Quick answer Practice a few key knots before your trip. Know your tent’s anchor points. Use guyline adjusters for tension. Secure your guylines to stakes or natural anchors. Keep guylines taut but not over-stressed. Check them periodically, especially in changing weather. What to check first (do this before you drive out) Before you even think…
Quick answer Know your maps: Use official BLM maps and apps. Check the land manager: It’s usually BLM, but can be shared. Roads are key: Assess 2WD vs. AWD needs and clearance. Fire danger is real: Always check restrictions before you go. Pack it in, pack it out: Leave No Trace is non-negotiable. Tell someone…
Quick answer Inspect the air bed for visible damage. Inflate the bed and listen for hissing sounds. Submerge sections in water to spot bubbles. Use soapy water to pinpoint small leaks. Seal leaks with a repair kit. Test the repair by re-inflating. What to check first (do this before you drive out) Before you even…
Quick answer Upgrade your RV mattress or add a topper. Invest in quality bedding that breathes. Consider adjustable firmness options. Organize under-bed storage for better airflow. Use blackout curtains to control light. Add lumbar support pillows. What to check first (do this before you drive out) Before you even think about making that RV bed…
Quick answer Know the difference between black bears and grizzlies. Black bears are generally more timid. Make noise while hiking. Bears don’t want to meet you. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. It’s your best defense. If you see a bear, don’t run. Back away slowly. If a black bear charges, stand…
Quick answer Cold weather makes you pee more. It’s called cold diuresis. Your body tries to stay warm by shunting blood to your core. This extra blood volume tells your kidneys to make more urine. Staying hydrated is still key, even if you pee more. Dress in layers to keep your core warm. Avoid caffeine…
Quick answer Steve Wallis is a popular YouTube creator known for his camping and van life content. He often shares his adventures and insights into living on the road. His content is generally positive and focuses on the practicalities of outdoor living. Personal details, especially sensitive ones, are not a primary focus of his public…
Quick answer Scout locations with good natural features and access. Understand zoning and permit requirements upfront. Plan for utilities: water, power, and waste. Design for flow, safety, and camper experience. Secure funding and create a solid business plan. Build relationships with local authorities and communities. Start small and scale up as you learn. Always prioritize…
Quick answer Learn the Prusik knot for hands-free ascending and descending on a rope. It’s a friction hitch, meaning it grips the main rope when loaded. Practice on a static rope before heading into the backcountry. Use cordage that’s smaller in diameter than your main rope. Always test the knot’s grip before putting your full…
Quick answer Learn a few basic knots: bowline, taut-line hitch, and trucker’s hitch. Practice them before you hit the trail. Seriously. Always tie guy lines to a secure anchor point. Keep tension even for stability. Understand your tent’s design for optimal guy line placement. Weather dictates tension: looser in wind, tighter in rain. What to…
