The material of your beach towel plays a crucial role in its performance and your enjoyment.
The most common towel types used at the beach also lead to a situation like the one mentioned above. That is your classic cotton towel. Sure, they’re soft, absorbent, and heck, they're great for using at home. BUT THEY’RE NOT GOOD FOR THE BEACH. Cotton takes forever to dry, making it heavy, damp, and prone to sand sticking.
This is where microfiber towels come in to save the day, but not all microfiber is created equal.
The best microfiber material for the beach should have the right thickness, weight, and sustainable manufacturing process. A thicker microfiber is preferred as it can still be compact while having enough weight to prevent it from blowing away in the gusty sea breeze. As for sustainability, microfiber is primarily made of plastics, which means that it is possible to manufacture them using recycled bottles. The material does not have small loops like those found in cotton terry cloth, which means that you can have a beach towel that is sand-free. A recycled beach towel with a waffle texture feels incredible against your skin.
A beach towels size should be large enough to lie on comfortably but not so large that it's a pain to carry. It’s nice to have plenty of length for your body with your feet in the sand and enough width so you can set things like sunglasses, your phone, or other things you don’t want sitting in the sand. We believe the perfect beach towel sizing is about 62" x 34" inches. A towel this size provides ample coverage while still folding up compactly.
Ultimately, color selection is a personal preference. However, there are a few things to consider when choosing colors. Darker colors draw in more heat, allowing them to dry more quickly, but a light-colored towel stays cooler if you're using it somewhere that’s absolutely scorching. Another thing to consider with a lighter color is that it will show dirt more easily. We usually design our towels with timeless earthy tones rather than neon colors that go in and out of style.
A hanging loop is a nice feature. Of course, it makes finding places for hang drying towels easier, but it also helps keep them from blowing off the hook.
The design is also another important consideration. In our opinion, the design should not only make you feel good when you're using it but should also inspire you and spark conversations. A towel that features a unique design on each side gives you two different looks for the price of one towel.
Lastly, the warranty on the towel helps provide a good idea of the towel store’s confidence in the quality of their product. We provide a lifetime warranty on all our products.
Choosing the right beach towel can make your beach days more enjoyable and frequent. We understand this, and that’s why we design towels that tick all the boxes. Our microfiber towels are exceptionally soft, quick-drying, and durable, ensuring your comfort for years to come. The waffle texture of our towels is thick enough to withstand the sea breeze, yet lightweight for easy carrying. These sand-free beach towels are easily packable, and they come with a sturdy hanging loop that provides easy drying and extra room in your bag.
Explore new coastlines and leave sand in its place with a Laek beach towel.
]]>Both towels are highly absorbent and quick-drying, ensuring you and the towel aren’t left damp and uncomfortable. They feature the highest quality recycled microfiber fabrics that are plush and durable. These microfiber towels are sand-free and antimicrobial, leaving the sand where it belongs and deterring funky smells. Both options include a functional hanging loop for easier drying.
Considering their impressive size when unfolded, you'll be pleasantly surprised by how much space they save when packed. Every design is created with a balance of form and function to inspire new ideas and experiences. With a unique design on each side, every towel offers a different look for each use.
The key differences between the two travel towels are their size, weight, and feel.
Our adventure towels are made of microfiber suede, making them incredibly lightweight and compact. The fabric is thinner, and the texture is more smooth with a soft, fluffiness. Unfolded, it’s a full-sized towel at 56" x 31" inches, but its rolled size is only 8" x 3" inches, taking up a fractional amount of space in your travel bag. Weighing at just 0.5 lbs (8.6 oz), you’ll barely notice you’re carrying it.
Our beach towels are made of a microfiber waffle fabric, which is thicker. The material is plush, and the waffle texture feels outstanding against your skin. We chose this fabric for our beach towel because its thicker feel and extra weight make it perfect for bundling up in. It also helps the towel stay down when gusty coastal winds kick up. The towel is oversized at 62" x 34" inches, making it ideal for laying on and fully wrapping around yourself. With a rolled size of 10" x 4" inches and at 1.2 lbs (19.8 oz), it is still ideal for traveling but not quite as lightweight and compact as the adventure towel.
In conclusion, if you’ve got plenty of room in your bag or are using the towel locally, we’d recommend going with the beach towel for its larger size, warmth, and coziness. If you need to keep things incredibly lightweight for backpacking, carry-on luggage, or anything else, we’d recommend going with the adventure towel.
Feel free to check out our unique designs and the stories behind them.
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Our mission at Minaret is to inspire people to venture outdoors and embrace new experiences. The brand's name was initially inspired by the majestic Minaret mountains in the Sierra Nevada Range, which are renowned for their breathtaking jagged peaks. Unfortunately, the name was often associated with the Islamic term "minaret," which was not the intended meaning. This led to confusion and difficulty in searches and recall, creating an experience that could have been better for our customers.
Along with this factor, a unique name was necessary to better reflect where the brand is heading and our values. While our vision remains the same, our products are evolving, and we are excited to introduce our new brand name.
I wanted the name to be related to words like depths, lengths, distances, locations, and diverse environments. Ultimately, those are the places our products are made for and the adventures we hope our customers enjoy. After months of thinking and research, I thought "lake" was the perfect word to describe those things, but it just didn’t feel quite right for the unique brand we’re creating. It needed to be catchy, short, memorable, and evoke emotion when seen. I believe that the word "laek" accomplished just that. What immediately stood out about the word when written out is how the “a” and the “e” reflect one another, creating a level of symmetry and intrigue. A unique spelling for a unique brand.
To be clear, while our products thrive in and around lakes, our gear is designed to be used in all conditions, making it perfect for any environment.
