In all fairness, the pandemic year(s) have not been great for those of us who like to get outside, break away from routine, and have adventures. But if you’re looking for a change, now is the time. 

There’s nothing more rejuvenating than spending time outdoors. Taking up a new outdoor hobby can be an opportunity to add some excitement to your life… or some peace and relaxation if that’s what you need. The outdoors isn’t just for risk-takers and adventurers. It’s for everyone. 

There are some great outdoor hobbies that will get your heart rate up and your blood pumping. Other outdoor hobbies are more meditative. Quite a few can be accomplished in the city or in your yard. 

From getting back to nature to getting more enjoyment out of your own backyard, these are the best outdoor hobbies for men.

1. Hiking

When you find yourself cooped up at the office during the workweek, hiking can be a great escape. Hiking allows you to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of nature at your own pace (and it’s a great low-impact exercise too). No matter where you live, there are probably several great trails close enough for a day trip. If you’re looking for a more social hike, bring a friend – maybe a four-legged friend – to share the trail with.

2. Gardening

Gardening is a great way to spend time outside right in your own backyard. Plus, it feels great to get your hands dirty! You have a lot of options too, from cultivating a vegetable garden to nurturing the best flower beds on the block. If you’re not naturally gifted with a green thumb, start with something simple (just about anybody can keep a tomato plant alive) and expand your horizons as your confidence increases. 

3. Skiing

Outdoor hobbies aren’t just for summer. When the snow flies, hit the slopes! Skiing is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy some beautiful scenery in cold weather. There’s a bit of a learning curve if you’re a total newbie, but it’s not as hard to get the hang of it as you think. Start by taking a skiing class, or hit the slopes with a more experienced friend. 

4. Rock Climbing

Climbing is an activity that essentially exercises every muscle in your body, all while sharpening your senses and honing your instincts. It’s a lot of fun, and it’s also an indoor hobby as well as an outdoor one. Start at an indoor rock gym until you feel confident enough to start rock climbing outdoors. 

5. Photography

If you enjoy photography, the outdoors can provide endless inspiration. From photographing wildlife and landscapes to urban scenery and portraits, there’s no end to what you can capture in the outdoors. Photography can also be rewarding in a lot of different ways. You could start an Instagram account and start building a following for your work, or maybe even do some work for hire as a freelance photographer. Or maybe your photography is something you do just for you. 

6. Camping

Who doesn’t love a night out under the stars with a roaring campfire and a few good friends? Camping is an experience many of us loved in childhood, but we don’t all take it back up again as adults. But a camping trip – whether for a whole week or just one night – can be a truly rejuvenating experience, and an opportunity to reconnect with nature and with our inner child. 

7. Skydiving

For most people who go skydiving, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But for some, it ignites a passion and becomes a lifelong pursuit. There’s only one way to find out which camp you belong to. Either way, skydiving is one of the most thrilling experiences the outdoors has to offer. 

8. Foraging

Foraging as a hobby has really caught on in recent years, and not just among those who live in the country. Urban foraging is a thing too, and even if you live in a big city, chances are you don’t have to drive too far to find a place where wild edibles grow. Being able to find food in nature is a deeply satisfying experience, and it’s the kind of knowledge that you can enjoy for a lifetime, and even pass down to the next generation. 

9. Barbecue

When we say barbecue, we’re not talking about throwing a couple hot dogs on the grill (not that there’s anything wrong with that). We’re talking about the craft – nay, the art – of slowly cooking meat over smoldering coals until it’s fall-off-the-bone tender. It takes hours, even days. And for some folks, it becomes a lifelong passion. One thing’s for sure: it takes time, but you can become a true pitmaster if you’re dedicated. 

10. Surfing

Once you really learn how to catch a wave, it can be hard to let go. Surfing is a hobby that connects you with the ocean in a deep way, and it often proves to be a transcendent experience. Not everyone is fortunate enough to live in a place where surfing is possible every day, but it can still be a hobby you pursue on vacations and holidays. You might just find yourself planning future trips around finding the best surf spots. 

