Backpacking Stove

The MSR stove is the best on the market because it is small and lightweight, heats quickly, and can take multiple types of fuel

I’m all about roughing it, but I will not sacrifice hot meals for nature.  The MSR backpacking stove was made for people like me. Most backcountry camping areas don’t allow campfires so if you don’t have a stove, you will end up eating a lot of granola bars and dried fruit and beef jerky. That might not sound so terrible now, but after a few activity-packed days outdoors, you will be willing to sacrifice your right arm for a hot meal. So stay symmetrical and buy a backpacking stove! Continue reading

Homemade Granola

Pumpkin Granola

My favorite variation so far: pumpkin spice granola

My eyes have been open to the world of homemade granola; safe to say I will never buy a box of the stuff again.  My mom introduced me to Tom Browkaw’s recipe last week and we are currently in a fierce granola showdown to see who can create the best rendition of the adaptable recipe.  I have made 3 batches so far, using different combinations of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.  All the basic recipe calls for is wheat germ, old-fashioned oats, sesame seeds, shredded coconut, your choice of nuts, vegetable oil, honey, and dried fruit.  I like this recipe because it is simple and very flexible. Continue reading

The Perfect Mix

Dried cranberries, candied walnuts, almonds, and M&M’s

Everybody knows trail mix is essential on a camping trip.  You need fuel on those long hikes and appetizers while you’re waiting (forever) for the fire to get going for dinner.  You’re gonna go through a lot of trail mix and if you buy the packaged variety, suddenly your low-budget camping getaway can become a financial burden.  Luckily, there’s no secret to making your own trail mix in bulk Continue reading