West Coast Road Trip

Its the conundrum of the travel-loving outdoorsy womans life how can I explore the world with limited luggage when I plan to hike/swim/cycle/go outThe post How to build a travel capsule wardrobe appeared first on the girl outdoors.

Will early retirement lead to ill health or shorten your life? Not in my experience.

Class B vs. Class C RVs: A Quick Guide

Ive seen the Galtymore Loop hike described online as character building. I definitely would agree with this assessment. Especially if like me, the rain blows sideways at you as you cross the valley between Cush and Galtybeg. Despite this, I really enjoyed the 13km looped walk in the Galty Mountains. Galtymore Loop Hike Details Map []The post Galtymore Loop Hike appeared first on Wild Irish Walks.

Thailand?As someone who writes about getting outdoors nearly exclusively in Ireland, primarily through walking trails, this might feel like a strange blog post to come across. Let me give you some context.Back in October of 2024 I won an instagram competition to go on a trail running holiday with Trails & Roots in Thailand. Yes, that sentence is real - and yes, I was head over heels excited. Fast forward a couple of months, and over 24hrs of travelling between three flights, I land in the city of Chiang Mai in north Thailand. The city is surrounded by several mountain ranges, and while far more densely populated and urban than what Im now used to, being in a city full of green with constant views of lush mountains left me feeling quite at home in the hustle and bustle. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Trails & Roots was created by Heather, an Irish Adventurer who, after travelling the world for her own endurance races, decided to establish Trails & Roots to combine her passions of adventure, being immersed in new cultures and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds.This is a running camp - but not a boot camp. It straddles the fine line of lots of running, but also lots of relaxation and recovery. Were based in the city of Chiang Mai for the full week, and every day we drive out to a new incredible trail in the surrounding mountains. The Thanon Thong Chai mountain range to the west of the city is where we spend most of our time, tackling the dense contours and incredible trails. Through pure chance, this trail camp was all women - except for two very important men: Zandy, our chef for the week; and Lek, or local guide. LEK: Part of the Trails and Roots experience is that they hire local guides to show us the truly off the beaten track trials. For this outing, our local guide was Lek, a true mountain goat, easily moving through the group as needed. He was a quiet man, happy to let us get excited over things that are just everyday life to him. He answered all my curious questions, explaining about nomadic tribes, the innumerable layers of culture throughout these mountains and the people living there. He laughed as he reassured locals that yes, we tourists were truly excited to run up the dirt tracks for hours on end. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Our first run of the camp was 17km, with over 570m of elevation gain and 1,200 metres of descent. The route was called Tribal Trails to Waterfalls and Temples, and it could not have been more spectacular. We climbed narrow single track and steep ascents that required three points of contact.However, all the running was balanced by getting to stop at one of the highest coffee shops in the region. Coffee with a view barely covers it. This was our most full on day. After our run we returned to our townhouse, quickly washed up and ate lunch before learning how to fold lilies for when you wanted to bring them as an offering to a Buddhist temple. And then we did just that - visiting two temples that evening. The first, Wat Pha Lat, was tucked into the mountainside. Surrounded by trees and bamboo, the gentle rustling of leaves set the hushed tone for the place. Here we sat down with a monk and learnt what we could about buddhism and a monks life in the hour long window we had with him. Ive never met someone so peaceful. At the end he gave us each a blesslet, wishing us all health, happiness and success in whatever we were looking for. A few days later one of the other runners asked if there was a way to take off the blesslet without harming the blessing - she didnt want it to accidentally be torn off and lost while we were out running. As long as we untied the knots, or left it on until it naturally untied, then we were fine. Just dont cut it off.Months later, it hangs beside my desk to remind me the feelings I had that day. Our second temple was Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (or the golden temple). I watched monks live-streaming