11. Baseball

You’re never too old to make America’s pastime your pastime. Baseball is the quintessential American sport, and there are baseball leagues for all ages and athletic abilities in pretty much every city and town across the country. If there doesn’t happen to be one in yours, there’s no reason you and your buddies can’t start one. 

12. Stargazing

Mankind has been transfixed by the mysteries of the night sky since prehistoric times. We still are, except now we have the technology to see the heavens with much more clarity than our ancestors. Today, anodyne can buy a telescope and train it skyward. It can become a fascinating hobby, and you can actually get a pretty good beginners’ telescope at a very affordable price. 

13. Trail Running

Think of it as hiking… only faster. We all know that running is great exercise, but treadmills aren’t for everyone, and city streets aren’t always the most enjoyable places to run. But trail running allows you to experience nature while you get your cardio in. A lot of runners also enjoy the challenge of running with rocks and other obstacles on the trail. 

14. Kayaking

Kayaking is another great outdoor activity that’s available to almost anyone. It’s a relaxing way to hit the water and get some exercise while exploring at your own pace. And you don’t have to live on the banks of a pristine alpine lake to enjoy it. Plenty of urban kayakers have rivers and canals to explore, and I know folks who live in the desert and love to paddle their local irrigation channels (but be sure to check local regulations before you go). A lot of cities even have clubs for local ‘yak enthusiasts. 

15. Paintball

Paintball can be an indoor or an outdoor game, but we tend to think it’s more fun in the outdoors. A lot of people of all ages get a kick out of paintball, which is a fast-paced game with some real benefits. It sharpens your senses, gives you a workout, and improves hand-eye coordination. It might teach you some humility too if you find yourself on the wrong end of a paintball gun. 

16. Geocaching

If you were the type of kid who liked to pretend to find buried treasure, then geocaching might be the hobby for you. Geocaching is essentially a global scavenger hunt in which participants use GPS and navigation apps to find hidden “treasures” in secret places all over the world. It’s popular among boy scouts and globe-trotting travelers alike.

17. Bird Watching

There are lots of casual bird watchers in the world, and then there are those who take it to a whole other level. You’ll see them in parks and nature preserves, armed with guidebooks, binoculars, and species checklists. They may seem crazy, but once you get started, it’s easy to see why bird watching appeals to so many people on such a deep level. Birds are some of the most beautiful and mysterious creatures in nature, and for many people, getting closer to them becomes a lifelong passion bordering on obsession. 

18. Flea Marketing

You never know what you’ll find at a flea market. That’s part of the appeal, of course. You might find one-of-a-kind vintage treasures, or you might go home with an armload of junk. Either way, sifting through the packed booths at local flea markets and auctions is like a walk through the past, and it’s certainly a rewarding hobby for bargain-hunters. 

19. Snowmobiling

If you grew up in a big city and/or a warm climate, you might scratch your head at the notion of snowmobiling. But if you’re from a rural region up north, then you know that riding snowmobiles is a big deal. It’s essentially sledding across the snow on what feels like your own personal rocket ship. It’s a lot of fun, so definitely give it a try if you have a chance.

20. Fishing

For people who get bit by the fishing bug, there’s nothing more thrilling than that telltale tug at the end of your line. Fishing is a great hobby that’s equally appealing for weekend warriors and full-time obsessors. It can be exciting or relaxing, meditative, or requiring deep focus. Basically, it’s whatever you need it to be, and it’s certainly a fun way to enjoy being outdoors. 

21. Beekeeping

Getting to keep bees in your own backyard may sound like a dream come true, or it might sound like a nightmare if you suffer from apiphobia (that’s the technical term for fear of bees). Nevertheless, beekeeping as a hobby has really taken off in urban and rural areas alike. For those who get into it, there’s a deep satisfaction to caring for your colony. Plus, free honey!

