Our content is reader-supported. This means that if you click on some of the links in our posts, we may earn a commission. Learn more.

Additional menu

Outforia

Your Ultimate Guide to the Great Outdoors

Hiking

Can You Go Hiking in Jeans? Breaking Down the Myth

Written by:
Kathryn Clover
Kathryn Clover
Forager, Bushcraft Tutor, and Content Contributor. BA Textiles, English Language. Permaculture Cert. Passionate about natural crafts, camping, swimming, and fire cookery. Teaching foraging since 2012 through Parks Trust and Hedgewitch Adventures. DHM Herbal Medicine, Wilderness First Aid Qualified.
Last updated on:

Outforia QuickTake: Key Takeaways Whether to wear jeans on a hike depends on your hike's duration and the weather conditions. The type of terrain can also play a part. Jeans were first …

Continue Reading about Can You Go Hiking in Jeans? Breaking Down the Myth →

Walking with Nature: A Guide to 20 Different Types of Hiking

Written by:
Jhareyna Pagao
Jhareyna Pagao
With over seven years of writing and editing experience, Jhareyna is the Executive Editor at Outforia. Born and raised in the sandy cityscapes of Bahrain, she found a love for nature's wonders in the Philippines. Aside from writing and reading, she enjoys long walks, wildlife, and the many mysteries of the sea.
Last updated on:

Outforia Quicktake: Key Takeaways: As a hiking enthusiast, it's essential to understand the variety of hiking experiences available to you. Each type offers different challenges, terrain, and …

Continue Reading about Walking with Nature: A Guide to 20 Different Types of Hiking →

Food to Take on a Hike: Top 10 Trail Snacks

Written by:
Gaby Pilson
Gaby Pilson
Gaby is a professional Outdoor Educator, Climbing & Polar Guide, and Wilderness Medicine Instructor. Expert in Backpacking, Skiing, Climbing, Mountaineering, Sailing, and Wilderness Medicine. AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor Course Provider. Master's degree in Outdoor Education from The University of Edinburgh. Experienced in leading Arctic & Antarctic expeditions. Freelance writer, coffee enthusiast, and French existentialism reader. Bachelor's degree in Philosophy & Environmental Studies from Hamilton College. She enjoys helping others gain the knowledge and experience they need to get out and adventure in the mountains.
Last updated on:

Staying fueled and energized while on a hike isn’t easy. Hiking through the mountains burns a lot of calories, so it’s important that you get the right nutrients in your body to help you crush those …

Continue Reading about Food to Take on a Hike: Top 10 Trail Snacks →

Cold Weather Hiking: How To Keep Hiking In The Snow and Cold Seasons

Written by:
Ann Briggs
Ann Briggs
Ann is a Science Communicator and Contributor specializing in conservation, biology, travel, science and outdoor recreation. She is passionate about helping others gain an appreciation of nature and the knowledge to get outside and experience new adventures. Bachelor's degree in Conservation Biology and Master's in Science Communication from the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. Wilderness first aid certified and trained as a safari guide in Botswana. Enjoys hiking, camping, climbing, paddling, and exploring.
Last updated on:

Just because the weather has turned cold doesn’t mean you have to stop hiking in the snow! There are many advantages to hiking in frigid weather. There are also a few additional steps to …

Continue Reading about Cold Weather Hiking: How To Keep Hiking In The Snow and Cold Seasons →

Why Use Trekking Poles?: Advantages, Disadvantages & Pro Tips!

