Pro watch and love it. That watch helped me and my friend Joe tackle sections of the snow-covered Wonderland Trail and situations where I got off the trail when hiking the Tour Du Mont Blanc.

#9. Bring Some Entertainment

Whenever I am out backpacking by myself, I always have my kindle and journal on me as a means of entertainment when I reach camp. There is nothing better than reading a good book or writing down some thoughts next to a campfire when backpacking.

Final Thoughts:

Solo backpacking can be a gratifying and self-reflective experience. But the backcountry is no joke. As I said, backpacking solo can be dangerous without the proper preparation and skills. So stay safe and have fun out there!

There are affiliate links in this article where we will get a commission if you click through to make a purchase. The price of the product will remain the same affiliate link or not! Thanks for supporting my small business.

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What To Do With Your Trash When Backpacking?

Post author By Dylan
Post date August 4, 2022

What To Do With Your Trash When Backpacking?

Backpacking is a fantastic way to spend time in nature, but after several days of hiking, you are bound to accumulate a bunch of trash like granola bar wrappers, used toilet paper, and canned foods. Aside from knowing what gear to bring backpacking a common question many new hikers have is, what to do with your trash when backpacking?

Answer: Pack it out. Whenever you are hiking or backpacking it is of great importance that you leave no trace and carry any trash out of the park with you. For the remainder of this article, I am going to give you a complete rundown on what to do with your trash when backpacking.

How Do You Pack Out Your Trash When Backpacking?

When I say “pack out” your trash, I mean that you must physically carry all of your trash out of the park with you. The best way to do this is by carrying a couple of gallon-sized ziplock bags, which you can use as trash bags. As your trip progresses, you will continuously dispose of your waste in these ziplock bags.

So there you have it, ziplock bags, not the fanciest gear but essential backpacking gear nonetheless.

Why Is It Important To Pack Out All Your Trash When Backpacking?

First, trash receptacles are nonexistent in the backcountry of national parks. So the only way to properly dispose of your garbage while backpacking is by packing it out. By carrying your trash out of the park and disposing of it responsibly, you help protect the nature, wildlife, and water sources of every region you visit.

What Needs To Be Packed Out When Backpacking?

All of your trash, this includes:

Wrappers
Food containers such as dehydrated meals
Used toilet paper
Any odorous item that you plan on disposing of

You should not be leaving anything you are bringing with you into a backpacking trip in the wilderness.

Can You Throw Your Trash Out In Pit Toilets When Backpacking?

No.

You cannot do this because trash in pit toilets can delay the composting process and will eventually require it to be manually removed by a park employee. The only things that should be going into pit toilets are your poop and your used toilet paper. Don’t put someone through the trauma of digging through human feces to clean up your garbage. Just pack out your trash.

Do You Need To Pack Out Your Toilet Paper When Backpacking?

Yes.

Technically this can vary by the park, but it is best to leave no trace practice to pack out your used toilet paper unless using a pit toilet. I know it’s gross, but it is the best thing for local plants, wildlife, and fellow hikers. No one wants to have their beautiful time in nature interrupted by some rogue toilet paper flying around a meadow that’s just nasty!

What To Do With Your Trash Bag When Backpacking?

Another common question is, what in tarnation are you supposed to do with your garbage bag while you are actively hiking? I recommend putting your main one in your bear canister or dry bag while hiking and carrying an additional bag for used toilet paper in a more accessible pouch. That way you are ready to go whenever nature calls. By the way, if you want to learn more about pooping while backpacking, check out our article “How To Poop While Backpacking.”

What To Do With Your Trash When You Arrive At Camp?

After you arrive at camp, you need to treat your trash bag as an odorous item which means it needs to be stored appropriately either with a bear canister or by hanging it, depending on the park’s food storage regulations.

You must properly store all of your odorous items before going to sleep. Be sure to check all of your pack’s compartments, including your belt pockets, to make sure you removed all of your snack wrappers from the day. Proper food storage is a crucial leave no trace principle. If you want to learn more about correct food storage practices, you should check out “how to store food while backpacking.”

How Many Trash Bags Do You Need For Backpacking?

This is something that would vary depending on how long you are backpacking. For a three to five-day backpacking trip, I will bring a minimum of two-gallon-sized ziplock bags. Remember that the bags barely add any weight to your pack, so getting a couple of extra wouldn’t hurt .

