Using the Right Camera Bags for Adventure Photography

Adventure photographers are a rare breed of people who find a special satisfaction sharing the greatness nature has to offer through their creative imagery. It is this unselfish attitude that makes it possible for regular people to discover the unique beauties of this world. Many photographers have a utilitarian mindset and do not focus on the unessential. That is what draws many of them to the outdoors. Nature tends to favor non excessive behavior. Unfortunately this utilitarian mindset leads many a photographer to not pay attention to what they are using to carry around their equipment. In order to be a professional adventure photographer you need to have the correct equipment. Adventure photographers will spend thousands of dollars to have the right kind of cameras, lenses, speed lights, tripods and other gear to get the perfect shot, but their utilitarian mindset will lead them to use the most convenient solution around to carry their gear. Many photographers will use old backpacks, bags and socks to carry their cameras and lenses. Any and all investment money goes to cameras, lenses, etc. Unfortunately this can lead to damaged equipment and an uncomfortable experience.

Photographers should be as careful to pick out their camera bags, camera backpacks and camera cases as they are when they are buying their cameras. It is worth it to spend that extra amount of money to protect your valuable investments.

Tips for getting the right camera bag, camera backpack, and camera case.

1. It is important that your camera bag has padding to protect your camera from banging against narrow canyon walls or accidental falls.

2. Make sure your camera is packed snuggly in your pack. If your camera is flopping around in your bag that is a recipe for things breaking.

3. Make sure the water you carry does not spill on your electronic gear. Many photographers have had accidents where their water jug leaked onto their expensive camera! If you are going to carry water make sure your pack has a water bladder with a drainage hole so that your camera remains dry in case of a leak!

4. Make sure your camera backpack is not hurting your back. Many backpacks are designed so that your shoulders carry most of the weight. The best backpacks are the ones that distribute the weight of the pack evenly so that your lower back is carrying the weight evenly with your shoulders.

5. Use the right camera case for the right activity. There is no such thing as one bag for all occasions. You would not want to use a shoulder bag while repelling would you?

Following these guidelines will help you protect your valuable gear while providing more comfort so you can focus on getting the perfect shot!

For more information on camera bags, camera backpacks and camera cases visit http://clikelite.com/adventure-photography-clik-elite-business/become-a-camera-bag-camera-backpack-dealer/

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Why Hiking Can Help A Relationship

Hiking can help a relationship in so many ways. Along with having separate activities it is nice to find things you both enjoy together as well. Hiking could be one of those things. It is easy to do, costs little to nothing and is great exercise.. You can share the wilderness together. You don't need experience or expertise. It is so basic anyone can do it. A nearby trail is usually not far away. I have at least three near me.

How about the magnificent views. Choosing paths with beautiful scenery can be an amazing shared experience. Something you will remember forever. It proves to be very romantic. May even help you fall more and more in love with your partner while you appreciate anything from waterfalls to wild flowers, mountains, rivers and lakes.

"Working out together is one of the very best things a couple can do to ensure a long, vibrant relationship," says Stephen Braveman a sexual therapist. Exercise greatly reduces residual body stress. Plus a little bit of healthy competition can even enhance your workouts because if your partner is going father on the hike it will push you to want to go farther too. Improving your health will make you better looking, you'll be more attractive, more attracted to each other and live a longer life together..

You will be able to understand each other better, because you can talk and hike. After work my partner and I would hike. While hiking I would tell my partner about my day, my concerns etc and he would tell about his day. We would coordinate our schedules much easier while hiking. Anytime we had a disagreement and we were maybe getting a little heated it always helped us to cool down, to walk it out. Every time we ended up hashing it out in a positive way rather than the energy building up inside us.This is an excellent way to dissolve tension. It can really heal a relationship.

Looking for trails on vacation with also keep you in shape while you are away and you can find those incredible views filled with memories for a lifetime. Planning your vacation around hikes will keep your weight done even while you indulge in food and drinks. You can gradually build up your hiking levels to overnight stays, where you're waking up with the sunrise and sleeping under the stars.

Backpacking maybe your best vacation yet! You can find hiking gear for those adventures at http://www.backpackingtentsetc.com.

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Trekking - Travel to Find Yourself

ICE (information, communication, and entertainment) Age bestows good times, nurturing the global socializing, defying the time zone differences. As a result, individuality, honesty, a non-judgmental approach, expression, and exploration are the beautiful takeaways. We are growing fearless, in the right way. Say hello to the 'global' 'YOLO' generation believing in You Only Live Once! The dare and not the age is the identifier here. Aptly enough, adventure activities are 'the' core friend, philosopher, and guide of these adventure enthusiasts. Helping us inch closer to the nature and in turn life, adventure pursuits inculcate the values of adjustment and co-existence. Trekking is the starting point of this self-conclave at the physical, mental, and emotional level. Fitness is a beautiful side effect of this.

What is a trek?

A trek is a combination of walking and hiking through a terrain with varied ascents and descents punctuating it. Ranging from a day to multi-day trips, trek patches are remote or rural areas, inaccessible through transportation. Going unreachable is exactly the pull force for the trekkers.

Why the 'YOLO' Generation takes risk?

The enthusiasm of seeing the challenging, but virgin, beautiful lands, 'enjoying' the glories of the day & the fears of the night, 'discovering' your abilities, appreciating human connect & help, learning the magnitude & the magnanimity of Mother Nature, graduating your thresholds, and endorsing 'you only live once,' trekking is inherently addictive. Undertaking calculated physical risks opens your mental boundaries and makes you emotionally even. Fitness is a beautiful side effect here. The clarity as a person helps you deal with life at all levels, both personal & professional. You understand higher the risk, better the returns. That is the reason we see excellence redefined in relationships, humanity, art, science, and commerce!

Who can trek?

Based on the terrain's physical features and climate, a trek has three levels: easy, moderate, difficult. Opt for a grade depending on your experience and ability to cope. Kids up to 12 years or those physically on the weaker side should begin ideally with easy treks. Those fit and setting out first can begin directly from the moderate level. Your adventure professional is the best guide here, since it is about your overall health. Going wrong here is not worth the risk.

Whom should you trek with?

Well, obviously friends or the people you can go string free with. Timing the travel, sticking to the schedule, acclimatizing, moral boosting (very important, because at a point you do feel like giving up), and gearing for the unforeseen situations like injury, adverse climate, are some essentials of trekking. With high-grade preparatory investment involved, it is surely best packaged with an adventure professional. Just focus on inventing yourself. Open up. You are about to change for good. Just have the 'courage' to let go and find the incredible you!

The author Rakhi Sinha is the Founder & Owner of The Syntax Systems (TSS) ( http://www.thesyntaxsystems.com ), global content service provider. We deliver a wide variety of content on a broad spectrum of subjects. For our content & related services, please mail us on contact@thesyntaxsystems.com. Read more about travel at: http://thesyntaxsystems.blogspot.in/2013/03/the-joys-of-hawaiian-islands.html

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The Various Aspects Of Buying Cheap Holiday Homes Online

The very decision of buying cheap holiday homes brings in various important thoughts to the mind and also needs various approaches to deal with the same. The first and foremost criterion is the financial aspect that is a major lookout of many individuals and travelers. But apart from this there are also other important issues to focus upon while going to buy a holiday home or an apartment. There is other important strategy which requires extensive exploration before moving ahead in this regard. Below we provide you a brief outline of some of these aspects.