We’re introducing new products that are practical and have a unique story behind them. We believe a product that tells a story leads to more stories being created and shared by its users.
Now, more than ever, we’re focused on using premium, sustainable materials of the highest quality. Building sustainably and ethically made gear will withstand the test of time so you can be confident anytime and anywhere.
Our product line is expanding rapidly, offering more choices to more people, catering to various adventure needs, and promoting new ideas.
Our customers have been and will always remain our top priority. To enhance your experience, we have taken a more thoughtful approach not only towards the products we create and materials we use but also how we communicate with you. We’re looking forward to sharing more about what this looks like as things roll out.
We hope you will appreciate our new brand and join us in our journey as we introduce new products in the coming days.
Thank you for your continued support!
- Jordan
PS: Most of our Minaret products are on clearance sale at up to 70% off if you want to get any before they're gone forever.
]]>Hostels, hotels, vacation rentals, and tents all have one thing in common; you never know what the noise level will be like. Far too many nights are spent awake in a tent because of a gusty breeze, in a room with thin walls, or because of your travel partner who says, “They don’t snore.” How easily those sleepless nights could have transformed into restful slumber with a simple pair of earplugs. Don’t let the sounds outside or the noise from your fellow travelers keep you from getting the sleep you need for long days of exploring.
It got dark, really dark, and the light on your phone just ain’t cutting it. While any small bright flashlight can do the trick, having a headlamp keeps your hands free and lights up anywhere you need it without a thought. Remembering this item will have you conquer the night without feeling like you're fumbling around in a horror movie.
There’s a hot tub, a pool, or a lake, and you want to jump in. Bringing along a swimsuit seems to pay off more than not, and even if you don’t need it, it’s a fractional amount of space and weight to carry along just in case the opportunity arises.
You decided to jump in, the place you're staying doesn’t have towels, or the ones they do have are somewhat suspicious, or some of your things got wet along your journey. A travel towel is a critical item to have, and these days with such lightweight and fast-drying materials as microfiber, it’s easy to bring it anywhere and everywhere. The uses for one are endless. Use it as a ground covering, and wrap up wet or delicate items for travel. Heck, we’ve even gotten a car unstuck with one.
A dry sack is handy when you need to keep valuables dry or don’t have time to dry your swimsuit before zooming off for your flight. It can easily be rolled up small and stashed away when you don’t need it.
There was no rain in the forecast, but now it’s raining. The wind is much stronger than anticipated. With lightweight rain jackets being extremely packable, throwing them in the bag in case the weather changes quickly is always worthwhile. It’s probably the easiest to bring and a valuable extra layer you can pack to protect yourself from the elements.
You figured it would be shady most of the time or didn’t expect to be spending so much time outside. A small tube of sunscreen and spf chapstick can save you when the UV is high and you’re out longer than expected.
Your phone just died and has all the travel info on it. You can’t find a power outlet. The plane is old and there are no outlets or USB chargers. Our phones have become the most useful travel tool, making a portable charger essential, especially when traveling to more rural countries.
Cuts, blisters, and headaches can put a damper on a trip and can have lasting impacts if not treated properly and promptly. Bringing a well-stocked first aid kit ensures you can handle most small physical mishaps.
Wi-Fi hotspots or expensive roaming charges are a hassle. Ensure you have global data to access maps, check emails, and do on-the-go research. We also recommend downloading the map of the country you're going to, just in case you don’t have any service.
Relying on the drink cart on a plane or buying single-use plastic water bottles will leave you thirsty while simultaneously wasting your time and money. Bringing a reusable water bottle keeps you refreshed throughout the day without the headache of buying and disposing of bottles.
Oh no, never even seen a power outlet like that. An adapter ensures you can charge your devices no matter where you are.
Here are some more items that are useful. A sleeping bag liner for hostels that may charge extra for sheets. Packing cubes for an efficient organization in any bag. Security pouches worn under your clothes help avoid pickpockets. A quality camera for the art and the memories.
Most of these items are small and easy to pack, making them a no-brainer to bring along. But the thing is, the small things are the easiest to forget, so don’t forget to make a list and double-check it. If we missed something in this article (we probably did, but that’s kind of the point), please let us know down below. You may have been thinking, “Duh, how could anyone forget that,” “Wow, I always forget that,” or “Never thought of that.” Whatever the case, we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
]]>Spring is renowned for its vibrant wildflowers and breathtaking waterfalls, making it an ideal time to explore a trail that showcases these natural wonders. In general, lower elevations tend to have milder temperatures, while higher elevations can experience more significant temperature changes and weather extremes. While these variables can certainly add to the excitement of the adventure, it's essential to be well-informed of these factors before heading out.
If you're headed into the mountains, double check that all the roads are open to your trailhead and find out what the snowpack is like. Depending on the winter snowfall, the snow may not melt enough in some areas until late in the season.
Spring weather can be unpredictable, and conditions can vary depending on location and elevation. Check with state or national park offices or reliable resources like The National Weather Service or Know Before You Go from the US Forest Service to learn about the conditions in the area where you're going.
Be aware that looking at the weather report for the town or trailhead you are going out of is not always a very good reflection of what it will be on the trail and as you increase or decrease in elevation. Be thorough and specific.
Due to erosion from melting snow, fallen trees, missing trail markers, and flooding, the trails can be very different from their normality. Be prepared to climb over, under, or through obstacles. Expect the unexpected.
Be mindful of your fitness level when planning your trip, and consider that you'll be carrying more gear than usual for the unpredictable spring conditions. Plan a shorter, less challenging trip to work out the kinks before attempting longer hikes later in the season.
Temperatures can change in an instant based on the time of day or wind direction. You may be in a t-shirt one moment and then a winter puffer the next. Be sure to pack the proper layer for the extra wide range of temperatures in spring.