What If You Run Out Of Trash Bags While Backpacking?

If you find that you ran out of space in your trash bags while backpacking and are still accumulating trash, I recommend moving your remaining food to a single bag and using that as a trash bag. Another option is to take your toiletry items out of their plastic bag. Your toothbrush may be a bit dirtier, but at least you have another garbage bag. If you are desperate for another space to place your trash, your last option would be to put it in your bear canister or dry bag.

How To Dispose Of Your Trash Bags After Backpacking?

After you leave the park, you can get rid of your packed-out garbage just as you would in everyday life. Just dump it in the trash. The only item you need to take special care of is your fuel tanks these need to be appropriately disposed of according to local regulations.

Final Thoughts:

While packing out your trash isn’t one of the most glamorous parts of backpacking, it is a critical practice to help maintain nature’s beauty. Let me know how you pack out your trash when backpacking in the comments below!

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Should You Bring A Knife Or Multitool Backpacking?

Post author By Dylan
Post date August 2, 2022

Should You Bring A Knife Or Multitool Backpacking?

Having a knife or a multitool when you are out in the backcountry is considered one of the ten essentials when hiking. But a question many new backpackers ask is whether you should bring a knife or multitool backpacking.

While both options have their benefits, over the past five years of backpacking, I have concluded that a multitool is the better option for a backpacking trip. I came to this conclusion when backpacking the Wonderland Trail in Mt Rainier National Park. During this trek, I was suffering on account of my toenails being way too long, which was making me miserable with every step downhill (gross, I know). Fortunately, thanks to my Leatherman multitool, I could give these bad boys a quick cut on our next snack break, allowing me to enjoy the rest of my hike pain-free.

This experience highlights the multitool’s fantastic versatility and utility for backpacking trips. If I only had a knife, I would’ve been miserable the entire hiking trip and may have even wound up losing a toenail. To be clear, I am not saying that knives are useless during backpacking trips. Just that, between the two, multitools have far more functionality when backpacking, making them the better option when hiking through the backcountry.

Bringing A Knife On A Backpacking Trip

Knives have several different potential uses on a backpacking trip. Some of which include:

Excellent for cutting and preparing food
Opening packages
Breaking down wood branches for fires
Cleaning fish (if fishing on your backpacking trip)

The primary benefit of having a dedicated knife when backpacking is that they are typically sharper and sturdier than the blade that comes with a traditional multitool. This extra power can come in handy in some situations, but those situations are few and far between on your typical backpacking trip.

Different Types Of Backpacking Knives:

The two different kinds of knives used in backpacking are fixed and foldable blades.

What Are Fixed Backpacking Knives?

Gerber Fixed Backpacking Knife

Fixed knives are knives sold in a singular piece in a fixed position. Unlike your multi-tool and foldable knives, fixed knives always have the blade exposed, thus requiring a sheath to keep it safely tucked away when not in use. This can make them a bit more cumbersome to pack due to their awkward size and inability to fold down.

However, the benefit of using fixed knives is that they are typically more robust and have more cutting power than their foldable counterparts. This added strength can be helpful in situations requiring more cutting force, which could damage a less durable multi-tool and foldable knife.

Foldable Backpacking Knives

Spyderco Delica Folding Knife

Foldable knives are the other option you have for a backpacking knife. These pack down much better than their fixed counterpart and can be clipped to your belt or pants. The major drawback to foldable backpacking knives is that they have a bit less cutting power than fixed blades.

Multitool Uses When Backpacking:

The multitool is my preference for a backpacking trip because I find they have much more functionality when out on the trail with their variety of different tool bits. Not only that, but nearly all multitools contain a blade that can be used for many of the same things a dedicated knife can.

I have used a multitool for a ton of different things while away on a backpacking trip, such as:

Preparing food
Opening packages
Cleaning nails
Cutting nails
Opening a bear canister
Bottle opener
Repairing broken gear

The versatility of a quality multitool cannot be overstated. They are convenient to have when backpacking and can perform the functions of a knife and so much more.

Different Kinds Of Multi-Tools

Like all backpacking gear, many different options are available for purchase. Multitools can vary significantly on the different types of bits they provide, weight, price, and quality, so it’s important to know what functions you would need your multitool for before purchasing one. The two most popular brands of multitools on the market are Leatherman and Swiss Army Knives. If you are looking to buy a multitool, I would go with one of the following:

Can You Bring Both A Knife And Multi-Tool Backpacking?