How to buy the cheap holiday home online for sale? For the very first stage you need to choose the location that best suits you and also meets all your requirements and demands.The surrounding atmosphere plays a major role and one should choose the location with the atmosphere pertaining to one's taste. So the first decision in this respect is to select the location which aligns by the side of lake, mountains or countryside or some other location of your choice. The online facility in this respect offers you with all sorts of examples and catalogues that display various homes along with the type of surrounding offered by them.

Pay a visit to the area: It is an important and a smart move to personally visit the area and check out all its specifications and aspects. If the area or location is in extreme remote place then it is extremely viable and feasible to check out the various communication links and other emergency services that are rendered in that place. You must be developing a strong contact list that comes in close proximity with that area. This act will enable you to secure the optimum services in this respect.

Choose the right accommodation for your purpose which is enabled with all the modern amenities: The holiday homes serve various useful purposes and are meant to offer you the best accommodation while you are out with your family and friends. The excellent accommodation in this respect should be well furnished with all the modern amenities and should also offer an elegant surrounding. In addition to this you should have a proper arrangement of mortgage. The set up of this mortgage policy depends on the location of the property and other factors too.

Renting a cottage in the tourist place is a great holiday choice, especially if you are looking for peace and quiet and the freedom. This is a great idea for family holidays and groups as you can usually find sufficient places that are large enough to accommodate everyone. There is a home away from home with plenty of destinations to choose from whether you are looking for a countryside hideaway or coastal retreat, you wish to come and go as you anywhere without any time barrier to keep to.

Cheap holiday homes online offers varied ranges of cheap and affordable villas displayed on the web with all their properties and also the price ranges supported by them. The best move in this regard will be to choose a villa that is near to some of the major tourist spots. This will offer you with ample number of opportunities such as interacting with new people, adhering their culture and custom etc. In fact these are the major points which supplement your search policy and also enable you to make the right and most appropriate decision in this respect.

Jeo Nash is a writer of and he is a fan of nature and travel globally. He shared a magic experience of booking cheap holiday homes online, and he attempts to create the holiday homes manias among the travel lovers.

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Visit a Sports Store for Rentals Before Hiking or Backpacking

Despite the enjoyment of exploring the outdoors, hikers and campers should consider a few things before hitting the trails, especially for first-timers. Checking out the right sports store is important to ensure that you get the right equipment. Also, for those interested in kayaking, camping, or skiing, the proper store will have all the rental options you need. Here are a few things to consider before making your first journey on an outdoor trail.

For those who are financially strained and don't want to go through the hassle of renting a tent, hiking is still an option. In fact, going hiking is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and it doesn't have to be an all weekend affair. As long as there's a trail within a few hours, you can hit the trails and back in a single day adventure. For those unaccustomed to the outdoors, a pair of water-proof boots might be a good investment, especially if you plan on going outdoors regularly throughout the year. They don't have to be your typical, rubber rain boots, which may not be suitable for hiking. Plenty of shoe brands offer great, inexpensive boots that are not only waterproof, but contain the proper mountain treads ideal for adventuring in the outdoors.

For those who want a little more adventure, the right sports store will have all the rental options you need. They can provide goods if you plan to be out for longer an overnight or weekend trip. Be sure to consider the seasonal changes. While water-proof boots are great all year round, snow shoes are essential for anyone wishing to brave the outdoors during the winter.

If you plan on going outdoors for longer than a weekend, you'll want to consider heavily what your rental options are, and what type of gear you need for your trip. At the bare minimum, consider renting a tent and a backpack. The backpack especially, because you'll want to keep your hands free while hiking, especially through rugged terrain. Also, you'll need somewhere to keep your food supplies, which could become heavy and cumbersome. For lighter loads, consider and internally framed backpack, which hugs and conforms to the shape of the body, which provides easier movement and allows the hiker to be more agile. Whereas externally framed backpacks are larger, but can carry a heavier load.

The backpack will also give you a place to store your tent while you're hiking, which will make your trip much easier. Most of all, if you plan on bringing a small camping stove, be sure to check the regulations of the park if you are, indeed, camping in a state or national park. Many park rangers keep strict guidelines to ensure that the wildlife is safe and that the park's ecosystem is protected. Consider meeting with a local park ranger before going on your trip.

The best advice for those wishing to brave the outdoors is to be prepared, and the employees at your local sports store can help you do this. If you're unsure about the seasonal changes, or how to brave the weather out on the trails, then it's best to speak with somebody before venturing outdoors. These folks will help you find the right equipment and ensure that you know where you are going, and what you might be facing when you get out there.

When looking for a sports store, Kalamazoo residents visit Lee's Adventure Sports. Learn more at http://www.leesadventuresports.com/.

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Seven Reasons You Should Pack Your Bags Right Away and Go Traveling

It is often said that traveling is for losers or for those who are basically unemployed. But what has changed now is the aspect that people are leaving their high paying professions to pursue traveling. More than a luxury, traveling has become an inseparable part of our lives. It not only helps in refreshing our soul but also leaves a lifetime impression on us. Even though sitting in a box can bring you truckloads of money, but what makes you really happy is going to new places, getting close to the nature and embracing different cultures. People have accepted that money no longer give them true happiness and that it's what give them satisfaction becomes more important.

Here are the seven reasons you should pack your bags right away and go traveling right away:

1. Peace of mind: Imagine sitting in a room and getting stressed over things that your boss has told you to do. And now imagine sitting in a lush green jungle appreciating the peace and forgetting everything related to work. The second scenario will anytime give you more happiness than boss shouting on you. Getting close to nature not only brings you closer to yourself but help you realize the importance every little thing has in our life.

2. Scientifically proven: Scientists have proved that traveling is much more satisfying than earning money. After earning a specific amount of money that is necessary to pay rents and bills, it's not the amount of money but how happy you are that really matters. It has been proved ample times that people who travel more are happier than people who earn more.

3. You want to see new faces: For how many days can you see same faces again and again. After meeting same set of people day after day weeks after weeks, it's only travel that can help us witness something new. Meeting new people, making friends and exchanging stories at different junctures can not only help you become more expressive but can help you rediscover your true self. At the end of the journey you will be surprised to know how drastically you have changed in a positive way.

4. It's too boring to spend 6 days at work: Can you imagine how dull it can be to spend 6 days a week at office working from 9 AM to 6 PM. Completing task after tasks, assignments, presentations and projects leave you trapped inside a little bubble which makes it even difficult to break. Never forget what you really want to do and never compromise your happiness with a profession that no longer appeals to you. Moreover, your boss might also take benefits of your hard work and traveling with his wife and kids.

5. You want to experience things first hand: Your friend just returned from a vacation and he is telling you how adventurous it was with all the fun he had. Do you want to listen to him or make experience them on your own? When you travel you not only gain new experiences but help you become an expert storyteller whom everybody is envious of. Imagine sleeping beneath sky full of stars or on a railway platform, you can only experience these things if you travel.

6. Different cuisines: Are you a foodie? Are you bounded by your work hours? It's said that in India culture and style of cooking changes after every 4 kilometers. With 29 states and 6 union territories, imagine the different types of dishes you will experience and tickle your taste buds with. From Rogan Josh in Kashmir to Parotta in Kerala you will taste so many different types of dishes here that will make you fall in love with food all over again.

7. Make Memories: From running on the beach barefoot with your girlfriend or eating from a shady roadside vendor when you are traveling alone. You will return to home with so many memories that you will make you laugh, cry or angry over things you did and things you missed. These are the memories that will stay with you for life and will calm you down when you are depressed or angry with yourself.

