Side Quest Overland

Unleash the Inner Explorer: Top 5 Gifts for Your Adventurous Child Do you have a little explorer in your life? A child who's always itching to get outside, climb the highest rock, and discover the wonders of nature? Whether they dream of spotting majestic eagles soaring through the sky or collecting unique insects hiding beneath leaves, nurturing their love for the outdoors is a gift that keeps on giving. But what do you get a child who already has dirt under their fingernails and a thirst for adventure? Fear not, fellow explorer parents! Here are the top 5 gifts that will spark their curiosity, ignite their imagination, and fuel their exploration: 1. The Essential Explorer's Backpack: Opens in a new window www.outdoorgearlab.com child's backpack filled with outdoor exploration tools. Every adventurer needs a trusty companion for their journeys, and this backpack is more than just a bag. It's a mobile command center, a treasure chest of discoveries, and a symbol of inde...

  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 ...

 Bikepacking 101 The permutations available in bikepacking setups are endless. Essentials + comforts + style points  = what will be best for you.  The obvious foundation for a bikepacking setup is the bike itself comprised of the wheels, the components or groupset, and the frame. Within these three are even more options that should work synergistically, and chosen to make your journey as successful as possible. Some ask what the perfect bike for bikepacking would be. In my opinion, the bike that you have is the best option because "it's much easier to ride what you have than to ride what you want."  The gear. From an S24O (sub-24hour-overnighter) to multi-day excursions, you should know what you have, how to use it, and how to live without it if something were to go wrong. Equipment mishaps are rare but can happen, and cooking over a fire might be the only option you have, instead of using your jetboil stove. How to Plan Your First Bikepacking Trip Bikepacking is a...

I have always loved the outdoors. There is something about being in nature that fills me with peace and joy. But for many, enjoying the outdoors comes with obstacles that can only be overcome with equitable responses to our diverse community. Variable terrain, inconstant paths, and limited availability of necessary facilities can make it difficult or impossible for people with disabilities to access some of earth's most beautiful spaces. Accessible trails are important because they allow people with disabilities to enjoy the benefits of spending time in nature. Nature has been shown to have a number of benefits for people of all abilities, including reducing stress, improving mood, and boosting creativity. Check out Time to Connect for more info on how nature can be a great therapy. Accessible trails help to promote inclusion and equity. By making outdoor recreation more accessible to people with disabilities, we can move closer to a society that values nature as much as we value...

How Yoga Can Boost Your Strength and Agility for Hiking If you love hiking, you know how important it is to have a strong and agile body that can handle any terrain and challenge. Hiking requires not only endurance and stamina but also balance, coordination, flexibility, and power. That’s why yoga can be a great complement to your hiking routine, as it can help you develop all these qualities and more. Yoga is a practice that involves physical poses, breathing techniques, and mental focus. It can benefit your body and mind in many ways, such as: Improving your posture and alignment Increasing your range of motion and mobility Reducing your risk of injury and pain Enhancing your blood circulation and oxygen delivery Relieving your stress and anxiety Boosting your mood and energy levels Sharpening your concentration and awareness But how exactly can yoga make you stronger and more agile for hiking? Here are some of the key benefits of yoga for hikers, along with some of the best yoga pos...