22. Road Biking

Cycling is a healthy hobby that anyone, anywhere can get into. All you need is a bike, a helmet, and a good stretch of open road. Whether you bike for fun on the weekends, bike to work to save on gas, or bike to the grocery store to help the environment, it’s an all-around good hobby that brings a wealth of benefits. Start by learning the basics of bike riding and bike care, and pretty soon you’ll be more than willing to leave your car behind. 

23. Peak Bagging

Peak baggers are a special breed of hikers and climbers who are dedicated to reaching all of the summits within a certain mountain range or collection of peaks. For example, the 46ers are a group that has climbed each of the Adirondacks’ 46 High Peaks. For hikers with a competitive streak, peak bagging is a great hobby. 

24. Horseback Riding

As any rider will tell you, there’s nothing quite like the connection between man and beast that occurs while riding a trusted steed. It’s an amazing way to explore the outdoors, and if you’ve never done it before, you might be shocked to discover what a workout it is! Plus, if you get really into horseback riding it can lead to all kinds of related hobbies, from polo and racing to dressage and rodeo.

25. Urban Exploration

Urban exploration is the exploration of manmade structures, usually those that have been abandoned, forgotten, or left in ruins. It’s gained some popularity in rust belt cities like Detroit, where many such structures have been left behind. But there are opportunities for urban exploration in cities and towns all over America and the world, with a lot of surprising hidden gems waiting to be discovered. 

26. Clay Pigeon Shooting

Whether you pursue it as a personal hobby or a competitive sport, clay pigeon shooting is a lot of fun. The idea is essentially to break as many moving clay targets as possible, and it’s a great way to hone your shooting skills. Some hunters shoot clay pigeons as a way of practicing for the real thing. 

27. Ultimate Frisbee

Ultimate Frisbee – often referred to simply as “Ultimate” by those who play it – was originally developed by a group of students in 1986. The popularity of the game grew gradually, to the point that there are now Ultimate Frisbee Leagues all over the world, with many players traveling all over to take part in tournaments. 

28. Sailing

Learning to sail is a challenging pursuit and one that often goes well beyond the realm of “hobby” to become a full-blown lifestyle. It’s not a hobby that many young men have the time for (or can afford), but one that more and more people are coming to in retirement. Still, there’s something that’s undeniably compelling about the thrill of the open sea that makes sailing hard to resist. There are plenty of beginner sailing classes out there if you’re interested in dabbling.

29. Ice Skating

A lot of guys who ice skate do so for hockey, but it’s a great skill to have, and a lot of fun in and of itself. Plus, if you live near a public ice rink (as many of us do) you can most likely ice skate year-round. Still, it’s best when you can skate outdoors in the crisp winter air, and there’s something truly meditative about gliding across the ice. 

30. Mountain Biking

As pulse-pounding, adrenaline-pumping hobbies go, there are few better than mountain biking. It’s an inexpensive hobby to get started in, and it’s a thrilling way to experience the outdoors. Mountain biking is quite beginner-friendly too, with plenty of relatively unchallenging trails for newcomers to try out. 

31. Golf

There are a lot of reasons folks play golf. Some see it as a competitive sport, while others see it as a way of networking for business. For many golfers, however, it’s the simple joy of being out in a wide-open space on a beautiful day that keeps us coming back. It’s fun, it’s relaxing, and it’s a great way to release some tension if need be. A couple drinks in the clubhouse afterward don’t hurt. 

32. Keeping Chickens

Raising and keeping chickens is a great way to bring some nature – albeit of the domesticated variety – into your own backyard. It’s also a fun hobby, whether you’re an aspiring farmer or just a guy who likes eggs. Be advised that chickens do require a fair amount of care and attention, but a few hens and a basic coop don’t take up that much space. Chickens also provide a lot of great entertainment. 

33. Cave Exploring

Does underground count as outdoors? I’m not sure, but either way, exploring caves is the perfect hobby for those of you with a real thirst for adventure. Often referred to as caving or spelunking, cave exploring offers access to an incredible underground world that few ever see. There are countless caves and caverns open to the general public, though this is definitely not a hobby you should take up without some expert guidance. 