So go out and make use of every little bit of time available, as it can never return again and will make you proud of the things that you have accomplished while traveling.

However travelling alone is not all that fun. It can leave you exhausted after a while and make you search for the friends.

Make your life exciting, go out on weekends, if you don't love your job say it goodbye. There's so much more to life than stupid 9 to 5 jobs. People have conquered the world before you, think of giving them a run for their money, and make your own memories. Life is too small to give others a chance to force you into doing things that they want. So read my blogs ask whatever you want.
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The Lovely English Village of Bibury

The Cotswolds region is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque areas in England. Aside from the surrounding lush countryside, river valley, gorgeous gardens and historic properties, the region captivates you with its beautiful old limestone villages.

Spring is the probably the best time to be at this rolling countryside that exudes the classic look of England. During this period, you can pursue more outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, horseback riding, golfing, camping and visiting outdoor markets and gardens. The Cotswold region is composed of six counties, which are Worcestershire, Bath, Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, North East Somerset and Warwickshire. Within each counties are absolutely charming villages waiting to be explored and appreciated for their outstanding architecture and uniqueness.

Among these impressive villages, Bibury manages to still stand out. In fact, the village is often considered the most beautiful village in England. It is located within the Gloucestershire County, about 9 miles from the town of Burford. Set in an idyllic location and surrounded by dramatic meadows, the village mesmerizes visitors with its ancient stone cottages marked by steep pitched roofs.

The best set of these cottages are found in Arlington Row. This lane is lined with 17th century cottages that are an absolute treat to the eyes due to their distinct layout and sepia color. The River Col, which flows into the village, makes the perfect scenic backdrop for these cottages. So the most important thing you should do before visiting Arlington Row is to get your camera fully charged and ready; as you won't be able to resist trying to capture its beauty.

The Arlington Row homes were originally built by weavers who worked in the Arlington Mill. And even though the Mill ceased operation, it was transformed into a museum as an excellent reminder of the rich and colorful lives of weavers, centuries ago. After having a relaxing stroll along this lane of homes, head out to the other nearby attractions like the Church of St. Mary and the Bibury Trout Farm.

The Church of St. Mary is a Saxon Church and home to a famous stained glass window designed by Karl Parsons in 1927. Some of the original Saxon artefacts, which once belonged to the church were relocated to the British Museum for preservation. You can still see the replicas of these artefacts in the chutch today. You can find the Church of St. Mary near the main square which marks as the center of the village.

The Bibury Trout Farm is a must-visit in the village especially for families. River Coln is known for its abundance of high quality trout, and thus, this lovely farm was built. While here, the prime activity is to catch your own trout. So if you have not gone trout fishing before, you will learn some valuable tricks and techniques here. But you don't just stop at fishing, you can also get to eat fresh trout meals at the farm's restaurant.

It is possible to make Bibury a day trip destination but spending a night or two in the village is a wonderful experience and gives you the luxury of marveling at the village at different times. If you decide to stay longer, Bibury has lovely lodging facilities, including hotels, self-catering holiday cottages and bed and breakfast, to choose from.

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TRANSFORMING THE WAY WE TRAVEL

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Pack Light for Backpacking

The best thing you can do for backpacking (a mix between camping and hiking) is to go as light as you can. You will feel the difference this makes once you are out on a trail. Here are a few things you can do.

Scrutinize each piece of gear you plan on taking. Figure out what is necessary and what can you can do without. A lot of gear can serve many uses. Ask yourself if these items are worth your back hurting if you decide to carry them. Then look for the smallest and lightest weight gear. Many of the more expensive items are better made and turn out to be better in the long run. Check for the multiple use of an item because often times it will save you from bringing extra items that you won't need.

Here are some suggestions for proper placement when backing your camping gear. Pack camping gear in logical groups and stuff sacks in little bags. Be careful when packing smaller items, they can poke if packed too loosely or shift position when hiking and even get lost in your backpack. Start with putting sleeping bags on the bottom. They can help reduce the stress on your shoulders. Heavy items should be packed horizontally across the width of the backpack so the weight is equally distributed. Leave the heaviest items closest to the middle of your back. Water bottles go in the side pockets it is best to have one on each side of the pack. Poles for the tent should go in a side pocket and are secured with compression straps. These straps press the load closer to the frame of the pack for better balance and weight transfer with the majority of the weight being near your back. This helps have a more comfortable hike. The tent body goes nicely in an external mesh pocket or at the bottom of a backpack. Items that are used often during the day should be kept on a hip belt pocket or side pocket. Spare clothing is best kept at the top where you can get to them without unpacking. Fill all empty space in your backpack. This will give the pack structure and stop the gear from shifting when you walk. A fully loaded backpack should not tilt or twist.

Analyzing your camping gear before, during and after each hike, in other words, all the time is good practice. Looking through your gear piece by piece.to notice whether it was necessary to bring them at all. Look at how you wear your clothes to reduce the weight. In the process of camping or hiking find all the unnecessary items. I guarantee you that you will find new things to discard every trip. The more backpacking one does the more things you will find to discard. Of course starting out with manufactured lightweight camping gear is the way to go.

To find ultra lightweight tents, and other lightweight camping gear go to http://www.backpackingtentsetc.com.

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Save Money on Your Small Business Road Trips

Trips for More Budget Conscious Business Trips

When big business and big business professionals have to travel, they generally are not concerned with the costs associated with it. For some small businesses, travel is a must, but they often do not have the budget dollars to spend willy-nilly on fancy hotels or unnecessary stays. If traveling is an important part of keeping your business running, but you do not necessarily have the funds, here are some tips that can allow you to travel when needed without breaking the business' bank.

Make the Most of Your Rewards Miles or Points

Many major credit cards offer frequent flyer miles or travel points for their customers. Although these are great, and small businesses generally earn a lot of miles, it can sometimes be hard to use them. Airlines often ask for a ridiculous amount of miles when booking flights and will sometimes not allow rewards members to use their miles on the flights they want. Hotels are the same way - it takes a large number of rewards points to even get one free night when clients spend a lot to earn them.

One way to make the most out of these rewards is to use services like AwardWallet.com or Traxo.com - these services request access to your loyalty accounts and will alert you to any deals or special offers hotels and airlines may be having. Additionally, they will also let you know when your miles or reward points are expiring so you can work to use them before they are done. While this is a great way to leverage your rewards, remember that these sites may not work with all airlines and hotels.

Shop Smart for Rental Cars

Often, hotels and airline flights will need to be paid upfront and making any changes to your reservations can often cost you extra money. One aspect of traveling that can be changed at any time is using a rental car. While you should still reserve your car when making your initial travel plans, there is nothing stopping you from "re-shopping" the rental car prices right before you take a trip. Often, this will result in finding a lower rental rate and making the reservation change costs you nothing.

Get Corporate Hotel Rates

Many larger companies work out deals with hotel chains - the company makes the hotel chain their preferred hotel for all travel and the hotel offers them a discounted rate. Often, smaller businesses do not travel enough to be able to secure these types of rates... Or can they? Services such as QuikBook.com allow small businesses access to the same discounts as larger corporations.

QuikBook.com is a major player in the hotel game in popular markets such as New York, Washington D.C., Chicago, and San Diego. The only downside to using QuikBook.com is that they use a "blind booking tool" - this means that you will not know what hotel you are staying in until you have paid a non-refundable fee. Although the uncertainty is unnerving, you will be able to book hotel rooms at a fraction of the cost you would be paying without using the service.