So say you want the best of both worlds. The strength of a survival knife and the utility of a multitool can you bring both on a backpacking trip? You absolutely can as long as bringing both makes sense for the kind of trip you are going on.

Personally, my backpacking trips never necessitate bringing a dedicated knife as well as a multitool, so I leave my knife at home. But if you think having both would be useful for you or want to be extra prepared, bringing both is doable as long as you are okay with the excess weight.

Final Thoughts:

At the end of the day you need to be selecting the gear that is best suited for the particular backpacking trip you will be going on and the personal preferences of the hiker. I am a bit of a minimalist and since there has never been much of a need for having a survival knife on my trips I never bring them backpacking and a multitool serves me just fine.

But if you are a fisherman and want to clean and cook fish, you catch while backpacking or you want to be extra prepared maybe then bringing a heavier duty knife in addition to a multitool may be better for you.

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Can You Hike Without A Shirt? (2022)

Post author By Dylan
Post date July 16, 2022

Can You Hike Without A Shirt? (2022)

The other day I was hiking in Yosemite National Park with my family, and we were all dying from the intense heat and climbing steep trails. Then the question came to mind can you hike without a shirt?

Shortly after asking myself this question, I took off my shirt and felt immediate relief from the blistering heat, enjoying the rest of my hike in comfort. The funny thing about this experience was that when I turned around to find my younger brothers, I saw they all took off their shirts too!

So yes, you can hike without a shirt. But before you guys and gals get excited about showing off your bodies on your next trip in the wilderness, there are a few things you should be aware of before hiking without a shirt.

How To Hike Without A Shirt?

This may sound a bit silly, I mean, you would think that you could just start walking like usual only without the shirt. But there are a couple of things you should keep in mind if you are hiking shirtless.

You Need Sun Protection:

Sun protection is essential whenever you are hiking and even more so if you do it without a shirt. Dermatologists recommend SPF 30 or greater, especially if you are doing an outdoor activity such as hiking. Wearing a hat and sunglasses are other ways to protect yourself from the sun but wearing sunscreen is a must.

Bring Bug Spray:

Bug spray is another essential to have whenever you go hiking, and its importance is magnified if you are doing it without a shirt. If you are in an extremely buggy area, forget hiking shirtless and protect yourself from those little monsters!

Pack Extra Clothes:

Even though you can hike without a shirt, that doesn’t mean you should show up to the trailhead unprepared. Make sure you have proper hiking clothes and extra layers in your day pack. Weather can easily change, and the last thing you want is to find yourself freezing at the top of a mountain!

What Is The Best Weather To Hike Without A Shirt?

So even though you can hike without a shirt doesn’t mean that every situation is a good one to do so. The best weather to go hiking without a shirt would be when it is sweltering outside with a low UV index, which indicates how dangerous sun exposure is on a given day.

Benefits Of Hiking Without A Shirt:

While hiking without a shirt is never something you have to do, there can be some benefits to doing it shirtless.

The biggest is cooling off when hiking in the summer heat. Trekking up a mountain is tough enough as it is throw in some intense heat, and it can be downright brutal. Walking shirtless in these situations can help you keep cool during an otherwise strenuous hike.

The other benefit you get is a nice-ish tan! Say goodbye to those classic farmer tan lines and hello to some tan lines outlining your backpack .

When You Shouldn’t Hike Shirtless:

It’s not always a good time to hike shirtless doing so in some conditions may even be dangerous. Some instances where you should avoid hiking without a shirt include:

High UV Index: If you are hiking with a lot of sun exposure and a high UV index, putting on a shirt would be good for added protection. According to this article, unprotected sun exposure can cause damage to your skin, eyes, and immune system and can even lead to cancer.

Inclement Weather: It should come as no surprise that being caught in rain or snow without a shirt won’t be very comfortable and can be dangerous. Wearing the wrong clothing or no clothing at all when hiking in the rain can lead to hypothermia.
Buggy Areas: If the bugs are nasty where you’re hiking and bug spray isn’t enough then your next thing you should do is put on a shirt. These guys can be ruthless and ruin your time on the trail if you aren’t prepared for them.
When Backpacking: I will get into this one more depth, but you should avoid backpacking shirtless.

