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Packrafts: What You Need to Know

Whether you are completely new to packrafting or you are just starting and want to know more, this blog post will provide everything you need to know about packrafts.

Hammock vs Tent: Which Is Right for Your Adventure?

After more than three decades of camping, I finally made the leap from being a die-hard tent camper to trying hammock camping. For most of my life, the idea of ditching my tent for a hammock never really crossed my mind. Why would I give up something so reliable and comfortable for what seemed like a less comfortable option?

Isle Switch Pro Review with Bixby Electric Motor

In this article, I'm reviewing the Isle Switch Pro SUP Kayak Hybrid, paired with the Bixby K1 Outboard Motor. You should know from...

Kayak vs Canoe vs SUP vs Packraft

When it comes to exploring waterways, the type of paddlecraft you choose can significantly impact your experience. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or just starting, selecting the right boat ensures you maximize your time on the water, enjoy the most fun, tap into your full potential, and, most importantly, stay safe.

Hurricane Prima 125 Kayak Review

Today I’m excited to share my thoughts on the Hurricane Prima 125. For those who don’t know, I’ve had the privilege of paddling and testing a wide variety of kayaks over the years, and every so often, a kayak comes along that surprises me in a very positive way. The Hurricane Prima 125 is one of those kayaks.

P&H Virgo Composite Kayak Review

When it comes to testing gear, there's nothing like putting it through the wringer in real-world conditions. And that’s exactly what I did with the P&H Virgo Composite Kayak on the Ottawa River, which is known for its big rapids and breathtaking scenery.

Alpacka Expedition Packraft Review

Packrafts were invented as an ultralight and highly portable paddle craft to allow hikers and backpackers to take advantage of the backcountry waterways. Initially,...

NRS Neutron Packraft Review

When it comes to packrafts, the NRS Neutron is a game-changer in versatility and performance, whether you're tackling calm water or navigating through significant whitewater. I recently took this packraft on a multi-day adventure down the Black River in Quebec, and here's my in-depth review.

Bonafide PWR 129 Kayak Review

I recently got my hands on the Bonafide PWR 129 kayak, and let me tell you, this boat is a game-changer. For those who don't know, Bonafide has been a big player in the kayak fishing world, and they've outdone themselves with this model. Founded by Luther Cifers, the mastermind behind YakAttack, Bonafide has always been about creating top-notch fishing kayaks. Now, under the umbrella of Big Adventures (which also owns Native Watercraft and Hurricane Kayaks), they're stepping up their game with motorized kayaks like the PWR 129.

Sea Eagle FishSkiff 16 Inflatable Boat Review

I'm diving deep into my review of the Sea Eagle FishSkiff 16 inflatable boat. With over a decade of kayak fishing under my belt, I've tried and tested many watercraft, but this one has truly caught my attention. Sea Eagle, a family business since 1968, has a solid reputation for crafting high-quality inflatable boats and kayaks

Hurricane Osprey 120 Kayak Review

I'm testing and reviewing a type of kayak that I have a love-hate relationship with: the Hurricane Osprey 120. Now, when I say I have a love-hate relationship, I'm not talking about this boat in particular but about sit-on-top kayaks in general.

Camping Gear for River Trips

I want to share some gear that, while not absolutely essential, can make a big difference on your next river trip. I recently completed a seven-day adventure down the Dumoine River in Quebec with a group of friends.

Comparing Cotopaxi Travel Bags: Guide for Adventurers

As a world champion freestyle whitewater kayaker, I spend much of my year touring with my husband Nick Troutman and our two kids, exploring the country, homeschooling, and embarking on countless adventures. Whether we’re paddling wild rivers, hiking scenic trails, mountain biking, or camping under the stars, the right travel gear is essential. In our journeys, we've come to appreciate the importance of durable, versatile, and stylish travel bags, and Cotopaxi's range of adventure travel packs has caught our attention.

Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Kayak

Hello paddlers! I'm Ken Whiting, and today we're diving into one of the biggest questions in the world of kayaking: how to choose the right kayak. While it might seem daunting at first with so many types of kayaks available, I promise it's easier than you think once you understand your own needs and the different kayak options.

Sea Eagle 300X Inflatable Kayak Review

This Sea Eagle 300X review takes you through all the pros and cons of this all water kayak from one of the top inflatable brands. Check it out.