Stacy O'Quinn is a work from home professional helping new entrepreneurs develop their own opportunities to create a six-figure income. If you would like to see how Stacy can help you, click here.

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The Adventure Travel Tips for Solo Travelers

You may be intimidated at the thought of traveling alone to a country that you have not visited before. But if you are able to overcome your fear and your sense of insecurity that arise in your mind, then it is certain that you will enjoy your trip to a great extent. It is a wonderful opportunity to travel around the world and it is considered to be a memorable experience for you. This article will highlight on the top adventure travel destinations that are considered to be suitable for the solo travelers.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is considered to be the best hub of adventurous activities. As a solo traveler, you can have enough time to spend outside enjoying the natural scenery of the place, basking in the sun as well as watching the wildlife roaming around the place. Other adventurous activities include zip lining tour, kayaking trip and so on. In fact, Costa Rica is named as one of the safest countries to travel for the solo travelers.

Finland

Whether you visit this spectacular place during the summer season or you want to go to the place during the winter season, you can get a glance of wilderness and scenic beauty of the country. Long tracks of jungles and long stretches of rivers and lakes make Finland offers the best place to visit in order to enjoy different types of water sport activities. Night time travel in Finland is another popular activity for the solo visitors.

Chile

The word Chile is synonymous with adventure and excitement. If you want to travel on your own, it is advisable that you should choose Chile for your next trip. You can either go to the northern side of the country to visit the Atacama Desert or you can travel in the southern part of the country to watch Patagonia. If you wish, you can go to Santiago to watch the scenic beauty of the place from close proximity.

California

It is situated on the western coast of North American province. It offers everything for the amusement of solo travelers. California is a peaceful abode to popular tourist attractions such as Disneyland, Malibu beach and Hollywood while the northern side of California features Smoky Mountains, majestic hills of San Francisco, the wineries of the Napa Valley and a few more. Outside the major cities of California, solo travelers visit the spectacular national parks, participate in hiking and zip lining tours and enjoy walking round the dense forests.

Thailand

Pristine beaches, outdoor activities and delicious food make Thailand quite popular amongst the solo tourists across the world. If you want to travel alone and you want to make new friends then you should plan your trip to Thailand. In the northern part of the country, you will watch how the forests and fields bump up against the snow capped mountains. Limestone cliffs, majestic waterfalls and picturesque landscape draw attention of the solo visitors from every corner of the world.

Norway

The best option for the solo travelers to explore a vast country that is almost one thousand miles long is to sail up to the pristine coasts or even trek around the creeks and cliffs. For comfortable accommodation they can stay in comfortable hotels or they can even stay in exclusive mountain huts.

Smoky Mountain Adventure Review is an informational web site that provides vital information to the visitors related to Smoky Mountain zip lines and other adventurous activities. Do you to know more about Zip Lines in Gatlinburg? Visit the site to know about the famous zip line companies in the in the Tennessee Smoky Mountains.

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How to Buy a Hiking Backpack

Being lifelong travelers, we all love our lightweight, multipurpose gear that can withstand the rigors of the road. Gear should be dependable, multifunctional, durable and perform beyond expectations. Nothing could be truer when it comes to buying a good hiking backpack, especially considering it's going to be your home away from home. Traveling, especially long-term, will literally test the limits of your bag and your body, and as such this decision should never be made impulsively. Buying your backpack should not be a rushed decision and factors like trip length, capacity, material, functionally and comfort should always be considered. When I first got serious about investing in a good pack, I was at REI for a good 3 hours -I think they started to suspect I was applying for a job.

If my three hours was any indication, buying a good backpack is not an easy task. With hundreds of backpack manufacturers and styles, it can understandably be overwhelming. Whatever you do, don't go cheap. You'll be doing yourself a disservice and end up buying a new one anyways. A good backpack is an investment. You needn't spend $500 on a backpack, but be wary of cheap, no-frills, run of the mill $70 brands, as you'll regret the design flaws and absence of extras. Spend a little more for a good backpack from a trusted brand, and it will be your companion for many trips to come. The Osprey pack I eventually settled on has traveled with me from the U.S to the Middle East for 10 awesome years and I know it has another good 10 years to go.

Travel Backpack or Hiking Backpack

Before you begin shopping for the right pack, it's important to know the difference between travel backpacks and hiking backpacks. A travel backpack is a backpack-suitcase hybrid with a zippered side panel similar to a suitcase. Hiking backpacks are the more commonly seen cylindrical top loading packs with straps, clips and a top lid. Some people have an opinion that hiking backpacks are only suited for the backcountry and has no place for the backpacker, I disagree. What works for you ultimately comes down to personal preference and style of travel. Travel backpacks are great for easy, organized access to gear and transporting from hostel to hostel. They also function well for short walks or even as a daypack.

On the other hand, if you possibly have camping or long treks in your travel plans, you may want to consider a hiking backpack. Hiking backpacks are designed for comfort, proper weight distribution, and toughness. Unlike a travel backpack, hiking backpacks will have enhancements like full-sized hip belts, shoulder and back suspension systems along with plenty of load bearing straps to mitigate discomfort. Granted the top down packing isn't as convenient to access your gear, but that's part in parcel to proper weight distribution. A good compromise would be to get a hiking backpack with side load access.

I am generalizing a bit as they do have travel backpacks that are in the upper capacity range with more advanced suspension systems, but if you're going to get a 70L travel backpack, you may as well go with a hiking backpack. Trust me, you'll be glad you did for that unexpected 20 mile trek to the next town.

Personal Backpacking Style

Next, determine the style of travel you normally like to do. Unless you're willing to buy a different backpack for each trip, figuring out your travel style will save you a lot of money in the long run and give you a piece of foundation gear that's ready for any trip. For instance, if you generally go on week long trips you needn't get a high capacity bag and could probably get away with a 35 liter to 50 liter (L) pack, whereas living long-term on the road may require 65L or greater.

Size is pretty subjective though and shouldn't be the only determining factor. Some people are able to pack very bare bones, where others require a bit more. Consider these factors:

How long is your trip:

Depending on the length of your trip the capacity and overall weight of your pack will vary. Short trips require less capacity, and long trips typically require more. But be aware that the bigger the pack the heavier it will become. 50lbs may not seem a lot at first, but 2 months in and it will feel like a ton of bricks.

What Type of Activities will you do:

I personally feel that one bag can rule them all since I generally use my pack for everything. However, this may not be the case for everyone. Knowing what type of activity you'll be doing will help you zero in on that perfect backpack. If you're not planning on carrying it around much, consider a travel backpack or even a wheeled backpack, whereas if you foresee yourself doing long treks then a hiking backpack may be more suitable. I like to be prepared for any type of spontaneous activity, so I lean more towards hiking backpacks. Also, hiking backpacks are generally made a bit tougher, so keep in mind that the more challenging the activity, the greater the stress on the bag.

Lightweight or the kitchen sink:

Although I mentioned earlier that size is not the main determining factor, it's still important to consider capacity based on what you plan to bring. If ultra light is your goal, avoid high capacity backpacks as you'll invariably bring too much or if you do manage to pack light your backpack won't distribute the weight properly. Conversely, if your backpack is too small, you won't be able to fit everything in. Have an idea of the gear you're bringing and pick the capacity of your bag accordingly. Don't hesitate to bring your items to the store to see how it fits in the packs. A reputable retailer, like REI, won't have a problem with this.

