| NATIONAL PARKS QUICKLINKS |
Shelters Plus: Hammocks, Bivys, and Tarps
These versatile sanctuaries do more than just keep you dry. ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: See our video review of the latest bivys and hammocks.
Green Scene: BPA-Free Water Bottles
Lighten your planetary load, water bottle style, with these BPA-free water bottle alternatives.
Field Notes: The Latest Word from Our Testers
True-blue reviews on the latest items we've taken out on trail.
Editors' Choice Award Winner: Scarpa Kailash Boot
Editor in Chief Jon Dorn showcases this award winner at the 2008 Outdoor Retailer Show.
Size and Buy the Perfect Backpack
Gear Editor Kristin Hostetter drops some knowledge on how to find, fit, and buy your perfect backpack.
Bag Capacity Confusion
I'm confused about the capacity figures that backpack manufacturers claim. With daypacks it seems that the figures advertised are always about 20 percent higher than what the pack actually holds. What gives?
Storing Mummy Bags
Is it true that mummy bags should not be stored in a stuff sack, but rather hung in closet between trips? Seems like a waste of space.
Hot Food
When camping in frigid temperatures, what's the best way to keep my food warm long enough to eat it? And how can I clean my pot once the food has frozen itself to the sides?
Shelters Plus: Hammocks, Bivys, and TarpsThese versatile sanctuaries do more than just keep you dry. ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: See our video review of the latest bivys and hammocks. 
Green Scene: BPA-Free Water BottlesLighten your planetary load, water bottle style, with these BPA-free water bottle alternatives. 
Field Notes: The Latest Word from Our TestersTrue-blue reviews on the latest items we've taken out on trail. |
Big-Trip Boots: Trail BlazersGet maximum support, traction, and protection without wafflestomper weight or break-in. Welcome to the new breed of all-terrain, any-load boots. 
Lightweight Climbing GearWith a light climbing rope, shoes, and harness, you'll be packed and ready to hit the rock in no time. 
Field Notes: The Latest Word from Our TestersThe green truth behind bamboo, a hyper-efficient cookpot, and a bargain three-person tent. |
Backpacker OvenBack in November I went on a Backpacking trip in the Sierras. My Daughter and I went to Lower Soldier Lake it was really cold but we ... Read more Blue Mesa 1610This tent is easy to set up and very spacious inside. The Blue Mesa 1610 also endures high winds nicely. However, this tent leaks ... Read more |
Encampment 15I bought this bag last year thinking it would solve my mummy bag phobia, but didn't know how what I wanted from my bag would create a ... Read more Helium 15I know 5 stars sounds excessive, but this is an amazing bag. I have used it right down to its limit and been just fine in base layers. ... Read more Vasque WasatchPurchased the Vasque Wasatch boots and used for light wear (walk to work, no backpacking trips). After 5 months, part of the heel ... Read more |
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Share your comments & field notes on the latest gear with other users
Gear Photos + Videos
Editors' Choice Award Winner: Scarpa Kailash BootEditor in Chief Jon Dorn showcases this award winner at the 2008 Outdoor Retailer Show. |
Camping, Hammock StylePhoto by: Shannon Davis & Katie Herrell Associate editor Shannon Davis shows you how to swing in style. |
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Ask the Expert
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Q.}
I'm confused about the capacity figures that backpack manufacturers claim. With daypacks it seems that the figures advertised are always about 20 percent higher than what the pack actually holds. What gives?
Submitted by: Jeanne Fort Collins, CO
A.}
I agree it can sometimes be confusing and frustrating when looking at cubic inch capacities. Years ago, I was so annoyed by the figure discrepancies that I decided that BACKPACKER would publish our own, confirmed cubic inch numbers. So I created a big wooden contraption and filled it with ping pong balls. For each pack we reviewed, I loaded it with the balls, then dumped them back into the container to measure them. |
Find the Outdoor Equipment You Need
TIP 54: Wash Your Tent
To wash your tent, rinse the floor with warm water, then scrub with a soft brush. Hose down muddy sidewalls, zippers, and the floor. Air–dry before storing in a pillowcase.
Get Fit for Any Hike
No gyms, no weights–and, with our
easy-to-follow plan–no bonking on the trail.
Backpacker's Ultimate Fix-It Guide
Learn how to make your gear last forever with our guide to the 55 most
common repairs and maintenance musts.
Sleeping Bag Center
Our guide to sleeping bags fit for all occasions and sleep tips guaranteed
to give you a good night's rest. 
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