What Backpack to Hold All My Stuff?
Q: What backpack should I get to hold all my stuff?
Outdoors & Gear
Guide to camping, hiking and other outdoor sports and adventures. Includes buying guides for tents, camping gear, sleeping bags and other outdoor equipment.
Stuff We Like: Whiskware Snacking Containers
The twist-on lids stay secure, keeping your gear (or snacks for the trail) from spilling.
I Lost My Sunglasses. What Should I Get to Replace Them?
Q: I lost my sunglasses on my troop's last campout. What should I get to replace them?
How to Use a Sled to Make a Pulk for Backpacking in the Snow
Not only are sleds fun, but they're also a great way to carry gear in winter.
Conversion Chart for Dutch Oven Cooking Times and Temperatures
The amount of charcoal your Dutch oven needs will vary in order to reach the desired temperature.
What Are the Signs of Hypothermia and How Do You Treat It?
Losing body heat happens in all seasons, and it can kill. Know the symptoms of hypothermia and how to treat them.
How to Buy a Great Headlamp or Flashlight
The Gear Guy shines some light on which headlamp of flashlight to consider for your next outdoor adventure.
Take a Look at These 7 Wacky Flashlights
Check out our fun photos of weird and unusual headlamps and flashlights.
How to Keep Your Head Warm in Cold Weather
An uncovered head can leave you chilly, so it’s important to keep your noggin insulated in the winter.
How to Safely Use a Life Jacket
Life Jackets are designed to keep you safe. These personal flotation devices are essential equipment whenever you're on the water.
Which Mess Kit Should I Buy?
Q: There are so many mess kits out there. Help!
Stuff We Like: Morakniv Scout 39
Lightweight and handy, the Morakniv Scout 39 is a fixed-blade knife designed for beginners.
Suggestions for a Good Sleeping Pad?
Q: I need a good sleeping pad. What do you suggest?
Catching Air with Flying Squirrels
The Nature Crew takes a look at the amazing flying squirrel.
Scouts Get an Up-Close Look at Animals at These Fun Outings
Go Scouting on the wild side with these awesome animal-focused activities.
How to Tie the 7 Basic Scout Knots
It's knot difficult. With our step-by-step videos, the seven basic Scout knots are easy to learn. Give them a tie!
How to Choose a Safe and Comfortable Campsite
Picking a place to camp isn’t always simple. Before setting up your tent, consider these nine factors.
How to Buy the Right Tent for Your Next Adventure
Here are features to look for so you can choose the right tent for your trip.
Savor These 4 Scout-Approved Sweet Treats
Try these four tasty recipes to satisfy your sweet tooth on your next campout. Plus, send us your favorite dessert recipe!
Good Lights for Inside a Tent?
Q: What is a good light source for inside a tent?
Stuff We Like: PackTowl
Towels take up a lot of space in your backpack. Save that space for other gear by using a PackTowl.
How to Buy the Best Sleeping Bag
A good sleeping bag can make the difference between comfort and a long, miserable night. Stay warm and comfy in one of these sleeping bags.
How to Display and Fold the American Flag
Here's how to properly honor and respect the flag of the United States.
Advice for Packing a Pillow When Camping?
Q: Do you have advice for packing a pillow when camping?
Any Tips for Setting up a Tent?
Q: I always have trouble setting up my tent. Can you give me some tips?
Are Freeze-Dried Meals Good for Backpacking?
Q: Freeze-dried meals might be a good choice because they’re lightweight and provide nutrients. Which ones would you buy?
Stuff We Like: Owala FreeSip
The Owala FreeSip water bottle gives you the option to drink from a straw or a spout.
How to Buy a Safe and Comfortable Helmet
Picking (and wearing) the right helmet can be a life or death decision. Here's how to buy a safe and comfortable helmet.
Take a Look at 6 of Nature’s Rarest Events
From stinky flowers to rocks that seem to move themselves, count yourself lucky if you see these natural wonders.
Watch Out for These 5 Stinging Caterpillars
Some tiny caterpillars can sting. Learn how to identify them and what to do if you get stung.
How to Buy a Good Camping Air Mat or Sleeping Pad
Get a good night's sleep with the Gear Guy's recommendation for camping air mats and sleeping pads.
Any Tips For Buying a First Backpack?
Q: I've been planning to buy a new backpack. Any tips?
Stuff We Like: Bug Bite Thing
The Bug Bite Thing is designed to suck out venom from under your skin to prevent itching.
How to Choose a Backcountry Communication Device
No signal on your phone? Try a backcountry communication device.
How To Make a ‘Pack-out Kit’ for Carrying Human Waste
Packing out human waste requires preparation. You can make a pack-out kit. Here’s what you’ll need.
How to Pick a Good Camping Flashlight
Q: I need a good flashlight for camping. Any suggestions?
Tasty Treat or Fatal Fruit? Here Are 5 Dangerous Wild Berries To Avoid
Never eat wild plants unless you know for sure what they are and how your body reacts to them.
Be Prepared for These 5 Common Weather Hazards
Weather can change, sometimes at the last minute. Here are some common hazards you'll face in the outdoors.
How to Get Started Birding
Birdwatching can be a fun pastime. All you need are binoculars and a bird guide to start.
Packing Checklists for Camping Trips
Need to know what to bring on your next outing? Every packing list starts with these items. They're called "Scouting Outdoor Essentials" for a reason.
How to Clean Your Pocketknife
Q: I use my pocketknife almost daily, and it gets so dirty. How can I stop that?
Stuff We Like: Darn Tough Midweight Hiking Sock
The Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock is made mainly with fine soft wool from merino sheep.
How to Buy Rock Climbing Gear
Here's what you'll need to start exploring the vertical world of rock climbing.
What’s Better: Mittens or Gloves?
Gloves allow for more dexterity; mittens tend to be warmer by keeping your fingers together. A more important question: Does it fit?
How to Use Rope Tackle to Move a Log
Rope tackle allows you to move a large load with a small amount of force. Here's how to set up rope tackle to move a log.
Skunks Stink But They’re Also Fascinating
When you think "skunk," you probably think "stink." But skunks are usually sweet-natured and helpful.
Stay Warm and Dry This Winter With These Gear Tips
Staying warm requires the right combination of layers based on your body, wind speeds, temperature and how much you sweat.
Best Waterproof Action Camera for Northern Tier?
Q: My troop is going to Northern Tier next summer, and I was wondering what the best camera would be to capture all of the action.
Stuff We Like: Selk’bag
The wearable sleeping bag has arms, legs, an adjustable insulated hood and removable booties.
How Much Water Should I Bring for a Two-mile Hike?
Plan to drink about 16 ounces for every hour of hiking. But it might be more. Drink enough so your urine remains clear.