What To Look For In A Hiking Backpack

Backpacks vary in functionality as much as they do in appearance, with the more expensive models having the most bells and whistles. As with everything, your decision here is closely related to what type of traveling you like to do.

Water Resistant

Your pack is probably not going to be completely waterproof. Meaning, if submerged, or in a torrential downpour your clothing and equipment will still get wet. Although most backpacks now come with a rain cover, you still want it to be made of a tough, rip proof, and lightweight silicone coated nylon or Cordura type material that allows rain or water to bead off and not soak through.

Detachable Daypack

this option is really a personal preference, and not really a deal breaker, as many travelers bring an additional pack for day trips. But for those focused on traveling light, carrying two bags can be cumbersome. I personally like the option of a detachable daypack as I have it only when I need it. On my Osprey, the top lid doubles as a daypack. Not as comfortable as a dedicated daypack, but it serves its purpose.

Heavy-duty Lockable Zippers

A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. No matter how good the material of the backpack, if the attachment points, like zippers, are weak the whole bag is worthless. Make sure the zippers are tough and lockable where applicable.

Pockets and Compartments

The more compartments the better. Good backpacks usually have a number of compartments to help store and separate your gear so you won't have to sift through layers of clothes just to find your chapstick. For instance, maps can go in the top flap, while your flip-flops are stored conveniently in the side pocket. However you decide to pack, separate pockets allow easy and quick access to your gear. Most backpacks will also have strategically placed pockets, like on the hipbelt, so you can get to your gear without having to drop your pack.

Lightweight Internal Frame

Backpacks generally come with an internal frame, external frame, or no frame at all. I strongly recommend a lightweight internal frame made from strong carbon fiber rods. This provides more load support and just looks better. External frames are bulky, conspicuous, and use dated technology and frameless backpacks have awful load support at higher weights. Trust me, without proper weight distribution, you're shoulders are going to feel every single one of those pounds.

Side Load Access

I'm seeing less and less of this function on the newer backpacks, but if you do happen to find one with side access you're golden. You'll be able to access items from the main compartment of the bag without digging in from the top. You're life will just be that much simpler.

Suspension System with Padded Shoulders and Load Bearing Straps

Don't even consider buying a backpack unless it has either an adjustable or fixed suspension system, along with a bunch of load bearing straps. The suspension system is the part that usually rests against your back and where the padded shoulders connect. Fixed system means that it fits to one torso size, whereas the adjustable system can be calibrated. The whole system is meant to help stabilize load and transfer weight to your hips. The load bearing straps, like the sternum strap, will also help move the weight around minimizing pain and discomfort.

Ventilation

To minimize the discomfort from an annoying sweaty back, get a backpack with ventilation. Most internal-frame packs will have some sort of ventilation system or design feature that promotes airflow, creating a permanent breathable layer between yourself and the backpack. Although not essential for load support, it certainly increases your comfort level.

Padded Full-size Hip belt

This is probably the most important feature of any backpack since your hips will be carrying 80% of your backpacks weight. The padding in the belt will help you avoid fatigue, discomfort, and of course load distribution. Make sure you get one that's full-size, where the padding comes around your hip bone to the front, and isn't just a thin strap with a clip.

Multiple Straps and Tool Attachment Points

This feature is a personal preference and doesn't really impact comfort and load distribution but I do feel it's just as important. I like the idea of having excess straps, clips and tool attachment points. You're able to perform on-the-fly spot fixes for a variety of unexpected circumstances, making your backpack function more than just as a bag. You're able to tie, hook, and rig a whole mess of things while on the road without having to carry additional gear. Some backpacks have begun to include "daisy chains" (typically found on climbing packs) which is a series of tool attachment loops.

Internal Hydration Reservoir

An internal compartment that holds your favorite hydration bladder (i.e. Camelpak, Platypus) so you have hands free access to H2O. Openings on the backpack will allow you access to the sip tube making it a very practical feature during your long treks. You won't have to dig into your pack or stop your momentum looking for your water bottle.

What size backpack do I need

There's no definitive rule for this question, as it completely depends on your own travel style, trip duration and weather. Generally, the colder the weather the greater the capacity needed; the greater the capacity the greater the overall weight. I try to pack light and bring only what fits in the backpack. So the best advice is to find a bag capacity you're comfortable with, and pack in only what you absolutely need and what fits. I've provided a very broad guideline below:

Trip Length /Capacity in Liters (L)

Day Hikes 25-35L

1-3 Nights 35-50L

3-5 nights 50 to 75L

5+ nights 65+L

How to find the right fit

For the best comfort and proper load distribution you need to make sure your backpack fits correctly. Ideally, you should try it before you buy it, but that's not always an option. To find the correct fit you'll need to find your torso length, not your height, which is the distance, in inches, between your 7th cervical vertebra, and your iliac crest. In other words, from the base of the neck to the top of your hip bones. Once you have this measurement, use this guide:

Backpack Size /Torso Size in Inches

Extra small 15 ½

Small 16 to 17 ½

Medium/Regular 18 to 19 ½"

Large/Tall 20 +

As for your waist size, most backpacks have adjustable hip belts so finding your precise hip size is not as important as determining your torso length. Just make sure the belt sits on top of your hips, with about an inch above and below the belly button.

How much should I spend on a Hiking backpack

You'll find backpacks ranging from under $100 to as high as $600. Unless you have an unlimited budget and want the latest model just because, it isn't necessary to spend more than $300. With that being said, I would also stay away from anything under $150 as they will be lacking on essential features like a suspension system or a padded hip belt. Buying a backpack is an investment, and the last thing you want is for the seams to rip or a shoulder strap to tear off when you need it most. Just make sure your backpack has, at a minimum, the above features and fits comfortably.

The Best Backpack Brands

There are hundreds of great brands out there with an equally daunting number of styles and models. I'm not really the authority on which brand is better than the next. I can only tell you the brands I prefer and those whose quality I have confidence in. I've been using the same Osprey backpack since 2004, and my wife has been using a Gregory for nearly as long. I can honestly say, that after relentless airline abuse, backcountry trips, and overseas adventures, not a single strap, zipper or clip has ever needed replacement. Worth mentioning as well, Osprey and Gregory offer lifetime warranties on all their bags. You'll probably never need it, but it's great to know that the company stands behind their products.

Osprey

With 40 years experience manufacturing backpacks, and a lifetime warranty, Osprey exudes quality. They have one of the largest selections of styles and sizes for all sorts of adventuring, and their packs sport the latest backpacking technology. Osprey is my personal favorite and go to brand of choice; you really can't go wrong with these guys.

Gregory

Like Osprey, these guys specialize in backpacks. My wife will attest to their quality and comfort. She has used her backpack for close to 10 years without a need to ever repair or replace. Gregory also stands behind their products with a lifetime warranty.

The North Face

Originating in San Francisco, The North Face has been developing adventure gear for over 40 years. I've never had the pleasure of using their backpacks, but with their pedigree and lifetime warranty, I would feel confidant carrying their packs any day of the week.

Arc'teryx

Along with having a really cool name, Arc'teryx pumps out some pretty awesome products. They are one of the more expensive brands out there, but if you're willing to pay the price, you'll most certainly get the quality

Deuter

A low to mid range brand, Deuter is a solid choice if you want function for a reasonable price. They've been in the backpacking game since 1968 and are very popular amongst Europeans.

Backpack Accessories

Rain Cover (separate or built in)

Most backpacks are water resistant but not waterproof, making them susceptible to persistent rain exposure. It's a worthwhile addition if your backpack doesn't already come with a built in rain cover. You needn't get a fancy one or spend a lot of money, just make sure it fits your pack size. I use REI's Ducks Back Rain Cover, and it works perfectly fine.