Tucktec kayak vs Sea Eagle 330 kayak

Tucktec vs the Sea Eagle 330 is a hot topic these days! Ken Whiting takes you through both of them in this comparison post.

Hammock Tent Camping – ENO DoubleNest Review

The ENO DoubleNest Hammock tent camping set up was designed for two people. Emily and Nick review the ENO DoubleNest Hammock from their recent adventure.

Oru Kayak Coast XT Kayak Review

Our Oru Kayak Coast XT Sea Kayak Review begins with how portable this kayak is and then tests its durability on the water with ice flows!

Flycraft Stealth 2.0 vs NRS Approach 120 | Best Small Fishing Raft 2024

Jameson reviews and compares the Flycraft Stealth 2.0 and the NRS Approach 120 for best small fishing raft of 2024.

Big Agnes Sleeping Bag vs Zenbivy Sleep System

Emily Jackson reviews two of the best double sleeping bag options out there: Big Agnes versus the Zenbivy sleeping systems.

Flycraft Stealth 2.0 Review

Jameson Redding lends his unbiased Flycraft Stealth 2.0 Review from the famed waters of the Suwannee River down in Florida. Check it out!

Ultra Light Hiking Gear Essentials

Stella Blashock takes us through all of her ultra light hiking gear essentials starting with her backpack and down into the layers she wears and more.

Ultimate Yuba Spicy Curry Review

The Bosch-powered Yuba Spicy Curry ebike is reviewed by our own Emily Jackson. Check out all the details on this convenient family vehicle.

YakAttack BlackPak Pro Review

Jameson runs us through his Yakattack Blackbox review, a product he touts as one of the best to come out of this made in USA company.

Emotion Cabrio Review – A Convertible Kayak

Ken Whiting finds a unique recreational kayak, one that converts from a sit-inside to sit-on-top kayak. Check out the Emotion Cabrio Review.

The Melker Ulvon Kayak Review

Ken takes yet another Melker Kayak out on an adventure. The result, his Melker Ulvon kayak review is ready for viewing!

Budget Hiking Gear for Under $50!

Eric Hanson highlights the best budget hiking gear for under $50. Check the full article out and save!

Delta Kayak 15.5 GT Review

Ken Whiting does a Delta Kayak 15.5 GT review by putting it to a pretty unique test for a boat of it's class. Whitewater! Check it out!

Osprey Tempest 20 vs Gregory Juno 24 vs Coulee 20 vs Osprey Sirrus 24 | Women's Hydration Pack Comparison

Eric and Kristi review the Osprey Tempest 20 vs Gregory Juno vs Coulee 20 as well as the Osprey Sirrus 24 in this in depth comparison post.

Wilderness Systems Targa 130T Review

Ken and his wife, Nicole, are out on the water paddling what they consider one of the best tandem kayak on the market. Check it out.

Perception Hangtime 11 Review

Ken is on the Flint River doing his Perception Hangtime 11 review. Ken presents this kayak as it is meant to be, comfy and fun!

Sea Eagle Travel Canoe Review

Ken takes us on to the water with the Sea Eagle Travel Canoe and does a full review bow to stern as only Ken can do.

Sea Eagle 385 FastTrack Inflatable Fishing Kayak

Ken does his full review of the Sea Eagle FastTrack 385, an inflatable fishing kayak aimed at the lightweight fishing kayak fans.

Kayaking Shoes or Kayak Boots?

Ken Whiting discusses what are the best footwear options for kayaking and runs through how to choose the right shoe for the right situation.

Decathlon Itiwit X500 Inflatable Kayak Review

Ken Whiting reviews the Decathlon Intiwit X500 inflatable kayak on a trip through the Okefenokee swamp. Check it out!

Intex Excursion Pro vs NRS Pike Inflatable Kayak

Ken Whiting dives down deep into comparing the Intex Excursion Pro versus NRS Pike Inflatable Kayak in this full review.

The Best Hiking Boots and Shoes Depends on Your Needs

Eric Hanson helps you sift through the huge numbers of hiking shoes and hiking boots.

Aquaglide Inflatable Kayaks – Which Aquaglide Kayak?

Aquaglide inflatable kayaks are lightweight and high-performance 'touring' inflatable kayaks and Ken has the scoop on three of them!

Mystery Ranch Coulee 20L Review and 30L Review

Eric does his full Mystery Ranch Coulee 20L & 30L Day Pack Review diving into the technical details of these two hiking packs.

