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![multiple different kinds of tent stakes laid out in a pile]()
4 Types of Common Tent Stakes
There are four basic types of commonly used tent stakes: the Y-stake, V-stake, Shepherd’s Hook stake, and the nail stake.
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![knives laying on scale]()
What Type of Knife Should I Carry?
Every thru-hiker and backpacker should carry a knife. The best knife is one that can carry out multiple functions and remain lightweight.
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![A Smartwater bottle, Hydro Flask, Platypus Water Bag, and Nalgene bottle next to each other on a table.]()
The Best and Worst Backpacking Water Bottles
We have identified two types of water containers you should avoid and two types you should consider using for your next thru-hike or backpacking trip.
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![shovel being measured]()
Should I carry a shovel on my backpacking trip?
If you are going on an overnight backpacking trip or a thru-hike, you should really carry a shovel with you to dig your cat holes.
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![a checklist of thru-hiking maintenance on top of some backpacks]()
Thru-Hiker Maintenance Checklist
Before every hike you should carefully inspect all your backpacking equipment to make sure everything is in good working order. For thru-hikers, gear should be thoroughly inspected and maintained at every town stop along their hike.
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![A backpack with an ice axe and hiking poles on the snow]()
How to Attach an Ice Axe to a Backpack
If you are hiking the entire PCT or CDT, you will likely need an ice axe at some point. Learn how to securely attach one to your backpack.
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![A WAG bag and a hand with a glove on holding the WAg bag gel powder next to it]()
How much fluid can a WAG bag absorb?
In this experiment we tested out the maximum amount of fluid a WAG (Waste Alleviation and Gelling) bag could absorb.
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![Miscellaneous items such as toilet paper, Nalgene bottle, oatmeal etc. in a hiker box]()
What is a Hiker Box?
A hiker box is a box or area where hikers, trail angels, or others leave items for other hikers. They can be filled with all types of things.
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![portable bidet being squeezed]()
How to Use a Portable Backcountry Bidet
In some hiking areas, people are leaving a negative impact by littering toilet paper. The outdoor bidet can help alleviate this problem.
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![hiking essentials lying across a table]()
The 10 Hiking Essentials
Certain equipment is so important it deserves to be carried on every hike. This list of essential hiking items can be a lifesaver if you’re ever in an emergency.