Airporter Bag

The last thing you want is to have your backpack damaged before you even start your trip. With all the straps, exposed shoulder, and hipbelt, it's easy for something to get caught and tear right off. An Airporter bag will cover your entire backpack (think bag within a bag) and protect it during transport. As well, you can put a lock on the lockable zippers as an extra layer of theft deterrence. I have the Osprey Airporter LZ. I wish it was lighter (weighs about 1lb) but I suppose it's worth it for the extra peace of mind.

Well, there you have it, my "how to buy an awesome hiking backpack" guide.

Hi I'm Carey. An aspiring scuba diver, novice spelunker and avid adventurer, I have a penchant for getting lost with an established track record for choosing the worst places to eat. With a healthy aversion to staying in one place for too long, I am the ceaseless wanderer and explorer. I recently traded in the suit for a backpack, and am now pursuing to live a life of travel. I travel to learn, I travel to live and I travel in search of the epic adventure.

Website: http://www.blazeyouradventure.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carey_Leo

Plan Your Dream Vacation With Cost-Saving Holiday Vouchers

After spending week after week at a file-laden desk, we all long for a refreshing break in routine. But planning a holiday can be a pricey affair. Along with travel and stay, you have to factor in the costs of entertainment activities to keep your family amused.

No wonder, many of us are forced to postpone our vacations for when we have cash enough to splurge on a few luxuries. Holiday vouchers make it easier to manage the expenses allowing you to enjoy the vacation of your dreams without denting your pocket. They are quite similar to shopping discount vouchers and codes that you use to shop for clothes, home utility items and groceries.

Types of Holiday Vouchers

The most common ones offered on hotel accommodation. It is not always that hotels and resorts are booked to full capacity. So, instead of letting rooms remain empty, they offer them at a discounted rate. It also works as a sensible marketing strategy. Similarly, there are holiday vouchers on travel and food. Travel vouchers give you discounts on air, rail and road travel.

Processing

Every voucher is processed differently. While for a few, the voucher is valid only at a particular destination, there are many others that are loaded with cash, but you get to pick the holiday destination. In case of the first, it will help if you plan your trip at places where most of the vouchers are applicable. You can avail of the discount by submitting the voucher when making bookings and reservations. Alternately, you can use voucher codes to redeem a discount. They are digital codes and are mostly available for online discount coupons.

Free and Paid

Now, holiday vouchers also differ in the sense that some are free while some have to be purchased. You can get free vouchers by looking up coupon and vouchers sites. They are associated with tour operators and travel agents who inform them on the latest deals and discounts. Many a times, travel and holiday sites, organize competitions and lucky draws offering holiday vouchers are prizes. Here you stand a chance to win holiday vouchers with steep discounts without paying any money for it. When it comes to purchasing, you pay only a nominal rate. For instance, you buy the voucher for £50 and get discounts between £300 and £500.

You can use holiday vouchers to save on personal holidays. They can also be given as gifts to loved ones on occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries. You can gift them a week or a weekend at their dream destination. Corporate houses can use it as a staff incentive for their employees too.

However, if you want to enjoy great savings using holiday vouchers, it is important that you track down only valid and reliable deals. Also make sure you read the terms and conditions and all other fine print, before you buy or use the voucher.

So, plan your vacation a little ahead of time and get your hands on some amazing holiday vouchers.

Are you planning a vacation? There are holiday vouchers of £300 to be won. All you have to do is to enter to be in with a chance to win before the offer runs out.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jovia_A._D'souza

Take a Journey Along Silk Route and Explore Breathtaking Beauties

Almost all men like to travel beautiful travel destinations. They are interested in exploring the places of attractions there. They like to go out for enjoying picturesque landscape, beautiful countryside and wonderful natural phenomenon. Getting around beautiful places and partaking in pleasure activities is really a fun experience for every traveler. One can hardly forget the memorable moments of those days till his doomsday.

Taking a journey along Silk Route or Silk Road is one of the wonderful experiences that you will never forget in your life. The Silk Route refers to a network of trade routes connecting three continents- Asia, Europe and Africa. Silk Route stands as the missing link of cultural past of these three continents. In the ancient time, Europeans used it to transport Chinese Silk to Europe through Central Asia. The importance of it in the world history does not wait for an explanation. It was the first superhighway connected the people of Asia, Europe and Africa. It helped them in cultural, social and economic development. Silk Road plays an important role in the development of people. It has helped them transport commodities and exchange of ideas and information. Nobody can deny the significant role of Silk Road in the development of the civilizations for the countries like China, India, Pakistan, Ancient Persia, and Arabia. The Silk Route at Sikkim starts from Aritar. To explore the breathtaking beauties, you can starts from here. From here you can easily reach Zuluk, the pristine hamlet of Sikkim. You are sure to know how beautiful the nature is. Many travelers are highly interested in taking journey along Silk route. To make it a real fun experience, they can buy Silk route tour packages offered by various travel agencies.

If you are an Indian you can start from Sikkim, the pristine paradise of India. For its stunning beauty, people like to call it 'Natural Beauty Queen'. Staring at the snow-capped mountain up above the green valley is really a wonderful experience. When you look at the pristine green valley from the above, the lowland looks like an emerald beauty. The view all around appears to be glossy green land. The sunrise and sunset behind snow-capped Kanchenjhungha is awe-inspiring. Spend some days here and enjoy the scenic beauty that the place has to offer. You will have here a significant number of attractions and pleasurable activities to indulge in. The place is ideal for giving one some unforgettable fun experiences. The wide range of snow-capped mountains, stunning slant of green Himalayas and countless hot spots have made the land an ideal travel destination. Therefore, it is quite natural that the travellers would come to pay a visit here round the year. If you are a travel aficionado, you can choose Sikkim and definitely Silk Route as an indispensable part of it. Staying here is not an issue. Keeping pace with the demand of the day, the number of hotels has increased significantly.

The author is a professional travel writer interested in writing on new travel destination. He has written many articles on silk route tour package and silk route package

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suman_Kumar_Jalal

History Of Backpacking

Backpacking today is a lot easier and more fun then it was in the when it started. People are able to backpack with all the things they love from their homes, such as computers, phones and even watch TV on their trips. Due to all the latest technology like solar panels to charge all their equipment. Back then it was a different story. A lot of people backpacked for necessity either because of disease, starvation, wild animal attacks or robbers to name a few. It wasn't till the 17th century people traveled for educational or entertainment purposes.

Wealthy European men were sent on a "grand tour" one last hurrah before they settled into marriage and careers. Just like the pre-college trips the teenagers in Europe take these days. Giovanni Careri was the first pioneer to travel the globe for fun. He did this travel in 80 days and wrote the accompanying book "Around the World in Eighty Days'. He was able to do this by smuggling valuables from country to country. The earliest backpackers were the ancient hunters-gatherers. Where they followed animals and ate the wild fruits. These nomadic tribes were the Aborigine Australians, South African Bushmen. Pygmy Tribes of the Congo and the Native Americans.

