Outdoors & Gear

1. How To Purify Water on a Long Trek?

   Q: What should I use to purify water on a long trek?

2. Stuff We Like: Coast HX5 Flashlight

   Simply slide the flashlight's head forward or back with your finger to create a flood beam or a focused beam.

3. How to Buy Good Sunglasses

   Sunglasses can look cool, but first they should protect your eyes.

4. Where To Find Comfortable and Affordable Hiking Boots?

   Q: I’m looking for comfortable hiking boots that are affordable and waterproof.

5. How to Safely Use a Life Jacket

   Life Jackets are designed to keep you safe. These personal flotation devices are essential equipment whenever you're on the water.

6. How to Escape From a Rip Current

   When caught in a rip current, don't panic and don't exhaust yourself trying to swim against the current. Here's what to do.

7. Reach, Throw, Row, Go! Learn the 4 Water Rescue Techniques

   Learn an easy way to remember the four water rescues that can be used to save someone's life in an emergency.

8. Get Your Bicycle Ready and Grab This Gear to Go Bikepacking

   Bikepacking is a camping trip you take on your bike. Here's what you need to get started.

9. 3 Different Ways To Lay the Firewood for a Campfire

   You can arrange your firewood to get different results, depending on the weather and how you want to manage the fire.

10. How To Stay Safe From Bears

    Bears can catch a scent miles away. That’s why you need to properly store your smellables when you’re in bear country.

11. Why Does My Propane Stove Leave Soot on My Cookware?

    Q: Every time I use my propane stove, it leaves black soot all over my cookware. How can I stop this from happening?

12. Stuff We Like: Therm-a-Rest

    Sleeping pads provide cushioning to help you get a good night's sleep. Here are two of our favorites.

13. It’s Flight Time! Get Ready for the Incredible Spring Bird Migration

    Spring means it is time for the arrival of billions of birds from Mexico, Central America and South America.

14. How To Pick the Best Camp Chair for Any Outdoor Activity

    Here's how to find a comfy camp chair for whenever you need a rest.

15. How to Use Lashings to Build a Comfortable Camp Chair

    Relax around camp by lashing together a comfortable camping chair. It's easy if you have the pioneering skills.

16. Why Is There a Sewing Kit in My Survival Kit?

    Q: The survival kit my parents gave me came with a little sewing kit. What is that for?

17. How To Take Aim Like Robin Hood With a Bow and Arrow

    Before shooting an arrow, go through the nine-step process of stance, nock, set, pre-draw, draw, anchor, aim, release and follow-through.

18. Be Courteous About Allergies in the Camp Kitchen

    Preparing camp meals with food allergies in mind keeps everyone safe and helps you make food everyone can enjoy.

19. Every Packing List Starts With the 10 Scout Basic Outdoor Essentials

    Need to know what to bring on your next outing? Every packing list starts with these items. They're called "Scouting Outdoor Essentials" for a reason.

20. How to Tie an Overhand Knot

    This simple knot can be used to prevent a rope from slipping through a pulley or hole, or to make a rope easier to grip.

21. What Backpack to Hold All My Stuff?

    Q: What backpack should I get to hold all my stuff?

22. Stuff We Like: Whiskware Snacking Containers

    The twist-on lids stay secure, keeping your gear (or snacks for the trail) from spilling.

23. I Lost My Sunglasses. What Should I Get to Replace Them?

    Q: I lost my sunglasses on my troop's last campout. What should I get to replace them?

24. How to Use a Sled to Make a Pulk for Backpacking in the Snow

    Not only are sleds fun, but they're also a great way to carry gear in winter.

25. Conversion Chart for Dutch Oven Cooking Times and Temperatures

    The amount of charcoal your Dutch oven needs will vary in order to reach the desired temperature.

26. What Are the Signs of Hypothermia and How Do You Treat It?

    Losing body heat happens in all seasons, and it can kill. Know the symptoms of hypothermia and how to treat them.

27. How to Buy a Great Headlamp or Flashlight

    The Gear Guy shines some light on which headlamp of flashlight to consider for your next outdoor adventure.

28. Take a Look at These 7 Wacky Flashlights

    Check out our fun photos of weird and unusual headlamps and flashlights.

29. How to Keep Your Head Warm in Cold Weather

    An uncovered head can leave you chilly, so it’s important to keep your noggin insulated in the winter.

30. Which Mess Kit Should I Buy?

    Q: There are so many mess kits out there. Help!

31. Stuff We Like: Morakniv Scout 39

    Lightweight and handy, the Morakniv Scout 39 is a fixed-blade knife designed for beginners.

32. Suggestions for a Good Sleeping Pad?

    Q: I need a good sleeping pad. What do you suggest?

33. Catching Air with Flying Squirrels

    The Nature Crew takes a look at the amazing flying squirrel.

34. Scouts Get an Up-Close Look at Animals at These Fun Outings

    Go Scouting on the wild side with these awesome animal-focused activities.