34. Tennis

As a competitive sport, tennis will put both your body and mind to the test. But as a hobby, it’s fun and relaxing, and a great way to get your heart rate up! Few hobbies do more to improve your physical endurance as well as your mental focus. 

35. Whitewater Rafting

River rafting is the experience of a lifetime, and for some people once in a lifetime is enough. But some of us get totally hooked on the wild scenery and rush of adrenaline that comes with tumbling down a surging whitewater river. Rafting is also not as dangerous as you might think, provided you learn the ropes and know your limits. Start by taking a guided excursion on a relatively mild stream. 

36. Bushcraft

Bushcraft is the art of surviving and thriving in the wilderness. It’s an opportunity to unleash your inner Bear Grylls. It’s also an enjoyable way to gain some genuinely useful skills, like building a shelter, making a fire, and cooking in the great outdoors. Best of all, learning bushcraft will create a deep connection to the natural world, to the point that you may feel like you’re truly a part of it, rather than an outsider. 

37. Beachcombing

You never know what you’ll find on the beach – cool shells, sea glass, driftwood, sharks’ teeth, pirate treasure. Who knows? It’s the search as well as the discovery that makes beachcombing an enjoyable hobby, and finding some real treasure isn’t entirely outside the realm of possibility. 

38. Fly Fishing

Picture a fly fisherman. Chances are, we all have the same image in our minds: a lone, vest-clad angler, knee-deep in a picturesque trout stream at sunset, fly line arching graceful overhead before a backdrop of pine-studded hills. It looks perfect, doesn’t it? Lots of people go fishing, but learning to fly fish is on a whole other level. It’s a genuine art form, and learning to do it well will give you a lifetime of enjoyment. 

39. Archery

Archery is a great way to relax and blow off steam, not to mention building some impressive, Robin Hood-esque skills. It’s also extremely rewarding to be able to see yourself getting better at it, and hitting the center of the target more and more often. And let me tell you, it’s one heck of an upper-body workout. 

40. ATV-ing

Sometimes you just gotta go out and get some mud on the tires. All-terrain vehicles are a lot of fun to drive, and it’s also a great social activity. Quite a few state parks and forests have designated ATV trails, but many riders who live in the country and own some land simply make their own. Either way, plan on getting dirty!

41. Snorkeling

With some simple, affordable gear and basic instruction, anyone can become a snorkeler. That’s one of the chief advantages of snorkeling as a hobby, the other being that it opens up a whole underwater world that most people never see firsthand. Because snorkeling is mostly done in shallow water, it’s a very accessible pastime and one that can lead to some awesome discoveries. 

42. Backpacking

Backpacking requires planning, preparation, and a thirst for adventure. It’s essentially hiking taken to the next level, in which you have to carry on your back everything you need to spend a night – perhaps many nights – in the wilderness. Most of us live within a day’s drive of a good beginners’ backpacking trail that can be hiked in a weekend, but many experienced backpackers spend six months or more thru-hiking long-distance trails like the Appalachian Trail or the Pacific Crest Trail. 

43. Drone Piloting

Hobby drones are easy to fly and surprisingly user-friendly. They’re also a lot more affordable than they used to be and have spiked in popularity during the pandemic. Piloting a drone allows you to film spectacular aerial footage and see a different view of landscapes and landmarks you thought you were familiar with. 

44. Snowshoeing

Hiking season doesn’t end when the snow flies. Just strap on a pair of snowshoes, grab some trekking poles, and you’re good to go! Snowshoeing is a thoroughly enjoyable way to explore nature during winter, and it’s definitely a workout. 

45. Standup Paddle Boarding

A hobby that’s slowly becoming more and more popular, standup paddleboarding is great for anyone who’s comfortable on the water. It’s kind of like flat surfing! It’s a unique way to explore your favorite lake, bay, or pond, and it’s also an affordable hobby that requires no training or certifications of any kind. 