In 1492 Christopher Columbus ventured to America and David Livingstone explored Africa in 1841 are just two of the many explorers who paved the way for backpackers. In 1920 Lloyd F. Nelson invented the camping backpack by adding a pack board to make the pack more comfortable. Before that the backpack was just a loose sack with shoulder straps. In 1965 President Lyndon Johns proposed the National Scenic Trail Act which encouraged individuals to discover the outdoors and appreciate nature more. This provided hikers with well-defined trails to follow. Greg Lowe designed the internal fame backpack which distributes pack weight across the hips. And the backpacking gear got better from wooden frame to aluminum tubing, heavy canvas to waterproof nylon, steel cookware to titanium, wool clothing to quick dry synthetics and petroleum/wood for stoves to alcohol/butane.

In 1910 backpack is coined. In the 1940's post World War 2 more people had time to travel so the travel trailer and camping grew in popularity. Because of the military design backpacking gear goes lighter with aluminum-alloy frames. Then the lighter frames become popular with outdoor enthusiasts. Then 1970's lighter weight nylon backpacks are everywhere. In 1990 the program Leave No Trace Behind is developed. In 2000 all the best innovations in shelter, sleeping bags, cookware get lighter and easier to carry.

The best is yet to come as the principles of the program Leave No Trace Behind become important for our eco-conscious society and so backpacking will grow more and more. Leave nature as you found it don't disrupt it and our beautiful wild life will continue to flourish.

The best innovations in backpacking gear are very available. A great place to find the newest light weight backpacking equipment is http://www.backpackingtentsetc.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Monica_Yates

How to Buy a Timeshare at the Right Price

Timeshares, how to get rewarded by purchasing a timeshare at a bargain price. There are lots of in's and out's when it comes to buying a timeshare. The old saying when purchasing any real estate is, location, location, location. This also holds true when making the lifelong commitment to purchase a unit in a timeshare resort complex. The cost to purchase a timeshare is a one time investment into your vacationing future. The cost to maintain this timeshare is a lifetime expense. Most people today who make the decision to purchase a timeshare first look at the price to buy in, then the yearly fee's to keep it. When a timeshare savvy person inquires about buying a timeshare, the first thing they consider is, the year up keep.

Buying a timeshare at the right price is like finding the needle in the haystack for most people. The location, type of unit, age the of project and yearly maintenance fee's will determine if it is a wise purchase or not. As we go into depth about timesharing there are many other variables to consider. Is the unit we are going to purchase in the location in which we want to visit year in and year out? Will the unit size fit our needs? How many times have the yearly fee's been raised over the last ten years? What condition is the property and all the units in? The reason this is important is due to what is known as "special assessments". Deteriorating units need upkeep. Most resorts in the timeshare system do not generate enough cashflow to constantly invest in improvements to the units themselves. Example: carpeting, appliances, furnishing are among the most common complains from timeshare owners when it comes to a resorts upkeep. As the units age, special assessments are delivered to the owners to add the additional cost to own their timeshare into their budget.

What a timeshare prospect will not see when they are considering the purchase of a unit is, the unsold inventories. Unsold inventories are lost revenue, timeshares are no different from a hotel. When a room or unit is not occupied and generating capital, it is a loss. Since the real estate crunch, many timeshares are suffering with this issue. What one will find is, most resorts do not have the capital to market or hire a sales company to relieve them of their reserve units that have been foreclosed upon or where owners have discontinued to pay their yearly fees. With circumstances such as these, this is where the cost to maintain the project and the units, are passed on to the current owners. This is a "must" ask question before you sign on the dotted line.

There are deals on timeshares throughout the world. Knowing where to find them will be your biggest challenge.

Buying timeshares in the right location at an great price can lead to a lifetime of rewarding experiences for any timeshare owner. Knowing where to look, the questions to ask along with what to buy is the difference between a "Happy" owner or just an owner. http://www.resultsinc.net specializes in the timeshare and land development industry. Visit us for more information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Melissa_Dziurkiewicz

Planning the Perfect Adventure Weekend

With the weather in prime condition and the mountain snow leaving, we've been burning up the trail. You think we'd be experts at getting ready for our weekend explorations but we actually suck. We continue to forget food, clothing, equipment, sunscreen, you name it. Megan had a freak out moment on our previous hike when we couldn't find the chocolate chip cookies she made the night before (they were actually hidden in my H2O sleeve, oops). It doesn't help that our brains are fogged up from waking at 4 AM in the morning to beat the risk of lightning on our hike. So to help you avoid forgetting that savory piece of chocolate or your lucky pair of hiking undies, I'll lay out how to prepare during the work week.

Monday - Thursday needs to be spent researching and planning. Use 14ers.com or whatever weather/hiking site you like. If you work at a computer, I'd recommend just leaving that site up cause you're going to hit it at least 10 times a day checking the weather forecast, drooling at recent trip reports, and scouting out which mountain is most optimal for the weekend. You could start laying your gear out now but that is risky. No wife likes tripping over your crap and she will be sure to let you know that. Forgetting important gear is better than getting nagged all week. Better wait until Friday night to pack.

Friday after work, go to the grocery store and load up on your favorite munchies. Bars, smoothie materials, fruit, jerky, whatever floats your boat. My new favorite thing is to have a cold coconut water waiting in the car - just don't forget to bring a cooler otherwise it's pretty gross. Sorry but you'll have to skip the gym and booze tonight. No hike is fun after a day of 5 x 5 back squats and you'll probably be drunk driving considering how early you have to wake up. This is also the time to prep your gear. Lay it all out on the floor so you can quickly tell what is missing. I had to create a checklist to ensure I don't forget stuff. I've already overlooked my hiking poles, buff, and SD card for the past few hikes.

Now it's time to get to bed. Watch something funny or brainless to relax yourself for sleep. Avoid intense shows like True Detective or GoT.

On Saturday, when the alarm goes off, throw on your hiking clothes, whip together your breakfast and coffee, and hit the road. The hours of driving to the trailhead are pretty brutal that early in the morning. Ideally you will have a good Pandora station or an audio book to listen to. Once you've finished your outdoor excursion, put all your gear up and throw those stinky clothes in the washer. That way, you'll be setup for perfection on your next trip. After a shower, take a quick 1 -2 hour nap if time allows. Then you can hit the breweries and celebrate your accomplishment.

Sunday is the day of rest from adventure. This can be your "GTL day." Feel free to hit a WOD, bike or finish up that laundry. We've been enjoying an end to the weekend with Jazz at City Park here in Denver.

I think it is OK to update the conditions reports from your trip on 14ers.com but don't you dare start planning another hike. Save that for Monday fool.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=M_Sean_Allison

Hiking Tips And Tricks For Success

Hiking is a wonderful hobby for millions of people. It is great exercise and allows you to train yourself in the art of perseverance in the wild. The effect is a healthy mind and body. In order to enjoy hiking, you must be prepared. Going hiking unprepared is an invitation for disaster.

• Know the area. Invest in maps of the area. Look at the terrain and know how far you will be going each day. Allow someone to know the route you plan to take and the estimated time of arrival and return. Have a back-up plan in the event that nature deals you a wild card.

• Protect your feet. This is probably the most important thing you can do if you are hiking. You must protect your feet from blisters, cuts, water, bugs and snakes.

o Wear two pair of socks. A soft cotton sock should be worn next to the skin and a wool sock over the cotton sock. This cushions the feet and protects them from blisters which is a common problem.

o Waterproof your boots. Wet boots and hiking do not go well together. This leads to foot fungus, burning and could lead to infection. A good pair of leather boots is a necessity and waterproofing them is essential.

o Take a pair of sandals or an old pair of slip on sneakers to wear at the camp. This allows you comfort time to rest from wearing the boots. It allows your feet and boots to dry out and allows any areas of the foot that were sore to heal a bit.