Written by:
Gaby Pilson
Gaby Pilson
Gaby is a professional Outdoor Educator, Climbing & Polar Guide, and Wilderness Medicine Instructor. Expert in Backpacking, Skiing, Climbing, Mountaineering, Sailing, and Wilderness Medicine. AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor Course Provider. Master's degree in Outdoor Education from The University of Edinburgh. Experienced in leading Arctic & Antarctic expeditions. Freelance writer, coffee enthusiast, and French existentialism reader. Bachelor's degree in Philosophy & Environmental Studies from Hamilton College. She enjoys helping others gain the knowledge and experience they need to get out and adventure in the mountains.
Last updated on:

Wondering why you should use trekking poles? Using trekking poles while hiking gives you extra stability and support on tricky terrain. They can also help protect your knees from the wear and tear …

Continue Reading about Why Use Trekking Poles?: Advantages, Disadvantages & Pro Tips! →

How To Waterproof A Backpack: 4 Ways and Tips for Keeping Hiking Gear Dry and Clean

Written by:
Gaby Pilson
Gaby Pilson
Gaby is a professional Outdoor Educator, Climbing & Polar Guide, and Wilderness Medicine Instructor. Expert in Backpacking, Skiing, Climbing, Mountaineering, Sailing, and Wilderness Medicine. AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor Course Provider. Master's degree in Outdoor Education from The University of Edinburgh. Experienced in leading Arctic & Antarctic expeditions. Freelance writer, coffee enthusiast, and French existentialism reader. Bachelor's degree in Philosophy & Environmental Studies from Hamilton College. She enjoys helping others gain the knowledge and experience they need to get out and adventure in the mountains.
Last updated on:

Want to know how to waterproof a backpack? The best way to waterproof a backpack is to use a waterproof pack liner on the inside of your bag. You can also place important items in dry bags to provide …

Continue Reading about How To Waterproof A Backpack: 4 Ways and Tips for Keeping Hiking Gear Dry and Clean →

Scrambling in Hiking: The Perfect Blend of Hiking and Rock Climbing Adventure

Written by:
Carl Borg
Carl Borg
Carl is the founder and strategist of Outforia. Annoyed by the lack of quality online outdoors publications willing to uphold high standards of value and ethics, he decided to make the resource he would have wished to read. Living by the beach in Norway, Carl is never far from outdoor adventure. When not curating Outforia, Carl spends his time kayaking, forest bathing, diving, and camping.
Last updated on:

Outforia Quicktake: Key Takeaways The activity known as scrambling falls somewhere between regular hiking and rock climbing. And if you have spent enough time summiting mountains, you may have come …

Continue Reading about Scrambling in Hiking: The Perfect Blend of Hiking and Rock Climbing Adventure →

27 Unique and Cool Backpacking Gadgets

Written by:
Carl Borg
Carl Borg
Carl is the founder and strategist of Outforia. Annoyed by the lack of quality online outdoors publications willing to uphold high standards of value and ethics, he decided to make the resource he would have wished to read. Living by the beach in Norway, Carl is never far from outdoor adventure. When not curating Outforia, Carl spends his time kayaking, forest bathing, diving, and camping.
Last updated on:

Many experienced backpackers and helpful backpacking guides help you nail down the big, important pieces of equipment, like your clothing, shoes, and tent. But what many of these informative posts …

Continue Reading about 27 Unique and Cool Backpacking Gadgets →

Ensure Your Adventure Starts on the Right Foot: How Should Hiking Boots Fit?

Written by:
Carl Borg
Carl Borg
Carl is the founder and strategist of Outforia. Annoyed by the lack of quality online outdoors publications willing to uphold high standards of value and ethics, he decided to make the resource he would have wished to read. Living by the beach in Norway, Carl is never far from outdoor adventure. When not curating Outforia, Carl spends his time kayaking, forest bathing, diving, and camping.
Last updated on:

How should hiking boots fit? Your hiking boots should feel snug and comfortable. You should be able to wiggle your toes and have some breathing room without the boots feeling tight or having your feet …

Continue Reading about Ensure Your Adventure Starts on the Right Foot: How Should Hiking Boots Fit? →

7 Must-Know Hiking Trail Signs

Written by:
Carl Borg
Carl Borg
Carl is the founder and strategist of Outforia. Annoyed by the lack of quality online outdoors publications willing to uphold high standards of value and ethics, he decided to make the resource he would have wished to read. Living by the beach in Norway, Carl is never far from outdoor adventure. When not curating Outforia, Carl spends his time kayaking, forest bathing, diving, and camping.
Last updated on:

Navigating the wilderness isn't just about knowing how to trail blaze or follow existing paths while navigating blaze markings. You need to know how to read essential signs, too! After all, nearly …

Continue Reading about 7 Must-Know Hiking Trail Signs →

Hiking for Beginners on a Budget

Written by:
Carl Borg
Carl Borg
Carl is the founder and strategist of Outforia. Annoyed by the lack of quality online outdoors publications willing to uphold high standards of value and ethics, he decided to make the resource he would have wished to read. Living by the beach in Norway, Carl is never far from outdoor adventure. When not curating Outforia, Carl spends his time kayaking, forest bathing, diving, and camping.
Last updated on:

Taking a hike could be an excellent way to improve your physical and mental health. It's also a unique opportunity to get closer to nature, see beautiful wildlife, and explore. But many new hikers can …

Continue Reading about Hiking for Beginners on a Budget →

Hiking as a First Date

Written by:
Jennifer Schultz
Jennifer Schultz
Jennifer is a professional outdoor guide, instructor, and naturalist with a passion for helping people get outside.  She enjoys helping others gain the knowledge and experience they need to get out in nature and enjoy the great outdoors.
Last updated on:

Going on a first date is an exciting experience, but it also comes with lots of nerves, overthinking what-ifs, and expectations. If you’ve met or matched with an outdoor enthusiast, a great first date …

Continue Reading about Hiking as a First Date →

What Is a Switchback? Definition, Uses, and Tips for Happy Hiking

Written by:
Carl Borg
Carl Borg
Carl is the founder and strategist of Outforia. Annoyed by the lack of quality online outdoors publications willing to uphold high standards of value and ethics, he decided to make the resource he would have wished to read. Living by the beach in Norway, Carl is never far from outdoor adventure. When not curating Outforia, Carl spends his time kayaking, forest bathing, diving, and camping.
Last updated on:

A switchback is a type of path that follows a zig-zag pattern up a steep stretch of terrain such as a hill or mountainside. Rather than climbing directly up the slope, switchbacks run from one side of …

Continue Reading about What Is a Switchback? Definition, Uses, and Tips for Happy Hiking →

Smartphone Vs. Standalone GPS for Hiking

Written by:
Carl Borg
Carl Borg
Carl is the founder and strategist of Outforia. Annoyed by the lack of quality online outdoors publications willing to uphold high standards of value and ethics, he decided to make the resource he would have wished to read. Living by the beach in Norway, Carl is never far from outdoor adventure. When not curating Outforia, Carl spends his time kayaking, forest bathing, diving, and camping.
Last updated on:

Smartphones offer the latest technology for everything we do at work and home, from exercise and shopping apps to work-related conference calls and more.  With every upgrade of an iPhone or …

Continue Reading about Smartphone Vs. Standalone GPS for Hiking →

11 Ways to Find a Hiking Buddy or Hiking Group

Written by:
Carl Borg
Carl Borg
Carl is the founder and strategist of Outforia. Annoyed by the lack of quality online outdoors publications willing to uphold high standards of value and ethics, he decided to make the resource he would have wished to read. Living by the beach in Norway, Carl is never far from outdoor adventure. When not curating Outforia, Carl spends his time kayaking, forest bathing, diving, and camping.
Last updated on:

Hiking alone can be an incredibly rejuvenating experience. Still, it's not always a good idea. Hitting the trail without a hiking buddy can mean the difference between safety and life-threatening …

Continue Reading about 11 Ways to Find a Hiking Buddy or Hiking Group →

Wilderness and Backcountry Hiking: A Complete Guide

Written by:
Gaby Pilson
Gaby Pilson
Gaby is a professional Outdoor Educator, Climbing & Polar Guide, and Wilderness Medicine Instructor. Expert in Backpacking, Skiing, Climbing, Mountaineering, Sailing, and Wilderness Medicine. AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor Course Provider. Master's degree in Outdoor Education from The University of Edinburgh. Experienced in leading Arctic & Antarctic expeditions. Freelance writer, coffee enthusiast, and French existentialism reader. Bachelor's degree in Philosophy & Environmental Studies from Hamilton College. She enjoys helping others gain the knowledge and experience they need to get out and adventure in the mountains.
Last updated on:

Wilderness hiking and camping are hands-down some of the best ways to get outside and enjoy the wonders of nature. But, planning your first backcountry adventure can feel overwhelming as there are …

Continue Reading about Wilderness and Backcountry Hiking: A Complete Guide →

21 Edible Plants on The Appalachian Trail: Guide To Foraging On The AT

Written by:
Gaby Pilson
Gaby Pilson
Gaby is a professional Outdoor Educator, Climbing & Polar Guide, and Wilderness Medicine Instructor. Expert in Backpacking, Skiing, Climbing, Mountaineering, Sailing, and Wilderness Medicine. AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor Course Provider. Master's degree in Outdoor Education from The University of Edinburgh. Experienced in leading Arctic & Antarctic expeditions. Freelance writer, coffee enthusiast, and French existentialism reader. Bachelor's degree in Philosophy & Environmental Studies from Hamilton College. She enjoys helping others gain the knowledge and experience they need to get out and adventure in the mountains.
Last updated on:

The Appalachian Trail is one of the world’s premier long-distance hiking destinations. But, did you know that there are plenty of edible plants on the Appalachian Trail that you can enjoy on your next …

Continue Reading about 21 Edible Plants on The Appalachian Trail: Guide To Foraging On The AT →

What to Keep in a Hiking Backpack: 25 Essential Pieces of Gear

Written by:
Gaby Pilson
Gaby Pilson
Gaby is a professional Outdoor Educator, Climbing & Polar Guide, and Wilderness Medicine Instructor. Expert in Backpacking, Skiing, Climbing, Mountaineering, Sailing, and Wilderness Medicine. AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor Course Provider. Master's degree in Outdoor Education from The University of Edinburgh. Experienced in leading Arctic & Antarctic expeditions. Freelance writer, coffee enthusiast, and French existentialism reader. Bachelor's degree in Philosophy & Environmental Studies from Hamilton College. She enjoys helping others gain the knowledge and experience they need to get out and adventure in the mountains.
Last updated on:

Let’s face it: Hiking and backpacking are gear-intensive pursuits. So, it’s understandable if you’re not sure what to keep in a hiking backpack during your outdoor adventures. Thankfully, we’re …

Continue Reading about What to Keep in a Hiking Backpack: 25 Essential Pieces of Gear →

How To Break In Hiking Boots Fast

Written by:
Carl Borg
Carl Borg
Carl is the founder and strategist of Outforia. Annoyed by the lack of quality online outdoors publications willing to uphold high standards of value and ethics, he decided to make the resource he would have wished to read. Living by the beach in Norway, Carl is never far from outdoor adventure. When not curating Outforia, Carl spends his time kayaking, forest bathing, diving, and camping.
Last updated on:

You’re reading this article because you’ve got new hiking boots and an epic trip planned. And I have to say I’m a tiny bit jealous. But you also know new hiking boots can be disastrous for your feet …

Continue Reading about How To Break In Hiking Boots Fast →

H2No® vs. Gore-Tex®: Which one should you choose?

Written by:
Amanda Readman
Amanda Readman
Amanda is a writer, avid climber, and outdoor enthusiast. She has traveled extensively, around the U.S., throughout Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Everywhere she treks, she takes time to enjoy the outdoors. She works through writing and leadership to educate people on the link between the outdoors to mental and global stability.
Last updated on:

For outdoor enthusiasts, being prepared for any weather patterns that Mother Nature throws at you is essential. What you need is a waterproof material that protects you and your belongings throughout …

Continue Reading about H2No® vs. Gore-Tex®: Which one should you choose? →