35. How to Tie the 7 Basic Scout Knots

    It's knot difficult. With our step-by-step videos, the seven basic Scout knots are easy to learn. Give them a tie!

36. How to Choose a Safe and Comfortable Campsite

    Picking a place to camp isn’t always simple. Before setting up your tent, consider these nine factors.

37. How to Buy the Right Tent for Your Next Adventure

    Here are features to look for so you can choose the right tent for your trip.

38. Savor These 4 Scout-Approved Sweet Treats

    Try these four tasty recipes to satisfy your sweet tooth on your next campout. Plus, send us your favorite dessert recipe!

39. Good Lights for Inside a Tent?

    Q: What is a good light source for inside a tent?

40. Stuff We Like: PackTowl

    Towels take up a lot of space in your backpack. Save that space for other gear by using a PackTowl.

41. How to Buy the Best Sleeping Bag

    A good sleeping bag can make the difference between comfort and a long, miserable night. Stay warm and comfy in one of these sleeping bags.

42. How to Display and Fold the American Flag

    Here's how to properly honor and respect the flag of the United States.

43. Advice for Packing a Pillow When Camping?

    Q: Do you have advice for packing a pillow when camping?

44. Any Tips for Setting up a Tent?

    Q: I always have trouble setting up my tent. Can you give me some tips?

45. Are Freeze-Dried Meals Good for Backpacking?

    Q: Freeze-dried meals might be a good choice because they’re lightweight and provide nutrients. Which ones would you buy?

46. Stuff We Like: Owala FreeSip

    The Owala FreeSip water bottle gives you the option to drink from a straw or a spout.

47. How to Buy a Safe and Comfortable Helmet

    Picking (and wearing) the right helmet can be a life or death decision. Here's how to buy a safe and comfortable helmet.

48. Take a Look at 6 of Nature’s Rarest Events

    From stinky flowers to rocks that seem to move themselves, count yourself lucky if you see these natural wonders.

49. Watch Out for These 5 Stinging Caterpillars

    Some tiny caterpillars can sting. Learn how to identify them and what to do if you get stung.

50. How to Buy a Good Camping Air Mat or Sleeping Pad

    Get a good night's sleep with the Gear Guy's recommendation for camping air mats and sleeping pads.

51. Any Tips For Buying a First Backpack?

    Q: I've been planning to buy a new backpack. Any tips?

52. Stuff We Like: Bug Bite Thing

    The Bug Bite Thing is designed to suck out venom from under your skin to prevent itching.

53. How to Choose a Backcountry Communication Device

    No signal on your phone? Try a backcountry communication device.

54. How To Make a ‘Pack-out Kit’ for Carrying Human Waste

    Packing out human waste requires preparation. You can make a pack-out kit. Here’s what you’ll need.

55. How to Pick a Good Camping Flashlight

    Q: I need a good flashlight for camping. Any suggestions?

56. Tasty Treat or Fatal Fruit? Here Are 5 Dangerous Wild Berries To Avoid

    Never eat wild plants unless you know for sure what they are and how your body reacts to them.

57. Be Prepared for These 5 Common Weather Hazards

    Weather can change, sometimes at the last minute. Here are some common hazards you'll face in the outdoors.

58. How to Get Started Birding

    Birdwatching can be a fun pastime. All you need are binoculars and a bird guide to start.

59. How to Clean Your Pocketknife

    Q: I use my pocketknife almost daily, and it gets so dirty. How can I stop that?

60. Stuff We Like: Darn Tough Midweight Hiking Sock

    The Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock is made mainly with fine soft wool from merino sheep.

61. How to Buy Rock Climbing Gear

    Here's what you'll need to start exploring the vertical world of rock climbing.

62. What’s Better: Mittens or Gloves?

    Gloves allow for more dexterity; mittens tend to be warmer by keeping your fingers together. A more important question: Does it fit?

63. How to Use Rope Tackle to Move a Log

    Rope tackle allows you to move a large load with a small amount of force. Here's how to set up rope tackle to move a log.

64. Skunks Stink But They’re Also Fascinating

    When you think "skunk," you probably think "stink." But skunks are usually sweet-natured and helpful.

65. Stay Warm and Dry This Winter With These Gear Tips

    Staying warm requires the right combination of layers based on your body, wind speeds, temperature and how much you sweat.

66. Best Waterproof Action Camera for Northern Tier?

    Q: My troop is going to Northern Tier next summer, and I was wondering what the best camera would be to capture all of the action.

67. Stuff We Like: Selk’bag

    The wearable sleeping bag has arms, legs, an adjustable insulated hood and removable booties.

68. How Much Water Should I Bring for a Two-mile Hike?

    Plan to drink about 16 ounces for every hour of hiking. But it might be more. Drink enough so your urine remains clear.