• Warm clothes

o Make sure you have warm clothes for wearing at night.

o A light jacket can be rolled up for use in the afternoon

• Water

o Carry bottled water with you as well as water purifier tablets. Water may not always be available in the wild. Make sure you have enough and drink plenty while hiking. Dehydration is deadly. Figure your hours away from the site and allow yourself to sip up to 6 ounces of water every four hours.

• Prepare your body

o Stretch your muscles before beginning your hike

o Muscles inflammation can be controlled with ibuprofen.

o Add dried blueberry's to your trail mix as a natural solution.

• What to take in your backpack

o First aid kit

o Tissue and or toilet paper

o Hand sanitizer

o Flashlight and extra batteries

o Maps of area

o Emergency phone numbers in case someone has to help you

o Bug spray

o Matches

o Trail mix and water

o Knife

o Sunscreen

o Poncho

o Emergency blanket

o Light weight emergency rope

These things can be kept in your backpack and ready to go. All you need to is toss in some trail mix and water and you can be out the door in minutes.

FennerSupplyCo.com is a clothing brand all about nature, art and music. Check them out!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trev_Fenner

Essential Tips For A Budget Traveler

As a frequent traveler I'm well aware of the fact that the biggest fear of frequent travelers is to travel under a strict budget. And no matter how hard you try to stay in the budget you end up spending more than you calculated. So here are my top budget travel tips for you that will help you in spending less and staying under your estimated budget.

Booking Your Flight
When you are planning for a trip always book your flight 30 days before because prices at that time of flights are normal, but as the traveling date comes closer airlines begin to shuffle the prices on different flights. If you want to book a flight for cheap then here is an expert tip from the pros use your free miles to get a ticket for cheaper price.

Accommodation
When it comes to accommodation my suggestion is that you live in apartments, it seems to be an expensive option but trust me it's not. It is the cheapest of all because you get the kitchen so you can cook your own meals, plus you get a lounge so if traveling with a couple of friends you can party at your own place. On the other hand hotels is also a good option many hotels offer special packages and deals on certain rooms which you will find good and under budget.

Meals And Drinks
According to what I have observed, the most expensive meal is dinner. Lunch is comparatively less expensive in fact, it's the cheapest meal of the day, as many restaurants want to attract as many customers as possible so they put up deals like spend $15 and get a beer refill free. For dinner you can eat from the food stalls or if you are staying at an apartment then you can cook your own meal. Always try to drink from tap water only in a few countries you shouldn't drink from the tap, but in many highly developed countries avoid purchasing a water bottle from the store because a single bottle can cost from $5 -$7 and this amount can quickly turn into hundreds of dollars in just a few days.

Free Internet
Trust me don't use your international roaming you won't even know where all your money went if you have paid your bill before leaving the country. Instead, if your hotel offers free WIFI then use that or if you are living in a rented place, then purchase a local SIM card and get an internet package activate. Or you can visit a coffee shop order a coffee with a couple of snacks and enjoy the free internet.

Being a frequent traveler, I always search for last minute flights as they are low in cost and for accomodation I always look for the best hotel deals because that way I find something according to my budget.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anum_Sharf

Health During Travel

Imagine planning for your dream vacation for several months, excitedly looking at places to visit online, booking hotels, checking out other details and meticulously crafting your perfect holiday. Sounds fun right?

Now imagine actually going there, checking into the hotel and settling down, so far so good. Now imagine getting sick a day later and having to spend the majority of your holiday in bed watching all your plans fade away into nothingness. That would be agony wouldn't it? This happens more often than you think, with their excitement for their holiday people forget the fact that they're human and fail to take the necessary precautions which should be taken if one is to travel abroad. But most people imagine they'd become immune to infections or injuries in a foreign land. So when you are traveling be sure to keep these essential travel tips in mind in order to have a healthier tour.

First things first, check with your health insurance if they cover injuries which might be sustained abroad. Better yet, get travel insurance, this way you'll be covered if something happens abroad. Just be sure to carefully check the insurance company's policy however, to see if they cover the country you mean to go to.

Be sure to stock your medicine bag with the common meds before you leave. This varies from person to person but it should contain Hydrocortisone cream(provides relief from poison ivy, oak and stinging needles), Benadryl, Imodium and your usual painkillers. Be sure to take extra of your prescription medicine - in case you get stranded at your destination and stay longer than you have to.

If you're traveling on the plane and it's a long flight be sure to take a warm piece of clothing with you as the cabin gets really cold and you may develop a chill. Stay hydrated, this is the golden rule for long flights, and stay away from alcohol. The more dehydrated you land the queasier you'll feel and the effects of jet lag will impact you much more strongly. Try to nap during the flight so you don't feel the urge to hit the hay as soon as you get to your hotel as going to sleep at the normal time (at your destination) helps overcome jet lag quickly.

As people tend to kick back and really get in the vacation feel, they start to indulge a little too much in food. It's okay to do it once in a while but do not make it a habit to 'get your money's worth' out of the buffet, or drink one too many margaritas by the pool. This will leave you with a few extra pounds which might be hard to lose once you get back.

In the hotel room, do a preliminary sweep for bed bugs and other things (like dirty bed sheets and covers), avoid placing your clothes on the furniture and your bag on the floor.

If you crave adventure be sure to take a well-stocked first aid travel kit with you. As most of the injuries during travel are sustained during hiking and get worse because immediate medical attention could not be provided.

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Important Things You Must Know About A Palm Cabin

Oftentimes, the high cost of a getaway discourages people off from getting a much-needed break from a hectic day-to-day schedule. However, you must be aware that people today do not have to be worried about the high cost of accommodations regardless of what your budget is since there are destinations that can easily meet it.

For a small group or perhaps a family of four, the Palm Cabin is among the wallet-friendly accommodations that they can opt for. This option has all the conveniences you want for a comfortable weekend getaway. It is indeed very affordable. As opposed to other options, this is considered the cheapest. Experts say that who will need a fancy room when you intend to soak up the sun as well as have fun outdoors most of the time?

Things To Look For When Locating The Best Cabin

Kitchen - Palm Cabin is fully self-contained. It actually has its own kitchen with a cutlery, a microwave oven, crockery, and other cookware. With this, you are assured to easily prepare meals in your home for the weekend and avoid the cost of purchasing food or perhaps dining at local restaurants. Due to the fact that you are on a budget, you will certainly stay within your budget if you cook your own food.

Entertainment Equipment - Apart from its own kitchen, it will also have entertainment equipment such as DVD player and TV. When you are done sunbathing and you just want to stay indoors for some time or when the weather suddenly turns less than sunny, this can be a perfect place for you to stay. Such equipment will also be perfect for you after all the activities you have planned to accomplish outdoors. You and your family can just stay indoors as well as enjoy TV show or perhaps a movie until it will clear up outside.s

Air Conditioning - The cabin must also have air conditioning, a queen-sized bed along with a set of bunk beds for a very comfortable and relaxing slumber after a long day of outdoor excitement. It is very important to mention your chosen cabin must also have a private deck with outdoor furniture. Thus, if you luckily come on a day if the weather is very ideal, you can just laze comfortably outside and look up at the stars during nighttime.

Moreover, you must also get fresh linen as well as bath towers to use for your stay. Also, the bathroom must already be stocked with hygiene products so that you do not have to pack a lot of stuff for your weekend getaway.

More information mentioned here.

When choosing the best place for you to stay while on vacation, a cabin can be among the best options. For more info, visit this site.

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