Boat dock at Glacial Lake.
Photo by: konikaori (Stock Exchange)

Howdy, campers!

In today’s article, we’d like to introduce you to a great new resource for learning the skills that will bring you fun and safety in the outdoors.

REI is a great supplier of outdoor gear like backpacks, tents, canoes, and much more.

But did you also know you can go to their website to enjoy a great archive of articles and videos about a whole slew of topics for tent camping and RV campers alike?

We’ve gone through the whole library and picked out some of the best for you to enjoy.

How to Load a Backpack: If you enjoy hiking, especially day hikes, one of the first things you should know is how to pack your backpack right! Choosing the wrong backpack or distributing your supplies incorrectly can cause trouble down the road (literally!) and contribute to exhaustion and dehydration. Likewise, there are advanced tips and tactics for backcountry campers and those braving the wild in winter. You can combine this article with REI’s camping checklists to make sure you don’t leave anything out.

Ultralight Backpacking: If you’ll be breaking camp and going on longer trail excursions, check out this article to discover ways to take that neatly packed backpack and lighten it up. “Pack smarter to feel lighter, go further, see more” is the motto of this article, which can help you take your existing pack down to the “ultralight” range under 20 pounds, or even “minimalist” levels: under 12 pounds, usually reserved for top survivalists. For most campers, though, it’s a case of “everything in moderation.” Don’t go too far either way.

Caring for Your Tent: In most tent camping parks and camp grounds, the tent is going to be “home base” for your whole stay. Did you know that a well-constructed tent can offer enjoyment for years? That even includes advanced weatherproof tents that are a costly pain to replace! There are a lot of powerful tips here, including ways to keep your tent from getting damaged by abrasion, water, sunlight, and a bunch of other incidentals. Keep these in mind to get the most value out of your home away from home.

Navigation Basics: Map and Compass: If you’re planning a real adventure, there’s a lot you need to know about your compass. A traditional compass, rather than a smartphone or other replacement, is one of the most reliable instruments out there, but only if you pair it with a good map. This article and its two great videos cover choosing and using a compass, selecting a map, and how to use topographical maps for long sojourns outdoors. This is a great resource, since most campers won’t be familiar with topo maps, and they can really come in handy if you plan to be traveling a while.