Archive | Gear

The 2 in 1 Packing Secret

The 2 in 1 Packing Secret

When it comes to packing for any trip or adventure, the best secret is finding the 2 in 1 items. Whether going away for a week or traveling the world for a few years, it saves precious packing space. The Tech 2 in 1’s The Amazon Kindle is by far both Justin and my favorite 2 in 1 item. [...] [...more]

Gear, How To Comments (4)

Stinky Synthetic Materials

Stinky Synthetic Materials

When one decides to spend a year or more living out of a 38 liter backpack, one starts to think a lot about clothing. In my case, all of the books and travel blogs I read advised me to buy shirts and socks made from synthetic materials such as polypropylene. Many budget travel resources also [...] [...more]

Gear Comments (9)

Columbia Customer Service Saved My Pants

Columbia Customer Service Saved My Pants

After sending an email to Columbia, I received the typical automated response email with the standard disclaimer, “you will receive a response within 48 hours”.  I was in no rush, I’ll just be patient and sit it out, in my pants.  I mean, it’s not an emergency like I split my pants. Upon checking my email, [...] [...more]

Gear, New Zealand Comments (5)

Not all Columbia products are created equal

Not all Columbia products are created equal

Before departing on our backpacking travels all around the world, Justin and I spent a considerable amount of time researching gear.  Our goal was to maximize on the quality of what we packed in our backpacks.  Each of our backpacks only have so much room, so each item matters.  While still in the States we [...] [...more]

Gear, New Zealand Comments (3)

Seduced by the Dark Side

Seduced by the Dark Side

Apple computers are to the world as Luke Skywalker was to the Rebels Alliance – A bright light in a dark world. I am an Apple Enthusiasts. I know that Apple laptops, phones and iPods have become the standard by which teens and twentysomethings alike measure their purported hipness. I know that technology (at least [...] [...more]

Gear Comments (30)

A Backpack, Like a Lover, Must Be Chosen with Care

A Backpack, Like a Lover, Must Be Chosen with Care

A few days back Gillian, from onegiantstep.com, asked the following question. Can you comment on which backpacks you each have (size, make, model etc) and why you chose them? As I like questions (hint: ask more questions), and this is a hotly debated topic, I thought this to be an appropriate time to discuss my backpack selection [...] [...more]

Gear, Questions Comments (20)

Nomad Backpackers Phone Home

Nomad Backpackers Phone Home

In an American culture saturated with instant communication, living outside this web of connections can be both relieving and a little daunting. A part of me is relieved because I do not want people to be able to get in touch with me instantaneously (read: whenever they feel the urge). I like to talk to [...] [...more]

Gear, Logistics Comments (6)

The Keg of Glory

The Keg of Glory

I like shoes. I think different shoes, especially brightly colored ones, offer a unique form of expression. The thing is, I have a deep rooted, almost uncontrollable hatred for uncomfortable shoes. So, when Natalie and I got married (27-May-2006), we decided to skip the standard Tuxedo shoes in favor of something a bit more comfortable. [...] [...more]

Gear Comments (0)

Laxatives, Tape, and Bengay, oh my!!!

Laxatives, Tape, and Bengay, oh my!!!

Two nights ago, Justin and I had the privilege of beginning to gather various odds and ends that will be traveling with us in our backpacks. These are items that we have been advised may be helpful during our backpacking journey. These items tend to fit into 4 categories: Things that: – we already use - may [...] [...more]

Gear, Logistics Comments (15)

REI Garage Sale

REI Garage Sale

Although Natalie and I are hoping to attract sponsors, we are not waiting around for a miracle. Thus, we spent a few hours at REI this week. REI, if you are not aware, operates as a co-op. Co-op members enjoy special benefits (10% discount on regular priced items, access to REI classes etc.) including access to their annual Garage [...] [...more]

Gear Comments (0)