Can You Backpack Without A Shirt

No.

Doing a day hike without a shirt is one thing but I would not recommend backpacking without a shirt. The reason why that the combination of your pack weight and the constant rubbing of the straps against your shoulders and straps can lead to blisters and burns.

I learned this the hard way when backpacking in Great Smoky Mountain National Park after just one day of backpacking without a shirt I was left with these battle wounds. Ouch!

Hope That Helps! What Do You Think About Hiking Shirtless?

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Can You Sleep In Your Car At National Parks? (2022)

Post author By Dylan
Post date July 16, 2022

Can You Sleep In Your Car At National Parks? (2022)

Summer is here, so it is time to start exploring some national parks! But after a long day of hiking, you will need to take the time to rest, and car camping is a great way to do that. As a newly minted van lifer, I am always hiking and backpacking through national parks. But during my time in Canyonlands National Park, I found myself exhausted after a long day of hiking and way too lazy to set up my tent, so I asked myself, “can you sleep in your car in national parks?”

The answer is yes. You can sleep in your car in most national parks!

Being able to sleep in your car can be extremely helpful especially if you are caught in inclement weather and don’t want to set up camp in the rain, forgot your tent at home, or if are a tired and lazy van lifer like myself. But although you can sleep in your car in most national parks, there are a few things you should know before doing so.

Where Can You Sleep In Your Car At National Parks?

Even though you can sleep in your car in most national parks, usually you can only do so at designated front-country campsites. In situations where your car is an RV, you need to make sure your campsite is designated as an RV site.

Unfortunately for my fellow van lifers and overlanders, this means you cannot just sleep in random parking lots or pullouts within the national park unless you want to run the risk of being woken up by a park ranger. If you want to sleep in your car at a national park, you need to do so at a designated campsite.

If you know ahead of time that you want to stay overnight at a national park I recommend checking the park’s website to see if reservations can be made in advance or if campsites are available first come, first serve.

Is It Free To Sleep In Your Car At National Parks?

No.

Since you need to stay at a designated campsite when sleeping in your car at a national park, you need to pay for the campsite you park at. While there may be free areas to park overnight and sleep in your car outside the park, it requires a fee if you want to do so inside.

How To Sleep In Your Car At A National Park If Campsites Are Full?

Let’s say you are like me and make plans on the fly. You made no reservations for a front-country campsite, and all of the park’s campgrounds are full, is there still a way you can sleep in your car in the national park?

Yes. Now, if all of the park campsites in a national park are full, there is one other way you can sleep in your car, and that is by going to a ranger station to see if you can get a backcountry camping permit to sleep in your car. Not all national parks allow this, so you must verify with a park employee if you can park overnight for a backcountry fee.

Rules To Follow When Sleeping In Your Car At A National Park

Even though you are sleeping in your car, you should still follow the rules of the park’s front country and backcountry campgrounds. Some standard rules to be aware of are leave no trace, quiet hours, and proper food storage. You can read the rules in more detail on the National Park’s website.

How To Sleep In Your Car Near A National Park?

So say all of the national park’s campsites are full, and the park doesn’t allow you to pay a backcountry fee to sleep in your car at a trailhead parking lot. What is a camper to do?! Well, your next best bet is to find dispersed camp areas around the park.

Although you won’t be centrally located in the park and will still have to drive in, the upside to using dispersed campsites is that they are usually free of charge and typically aren’t located too far from one of the park entrances.

How To Find A Free Place To Sleep In Your Car Near A National Park?

Fortunately, many national parks have a national forest or BLM land surrounding it, so you have a good chance of finding a free place to park and crash for the night. You can see if you are near one of these lands by looking at a map of the park and seeing if there are any national forests or BLM land surrounding it. I have also used apps like iOverlander or The Dyrt to help find free campsites near a national park.

How To Check If You Are Allowed To Sleep In Your Car In The Park You Are Visiting?

Although nearly all parks permit you to sleep in your car. Generally, it is restricted to front-country campsites but all parks have their own rules so it is always a good idea to verify the rules of the particular park you are visiting.

The easiest way to do this would probably be by going to the national park website and seeing if they mention anything about it in their “camping section.” Another way to check is by calling one of the park’s ranger stations.

