Get Linked
by John Shannon
Get "linked" to backpacking
Have you ever wondered where you might learn more about camping, hiking, or backpacking? In years past, the main ways have been reading books, subscribing to magazines, attending seminars, or joining clubs. While those learning avenues are excellent, there is another sometimes overlooked tool in many of your homes where you can learn even more...THE INTERNET! Over the last three years I have collected a few internet websites that some may find useful. The websites are categorized below, some with a short description of what they offer.
Of course, you can also visit all the major equipment supplier websites, such as www.rei.com as well.
Backpacking-related Articles
http://www.backpackinglight.com (some content requires subscription)
Gear Review/Testing
http://www.backpackgeartest.org (become a gear tester)
http://www.outsidemag.com/outdoor-gear
Gear Making
http://www.bright.net/~mziegler/HomemadeGear/MakeYourOwnGear.htm
http://www.rockywoods.com (fabric seller)
http://www.owfinc.com (fabric seller)
http://www.shelby.fi/catalog/default.php (fabric seller)
http://www.specialtyoutdoors.com (fabric seller)
http://www.seattlefabrics.com (fabric seller)
Cooking/Nutrition
http://www.freezerbagcooking.com (method of low-maintenance cooking)
http://www.minimus.biz (sample sizes of condiments, first aid supplies, etc.)
http://www.justtomatoes.com (buy dried fruits and vegetables)
http://www.thru-hiker.com/articles.asp?subcat=12&cid=39 (article on nutrition)
http://www.wildernessdining.com/shopbybrand-maryjanesfarm.html (buy foods)
http://www.backpackerspantry.com (buy foods)
http://www.alpineaire.com (buy foods)
Navigation/Mapping
http://www.backcountryattitude.com/navigation_map_compass.html
http://www.topozone.com (plug-in or get coordinates from online topographic map)
http://libre.redjar.org/maps (download your own maps)
http://www.princeton.edu/~oa/manual/mapcompass.shtml
Discussion Forums/Buy or Sell Used Gear
http://www.backpacking.net/bbs.html
Journaling/Podcasting
Outdoor Skills
http://www.equipped.org/primer.htm
Miscellaneous Sites
http://www.backpackinglight.com (lightweight first aid kit)
Cottage Industry Gear (little-known gear makers)
http://www.mountainlaureldesigns.com
http://www.featheredfriends.com
http://www.backpackinglight.com
http://www.antigravitygear.com