their prayers, and hawkers offering to take your photo in front of all the gilded spires. There were true worshipers here, but also a lot of everything else. Standing on the edges, it was a cacophony of excitement, joy, and reverence.As we all slowly descended the stairs outside of the temple, Heather mentioned how excited she was for the dinner that Zandy was preparing back at the house. Have I mentioned the food yet? Because if its not the running that will sell you on a Trails and Roots camp, its the food.From the fresh coconuts our driver would slice open at the end of every run, to the incredible works of art that Zandy would concoct for us during our hours on trail, I dont think Ive ever eaten so well in my life. Every night was three courses; every breakfast a delicate balance of just how much banana bread can you eat without feeling queasy on the trail; and every picnic was a pinch me moment, sitting on the edge of river canyons or finding shade in floating huts. Id always seen the food talked about a lot in reviews and stories of Trails & Root camps, but didnt quite understand how freeing having someone else cook every meal for you was. Thanks again to Zandy for doing such a wonderful job that week. Day 2 saw us take on The Buffalo Run: Thirsty Ridge to Cool Canyons, another 17km trail epic through gritty climbs and our most technical trails for the week. This is where I won the Top Tumbler Award for the trip - thankfully a very minor slip on some loose stone. Finishing at the gorgeous river canyons, we picnicked and swam in the baking sunshine.That evening, we had a yoga session that had my calves screaming and the instructor laughing at just how stiff all our legs were. Day 3 was a looped 17k run through the mountain fruit farms. Named Fruits of the White Pagoda, this route had us passing through some of the most stunning scenery, as well as a tiny bit of bush-whacking. It was on this run that I saw my first Oriental/Crested Honey Buzzards. Their call was so distinctly buzzard that I almost took my second tumble as my head whipped up to find them. Circling on the higher air currents, there were at least five criss-crossing the skies above us. There was something wonderful in meeting the asian cousins to my usual avian companions at home. Every day, at the end of our runs, our driver is waiting with an ice box filled with coke cans and the aforementioned coconuts. As I sat on the ground in the sun, I smiled as I realised how strange it was for something that so foreign three days before (drinking a coconut), suddenly felt like part of the natural routine.That afternoon we swung by a new temple that had just opened, Loha Prasat Sri Mueang Pong (White Temple). The baking hot flagstones almost scorched your feet outside, the white paint blinding in the midday sunshine. Being a new temple, there were fewer visitors, but I could imagine the busy streams of people that would soon flow around the building, the noise rising to twirl through the spires and wind chimes high above. This was our one official free evening of the trip. Some of us went for a delicious dinner together, and afterwards I wandered street markets by myself, enjoying the cool night air. Something I hadnt expected was the vibrant coffee culture in Thailand. A local told me that while Thailand is a big coffee producer, the speciality coffee they produce is mostly used by the internal market. The variety I experienced in Chiang Mai was gorgeous. The weight that I was regaining from the used running gels and snacks was being filled even faster by the bags of coffee I kept buying. A particular favourite cafe that was walking distance from our townhouse was Roast8ry Coffee Lab - I liked it so much, I bought the t-shirt. For Day 4, we had a well earned rest day - where we all went on a Thai cooking course! Exploring everything from large local markets, to the farm where the cooking school grew everything in-house, we all learnt more about the cornerstones to Thai cuisine, and cooked our own five course meal. That evening I still went out for a short shakeout, and to find some local bookshops. There are a few things I will always track down no matter where I go - the kinds of spaces that always feel somewhat the same. For me, bookshops are those spaces, and I will happily wander, admiring books in languages I will never understand, until tired legs or other plans call. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Day 5 was the Doi Suthep Lake Loop. 16km of more gorgeous trails and river crossings. I remember reaching the first river, and wondering if I wanted to get my feet wet. Wet feet at home is both to be expected, and something that I typically delay until the last possible moment, as it means I wont have dry (or warm) feet until I am back at the car changing. However, in balmy Thailand I quickly realised that wet feet really meant incredibly little to me - almost nice! When we finished our run that day, we stayed by the lake and ate our lunch in lake-side huts. Sitting there, munching on sushi as the water lapped below, my mind suddenly registered how insane this whole moment was - a literal pinch-me moment. Our final evening activity was a full body Thai massage. After so much travel and trails, this was one of the absolute highlights of an impossibly high trip. Just like during the yoga, I was lovingly scolded for how inflexible and stiff all my muscles were. Our final day was 10km called Monks Sacred Steps to Coffee. Starting in the university, we ran up the Monks trail, which took us the whole way back to the very first temple we visited. We then descended down to a runners cafe just outside the city, before it was time to pack our bags and head back to reality. Putting the video together months later, and this blog post even later still, it all feels like an incredible dream. Thailand is so far from my everyday, that sometimes its hard to remember that this was real, and not all that long ago.And there were so many other moments I havent mentioned - sound baths and pedicures, post dinner conversations and individual revelations. A big thank you to Heather once more for organising, to Lek for being a wonderful guide (and taking all of these wonderful running photos on the final day), and to the fantastic women whom I shared the camp with! Watch the video of the adventure here As I mentioned at the top - I won this trip as a giveaway. Heather didnt expect me to write, photograph, or film any of it, this was all shared purely because I had such a wonderful time. To learn more about Trails & Roots, check out their website: trailsandroots.com

Camping in Spain: Your Essential RV Travel Guide

ReviewSpecsGalleryRetailersRabs expansion and development of its backpack range continues apace, now with larger packs that might once have been the sole preserve of sister brand Lowe Alpine joining their range, as well as the smaller, fast-and-light style packs that featured in their initial launch range.The differentiation between Rab and Lowe Alpine? Well Rab packs are certainly more techie, using the latest hi-tech fabrics to give the best weight/strength performance, as well as innovative back systems and other features, with Lowe Alpine tending to give a more traditional offering.This pack we have on test, the Hyperon 65L, is described by Rab as our definitive pack for exploring far-flung regions where self-sufficiency is key, this 65L backpack is geared up for serious multi-day adventures, from long distance trekking to shorter expedition use. It certainly looks the part, with its blue/black colour scheme (grey/black also available), chunky hipbelt and mesh-clad back system and straps. Its clean design belies the fact that it packs in a lot of features, both in terms of adjustability and storage options but well come to this shortly. Lets start off with a look at the packs all-important carry system.The Hyperon 65s back length is easy to adjustCarry systemThe Hyperon comes in two sizes M/L and L/XL and in addition to this the back length can be adjusted using a hook-and-loop system. Unlike some other hook-and-loop designs where its a struggle to keep two surfaces apart (and not sticking together) while adjusting the length, the Hyperon has a more refined design which is simple to adjust; just pull the outward facing side of the back panel away and then slide up or down on the two metal stays to get the ideal back length. The entire carry system including a very pronounced lumbar pad makes use of thick perforated foam which is intended to maximise ventilation at the same time as assuring comfort. The hipbelt arrangement is interesting in that it has slots behind he lumbar pad and moves independently with its own, curved metal stay giving it structure, and is also heavily padded with a large, zipped pocket on each hip.StorageAs we said earlier in the review, the Hyperon 65 has a clean and unfussy profile, and that is exactly how we like our packs here at T&M, but when it comes to storage it is absolutely rammed with options. The packs main compartment features a (removable) fabric divider near the bottom, which allows you to access a sleeping bag or other item directly via its own zipper. Not only that, but the upper part of the main compartment also has its own zip, so again, you can access items in this area without having to open the main lid. Speaking of the lid, theres no less than three internal and external zipped pockets located here, all good sizes each, with a security key clip inside the internal pocket. On the front