46. Hunting

Most dedicated hunters would probably balk at the notion that hunting is a hobby. Call it what you will, hunting checks a lot of boxes if you’re looking for a pursuit that is challenging, rewarding, and provides a deep connection with the natural world. Plus, if you’re successful, hunting puts organic, free-range, cruelty-free meat on the table. The easiest way to get into hunting is to first tag along with a friend who can show you the ropes.

47. Lawn Games

A staple of beer gardens and backyard gatherings throughout the warmer months, lawn games take many forms. From croquet and bocce ball to badminton and cornhole, there are a lot of games that are great for groups of various sizes. If you’re looking for a hobby that involves hanging out with friends, throwing back a couple of cold beers, and engaging in some friendly competition, lawn games might be for you. 

48. Canoeing

There’s something appealingly old-fashioned about paddling a canoe across a secluded lake or pond. Although the technology that goes into a canoe has certainly evolved, the basics of canoeing haven’t changed much in hundreds of years. It’s a relaxing, meditative hobby that also offers some low-impact exercise. You can canoe solo, but canoeing is also a great hobby for two, whether you want to take a fishing buddy or a significant other.

49. Festival-Going

For people who are super into going to festivals, it tends to go well beyond a mere hobby and become a total lifestyle. You don’t have to go all-in to that degree (though you totally can) but nevertheless, it’s a cool way to see a lot of awesome live music and access some inner peace. 

50. Fossil Hunting

Did you dream of being a dinosaur hunter when you were a kid? That dream doesn’t have to die! Fossil collecting is a perfectly legitimate hobby and depending on where you live, you might be shocked at what you can find if you know where to look. From ammonites and trilobites to petrified wood and fossilized shark teeth, there are millions of years’ worth of treasure beneath our feet. 

51. Disc Golf

A perfect merging of golf and Frisbee, disc golf (some call it “frolf”) is a game that anyone can enjoy. It also takes quite a bit of skill to get really good at it, but with disc golf courses both public and private popping up all over the place, you have a lot of opportunities to hone your abilities. 

52. Landscape Painting

Painting out in the great wide open is an opportunity to unleash your inner Bob Ros and paint some happy trees while enjoying the beautiful scenery. There’s a whole world out there just waiting to be captured on canvas, and you don’t have to be a master to enjoy painting. Try out a landscape painting class and see if it’s for you!

53. Scuba Diving

Scuba Diving is a hobby that takes a lot of training and experience, but the people who get into it tend to get really into it. It’s not hard to see why. The vast majority of people never get to experience the world beneath the waves, let alone swim with sharks and explore sunken shipwrecks. It’s outdoor adventure at its finest. 

54. Kites

There’s an unmistakable joy that comes with watching a kite and feeling it tug at the end of your line in the open sky. Kite flying is a tradition that dates back to ancient China at least 2,000 years ago, but today it brings happiness and relaxation to people all over the world. There are even those who take it to the next level and make their own kites. 

55. Canyoneering

Canyoneering, as its name suggests, is the exploration of canyons. There are ample opportunities to pursue this hobby in the southwest, and it’s an adventure-filled hobby that combines many other outdoor pursuits, including hiking, scrambling, climbing, and rappelling. Some consider it an extreme sport, and it certainly requires a level of skill and a certain acceptance of danger. 

56. Fruit Growing

There’s something deeply satisfying about fruit growing. Maybe it’s the care and patience that goes into it, or the deep connection you form with plants you’ve cultivated over the course of many years. Anyone can grow fruit in their own backyard if they have the time and patience. Depending on where you live you could start your own orange grove, plant a vineyard or open up an apple orchard.

57. Snowboarding

Snowboarding may appear superficially similar to skiing, but anyone who’s mastered both will tell you that it’s a very different animal. This hobby offers its own unique thrills and requires a particular set of skills. But it rewards you with pulse-hammering excitement and spectacular mountain scenery. 

58. Outdoor Movie Nights

Tired of being stuck indoors but don’t want to give up your movie nights? Move them outside! By hanging up a sheet and investing in a projector, you can turn your backyard into your own private outdoor theater. Make it a weekly tradition, invite some friends, and maybe make some s’mores over a crackling fire while you watch your favorite movies out in the fresh air. 

