Ten years ago in the summer of 2011, I set out on my first international solo trip. I was young, naive, and unprepared. It sounds cliche but this trip ended up changing my life. This article outlines my journey over the past decade. I’ll talk about my past trips, how travel has changed, and how …

Most campers stash away their tent and sleeping bag after the temperature begins to drop. If you properly prepare, winter camping doesn’t have to be cold and miserable. In fact, winter can offer some excellent camping. You don’t have to deal with crowds or insects and the landscape is absolutely beautiful. Of course, the cold …

Most cyclists store their bikes for the season when temperatures begin to drop. If you prepare properly, cold weather cycling doesn’t have to be miserable. In fact, the winter season can offer some incredible riding. The air is crisp. Trails are less crowded. The snow also creates a unique and beautiful atmosphere. With the right …

Most bicycle tourists and bikepackers make it their goal to cycle south to a warm destination before winter arrives. If you properly prepare for cold weather, bicycle touring or bikepacking during the winter doesn’t have to be miserable. In fact, winter can offer some excellent cycling. The season is less crowded and the air is …

When choosing a bike, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is whether you want a bike with a single speed or multiple gears. The best bike for your style of riding depends on a number of factors including the type of terrain you ride, the distances you ride, and personal preference. …

Buying a bike on Amazon is a convenient and affordable alternative to buying a bike at a bike shop. Amazon offers a wide range of quality bikes that ship straight to your door. Usually with free shipping and easy returns. They offer convenient assembly options as well. That said, there are some major drawbacks to …

The Schwinn High Sierra was a top-of-the-line mountain bike back in its day. Today, if you can find one, it makes for a perfect touring bike, commuter bike, or gravel bike. This thing is overbuilt and can take a real beating. Since buying the Schwinn High Sierra, I have converted it into a touring bike and …

When choosing a sleeping pad, the most important decision you’ll have to make is whether to go with an inflatable or closed-cell foam model. This choice depends on the conditions you plan to camp in as well as your personal preference. This guide outlines the pros and cons of using an inflatable vs foam sleeping …

To reduce weight and bulk, some hikers use a 3/4 length sleeping pad instead of a full-length model. These sleeping pads end just under your knees rather than extending all the way to your feet. This is an option whether you prefer inflatable or foam pads. To help you choose the best sleeping pad length, …

Over the years, I’ve owned about 5 Walmart bikes including a couple of mountain bikes, a BMX, and even a beach cruiser. As a kid, they were the only bikes that my family could afford. People like to trash Walmart bikes for their questionable build quality, reliability issues, and poor performance. Are they really that …