of the pack theres another pocket with a vertical zip that could be useful for keeping a spare layer, or other items you want to access quickly, and naturally you also get a mesh drinks pocket on either side at the hips. Were not finished yet! Theres a zipped pocket on either side of the hipbelt itself, and finally, theres smallish zipped pockets at the sides, towards the top of the pack, which will fit objects such as a 1L water bottle.Out testing the Hyperon 65 in Langdale Valley in CumbriaIn useThe Hyperon 65 weights in at a not inconsiderable nor unreasonable 2.6kg, but like all well-designed trekking packs it feels almost weightless when you actually put it on. The fabrics used feel really tough and durable, and you just get the feeling that this pack is not going to let you down. The pack has both internal and external compressions straps; having them inside the main compartment means you can position items where you want them and ensure the pack is stable even when moving on rough terrain. On the outside, the lower straps thread through the side mesh pockets, and if like us, you like to carry tent poles at the side in these pockets, then youll appreciate being able to cinch them in tightly. But what matters most, of course, is the ability to carry a load over a long distance with the minimum of fuss and discomfort, and in this respect the Hyperon 65 delivers big time.VerdictLoads of storage options, a comfy carry and tough as nails make this a super trekking packMore info at: www.rab.equipmentSPECSWeight: 2.6kgMain fabric: 210D ROBIC Nylon with Spectra Ripstop and Hydroshield Dura coatingBack lengths: 48-58cm (M); 53-63cm (L)Secondary fabric: 210D ROBIC Nylon Ripstop with Tri-Shield CoatingVolume: 65lt/3965cu.inDimensions: 82 x 37 x 46cmBack system: V-TRAXFull specs and features at: www.rab.equipmentBuy the Rab Hyperon 65 online at:Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Just like that, in the blink of an eye another summer is pretty much over and the kids are back at school

As the leaves start to turn and the air gets that unmistakable autumn edge, its time to level up your trail game. Our latest roundup showcases the coolest hiking and outdoor gear hitting for autumn and winter 2025. Whether youre heading out for a frosty day hike or planning a cosy weekend in the wild, weve handpicked the kit that promises performance and style in equal measure.Columbia Womens Holly Hideaway Waffle Half Snap T-Shirt Relaxed fit layering from Columbia. From country walks to big hiking days, this long sleeve t-shirt is ideal for layering with its comfortable shaped hem and half snap closure for flexible coverage. Expect to pay 55.Keen Zionic NXT Waterproof Hiking ShoesWith female and male specific versions, the Keen Zionic NXT integrates upgraded cushioning, meticulously selected to provide the just-right balance of lightness, softness, stability and resilience, for comfort mile after mile. Expect to pay around 150.Tog24 Zermatt Mens Sherpa FleeceThe cosy sherpa fabric wraps you up in a warm hug. When the temperature drops, simply cinch the adjustable toggles at the hem to lock that delicious warmth into this super versatile mens pullover. Expect to pay 75.00.Teva Mens Hurricane Daybreaker Hiking ShoeA customizable fit hiking shoe with multi-point closure system, the new Hurricane Daybreaker delivers a secure, reliable fit. Engineered with a moisture-wicking waterproof membrane, grippy sole, and toothy traction lugs, the Daybreaker will keep feet comfortable during all-day trail excursions. Expect to pay 115.00.Smartwool Womens Second Cut Fleece JacketDesigned with circular principles in mind, the Womens Second Cut Fleece Jacket is made to wear forever. Crafted with pre-consumer Smartwool Merino wool scraps, this jacket offers the moisture management, temperature regulation, and odour resistance properties of Merino wool. Expect to pay 160.Kavu Mens Teannaway FleeceThe Teannaway is your classic relaxed fleece pullover for chillier evenings on the beach or campsite, built in KAVUs signature surf style. No boring block colours here, thank you very much these patterned prints ooze plenty of fun and charm. Expect to pay 84.95.Tog24 Corlae Womens JacketWe love the relaxed styling of this gorgeous womens jacket from Tog24. This waist-length coat is ideal for chilly days outdoors, as its diamond quilted baffles with insulated fill and microfleece lining keeps you snuggly and warm, while also feeling great against the skin. Expect to pay 110.Hoka Anacapa 2 GORE-TEX Walking ShoesThe HOKA Womens Anacapa 2 GORE-TEX is your favourite hiking shoe reimagined with a focus on using earth-conscious materials. The Hubble extended heel, SwallowTail geometry and Late Stage Meta-Rocker all combine to provide the