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Sea to Summit XLite Camp Kitchen: What’s New for 2026
Sea to Summit just launched the XLite, a full redesign of its collapsible camp kitchen line that nests cups inside bowls inside pots and drops weight by up to 30%. Here’s what changed, what it costs, and whether it’s worth adding to your kit this season.
Priest River, Idaho: Should You Actually Stop? (Honest Answer Inside)
Most people blow through Priest River without a second thought. They’ve got a cabin to get to, a lake to get on, or a bar stool in Sandpoint with their name on it. That’s fine. But if you’ve got an hour and an empty stomach, here’s what’s actually worth your time.
Why I Stopped Freezer Bag Cooking (And What I Do Instead)
Freezer bag cooking is one of backpacking’s most popular meal systems — but pouring boiling water into a Ziploc is one of the worst plastic exposure scenarios you can create. With a Human Biology background and years of research into microplastics, I stopped doing it. Here’s what the science actually says, why Mylar bags don’t solve the problem, and the lightweight pot system I use instead.
Best Heavy Duty Beach Chairs for Big Guys (Tested, Ranked, and Honest About It)
Finding a beach chair that holds up when you’re a bigger human shouldn’t be this hard. I’ve done the research so you don’t have to fold, literally, in front of everyone at the beach.
Jackery vs Bluetti for Camping: Which One Actually Wins?
You’ve narrowed it down to Jackery and Bluetti. Smart move — now let’s actually settle it. Here’s where each brand wins, where they fall short, and which one fits your camping style.
How to Actually Sleep Well in a Tent (12 Things That Make the Difference)
Get a restful night’s sleep on your next camping adventure with these 12 essential tips for cozy tent camping. From choosing the right tent and sleeping pad to staying warm with layers and fuzzy socks, this guide covers everything you need to sleep comfortably in the Pacific Northwest’s great outdoors. Learn how to select a flat campsite, use earplugs for uninterrupted rest, and maintain hydration for better sleep quality. Whether you’re a solo backpacker or camping with family, our practical advice— including gear recommendations like the REI Camp Dreamer Sleeping Bag—ensures you wake up refreshed for your PNW hiking and camping adventures. Start planning your cozy camping nights today!
Franklin Ghost Town: A Lame Hike With a Genuinely Dark History
You’re going to Google “ghost town hike near Seattle,” find Franklin, drive 45 minutes, and stare at a concrete slab. That’s fine. Go anyway. Here’s why.
Best Camping String Lights for 2026: Ambiance, Area Light, and a Few That Are Just Pretty
I’ll be honest — the first time someone suggested camping string lights, I thought it sounded like something for a Pinterest board, not a campsite.
Campground Cocktails: Your RV Camping Bar Must-Haves
If you want to have a party at your campground or RV, here are the things you need to make sure you and your guest have a great time!
Best Portable Power Stations for Camping: The Honest Buyer’s Guide (2026)
Phone dead, lantern dying, someone needs to run a CPAP tonight — and you’re 40 miles from an outlet. Here’s the complete breakdown of which portable power stations are actually worth it, what size you need for your trip type, and how Jackery and Bluetti stack up at every price point.
7 Best Women’s Hiking Shorts for PNW Trails (2025 Picks)
Not all hiking shorts survive a muddy Cascades approach. Sierra Hale cuts through the noise with 7 research-backed picks built for PNW conditions — wet, brushy, and beautiful.
Starlink for Van & RV Camping in the PNW: Your Complete Setup Guide (2025)
Camping deep in the Pacific Northwest means dead cell zones, dense canopy, and no campground Wi-Fi worth trusting. Here’s how to run Starlink from your van or RV — what to buy, how to power it, and how to actually get a signal when you’re parked under 200 feet of Douglas fir.