Spring backpacking can be wet, and cotton clothing exacerbates the wetness, making it uncomfortable. Choose a wicking next-to-skin layer like bamboo, merino wool or synthetic fabrics that move moisture out. Layer puffy or fleece insulating layers and wear a waterproof/windproof shell for your outer layer. Gloves, long underwear, and beanies are all worth the extra weight. Bring more layers than you think you need because the temperature can drop quickly.
The sun is intense in the spring. Having a hiking hat, sun glasses, sunscreen, and a UV shirt will keep you from getting fried and your energy depleting These items are pretty much never a bad idea on any outdoor adventure.
Wet weather is a game changer. Hypothermia can be more of a problem in spring than in winter, as wet conditions make it easier to lose body heat. Make sure you stay dry with a lightweight backpacking towel and focus on gear that will keep you warm. An insulated sleeping pad combined with a warm synthetic down sleeping (which doesn’t clump when wet) or a feather down bag that is treated with waterproofing are perfect options.
For tent camping, be sure to choose a sturdy three to four season tent that can handle high winds and potential snowfall. If you're sleeping in a hammock, get a rain fly and bring a sleeping pad or underquilt to keep you warm.
Spring's cool weather and potential extra debris due to more water movement typically make water purification systems not as effective. Iodine tablets work, but they take longer and leave unwanted floaties behind. Pumps are great, but keep them warm to prevent them from freezing at night. Clear water that is moving more gently (but still moving) typically is easier to get and will move through your pump better. Avoid leaving your water bottle out overnight to prevent it from freezing. You can also heat up clean snow if it’s available.
Bring insulated drinkware to keep your fresh coffee hot or help your water from freezing over. The thermal mug and glacier bottle are perfect options for that.
There may still be some snowy sections, so be sure to bring crampons so you can grip and walk right over the snow. Walking over the snow is much easier than attempting to go around it in most cases. It’s also a lot of fun, but beware of sinkholes.
Bring sturdy treaded boots that are water resistant and come up above your ankle so you don’t get water, snow or mud in them easily. This also allows you to move through a wet trail less cautiously and more quickly. If it’s going to be really deep and wet, consider bringing leg gaiters for hiking.
Keep things dry with a waterproof backpack or a rain cover for your bag. Waterproof packing cubes can also be very handy. Cary a lightweight and fast drying towel to dry yourself and your gear off. Who knows you may even need it for an impromptu lake dip or getting soaked by a waterfall. Our adventure towels are designed to be ultra lightweight and versatile so you’ll be prepared for any journey.
Trekking poles not only save your knees (all the time), but they can save you a trip into the mud if things get slippery.
It's essential to make a detailed list of all the items you need for your trip, including the little things that are easy to forget. Items such as headlamps, stove components, eating utensils, and water purification systems are some of the commonly forgotten items.
Your body requires more energy to regulate your body temperature in cold weather, which can leave you feeling hungrier than usual. By planning for additional calories, you can keep your energy levels up and stay nourished throughout your journey.
Spring is a significant time for plants and animals. Plants are just starting to spring up and many creatures are emerging from hibernation, searching for food, and caring for their young.
When it's time to pitch your tent, choose hard, durable surfaces to minimize your impact on the fragile new growth that emerges during the spring. If you're in bear country, use bear canisters and keep food away from your campsite to prevent unwanted encounters. Leave no trace by packing out all your trash.
With the right mindset and equipment, spring camping, hiking, and backpacking can be a highlight of your year. So prepare your gear, pack your bags, and hit the trails.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this article! Which tip did you find the most interesting or helpful? Where are you backpacking or hiking this spring? Let us know in the comments below.
]]>You may already know the general area you want to explore, it could be a mountain range like the Sierra Nevadas, a national or state park, or somewhere else. If you are a beginner hiker and have no idea where to start, you might search for something like “best hiking trail near me”. For the sake of this article, we’re going to assume you have some idea of where you're interested in hiking. From this point, your initial google search might be something like “best places to hike in Colorado” or “best hiking in Glacier National Park”. These types of searches are a great starting point to narrow your focus on a more specific zone. While you will find some excellent hikes this way, they are also likely to be the most crowded. If you’re wanting to do these trails, check out our article about how to avoid crowds when traveling to have a more seclusive experience there.
A popular hike usually has trails right around it that are just as beautiful and offer unique perspectives. Now that you’re looking at a smaller area, you can use an app like All Trails to identify the many different routes from a given location. While using their explore tool, be sure to keep an eye out for natural features like lakes, rivers and peaks. From there you can start clicking through the different trails and more importantly trail photos. It’s also a good idea to do research on the specific natural features as you may want to plan snack breaks around them and some of them that are worth going to may not be visible from the trail. For trails that don’t have any images, or someone just uploaded a picture of basically nothing, copy paste that trail into google search to get a better look at it.
If you’ve further narrowed down your search to a few trails close to each other, use a map to see if the trails connect. You may be able to combine a couple hikes by turning your route into a loop or Y shaped route. This can mean more miles for that individual hike, but less miles than doing multiple trips.These types of connections can be perfect for a multi day backpacking trip too. While doing your research, be sure to look for information on the difficulty level of the trail, the distance, and the terrain. This will help you choose a trail that matches your fitness level and hiking experience.
Different hiking trails may be better suited for different seasons. For example, a trail that is great for summer hiking may be buried in snow in the winter or flooded in the spring. On a positive note, there could be waterfalls in the spring or colorful leaves in the fall. Consider the weather and the conditions of the trail before choosing your hiking destination. A little bit of weather and slightly wild trail conditions can be fun, but only if you're prepared for it. Another big thing to consider is mosquitoes, a lot of places can have clouds of them in the early summer months, so spring or fall could be a better bet. It’s worth looking into.
