Hiking Skills
Build a Campfire in Rain Without Smothering It
A dry tinder core, split deadwood, and a raised fire lay help a small flame catch after rain; follow these steps and know when to use a stove instead.
October 24, 2026
Tag: Camping Essentials
HIKEMATIC
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Tents
How to Choose a Compact Tent That Still Feels Livable
A compact tent should save pack space without inviting leaks or cramped nights. Use this guide to weigh packed size, comfort, weather protection, and setup.
August 4, 2026
Tents
Best windproof tent: Hilleberg Jannu tops our picks
The Hilleberg Jannu leads our windproof tent picks for serious storm protection, with alternatives like the North Face Mountain 25 for budget-conscious campers.
February 4, 2025
Hiking Gear Reviews
REI Passage 2 Leads Best Hiking Tents Under $200
Compare 10 durable hiking tents under $200, tested for weight, waterproofing, and real-world performance. Find your match for backpacking trips.
February 1, 2025
Product Comparisons
2-Person vs. 4-Person Tents: What’s Best for Your Adventure?
Choosing the right tent is vital for a great outdoor time, whether it’s car camping or backpacking. Picking between a 2-person tent like the MSR
January 14, 2025
Tents
Fireproof Tents: What You Actually Need to Know
No camping tent is truly fireproof. Learn what fire-resistant means, which tents are actually safer, and how distance and setup matter more than fabric claims.
January 10, 2025
Tents
How to Store a Tent Without Damaging Its Coating
Clean and dry every tent part, then store it loosely indoors to help prevent mildew, hydrolysis, creasing, and waterproof-coating failure over time.
January 5, 2025
Tents
Best Budget Tents: Coleman Sundome, ALPS Lynx 2
The Coleman Sundome at $120 leads our budget tent picks for car camping. Compare the ALPS Lynx 2 and Wenzel Lone Elk with honest limits and setup tips.
January 1, 2025
Tents
Top Tents with Built-In Screens for Bug-Free Camping
I’m a big fan of camping, and picking the right gear is critical for comfort. A tent with a built-in screen keeps bugs out and
December 15, 2024
Tents
Best Tents for Heavy Rain: REI Base Camp 6 Leads
The REI Co-op Base Camp 6 tops our picks for heavy rain camping with storm-focused design that handles wind-driven rain better than tall cabin-style tents.
December 3, 2024
Product Comparisons
Why a Headlamp Beats a Lantern on Night Hikes
A headlamp should lead your night-hiking setup: see when to add a handheld flashlight, why lanterns belong at camp, and how to choose beam control.
November 21, 2024
Product Comparisons
Down vs. Synthetic Sleeping Bags: Which is Right for You?
Choosing the right gear is key when heading into the wild. One major decision is between down and synthetic sleeping bags. This choice affects comfort,
October 23, 2024
Guides
How to Plan a Multi-Day Hiking Adventure: A Step-by-Step Guide
Going on a multi-day hike is an exciting adventure. You’ll need to pick the right place and pack the right gear. This guide covers key
October 22, 2024
Guides
How to do Laundry When Camping (The Simple Way)
Ever wondered how to keep your clothes clean in the wild? It can be tough to stay clean outdoors. Yet, with the right tricks, doing
August 21, 2024