Jason Stevenson, author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Backpacking and Hiking

Backpacking is not synonymous with efficiency and minimalism—but it’s pretty close. That same utilitarianism applies to hygiene as well. So what DO you need to stay clean on the trail?

Bad things happen to good hikers. Everyone should have a smart back-up plan--or two.

Blisters are the most common on-trail injury, but blisters are also easy to prevent.

Your action plan to make high summer hiking and camping enjoyable.

Are plastic bags an immortal evil or a hiker's best friend?

When you're lost, your initial decisions will make the difference.

Transform your gear closet with 11 money-saving tips.

Seven great books and the outdoor places to enjoy them

Join the effort to make mobile phones safer for the trail.

10 tips to make an average hike extraordinary

Stop trailhead snafus with this pretrip checklist.

The most dangerous mistakes are the ones you don't recognize.

Don't let different hiking speeds tear your group apart.

How your cell phone calls for help even when you don't have service

How to light an expert blaze every time

Why Aron Ralston's survival required more than a multi-tool

Spot's new gadget adds satellite reception to smartphones anywhere.

Hit the ground hiking with this off-season checklist.

If Miss Manners backpacked, she'd agree with us.