Jon Boat vs Slipstream Raft: Compare River Fishing Boats

Jameson Redding gives his detailed two cents on the differences in fishing from an inflatable raft vs a jon boat.

Inflatable Fishing Kayaks – NRS Pike Pro vs NRS Kuda 126

Jameson Redding walks you through a comparison of two popular NRS inflatable fishing kayaks – the Pike Pro vs Kuda 126.

Keen vs Teva vs Astral: Sandals Review

Fresh from her trip to Uganda, Emily Jackson compares the Keen vs Teva vs Astral sandal in a review shows the best use for each.

Best Paddling Tops for Kayaking and Canoeing

Ken Whiting runs you through the abundance of the best paddling tops to choose from, based on a variety of conditions.

Zenbivy Light Double Camping Bed Review

Eric hikes some sunny miles through the Superstition Mountains of Southern Arizona to test out the Zenbivy Light Double Camping Bed.

Cheapest Fishing Kayak – Intex Excursion Pro Inflatable Kayak Review

The Intex Excursion Pro Inflatable Fishing Kayak is available on Amazon for less than $200. It is the cheapest fishing kayak in the market!

Osprey Aura 65L Backpack Review 

Kristi breaks down the features of the Osprey Aura AG 65L backpack in her latest review.

NRS Pike – Inflatable Kayak Review

A good quality inflatable kayak can be an excellent vessel to fish from. Which is exactly what the NRS Pike inflatable fishing kayak is.

Best Camping Coffee Maker

If coffee is important to you, Eric Hanson reviews the best camping coffee makers.

How to Choose a Life Jacket for Kayaking and Canoeing

How do you choose the right life jacket for you? Ken sets out to show you exactly how to choose a life jacket for your next adventure.

Bridger 35L Day Pack Review

In this article Eric Hanson delivers his Mystery Ranch Bridger 35L Backpack Review

Outcast Striker vs NRS Slipstream 96: Comparing Two River Fishing Rafts

Jameson Redding does a head-to-head comparison of two leading fishing rafts: The Outcast Striker vs. NRS Slipstream 96!

Outcast Sporting Gear Striker Fishing Raft Review

In this Outcast Stricker raft review, I share my thoughts about a great little raft with the river angler in mind.

Fishing Raft Review: NRS Slipstream 96

Jameson Redding's NRS Slipstream 96 Fishing Raft Review from the point of view of an amateur rafting person but an avid fisherman.

Grand Canyon Winter Backpacking

Last month, I and my good friend/fellow YouTube Backpacking Guru embarked on a 5-day, 50-mile, winter trudge across the Grand Canyon. Now, it would be an understatement to say this Grand Canyon winter backpacking trip did not go as planned.

Fresh Gear Friday: Cold Weather Backpacking Gear

Selecting cold weather backpacking gear can be an extreme challenge for a lot of people. It's important to have the right skill set, but all the know-how in the world still isn't worth much without the proper gear.

Best Hiking Gear of the Year 2022

After several decades of backpacking, I'm still learning new ways to enhance this awesome pastime. Every year I'm fortunate to be able to test loads of new gear. This year, in particular, unveiled some major stand-outs.

Sea to Summit Telos Tent Review

I'm pumped to tell you about Sea to Summit's (relatively) new Telos TR2 tent in this review. These guys have been making killer gear for a long time, but this was their first foray into the tent game.

Fresh Gear Friday: Cold Weather Sleeping Bags and Other Gear

Welcome to another round of Fresh Gear Fridays! Today I've got a nifty new lightweight stool to tell you about, a winter-worthy sleeping bag to add to your radar, and another tasty meal to keep you satiated on those chilly overnighters. Let's get into it. 

Fresh Gear Friday: Backpacking Gadgets and Tools I Like

When talking about backpacking gadgets, it's tempting to focus on the bigger, fancier items such tents, packs, and boots.

Fresh Gear Friday: New Hiking Gear

Welcome to another edition of my semi-regular “Fresh Gear Friday” series. Let’s continue our exploration of some brand-spankin’-new backpacking goodies. Today I want to...

Women's Rash Guard, Dry Top and Water Gear

Over the last year I have been fortunate enough to work with the amazing Brand NRS- While I am officially on their Team now, there have been several years and products that I would steal from my loving husband for a long period of time.

Best Hiking Boots and Shoes of 2022

Getting the right style of hiking shoes/boots can be tricky to nail down, but it's seriously rewarding once you do.