59. Skateboarding

You might think skateboarding is kids’ stuff but make no mistake. Grown-ups can get a lot out of it too, and you’re never too old to start. Heck, Tony Hawk is in his 50s now, and that dude is still crushing it. 

60. Bungee Jumping

Feeling brave? Bungee jumping is one of the quintessential extreme sports, and there are few things in this world that offer a more thrilling rush. Free-falling from great heights is simply an experience unlike anything else. Of course, it’s not for everyone. Try it once, and you’ll either be hooked for life, or you’ll vow never to do it again. 

61. Metal Detecting

Who knows what treasure is waiting out there to be discovered? With a metal detector, you can find out! Even if you don’t find pirate treasure, you’ll still have a lot of fun, and almost certainly turn up a lot of surprising lost trinkets and valuables. You never know! Some folks do strike it rich. 

62. Roller Coasters

Roller coaster enthusiasts all share one thing in common: a need for speed. Most of us have been on a roller coaster or two at some point in our lives, but for the adrenaline junkies among us, it becomes an endless pursuit of the next thrill ride. You may find yourself keeping track of every ride you’ve taken, fantasizing about roller coasters, and planning vacations around where you can get your next fix. 

63. Roller Skating/Blading

Roller skating and rollerblading have been around for a long time, and they may never fully go out of style. Strapping on a pair of skates essentially transforms you into a vehicle, and there’s just something undeniably appealing about that. It’s a sport, a hobby and a mode of transportation all rolled into one. 

64. Wildlife Watching

Wildlife watching often starts with something small. A chance encounter with a fox, an unexpected run-in with a food-stealing squirrel. Before you know it you’re looking out your window with binoculars with a David Attenborough-inspired monologue running through your head. At the end of the day, whether you’re heading out to Yellowstone to see wild bison or strolling through your local zoo, wildlife watching connects us with nature in a big way. 

65. Bouldering

Bouldering is kind of like rock climbing, but with a few caveats. The biggest difference is that bouldering is done without any ropes or harnesses and that you’re usually free climbing no higher than 12 to 15 feet. The only gear involved is a crash pad to soften the blow if you happen to lose your grip and fall on your butt. 

66. Fat Tire Biking

Think mountain bike season is over when the snow flies? Think again! Fat tire bikes, also called fat bikes or snow bikes, have gained a lot of popularity in recent years thanks to their ability to take on snowy landscapes. Biking in winter is a blast, and fat-tire bikes are also great for beach biking and desert biking on sand dunes. 

67. Orienteering

Orienteering is basically the sport of navigation. There are a few variations to how it’s done, but it’s usually a game in which you attempt to make your way from point to point using a map and compass. There’s sometimes a speed component as well if you’re competing with other teams or individuals to get to the finish line. It’s a lot of fun, and it helps build some useful skills. 

68. Tree Climbing

Why do rocks get all the attention? Trees are great for climbing too! As a hobby, tree-climbing isn’t something you hear about all that much, but there are those who pursue it with a passion. Recreational tree climbing requires only a few basic items of equipment, a bit of safety knowledge, and a desire for adventure in the treetops.

69. Kitesurfing

Also known as kiteboarding, kitesurfing is a water sport that involves gliding across the water on a surfboard-like surface, propelled by wind power via kites or sails. It’s a blast, and although it can be difficult to master, kitesurfing is a truly exhilarating experience. 

70. Live-Action Role-Playing Games

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Live-action role-playing games – sometimes referred to as LARPing – is a pastime in which participants dress up and physically portray the characters from a particular fantasy world or historical time period. It can be a lot of fun, and it’s often deliberately silly (though, in fairness, there are those who take it way too seriously). 

71. Falconry

Falconry is one of the world’s oldest sports, and it’s as much an art as a hobby and one that takes years of patience and dedication to master. It requires you to build a relationship of mutual trust and respect with birds of prey… and really, what could be cooler than that?