There are many websites, apps, and forums that offer hiking trail reviews from other hikers. These reviews can give you a good idea of what to expect on the trail, including any potential hazards or challenges.
Talk to local park rangers or hiking clubs to get recommendations for the best hiking trails in the area. They can offer valuable insights into the best times to hike, trail conditions, and any important safety tips.
If you're hiking in a shoulder season, make sure you double check for road closures. Some roads close early in the fall due to the date rather than the conditions and some don’t open until late in the spring due to heavier snow pack from the winter or trail damage.
Once you have chosen your hiking trail, make sure you are properly prepared for the adventure. This includes bringing plenty of water, food, and appropriate gear for the terrain and weather like a hiking hat or rain jacket. Other essentials may include a quick dry towel, sunscreen, and bug spray. Some hiking accessories that are nice to bring are a folding chair, hammock, fly fishing gear, and an adventurous book. Always let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return.
In conclusion, discovering the best hiking trails requires a bit of research and preparation, but the effort is well worth it. Taking the extra time to do so will have you on the right trails at the right time and you won’t be thinking “I wish I would have …”.
We’d love to know what you found helpful, interesting, or think we missed in the comments below.
Also if you need some gear before you go, we’ve got you covered!
]]>What’s a topographic map?
Topo maps (short for topographic maps) are designed to show the terrain of an area. The map’s contour lines, scale, and legend allow you to identify terrain features, elevations, and distances.
What are contour lines?
Contour lines are the most essential element of topo maps. These are the squiggly lines that run all over the map connecting all the points that show the same elevation.
You can get an idea of the terrain by looking at how the contour lines spread out and come together. The wider spread lines mean less elevation gain (sloped terrain) and the lines that are close together show higher elevation gain (steep terrain). When the lines are packed close together and start to form rings, this is displaying a peak.
Every fifth line on a topo map is thicker and displays the elevation for that line. These thick lines are called index lines and they allow you to identify the elevation of all the other lines. The elevation change between each contour line (which is called the contour interval) is always the same on the map. Usually, topo maps have a contour interval of 40 or 80 feet, but sometimes they may use other measurements. The map we are using as an example has a contour interval of 20 meters, which means each contour line is 20 vertical meters (65.6 vertical feet) from the next line. You can find the details for the index lines and contour interval in your map’s legend.
What is scale?
Scale is the relative distance on a map. There are two areas that help identify the scale of the map.
What is the legend?
The legend identifies just about everything else you need to know about the terrain. Here, the various symbols, lines, and colors are identified. The symbols and lines could be a range of different things which your map will identify. For colors, the darker the green identifies denser vegetation and white indicates little to no vegetation. Blue identifies lakes, rivers, and streams.
Testing your knowledge
We have provided a matching quiz to test your new knowledge of Topography. The answers are at the bottom of the article.
Image source: "Be Expert with Map and Compass" by Bjorn Kjellstrom
Conclusion:
Topo maps are essential for navigating and are especially useful when combined with a compass (we will be doing an article on using a compass soon). Most national parks, national forests, state parks, recreational areas offer maps of the areas they cover. These maps can be found on their websites. Another great resource is Topo Zone, which provides digital maps for just about any area. Their maps can be printed and used, but don’t forget to print the legend.
Matching Quiz Answers: 1(B), 2(E), 3(D), 4(C), 5(F), 6(A)
If you learned something new, think we need to add something, or just had thoughts about this article, we would love it if you left us a comment below! Thank you for being a member and we are looking forward to sharing more great content with you.
PS: We designed a topographic towel with a clean topographic pattern on one side and a 3d model of the same area on the other side.
]]>Insulated Cups vs Non-Insulated Cups
Insulated mugs have a double barrier that keeps your drink safe from the elements. The outer wall gets hit by hot or cold elements, while the inner wall keeps your favorite beverage safe inside. A small space between the two walls keeps them from affecting one another. In contrast, a non-insulated mug only has one barrier. When the elements hit the singular barrier, the liquid inside is directly affected. Not only do the elements outside change the drink inside, but the opposite occurs. Single barriers get condensation and can also become very hot depending on the temperature of the liquid. Non-insulated drinkware is good for room temperature beverages (as long as it stays in the room), but overall insulated drinkware is far superior when you are going to be out and about.
Spill Proof Mug vs Non Spill Proof Mug
A leak proof mug allows you to get around without the headache of spilling on your clothes, car seats, or bags. No spill coffee mugs have better insulation because the heat can’t escape easily. Non leak proof mugs typically still include a lid, but the lid will have a small hole or a slider to close the opening. They often leak if tipped over or sloshed around making them not ideal for traveling or commuting. The main benefit of these mugs is that they allow your boiling hot drink to cool down as long as you drink it in time before it’s too cold. Though the best spill proof coffee mugs maintain heat, you can always leave the opening uncovered to let your drink cool (it’s the best of both worlds). Spill proof mugs ultimately are better suited for a life on the go, but are still versatile enough to be perfect for around home.
Handle vs No Handle
Mugs with a handle are a classic. The handle was designed to keep your hand off the cup because traditional coffee cups get very hot like we talked about earlier. Insulated technology has allowed us to remove the handle while keeping the outside of the mug at room temperature. Some insulated drinkware still have handles because the cup is too wide for holding. A slightly narrower design is optimal for holding and also fits in most cup holders.