responsive, cushioned feel. Expect to pay 140.00.Rab Depot 25 BackpackThe Rab Depot 25 is a streamlined daypack designed for everyday endeavours. Commute to work, then head to the bouldering wall after the 25-litre capacity has room for all your kit. Undo the roll-top closure to access the spacious bucket-style main compartment. Expect to pay 115.Berghaus Unisex 1997 Fleece JacketThe brushed, double-sided material brings great insulation, with an anti-pilling finish that looks newer for longer. There are two zipped pockets to store your stuff or stow your hands, and the oversized fit completes a classic 90s lifestyle statement. Expect to pay 120.Gandys Harlem Fleece GiletStay cosy, stay cool. The Blue Harlem Fleece Gilet brings effortless style to chilly days, offering lightweight warmth and versatility in one. With its blue hue and ultra-soft fleece fabric, designed to be worn over your lighter-weight jackets and sweaters, this relaxed gilet is an easy go-to for layering up without the fuss. Expect to pay 60.00.Berghaus Mens Trail-Nomad Synthetic Insulated JacketHigh-performance Thermore Ecodown Fibres LOFT synthetic insulation mimics traditional down without the weight. A snug hood with an internal cord to adjust and make sure it stays put when the wind picks up. The perfect choice for when you need extra warmth. Expect to pay 190.Gandys Banff Organic Cotton Pebble Hoodie in StoneThe Pebble Hoodie in Stone is made for comfort wherever you go. Crafted from soft cotton with a relaxed fit, it features a front and back print for an easy everyday layer. Expect to pay 65.Teva Womens ReEmber Camp Slip OnTeva Embers are a firm favourite of ours and the latest version is the perfect cold weather go-tocamp shoe. Wear for cloud-like comfort, styled with a puffy, quilted upper. Equally at ease at base camp and supportive enough for all-day wear, this versatile outdoor shoe employs a grippy rubber sole, an adjustable strap closure, and collapsible heel for easy on/off. Expect to pay 70.Weird Fish Mens Tyburn Check Fleece Shacket NavyA versatile shirt/jacket hybrid, the Tyburn Check Fleece Shacket is lined with a super-soft Sherpa fleece lining so it keeps you warm and acts as a wind cheater. Expect to pay 90Mountain Warehouse Florence Womens Long Padded GiletThe Florence Long Padded Gilet keeps you warm and is a great casual look. A water-resistant shell combined with microfibre insulation, ideal fo autumn or winter layering. Side pockets offer easy storage. Expect to pay 54.99Icebreaker Merino Wool Vertex 260 Womens Base Layer Tights100% Merino Wool. The Warmest base layer tights from the Icebreaker 100% Merino collection, the Vertex 260 GSM Leggings now with an even softer lofted feel next to the skin and striking designs. Expect to pay 73.Columbia Mens Rugged Ridge High Pile Half Zip FleeceThis cosy fleece jacket features a soft high-pile fleece crafted with chest and hand pockets for your essentials. Pair with your favourite trousers for the ultimate casual, cosy everyday look. Perfectly made for cool days outside on short trips from trail to street, light jackets and fleece can serve as an extra layer of cosy warmth. Expect to pay 65.Mountain Equipment Mens Saltoro GTX JacketThis GORE-TEX waterproof shell is essential protection for trekking and backpacking in the mountains. Stay dry and prepared for any weather. Its specifically designed for handling the unpredictable weather of mountainous terrain, it ensures reliable protection in mixed conditions. Expect to pay 300.Patagonia Black Hole Waist Pack 5LWhether you call it a hip pack, a bum bag or a waist pack, one things for sure the 1990s classic is back in a big way. Perfect for festivals, city breaks, travel or hiking, this one from Patagonia boasts a generous 5-litre capacity and robust construction that lends itself to fast and light days on the trail. Expect to pay 69.95.Sorel Womens Callsign Horizon Mid GTX SneakerCombine the heritage of our CARIBOU boot with the modern convenience of a sneaker, and you get the best of both worlds. Any season, anywhere, beat the elements and stay supported in style. Expect to pay 200.Columbia Unisex Triple Canyon 36L BackpackFor big days and overnight stays, this backpack has an ergonomic padded hip belt, sternum strap, breathable padded shoulder straps and airmesh back panel that offer flexibility and comfort when youre on the move. Expect to pay 115.Where to next?Look Inside: The Colossal Camping & Activity Fun Book by Camping with Style COMING SOON!TENTS | Tent Perfection, Coleman FastPitch Forest Lodge 4 ReviewCAMPING | Comfy Camping These Are The Best Camping Chairs For 2025The post GEAR | New Hiking & Outdoor Gear For Autumn/Winter 2025 appeared first on Camping Blog Camping with Style | Travel, Outdoors & Glamping Blog.