Side Quest Overland

You’ve meticulously planned your next backcountry trip. The maps are printed, your gear list is set, and you’re eyeing that ultralight tent that would shave a pound off your pack weight. But when you check the price, you do a double-take. Did this tent really cost $100 less last year? While inflation and supply chain disruptions have played their roles, another force is silently reshaping the price of your gear: tariffs . These hidden economic policies don’t just affect your wallet—they’re also influencing the sustainability movement in outdoor gear . As gear prices climb and manufacturers rethink supply chains, outdoor enthusiasts face an important question: Will tariffs push the industry toward sustainability, or make eco-conscious gear even harder to access? Understanding Tariffs: How Policy Meets the Outdoors Tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods, meant to protect domestic industries and encourage local manufacturing. However, for the outdoor industry—where cutting-edge mat...

  In recent years, the #outdoor recreation sector has undergone a transformative evolution, reshaping its landscape to become more inclusive and welcoming to individuals from all walks of life. This positive shift towards greater #Diversity, #Equity, #Inclusion, and #Belonging (DEIB) is a testament to the industry's commitment to breaking down barriers and ensuring that outdoor spaces are accessible and inviting for everyone.  Project Explore Club supports all individuals regardless of their identity, race, or background. In the not-so-distant past, outdoor advertising often painted a narrow picture, showcasing a limited demographic engaging in outdoor activities. However, the present landscape reflects a conscious effort by outdoor companies to redefine their visual narratives. The shift towards diverse representation in marketing materials not only provides a more accurate reflection of the outdoor community but also serves as a powerful tool in breaking down stereotypes. B...

  How to build your own First-Aid Kit  A first-aid kit is a collection of supplies and equipment that can be used to treat minor injuries and illnesses, or to respond to an emergency situation while First Responders are en route. Having a first-aid kit at home, in your car, or in your backpack can help you respond to acute emergency situations quickly and effectively. You can research premade kits online and get an idea of what is available for different situations and budgets. How do you build a first-aid kit that suits your specific needs and preferences? Here are some tips and steps to follow: 1. Stock up Many people give the advice or choosing a container or receptacle for your kit first. I've found that a backwards planning approach is best when putting this together to avoid excess space, or limiting items because of container size. Depending on your personal needs and preferences, you may want to include more or less items, but here are some common ones that you should ...