Conclusion
The Minaret Thermal Mug is designed with all of the above factors in mind. Strategically made with a double seal lid, this mug offers the perfect trifecta: spill proof coffee mug, smooth flow to save your throat, and double insulation to keep your liquid hot or cold longer. You can also leave the top off to allow drinks to cool down if they are too hot. Whether your adventure consists of hiking, traveling, morning commutes, or 9-5 day dreaming, this insulated mug has your back. Kickstart your day with a travel mug you can count on.
]]>Why should I carry a towel for travel?
Travel towels can easily be overlooked as a key piece of gear in your kit. Obviously, a towels main purpose is to dry, but they do so much more than that. In the backcountry, a camping towel saves you from freezing after an alpine lake dip, it’s a floor mat for your tent, or a compact pillow. When you're headed to the coastline, it’s a beach towel to lay on, a changing towel for putting your wetsuit or bathing suit on, a shade covering, or … we could go on and on, but you get the idea. We even got our car unstuck using them, but that’s a story for a different time. While the multifunctionality of a towel is what makes it such a staple, not all towels are equal.
Regular towel vs travel towel?
You probably have a regular towel hanging in your bathroom right now. Why is it hanging? Because it’s probably still wet from your shower last night. Standard towels take a long time to dry, tend to trap odor/sand, are heavy, and bulky, making them a nuisance to travel with. They’re not all bad though, they are usually soft and warm and definitely have their place, which is in your bathroom.
When it comes to the best travel towels, we see a stark contrast. They’re fast drying, lightweight, odor/sand resistant, and pack down small while still being ultra soft and durable. These combined features make for the perfect piece of travel gear that you can keep with you without sacrificing space and weight in your bag. Amongst travel towels, there are several different materials and sizes to choose from.
What’s the best towel material?
Which towel size is right for you?
There are a variety of towel sizes out there and sometimes it can seem hard to choose. We will be looking at 3 main microfiber towel sizes.
Conclusion
After testing a variety of the best towel materials and sizes, we designed the Adventure Towel. Made from an incredibly soft microfiber suede these towels were designed so you can pack lighter and be ready to jump in at every opportunity. Our absorbent quick drying towels are durable, yet extremely plush to last long and keep you comfortable. These full size towels pack down small so you can bring it wherever the journey leads.
]]>We’ve compiled our favorite camping destinations to inspire your next trip in the west.
1. Yosemite National Park
The crown jewel of California camping is Yosemite National Park. With awe inspiring granite monoliths like El Capitan and Half Dome, jaw dropping waterfalls like Vernal Falls and Yosemite Falls, and plenty of spectacular hiking trails, people from around the world flock to camp in Yosemite. For that reason, it’s imperative to make a reservation for your campsite well in advance of your trip. There are first come, first served spots available, but they get taken up pretty quick.
If you’d like to make the most of your time in Yosemite, we highly recommend checking out our Yosemite Guide.
2. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Another spectacular spot for camping in California is Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park (or just Big Sur for short!). The ocean meets the mountains here in all of the right ways. Towering redwood trees stand as a stark contrast against the rocky ocean shores below, offering campers phenomenal views. Reservations at Big Sur are required at all times, so plan ahead when camping here so you don’t miss out on your spot.
3. Sequoia National Park
South of Yosemite National Park is another hidden gem for camping in California! Sequoia National Park is the home of some of the largest concentrations of giant sequoia trees that are world famous. Many of the trees have been named after larger-than-life historical figures like King Arthur, Franklin, and Monroe to name a few. The most famous of all of the trees in Sequoia National Park is General Sherman. Standing at 275’ tall, this behemoth of a tree is one of the largest sequoias in the world. These trees draw crowds from all over, so be sure to reserve your spot before coming out here. If all the reservations are taken before you go, don’t fret! There are first come, first served spots available, but leave early to snag yours before they’re all taken.
4. Kings Canyon National Park
Sharing its southern border with the northern border of Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park offers more spectacular camping opportunities. Just like with Yosemite and Sequoia, be sure to reserve a spot ahead of time as this area is also incredibly popular. Kings Canyon is home to more groves of giant sequoia trees which are accessible through one of many hiking trails. One of the most famous trails that goes through many of the national parks in California, including Kings Canyon, is the Pacific Crest Trail. It stretches from the Mexican border near San Diego and meanders 2,650 miles north to Canada. Some of the most scenic miles can be hiked through Kings Canyon National Park.
5. Channel Islands National Park
One of the most unique camping opportunities in California lies about 45 miles off of the Ventura coast. Channel Islands National Park is accessible by a ferry that shuttles you across the ocean to these beautiful islands. Camping is available on all 5 of the islands at Channel Islands National Park, but reservations are required in order to get a spot due to the logistics of moving people and gear across the water. Packing light is always in your best interest, but it is extra important here because some of the camping spots can be a decent walk.
6. Redwoods National and State Parks
The tallest trees in the world call Redwoods National and State Parks home. This draws crowds from all over, but once you get on one of the many trails out there, you’ll feel like you’ve entered another planet all by yourself! If hiking isn’t your favorite thing to do, no worries. There are plenty of scenic drives to take that will expose you to not only towering trees, but rugged coastline, gorgeous wildflowers, and plenty of wildlife like Roosevelt elk!
7. Joshua Tree National Park
One of the great things about California camping is that you can do it practically year-round. The reason why is that when it's winter and places in the mountains are snowed in and cold, the desert becomes the go to spot for many campers. Joshua Tree National Park is best to camp at during the winter months as temperatures are cool enough to be comfortable at night and gorgeous during the day! Rock climbing and bouldering draw crowds from all over to Joshua Tree. And if you’re smart (and a bit lucky) you should try to camp here after a big rainstorm as the desert springs to life with brilliant wildflowers after plenty of precipitation falls!