72. Off-Road Dirt Biking

Those who love off-road dirt biking get their kicks from the speed, the intensity, even the racket and noise of the bikes. From twisting and turning through an obstacle course to going full-throttle down a straight stretch of trail, it’s a pastime that provides a lot of thrill and excitement. It requires some skills (and a good helmet) but ultimately the only limit is your own ability. 

73. Hammocking

Taking a nap outdoors is a hobby? Heck yeah it is. Hammocking has exploded in popularity in the last decade, and why not? It’s incredibly relaxing. Placement of your hammock is key, of course, and hammocking is often seen as the reward at the end of a long hike. From secluded mountaintops to shady forests, almost no place is off-limits. 

74. Deep Sea Fishing

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Fishing for big game on the open ocean is a very different experience than catching bass and bluegills in your local pond. It requires patience, strength, and a lot of stamina to hook and land a fish that weighs hundreds of pounds, and there aren’t a lot of people who experience the deep exhilaration (and sometimes crushing disappointment) of deep sea fishing for big game.

75. Go-Karting

Go-karting can be addictive. Many participants get hooked on the thrill of a race, and it’s an endlessly enjoyable sport and hobby for all ages. If you have a track near your home, then you’re already halfway there. Some people even get into building their own go-karts, although there are plenty of places out there that rent them out. 

The open road has an undeniable allure. But it has its fair share of dangers too. If you’re planning a road trip, it pays to keep safety in mind. From wicked weather and drunk drivers to car thieves and surly traffic cops, there are a lot of things you need to watch out for when you’re out there crisscrossing the nation on your next big road trip adventure. 

Follow these 20 simple safety tips to make sure your next road trip isn’t your last. 

1. Give Your Car a Check-Up

Take your vehicle to the shop two weeks before your planned departure date. Have them change the oil, test the brakes, check the tire pressure, top off the windshield wiper fluid—all the basics. If your tires are due for a rotation, now is a good time to do that too. 

It’s very important to make sure your car is up to snuff before you hit the road. This isn’t just for safety (although that’s definitely a big part of it) but also because even a small repair can turn into a major headache when you’re far from home. 

Take extra care if you drive a foreign car or one that’s a little out of the ordinary. I once drove across the US in a Subaru Outback and had no idea until I broke down in Nebraska that most mechanics in that part of the country have never worked on a Subaru before. Who knew?

2. Pack Emergency Essentials

First and foremost, make sure your vehicle has all the preparedness essentials that it’s supposed to have: a spare tire, jack, tire iron, jumper cables, and tire pressure gauge. It’s also smart to pack a flashlight, a few basic tools, duct tape, and extra windshield wiper fluid.

You should also stow some emergency supplies in case you get stuck or stranded, especially on long trips that take you through remote areas. Include a first aid kit, drinking water, some nonperishable food, a warm blanket or two, a spare phone charger, and extra batteries for anything that may need them. 

3. Know How To Change a Tire

Getting a flat tire on the highway is the worst. But it happens to almost everyone sooner or later, so make sure you know how to use your car’s jack, remove the tire, and put on the spare. Even if you have AAA, you should just assume that you’ll blow a flat in a spot with no cell service and have to do it yourself. 

Whatever you do, don’t drive on a flat tire. It can cause further damage to your car and end up costing you a bundle. Wherever you happen to be when you get a flat, the first thing you should do is pull over as soon as it’s safe to do so. 

4. Know How To Handle Bad Weather

There’s always a chance you’ll run into nasty weather on a road trip, whether it’s a thunderstorm, snowstorm, or sandstorm. Check the forecast along your route before you depart, but more importantly, learn how to drive safely when the weather gets rough. 

This is especially important in winter. If you’re a Floridian making the drive up to visit family in Minnesota for the holidays, I’m talking directly to you now. 

First of all, when the weather gets rough, slow down. The US Department of Transportation recommends reducing your speed by one-third on wet roads and at least half on snow-packed roads. Take curves extra slowly, and turn your hazard lights on so that other drivers can see you. 