Do I Need A Sleeping Bag To Sleep In My Car?

Whether or not you need a sleeping bag to sleep in your car depends on two major factors, what vehicle you are sleeping in and the time of year you are camping.

First, let’s address the kind of car you plan on sleeping in. If you are in a well-insulated campervan or RV with a bed and sheets, there isn’t much need for a sleeping bag. However, I recommend having one if you are in a regular car or minivan. The reason is that traditional vehicles are not designed to be slept in, so they lack the insulation needed to keep you comfortable at night.

Next up is the weather. Regardless of the weather, if you have an appropriately insulated and heated RV/campervan, you should still be okay without a sleeping bag. But suppose you are sleeping in a standard car. In that case, it is essential to research the weather and the nighttime temperature to get a sleeping bag that is appropriately rated for the weather you will be encountering.

If you are looking for a good sleeping bag, check out what I recommend in my backpacking gear guide. I bought this sleeping bag over five years ago and still use it for all of my backpacking and car camping trips!

I Hope This Helps Tell Me About Your Experience Sleeping In Your Car When Visiting A National Park!

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Do I Need A Hatchet For Backpacking? (2022)

Post author By Dylan
Post date July 15, 2022

Do I Need A Hatchet For Backpacking?

There are many kinds of backpacking gear out there, and with so many people telling you different things to buy, it can be challenging to know what is necessary and what is not. New backpackers ask a common question: “do I need a hatchet for backpacking?”. Let me save you all a lot of time and money:

No. You most certainly do not need a hatchet to go backpacking. I can say that over the past several years that not only have I never used one but I never ran into a situation where I was like “damn I could really have used a hatchet right about now”.

3 Reasons Why You Do Not Need A Hatchet For Backpacking

You do not need a hatchet for backpacking for the following reasons:

Little to no functionality
Adds unnecessary weight to your pack
Waste of money

Little To No Functionality

The first and perhaps the biggest reason why you don’t need a hatchet for backpacking is that THERE IS NO USE FOR IT. As I said over the past five years of backpacking, I have never required one, but to drive the point home, let’s go over any possible reason for bringing a hatchet backpacking and discuss why you do not need one.

Cutting Wood From Trees To Make A Fire?

Under no circumstances should you be cutting away branches from a tree to make a fire as it is a violation of leave no trace principles. Typically if you are allowed to make a fire in a park, you are only to use downed and dead wood for your fire.

Many outdoor companies advertise using a hatchet to help split firewood at camp. However, I would argue that if you are following, leave no trace, and are only collecting downed dead wood. You should be able to break the wood either by hand or by swinging it against a rock.

Can I Use A Hatchet For Hunting Game While Backpacking?

Listen, I am no hunter, but I am a backpacker, and when backpacking, you should be bringing all of your meals with you! Also, I am pretty sure that killing animals while in the backcountry does not adhere to the leave no trace principles.

Do I Need A Hatchet For Self-Defense Against Wild Animals While Backpacking?

No.

Let me start by saying that animal attacks in the backcountry are extremely rare, especially if you are storing your food correctly. But if an animal approached you aggressively, the best defense would be a form of bear spray, which can be launched from a distance, not hand-to-hand combat with a hatchet! You aren’t Leonardo Dicaprio in The Revenant. Leave the hatchet at home.

Do I Need A Hatchet To Help Set Up Camp When Backpacking?

No.

There is no utility in a hatchet to set up camp. Nowadays, all modern camping equipment can be set up using your hands. No hatchet is necessary for setting up a typical shelter.

Do I Need A Hatchet To Cook or Prepare Food When Backpacking?

Do you use a hatchet for cooking or preparing food at home? Of course not!!! There should be no reason why you need a hatchet to help cook or prepare any of your meals while backpacking.

Like I Said Not Much Utility In Bringing A Hatchet Backpacking

Okay, I know I had a little bit of fun with those questions, but I hope it got my point across that there is not much utility in having a hatchet on a backpacking trip. If this wasn’t enough, let me go over some other reasons why you should leave the hatchet at home.

A Hatchet Adds Unnecessary Weight To Your Pack

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned ultralight backpacker, no one wants to carry more weight than necessary. As I explained in detail, there is not much functionality to bringing a hatchet on a backpacking trip, so save yourself the pack weight and leave the hatchet at home. Better yet, leave it on the shelf at REI.