8. Santa Barbara Coast
If you’ve never laid your head to rest to the sound of waves breaking against the beach, you absolutely have to go camping at one of the many campgrounds along the Santa Barbara Coast! There are plenty of places to book a spot along the coast, including Arroyo Burro County Park, Los Prietos Campground, and Leadbetter Beach.
Conclusion
Many of the destinations above can draw in a lot of people because they’re that amazing, so make sure you know how to avoid crowds while traveling.
One of the toughest parts about going camping is just picking a place to go. With so many amazing options, it’s hard to narrow it down to just one place. Hopefully, with these 8 amazing places in California to camp, you’ll have a good list to go off of for your next camping adventure! Where will you go first? Let us know in the comments below.
]]>If you’ve never tried to pack light, it may be a bit intimidating at first. The nagging question of “what if?” gnaws at your brain when you’re packing for a trip and compels you to pack. One. More. Thing. Do yourself a favor and mute the “what if” in your head for a moment. These are the easiest things you can do to pack light for your next travel adventure!
There’s nothing worse than leaving for the airport and realizing you forgot your (fill in the blank). A packing list helps avoid this problem while simultaneously helping you cut out some non-essentials. We recommend making a list of only the essentials, which we will be discussing in the article. It’s important to make a list before you start packing your things, because this will help you stay on track with the items you need.
Packing cubes are the perfect way to stay organized, maximize space, and avoid the headache of searching through your bag every time you need something. Good packing organizers should be lightweight, color coded, and water resistant.
Using every bit of space is important when keeping your bag size small. Filling your shoes with things like socks and other smaller items is a great way to save some space. Rolling your clothes is another great way to pack them tighter and avoid wrinkles.
After you’ve reduced your clothing down to the essential items, it’s time to do the same to the rest of the items you pack with you in your luggage. Consider the special items you bring with you to deal with unique circumstances and think about how you could bring something that handled the job of a few of those circumstances.
For example, it’s better to pack a poncho because you can use it as an umbrella, a backpack rain cover, or a rain jacket! You can also bring a travel towel which can dry you off, be used as a ground cover, shade cover, or a variety of other things.
Avoiding doing laundry and having options of what to wear each day of your trip are two of the most common reasons people practically bring their entire closet with them while traveling. But consider how often you actually end up wearing all the clothes you brought with you? What about all of the shoes? If you’re like most people, you likely wore 1/3 of the stuff you actually brought!
So how do you reduce the clothing and shoes you bring while also trying to avoid running out of outfits? Easy! Count to 6. As in, only pack 1 hat, 2 pairs of shoes, 3 bottoms, 4 tops, 5 pairs of socks, and 6 pairs of underwear! Limit yourself to these clothing items and you’ll be surprised by how little you need while traveling!
Having good layers allows you to maximize your wardrobe. Depending on the climate you are going to, having two base layers (t-shirts or tank tops) with a thin but high quality mid layer (Something like a sweater) with an outer shell (rain jacket or insulated jacket) should have you equipped for most places you’ll go.
Your gear can make or break your trip. Most of the time what you bring is dependent on where you're going, but we do have some staple items that always come with us.
The best way to cut down on toiletry weight is to buy our toiletries when you arrive at your destination. However, that’s not alway ideal if you have items that you like or are going somewhere remote. In this case bringing us 3.4 ounce leak proof containers which is the max size you can bring in a carry-on bag. Even if you're checking a bag, we still recommend using these smaller containers for more flexibility, space saving, and to save weight.
If you have a travel buddy, share your sharable toiletries to avoid bringing multiple of the same items.
Obviously, the right bag for packing light is the lightest bag you can find, however we believe the functionality of the bag can be more important than the weight. A backpack is always our first choice for a travel bag, but there are a lot of backpacks out there. Choosing the right bag will help you pack better, be more organized, and stay comfortable. The main things to consider when choosing a bag are:
If you exceed the space in your backpack, then we recommend using a duffle bag or a small wheeled carry-on bag. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, carry-on bags must not exceed 22" x 14" x 9". When choosing a larger carry on bag, make sure it is considered if you need something water resistant (never hurts to have water resistance and not need it, then need it and not have it).
So you’ve got your bag packed, this is the moment of truth, pick up your bag and see how it feels. Hopefully through using your packing list and the best practices in the post, your pack feels light and is filled with everything you need.
If for some reason it’s feeling heavy we recommend placing it on a scale to ensure your complying with airline regulations. For a heavy or overweight bag, be sure to remove the items at home to avoid extra fees and a hurt back.
Unfortunately, bags don’t always arrive where or when they should. If you check a bag, it’s never a bad idea to have some essentials prepared for the first couple of days on your trip. We especially like to ensure we have things like swimwear, outerwear or hiking boots to ensure we’re not missing any of the fun. For things like outerwear or hiking boots, we’ll usually wear these one the plane.
Skipping baggage claims and avoiding lost luggage are just a couple of the many advantages of only bringing carry-on. You are usually allowed one personal item (which they ask goes at your feet during the flight) and one carry-on item (that usually is stowed above your head). While this is offered for free with most airlines, it’s important to double check your airline's policy.
It is important to note that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has restrictions for items that can go in your carry-on. Know what you can and can’t bring with the TSA’s “What Can I Bring” list.
The TSA uses the "3-1-1" liquids rule for a traveler's carry-on bag. This rule states that you can bring:
Note: There are some exceptions for medications and baby food.
Checking a bag may not be ideal, but it can be necessary for certain adventures. If you're heading for a long trip, have sporting or hunting equipment, or are headed for extreme weather, checking a bag is the way to go. We recommend keeping your bag as light as possible still to avoid fees and to be more mobile when you are on the go.
