When I drove to Alaska with my dad and later returned with my girlfriend Kristin, one thing remained constant: the Tamron 150-500mm lens was always attached to my camera. If there’s one thing you learn quickly on a road trip to Alaska, it’s that wildlife can appear at any moment. Whether it’s a bear lumbering along the roadside, an eagle soaring overhead, or a moose grazing in a meadow, you’re constantly surrounded by incredible opportunities for wildlife photography. Having the Tamron 150-500mm on my camera ensured I was always ready to capture those fleeting moments, no matter when or where they happened.
Read MoreWe Took The Oru Kayak Lake For A Road Trip As Beginner Kayakers, It Was Incredible
When I first got my hands on two Oru Kayak Lake, I had little to no kayaking experience. These foldable kayaks instantly reminded me of inflatable stand-up paddleboards because of their portability. They fold down into a compact package that fits in the back of a car, making them perfect for spontaneous adventures. My girlfriend, Kristin, and I decided to load them into our converted van and road trip along Highway 395 to test the Oru Kayak Lake.
Read MoreFew Things Go Better Together Than Kahawa 1893 Coffee and Skiing
I woke up well before the winter sun rose, the sky still cloaked in darkness. My day began by boiling water for my Kahawa 1893 bagged coffee. Yes, you read that right: coffee in a tea bag. It’s simple, mess-free, and surprisingly effective. As the water boiled, I loaded my ski gear into the car. Just in time for the kettle to ring, the car was loaded. Pouring my first cup into my travel mug and enough water into a different thermos for more coffee later. Skiing and coffee have become the ultimate pairing—a ritual that kickstarts my day and keeps me fueled for the slopes. This winter, I discovered the joy of caffeinated skiing adventures with Kahawa 1893’s bagged coffee. It’s not as strange as it sounds, so hear me out.
Read MoreI Turned The North Face Gear Box Into A Boot Bag—and You Should Too
When I upgraded to a new backcountry ski setup, I faced a problem familiar to many: shuttling gear to and from the car in a haphazard, inefficient way. Enter The North Face Base Camp Gear Box. What started as a general-purpose gear hauler has become my ultimate boot bag, streamlining my ski days into a grab-and-go dream. But there’s more to this gear box than meets the eye, and it’s worth exploring its features and versatility before deciding if it’s right for you.
Read MoreAfter 2 Years, The Benchmade Station Knife Is Still Scary Sharp
Rarely do I get to write a review about a product almost two years after purchasing it, but today I have the pleasure of discussing the Benchmade Station Knife. This culinary knife is the ultimate “one-knife quiver” that truly does it all. Two years in, the edge still scares me—it’s that sharp—and I use it daily. From meal prep at home to cooking on the road, this knife has proven itself time and time again.
Read MoreHelinox's Table One Is A Vanlife Essential, Don't Forget The Silicon Topper
After eight years of living vanlife and using camp chairs and camp tables almost daily, I can confidently say that the Helinox Table One is one of the most stable and useful camp tables I have ever used. Compact, sturdy, and lightweight, it has become an indispensable part of my setup. Over the years, I’ve experimented with different options, but none have matched the reliability and convenience of this table.
Read MoreI Took the Big Agnes Torchlight Cowboy Camping in Joshua Tree's Backcountry
After a week of climbing in Joshua Tree, my hands were shredded, my skin dry, and my energy low—but I wasn’t ready to leave. Packing up felt premature. I wanted one last night under the stars, away from the crowds and climbing routes. So, I grabbed my daypack, stuffed it with the essentials, and hit the trail.
Joshua Tree’s backcountry makes packing light easy. All I needed was a ground sheet, sleeping pad, my Big Agnes Torchlight sleeping bag, some water, and a quick breakfast. I zipped up my pack, slammed the van door shut, and let the desert guide my footsteps.
Read MoreUpgrade Your Travel Kitchen With These Gifts
There’s something magical about cooking on the road—whether it’s a warm meal shared around the campfire or a solo cup of coffee enjoyed in nature’s stillness. A travel kitchen that’s both functional and inviting can make those moments even better. This guide is your go-to for thoughtful gifts that upgrade camp kitchens, from must-have tools to clever gadgets. Perfect for vanlifers, road trippers, and anyone who finds joy in cooking while traveling.
Read More