Waste Of Money

It should go without saying that spending something on something you don’t need and won’t use is a waste of it. Save your cash, buy good backpacking gear you would need, and use in the backcountry in our backpacking gear guide.

Now, If You Still Really Want A Hatchet...

Okay, I know I tore apart hatchets pretty badly there, but it is truly not something you need to bring with you on a backpacking trip. That being said, if you think they are pretty cool and still want to get one check out some of these.

I Hope That Helps! What Do You Think About Bringing Hatchets Backpacking?

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How Many Clothes To Bring Backpacking? (2022)

Post author By Dylan
Post date July 14, 2022

How Many Clothes To Bring Backpacking? (2022)

Having the right backpacking gear is essential, and your clothing is some of the most crucial gear you are bringing with you as you want them to be well-insulated, comfortable, and lightweight. A common question many beginners have is how many clothes to bring backpacking?

As with most questions about backpacking gear selection, what you bring depends heavily on the weather and environment you will be hiking in and how lightweight you want to be. The range for how many clothes to bring backpacking can run anywhere from eight to eighteen different articles of clothing.

At the bare minimum, you will need one of each article of clothing plus your sleep clothes. It may sound gross, but it is the least amount you can get away with while still being comfortable. Keep in mind there is no rule or exact science. A lot of packing depends on your personal preferences and the type of backpacking trip you are going on. I had a 4-7 day backpacking trip in mind when writing this article.

What Clothes Are Essential For Backpacking?

So as I mentioned, at a minimum you need one of each article of clothing when backpacking. But you may be asking what the essential clothes are for backpacking? Well, here they are!

Base Layer / Hiking Shirt
Mid-Layer / Down Jacket / Fleece Jacket
Outer Layer / Rain Jacket
Hiking Pants / Shorts
Hiking Socks
Underwear
Sleep Clothes (for the skinny check out my article “What Clothes To Sleep In When Backpacking”)

Base Layer / Hiking Shirt

You can go with anything from an athletic T-Shirt/long sleeves or a traditional hiking shirt button-down. In terms of material, 100% polyester or merino wool would work. As always, avoid buying any hiking clothes made of cotton. I do not recommend backpacking shirtless unless you want some gnarly blisters from your pack.

Mid-layer / Down Jacket / Fleece Jacket:

Next up is your mid-layer. This layer is for warmth and insulation. The popular options when it comes to mid-layers are down and fleece jackets.

I typically use a down jacket as a mid-layer. Although they are usually more expensive, down jackets offer better insulation and packability, most of which can fold into their pocket. Your mid-layer is likely one of the most expensive parts of your backpacking wardrobe, but it is essential to keeping you warm and safe in the backcountry and is not something you want to go cheap on.

Outer Layer / Rain Jacket

Always pack a rain jacket—every time. Your rain layer is essential for keeping you dry and protecting yourself from the wind, rain (duh), or snow. Also, don’t forget to bring a rain cover for your pack. Having a rain layer won’t do you much good if you are stuck with a soaking wet pack after a day of hiking in the rain!

Hiking Pants / Shorts:

You can wear hiking pants or shorts for your lower body. I typically make this decision based on the weather and the area I will be hiking in. If I am backpacking in warmer desert-like regions, I will opt for shorts to keep me cool and comfortable while hiking. Alternatively, if in the woodlands, I will wear hiking pants to keep me warm and protect against tick bites.

Hiking Socks:

These are necessary. Pay the extra money and get a nice pair of wool hiking socks. A good pair of hiking socks will protect you from blisters and the cold and are moisture-wicking, all essential to have when in the backcountry.

Underwear:

It’s UNDIE TIME!!! Many may wonder how many pairs of underwear you should bring on a backpacking trip? Believe it or not, this is a matter of preference. Some people bring 2-3 changes of underwear. Other people will bring shorts with a liner and won’t wear any at all.

Sleep Clothes:

For your sleep clothes, I recommend having a separate clean set of garments to change into, such as the following:

Thermal pants +/- fresh shirt
Thermal shorts +/- fresh shorts
Additional pair of hiking socks
Hat (depending on weather)
Gloves (depending on weather)

As with many aspects of backpacking, what you bring for sleeping will depend on the environment and weather you encounter. To learn more about sleep clothes, you should check out my article “What Clothes Should You Wear To Sleep When Backpacking?”