As you can see, packing light can be a fun and efficient way to enjoy your next adventure. By using the modern technology of today, you can bring all sorts of items that serve multiple purposes! And by using common sense, you can save the hassle of having to separate your toiletries every time you go through security by just picking them up at your destination!
If something stood out to you or you have other tips that we missed, we’d love to hear from you below!
]]>Weekends are a pretty obvious time to find yourself in a sea of other people. With most people off on the weekends, they are ready to get out and about with their friends and family. Because of this, week days are generally far less crowded, and sometimes you can even find better deals on travel and accommodations. If you're able to slip away during the week, you'll find your dream destinations are much less crowded!
Oftentimes, when you set out to your destination at sunrise or earlier, you'll find peace and quiet. Not only will you get places all to yourself, but sunrise is one of the most beautiful times to experience most places. There is something extra rewarding about catching the sunrise, maybe it's because most people miss it, or maybe it's because getting up early is a challenge to overcome. Don't forget those mornings can be cold, so be sure to bring along a hot beverage in an insulated coffee tumbler, a warm blanket, and some warm clothes.
You can also learn about choosing the right thermal travel mug here.
Seasonal travel exists in almost all parts of the world. With summer comes the heat, and with the heat comes people (most of the time). If you can pick a less mainstream season to go like spring or fall, you'll avoid not only the heat but most tourists as well. However, not every place has the same peak season, so make sure to get your research in before you go.
Holidays can draw some of the biggest crowds. Heading out the weekend before or after a holiday weekend can be a great alternative to spending a weekend in traffic and lines.
Most people choose the shorter option when it comes to visiting destinations. There is nothing wrong with that, but this article is about avoiding crowds. So, instead of stopping at the main attraction, keep going. In most cases, there is so much more to see than just one view, and you will avoid having to crop people out of your photos.
Bringing your own food and having everything prepared in advance can take a little bit more time to prepare, but when faced with massive lines, you'll end up saving a lot of time, and money, in the long run.
Don't let a little rain and wind stop you. If you aren't too picky about the weather, you'll find yourself setting out on some amazing adventures when everyone else is headed back to the car. It is important to bring the correct gear when using this tactic. We recommend a high-quality rain jacket, rain pants, waterproof shoes, a waterproof bag, and a lightweight travel towel for after.
Research is key when it comes to avoiding crowds. There is almost always an amazing destination to explore that is less crowded and almost just as amazing as the one everyone usually goes to. Find these lesser-known places and trails and get out to explore them!
If you follow these 8 tips, you'll be able to enjoy the places you want with far fewer people to compete with over views, parking, and lines. Keep in mind that avoiding crowds takes a little bit of extra effort, but it's almost always worth it. You may have to go further, you might have to get up earlier, and you might have to work a little harder, but when you find yourself gazing over the most beautiful mountain range that's glowing pink from the crisp sunrise, you'll think to yourself "I can't wait until next time".
While choosing a time and location makes or breaks a trip, having the right gear is just as important. We've put together an article about the most useful travel essentials that can easily be forgotten so you're ready to go on your next trip!
]]>We honor all of the courageous men and women who sacrificed their lives fighting for our freedom. Wherever you find yourself on memorial day weekend, we encourage you to remember those who lost their lives defending our country and the families of their loved ones they left behind. Here is a list of 10 ways that you can enjoy your weekend because of the freedoms that we have here in the USA!
Grab your pack, put your phone on airplane mode, and hit the trail. Backpacking is one of the best ways to experience the places that we are free to explore. Some of our favorite things to do while backpacking is catching the sunrise with a piping hot cup of coffee in an insulated backpacking mug and jumping into icy cold lakes with a lightweight towel awaiting. You can check out our “HEALTH BENEFITS OF JUMPING INTO ICY COLD LAKES” article for more about why you should consider jumping in on your next trip.
Emerge from what seemed like an extra long winter to bask in the sand and sunshine. Don’t forget a sunhat, umbrella, sunscreen, microfiber beach towel, and swimsuit. Although the water may be just a stones throw away, it is especially important to bring your own bottle to stay hydrated. We recommend bringing along a 32oz insulated bottle so you have plenty of cold water.
Getting out in the ocean is the perfect way to connect with nature, disconnect from technology, and break up the hustle and bustle of your day to day routine. Grab the right board, a wetsuit if needed, some friends, and enjoy the water!
It’s such a classic! Grill up your favorites and set up the games everyone loves. Some of our personal favorites are corn hole, croquet, horse shoes, and bocce ball. Here are some awesome veteran owned small-business that you can support: Rick's Hand Crafted Cornhole Boards, Rollors Game Company, and you can find more at Veteran Owned Businesses
Memorial Day weekend is the perfect opportunity to find campsites off the beaten path. More popular campgrounds will fill up quickly, but there are many less popular gems waiting to be found. Grab your camping equipment, a map, and find your spot to post up for the weekend.
Join many Americans across the country by visiting cemeteries and decorating veterans’ graves with flags or flowers. This is a long standing tradition that used to be called Decoration Day before it was renamed Memorial Day in 1968. Even if you don’t know anyone personally who lost their life in combat, this is still a moving and inspiring way to spend Memorial Day.
Head out on the ocean, lake, or river and lay your line in the water. Fishing is the perfect way to find peace and quiet relaxation, while all the while awaiting the thrill of setting the hook. Whether you catch the fish of your life or not, get out there and enjoy it.
Have a bike? Take it out for a spin this Memorial Day. Whether you are mountain biking, cycling, or just cruising, biking is a great way to get outside, get active, and travel. Grab some friends and ride to breakfast or a local brewery. Be extra cautious on the streets as there will be more people driving than normal.
Load up the car and head out to roads less travelled. A well planned road trip is so much more than just being in the car, it includes many of the awesome activities we discussed above. Do some research and start planning your route. Maybe even take that trip to see family or friends that you haven’t seen in awhile!
