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Outdoor Basics Articles
(77 results)- Checklists
First-Aid Checklist
Our first-aid checklist for the outdoors includes wound coverings, medications, treatments, tools, personal care items and much more.
- Skills
Animal Welfare and Outdoor Gear
Learn how animal welfare issues, like the Responsible Down Standard and Responsible Wool Standard, relate to outdoor gear and clothing.
- Skills
Backpacking in Bear Country
Before backpacking in an area where black bears or grizzlies live, learn what precautions you can take to protect you and the bears.
- Skills
Bear Canister Basics
Planning a backpacking trip with a chance of bear encounters? Learn the pros and cons of bear canisters and how to use them correctly.
- Skills
Blister Prevention and Care
Learn the conditions that cause blisters, how to prevent blisters from happening and how to treat them after they form.
- Care & Repair
Electronics Protection in the Outdoors
Get an overview of electronics cases and other protection options for your phone and valuable gadgets like a camera or GPS unit.
- Skills
Emergency Preparedness Basics
Our emergency checklist has gear, supplies, food and more; this preparation primer also covers making a plan and doing research to fine-tune it.
- Skills
Fair Trade Food and Clothing Basics
Learn about Fair Trade and how it helps farmers, workers and the environment and how you can choose Fair Trade products when shopping.
- Skills
Geocaching with Kids
Geocaching is a fun family-friendly way to explore the outdoors. Learn the basics, including what geocaching is and how to get started.
- Skills
Hammocking Responsibly
This article offers simple tips for hammocking responsibly so you can minimize the impact to your surroundings.
- Skills
How Does Waterproof Raingear Work?
Find out what makes GORE-TEX and other rainwear technologies tick. Learn exactly what water resistant, waterproof and breathable mean.
- Skills
How to Adjust the Declination on a Compass
Declination, the difference between magnetic north and true north, is key to accurate navigation. Learn how to adjust for it on a compass.
- Care & Repair
How to Care for Gore-Tex Rainwear
Keep your Gore-Tex clothing waterproof with these cleaning tips, and learn how to tell if the durable water repellent coating needs renewal.
- Buying Guides
How to Choose a Compass
This clear, concise guide helps you understand features, terms and technology to find the right compass for your needs.
- Buying Guides
How to Choose a Hammock
Hammocks are a comfortable and popular way to hang out in Nature. Some are also great for backpacking. Learn how to choose one that's right for you.
- Buying Guides
How to Choose and Use a GPS
Learn the capabilities, basic functions and key features of handheld GPS receivers and get tips on how to use your new GPS unit.
- Buying Guides
How to Choose and Use Sunscreen
Learn how to use sunscreen to guard against UV radiation. Topics include ingredients, SPF, UVB, UVA, broad spectrum, and water resistance.
- Buying Guides
How to Choose Base Layers
Choosing the right underwear (base layer) is essential—learn how moisture-wicking materials, fabric weight and fit affect comfort in the outdoors.
- Buying Guides
How to Choose Batteries
This battery guide lists pros and cons of the batteries (NiMHs, lithiums, alkalines and more) that power your outdoor devices.
- Buying Guides
How to Choose Binoculars
When shopping for binoculars you'll discover wide price ranges on similar-looking styles. Specs will help you narrow down your choices.
- Buying Guides
How to Choose Camera Bags
A good camera bag will protect your equipment from getting knocked around and damaged by dust or moisture. Learn how to choose the best one.
- Buying Guides
How to Choose Daypacks
Choosing a daypack can be daunting. Learn how to find the right one by looking at how you plan to use it, plus capacity, features and fit.
- Skills
How to Choose Energy Bars, Gels and Drinks
Energy bars, gels and drinks can give you the carbs, sodium, potassium and vitamins you need for endurance sports. Learn how to choose.
- Buying Guides
How to Choose Energy Food and Drinks
Learn how energy foods and drinks can help you excel in your sport, whether you're looking for sustained nutrition or just a quick boost.
- Buying Guides
How to Choose First Aid Kits
Learn how to choose and resupply a first-aid kit for the outdoors or make your own from scratch.
- Buying Guides
How to Choose Flashlights
Learn about types of batteries and bulbs, lumens, beam distance, run time, modes and more to help you choose the right flashlight.
- Buying Guides
How to Choose Headlamps
Our guide to headlamps helps you understand light output, beam distance, run time, size and weight so you can choose the right one for you.
- Buying Guides
How to Choose Hydration Packs
Which hydration pack is best? Learn about reservoir size, gear capacity and other key pack features for cyclists, runners, hikers and more.
- Buying Guides
How to Choose Insect Repellents
Learn how to combat mosquitoes, ticks and flies with DEET, picaridin and natural lotions, air-emitted repellents and permethrin-treated clothing.
- Buying Guides
How to Choose Insulated Outerwear
Can't decide between down or synthetic insulation? Learn to compare the compressibility, warmth and weight of insulated outerwear options.