Sample Packing Lists

Here are two sample packing lists that show how little and how many clothes you can bring for a backpacking trip.

Packing Light

Socks 2
Shirt 1
Hiking pants 1
Down jacket 1
Rain jacket 1
Sleep pants 1
Sleep shirt 1

Total: 8

Packing Heavier

Socks 3
Shirt 2
Shorts 1
Pants 1
Down jacket 1
Rain jacket 1
Sleep pants 1
Sleep shirt 1
Hat 2 (beanie for sleeping & cap for hiking)
Gloves 1
Underwear 3
Rainpants 1

Total 18

I Hope This Helps! What Do You Pack For A Backpacking Trip?

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9 Things I Love About Car Camping:

Post author By Dylan
Post date July 9, 2022

9 Things I Love About Car Camping:

We all know that hiking is a great time if you don’t, you should. However, after a long day of hiking you eventually need to call it a day and take a break but you don’t want to drive all the way out of a park to an expensive hotel and don’t have the gear or desire to go backpacking. What is a frugal and lazy hiker to do? It sounds like you should be car camping!

Car camping is a great way to set up shop right in the middle of a national park and have easy access to awesome day hikes without driving very far. Below are the 9 things I love about car camping.

#1. You Can Camp In Comfort

One of the most significant benefits of car camping, especially compared to backpacking, is is comfort. Since you are carrying everything with your car, you have the luxury of bringing plenty of creature comforts. Extra clothes, pillows, and toiletry items as long as it fits in the car you can bring it car camping. It may not be as comfy as a hotel room, but it’s cheaper!

#2. It's A Great Way To Travel On A Budget

This brings me to my next point hotels, and Airbnbs can get expensive! Established campsites cost only a fraction of a hotel stay making car camping an excellent way to travel on a budget.

PRO TIP: If you want to really save money, you can car camp on dispersed campsites such as BLM land, national forest land, or any other public land that allows for overnight camping/parking for FREE. This is how I am currently saving money while vanlifing! Check out the app IOverlander to find some excellent free campsites.

#3. Good Eats!

While car camping, with a good camp stove, you can eat just like at home except with a couple more bugs. There is nothing better after a long day of hiking than to enjoy a nice hot meal in nature. No need for sketchy dehydrated meals or cold soaking as you do with backpacking. When car camping, you get to eat like a king/queen!

#4. You Can Explore More Areas Of The Park

While backpacking allows you explore many of the more remote areas of a national park, with car camping, you can cover much more ground and see the different regions of the park with ease. This is thanks to, well, the car! Since you don’t have to rely on your legs to carry you every inch of the way to go as you do with backpacking, you can see many more park areas by driving to them and doing some day hikes.

#5. You Can Leave All The Bulky Gear At Camp

Another huge benefit of car camping compared to backpacking is that you get to leave all of your unnecessary gear at camp! There is no need for a 65liter backpack when car camping. You can leave all of those bulky items such as your sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent, stove etc. back at camp.

#6. There Are So Many Different Ways To Car Camp

Another thing I love about car camping is that there are so many different ways to go about it. From sleeping in your car to having a tent attached roof, the camping options are endless! Check out this cool graphic from sayinsurance.com.

#7. Amenities!!!

Another fantastic perk of car camping is that established car-camping sites often have amenities such as a toilet, running water, and sometimes even a shower! These luxuries are rare/nonexistent when backpacking and can make your outdoor experience much more enjoyable.

Remember, preparation is key, always research what is included with your campsite before arriving at a park. That way, you have an idea of what you are working with.

Again, not as nice as a hotel, but that’s why we camp!

#8. Stargazing

I say this under the assumption you are car camping in a wilderness such as a national or state park. If you are in a city, no stars for you. Also, why the heck are you camping?

But I have seen some of the most beautiful night skies by camping. If stargazing interests you, you should check out certified dark parks for your next camping trip. These parks take multiple measures to limit light pollution and give you the best night sky.

#9. Unplug

Perhaps the best aspect of camping is unplugging from your hectic day-to-day. Car camping is a great way to give you a mental reset, and the time spent outdoors can do wonders for your mental health.

What Do You Love About Car Camping?

That’s all for me! What do you love about car camping?