69. Here Are 10 of the Best Places Around the U.S. To See Bats

    Bat "emergences" are spectacular shows that can last for hours. Here are a few of the best bat-watching sites.

70. 7 Crazy Animal Encounters in the World of Sports

    Animals are cool. Sports are cool, too. But not at the same time! Check out these uninvited critters in the sports world.

71. 10 Fun Facts About Yellowstone

    Here are 10 interesting facts about the world's first national park.

72. How to Make a Camp Song

    The simplest way to create a camp song is to take a tune everyone knows and replace the lyrics.

73. Stuff We Like: CLIQ Chair

    This compact camp chair folds down to 13 inches and only weighs 3.5 pounds.

74. How to Buy Great Backpacking Gear on a Budget

    Try these simple tips to outfit yourself for your next trek without breaking the bank.

75. 3 Quality Multitools That Are Made in America

    I am looking for a quality multitool made in America. I have $100 to spend on it. I want to be able to open it with one hand.

76. Dragonflies Are Incredibly Agile Fliers and Amazing Hunters

    Keen eyesight, powerful wings and strong spiny legs help dragonflies grab and hold onto prey which they almost always capture in flight.

77. Canoe or Kayak? Which is the Better Choice?

    Choosing a canoe or kayak depends on how you want to travel and what kind of water you’ll encounter.

78. How to Avoid Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

    When your body loses too much water and salt, trouble follows. Know the symptoms and how to treat them.

79. Technical Packs Can Be Cheaper Alternative To Traditional Pack

    I use a tote box for my gear because I can’t afford a backpack, but it doesn’t fit in my troop’s tents. What do I do?

80. 3 Proven Ways to Avoid Bug Bites in the Outdoors

    Don't bug me! Try these expert tricks and gear for avoiding biting insects.

81. Best Sleeping Bags for Staying Cool on a Warm Night

    What sleeping bag should I use if I don’t want the heat to get to me?

82. Stuff We Like: Polar Bear Backpack Cooler

    The Polar Bear Backpack Cooler is designed to keep ice frozen for 24 hours in 100-degree heat.

83. One of the BSA’s Rarest Awards Goes to the Scouts Who Make the Biggest Impact

    The Distinguished Conservation Service Awards recognize Scouts and adults who have produced long-standing, significant impacts on the environment.

84. How to Prepare For a Long Hike

    My troop is going on a 25-mile hike soon. What is the best way to prepare for it?

85. How To Buy a Great Hydration Pack For Water on the Go

    Hydration packs allow you to drink water while you're wearing the pack. Here are some factors to help you pick the right pack.

86. Where Can I Find a Healthy Energy Bar?

    Q: I’m having trouble finding a healthy energy bar that doesn’t have too much sugar and is filling. Do you have any suggestions?

87. Fun Facts About a Critter You Otter Get to Know!

    Do you enjoy swimming, fishing or sliding? Those are some favorite pastimes for otters, too.

88. How to Stop a Tent From Leaking

    Q: Every time it rains, the inside of my tent gets wet. Any tips?

89. Stuff We Like: FogBlock Spray

    Anti-fog spray helps prevent glasses from fogging when wearing a face covering.

90. How to Buy a Backpacking Stove For Your Next Camping Adventure

    Enjoy a hot meal on your next backpacking trip with one of these recommended stoves.

91. Does Rolling Your Clothes Save Space?

    Q: Does rolling up your clothes really work when packing?

92. Stuff We Like: Smart XXL Camping Cot

    OK, OK, this cot is heavy, bulky and pricey. But this is “Stuff We Like,” and we like this cot.

93. 3 Tough Phone Cases for the Outdoors

    Q: When I go camping, I don’t want my phone to get damaged. Can you recommend any good phone cases for the outdoors?

94. How to Buy a Great Pair of Hiking Boots

    Good footwear is a vital piece of outdoor gear. Here are six great boots and hiking shoes that have you covered on any type of trail.

95. 9 Things to Know About the Night Sky

    From stars to planets to meteors, there's lots to see if you know where to look. Here's how to start star gazing.

96. How to Make a Fuzz Stick to Help Start a Fire

    You can create an effective fire starter, even with a wet piece of wood. Just grab your knife so you can make a “fuzz stick.”

97. How to Buy Good Gloves or Mittens for Winter Activities

    Whatever your outdoor activities, the choice of handwear matters a lot. Here are the Gear Guy's five recommendations.

98. 8 Awesome Animals That Got Their Own Statue

    Whether fearless or funny, animals throughout history have inspired statues and memorials. Here are some animal monuments still standing today.

99. Does a Sleeping Bag’s Degree Level Matter?

    Q: When choosing a sleeping bag, does the degree level really matter or is it just a recommendation for comfort?

100. Scouts Find Adventure on the Peace River (Spoiler: It Wasn’t Totally Peaceful)

     Don't let the river's name fool you, Scouts saw alligators, shark teeth and more on this canoe trek.