We know there are tons of other amazing things you love to do outside, so if we missed your favorite activity, we would love to hear what it is in the comments! As always, if you need any gear before you go or just want some advice, you know where to find us!
We know Memorial Day weekend tends to draw large crowds in more popular areas, but don’t lose sight of the fact that you get to enjoy the freedoms of exploration, friendship, and peace. When you approach this weekend with understanding and gratitude, it’s hard not to have a great time!
Most people are well aware of the anecdotal healing power that being outdoors brings to our emotional, physical and even mental well-being. Our friends post photos of the sunset with captions that claim their “soul needed that”, our parents have long spoken about the power of Vitamin D; but what do these things actually mean? What are the cold hard scientific benefits of being in fresh air? Below is a curated list of the top 10 powers of the outdoors.
Research has shown that certain chemicals produced by plants increase humans white blood cell count when we breathe fresh air. Not to mention the cardiovascular benefits that you are getting from whatever outdoor activity you are participating in!
You probably already know that oxygen is critical to maintain brain health and development, but do you know why? The fresh air of the outdoors sends oxygen through your blood to your brain along with enabling your lungs to operate at full capacity. The more oxygen going to your brain, the better your brain performs!
This is one of the many benefits of improved brain function. It has been proven that spending time outside actually improves your concentration and focus throughout the rest of the day.
Feeling crampy and achy? Much like a targeted heating pad on sore muscles, the heat from the sun can reduce minor aches and pains.
Is there anything better than the smell of crisp fresh air, pine trees, or salt water? This ties into the abundance of oxygen and clean air outside. Natural scents like these are directly linked to reduced anxiety and feelings of calmness.
Doctors have noted that regardless of what the weather is like, spending time outside, even if it is cold and grey, can reduce the effects of SAD- seasonal affective disorder. Some of the impacts of SAD are depression, anxiety, and a lack of concentration. Obviously sunshine is the best cure, but it helps to know that even simple fresh air can aid in reducing symptoms of SAD!
Cortisol is the stress hormone, and there is evidence to support that being outside for 20 minutes a day is linked with lower & healthy cortisol levels.
Studies show that people are generally more creative when they are walking or engaging in daily activity outside. The activity is said to enhance your cognitive abilities.
In our body, the presence of Vitamin D acts as a neuro compound that is responsible for regulating the development of the nervous system, and is commonly used in treatments of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimers.
The sun casts out UV-B sun rays, which trigger the release of dopamine in the retina and circulate vitamin D. These things work together to protect the eyes from growing in a way that causes nearsightedness. Don’t stare into the sun though!
The next time you go to hit the snooze button on your alarm, remember these 10 benefits of taking that extra half an hour in the morning to kickstart your day and body. You could even get more creative and pack a compact microfiber towel for some morning outdoor yoga on the beach or in a grassy park!
We would love if you shared this or left us a comment below if you found anything interesting or useful :)
Sources:
There are few things more daunting than standing over a pool of snow melted water, bathing suit on, goose bumps forming, camping towel patiently waiting for your return. Aside from the pure adrenaline rush, there are several scientifically proven health benefits of jumping into ice cold water.
The sharp contrast of cold water against bare skin spikes the white blood cell count by forcing the body into a state of fight or flight. The main function of the white blood cell is to protect your body against disease and infection. So the more you submerge in ice water, the more you boost your immune system!
Cold water has also been linked to releasing endorphins in your brain, which not only has the power to change your mood for the short term, but it also reduces stress for the long term! Along with increasing endorphins, it also has been proven that cold water can actually decrease cortisol levels which is directly related to stress, anxiety and depression.
Last but certainly not least, ice water helps to reduce inflammation and swelling. We all know that putting ice on injuries helps, but how? The coldness constricts your blood vessels which reduces blood flow in that area. On a wider scale, by immersing your entire body into ice water, you are preemptively targeting any sore muscles from the long hike, climb, or trail run that you just completed.
Next time you arrive at the final lake after that long hike or backpacking trip, jump in and don’t forget to pack your Adventure Towel because it is the best quick dry camping towel for your cold adventures!
Disclaimer: The content above is not professional medical advice and we are not doctors :)
]]>If you live in or near San Diego, this is the perfect quick adventure for you. A trip to the dunes is the perfect way to get outside over the weekend without breaking the bank or spending too much time if you need to be back to work on Monday.
]]>If you live in or near San Diego, this is the perfect quick adventure for you.
Start by grabbing a friend or two or ten. Jump in the car and put on some good tunes. Drive from San Diego to El Centro (1 hour 45 minutes with no traffic). Time it so that you arrive in the dunes a little bit before sunset. We recommend stopping at California’s most iconic burger place, “IN-N-OUT”, fueling up and then making the rest of the drive to the sand dunes (45 minutes). Type “Hugh T. Osborne Lookout Park” into your navigation so you find yourself in the right place.
Our favorite activities when we get there are camping, hiking barefoot, rolling down the steep sand hills, photography, stargazing and bocce ball. If you want to hike, sunrise is the best time as it has the coolest temperatures and also is the most beautiful.
After your morning hike and when it starts to heat up head back to El Centro and go to IHOP and get some pancakes!
Coffee: We recommend bringing one of our Thermal Mugs so you don't have to worry about spilling while you are hiking
Jet boil to help make your coffee
A Summit Beanie just incase it is extra cool at night or in the early am
Bocci ball
Camera
Cards
A trip to the dunes is the perfect way to get outside over the weekend without breaking the bank or spending too much time if you need to be back to work on Monday. If you have never been, it honestly brings you back to the first time you got to play in the sand as a kid.
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