Backpacking Archives | REI Co-op Journal

How to Set Up an Ultralight Tarp Shelter for Backpacking

Ken Knapp//March 20, 2019

If you’re an ultralight backpacker using a tarp shelter to shed weight, you have many setup options. This video and article show you four simple methods. Read More...

Gear Review: Women’s REI Co-op Flash 45 and 55 Backpacking Packs

Shelby Carpenter and Caitlin Brown//February 16, 2019

The consensus? From handy hipbelt snack pockets, to removable top lids to adjustable-size water bottle pouches, these packs impressed the reviewers with their smart, customizable features. Read More...

A group hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park.

Las Vegas Outdoor Activities: Explore the Southwest

Jenni Gritters//January 31, 2019

Starting your trip from Las Vegas means you’ll have great access to some of the most beautiful national parks and public lands in the United States. Read More...

REI Co-op members using gear in the field.

The Gear REI Members Love: Top Products of 2018

Ashley Brown//January 16, 2019

From camp chairs, to ambphibious sandals, to cycling gloves, find out which pieces of gear are among REI Co-op members’ favorites from 2018. Read More...

A woman peeking out of a bright-orange sleeping bag

Understanding Sleeping Bag Temperature Ratings

Ken Knapp//January 2, 2019

The key factor when you choose a sleeping bag is temperature rating. Here's how sleeping bags receive their comfort and lower-limit ratings. Read More...

Woman holding cellphone with map on it in front of green grass.

How to Save Phone Battery Life in the Backcountry

Aer Parris//December 28, 2018

If you're using your phone for directions in the backcountry, you're going to need to know how to keep your battery full. Here's your guide. Read More...

Top Off-the-Radar Travel Destinations of 2019

Aer Parris//December 21, 2018

This year should be your most adventurous yet, so we've curated a list of top off-the-radar destinations so you can explore the roads less taken in 2019. Read More...

A lone backpacker stands in front of the ocean as the sun is setting.

How to Start Solo Adventuring

Aer Parris//December 21, 2018

If you’re reading this, you might be wondering about heading into the wild all by your lonesome in the future. How do you get started? Read More...

Beautiful mountains of Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the morning light

Missing Link in the Mountains-to-Sea Trail Completed

Graham Averill//December 12, 2018

Backpackers can now avoid several miles of road walking when hiking between Clingmans Dome and Stone Mountain State Park. Read More...

Pattie Gonia, Backpacking Queen, Releases Her First Full-Length Video

Aer Parris//

The world's first backpacking queen has made a splash in the outdoor community. Now she's strutting in six-inch heels in her first full-length video. Read More...

How To Travel and Explore Thailand

Jenni Gritters//November 21, 2018

Thailand has it all: pristine beaches, gorgeous mountains, relatively cheap costs, friendly locals and fantastic food. What’s not to like? F... Read More...

A dehydrator with multiple shelves and dehydrated food lining the shelves

How to Dehydrate Food

Ashley Brown//

Here's how to dehydrate—and then rehydrate—your own food for your next overnight backpacking, paddling, cycling or camping trip. Read More...