Swift Cruiser Pack Boat Review

I got to test out a couple of featherlight Swift Cruiser pack boats for the very first time.

Women's Bridger 55L Backpack Review

Hey Everyone! My name is Kristi Rauckis. Some of you may know me from my recent BackpackingTV appearances. I've always been a big fan of the outdoors, and lately, I've had the chance to go on some pretty awesome adventures.

Kayak Paddle Review: Aqua Bound Ray Series New Design

Aqua Bound has been crafting world-class paddles for over three decades. Their best-selling lineup, the Ray Series, just so happens to be a favorite of mine, and so I was stoked to take the new designs out for a spin.

Snowstorm Camping and Sleeping in Cold Weather

Now that summer is thoroughly in the rear-view mirror, and the inviting fall colors are giving way to harsher conditions (depending on where you...

Best Kayak Gear and Canoe Gear

Lately, I've been giving out some awards to my favorite kayaks of the year. Now it's time to turn our attention to the best...

Terraframe 65L Backpack Review

I bring you another in-depth review of a unique, multi-day pack: the Mystery Ranch Terraframe 65. I'll kick things off by saying that this is a hefty, hardcore backpack that is not for the faint of heart, but at- the same time, it's also one of my favorites.

Osprey Atmos 65L Backpack Review

The Osprey Atmos AG 65 is one of the best-selling backpacks on the market. If you take any well-trodden trekking trail, you are likely to come across at least a few people using this bad boy.

PaddleTV Best Kayak Awards for 2022

Award season continues with my picks for the Best-in-Class kayaks of 2022. In order to claim such a crown, these kayaks had to demonstrate...

Top 5 Inflatable and Folding Kayaks of 2022 | PaddleTV Award Winners

Today's category is portable kayaks. These are the 5 inflatable kayaks and portable kayaks that not only made a great impression on me, but demonstrated their ability to deliver a quality experience for lots of different paddlers. 

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 3400 Backpack Review

For the last couple of seasons I have mainly been reviewing luxury, high-comfort trekking bags. So even though the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 3400 is a tried-and-true thru-hiker's backpack, I thought it was high time that I shared my full breakdown of it.

Sea Eagle 330 Kayak Review | A Gateway Kayak

"Gateway" kayaks are a double-edged sword. On the one hand, they can be accessible and affordable boats that get new people excited about paddling. On the other hand, if someone's first foray into the sport ends up being a lousy experience, then this may turn them off for life.

NRS Axiom Dry Suit Review: How do I choose a dry suit?

One of my primary missions with this platform is to encourage more and more people to get out on the water. And once you're a paddler at heart, I want your experiences to be as enjoyable, comfortable, and safe as possible.

New Hiking Gear Summer 2022

I’m happy to report that I had a summer full of rewarding backpacking trips. From as far off as the mountains of Peru to familiar trails in my own backyard, there were no shortage of opportunities to do what I love most.

Backpacking Essentials For 3 Night 4 Day Backpacking Trip

A 3 night, 4 day trip is the classic backpacking adventure. You get a thorough taste of the hiking/camping experience, and it’s short enough that you can carry everything you need, without having to worry about resupplies.

Decathlon Itiwit Inflatable Kayak Review – Walmart Kayak Review

It’s time for another in-depth, unbiased gear review. For this round I decided to go to my local Walmart and get the cheapest kayak set-up I could find. I ended up walking out of there with a paddle, a life jacket, a pair of booties, and the Decathlon Itiwit inflatable kayak, which is billboarded as a 2-3 person kayak, but I fared just fine on my own.

Backpacking Gear Top 3 Mistakes

I’ve been doing a lot of backpacking lately with people who are newer to the pasttime. This means that I’ve borne witness (bared witness? Ah whatever, you get the idea) to a number of cringe-worthy mistakes by my peers who mean well, but just aren’t in the know. I see flubs while hiking, faux-pas around the tent, and self-defeating practices that scare off that precious backcountry sleep.

Gearlab Outdoors Kalleq Review

Let’s talk about the Gearlab Outdoors Kalleq Greenland paddle. Having paddled with a typical kayak paddle for over 30 years, moving to a Greenland paddle has been a surprisingly difficult adjustment for me.

Zoleo Satellite Communicator Review

For me, as a person that heads into the backcountry regularly, spending $500 per year to have a communication device that will work anywhere and at any time seems like a very reasonable deal.