Finally, if the weather gets so bad that you don’t feel safe driving, pull over the first chance you get. Avoid pulling over onto the shoulder, as other drivers may have a hard time seeing you there, but take advantage of the closest gas station or rest area to wait out the storm. 

5. Familiarize Yourself With Your Vehicle

Going on a road trip is easiest if you’re driving a car you’ve owned for years, because you know everything there is to know about your vehicle. You’re like two old soldiers who have been in battle together. 

It’s a little harder when you’re driving a new car, a friend’s car, or a rental car. If that’s the case, take some time to learn all its little quirks before you start driving. Learn how the windshield wipers and headlights work, and familiarize yourself with any features that you’re not used to, like electronic stability control or anti-lock brakes. 

6. Rest Up in Advance

Get a good night’s sleep the night before you hit the road. Fatigue is one of the most significant dangers on a long road trip. According to the CDC, drowsy driving causes 83,000 crashes annually, and being awake for 18 hours is equivalent to a blood content (BAC) of 0.05%. 

Driving when you’re bone-tired is, for all practical purposes, just as dangerous as driving after one too many cocktails. Bottom line: get some rest before you hit the road, and if you’re not traveling alone, plan on driving in shifts so you can each get some sleep. 

7. Avoid Distractions

One of the biggest dangers on the road is distracted drivers—especially if the distracted driver is you. Disaster can strike when you take your eyes off the road for just a second. The moment you look down to fiddle with the radio, or over your shoulder to tell your kids to settle down, could also be the moment the driver in front of you brakes to avoid a squirrel. Be careful out there. 

8. Take a Map

Mazda introduced the first-ever GPS system for auto navigation in 1990. Google Maps first launched in 2005. In this day and age, you could be forgiven for thinking that old-timey paper maps are unnecessary relics from the pre-internet age. 

But if you lose your phone or lose service, you can still end up in trouble. You might not need a whole glove box full of maps like our parents had, but at least have a map of your route in hand. The best option is to get a United States Road Atlas and just keep it in your car, so no matter where you go in the country, you have a map. 

9. Don’t Speed

Look, you should never speed. But sometimes you do. Everybody does. I get it. But when you’re on a road trip, that’s a time when you really shouldn’t go too far over the speed limit. 

Getting a speeding ticket outside your home state is the literal worst. Contesting a ticket far from home is inconvenient and expensive—you have to go back to the county where you got the ticket—and it’s usually cheaper to just pay the fine. 

Local traffic police know this of course, and there are areas where they’re known to be especially strict with out-of-state vehicles. Just do yourself a favor and follow all the rules when you’re on a road trip. 

10. Watch Out for Drunk Drivers

According to the US Department of Transportation, 28 people die every day in the United States from drunk driving crashes. That’s one person every 52 minutes. Stay alert, and keep an eye on the cars around you. If anyone else on the road appears to be driving erratically, keep your distance. 

Use extra caution at intersections. Always wear your seatbelt, and stay in the right lane on highways except when passing. Incidences of drunk driving are most common at night, and on weekends and holidays, so use extra caution if driving during those times. 

11. Make a Killer Playlist

Having something to listen to will help the hours and miles pass more quickly. Whether you prefer to listen to podcasts, audiobooks, a Spotify playlist, or a good old-fashioned binder full of CDs, make sure your car is well stocked with listening material. 

Music can also help keep you alert if you’re forced to drive long hours (there’s nothing like cranking some Metallica after dark). Just remember, if you’re driving with a buddy, whoever’s riding shotgun controls the music. Them’s the rules. 

12. Take Your Meds

If you have a medical condition or take prescription medications, make sure you bring all the medicine and other supplies you may need. It’s always a good idea to take more than you think you’ll need on a road trip, in case your trip ends up being longer than expected for some unforeseen reason.

It’s also smart to take some basic first aid supplies, like pain reliever in case you get a headache while driving, or anti-motion-sickness medicine if you’re prone to motion sickness. Make sure there’s an inhaler handy if anyone in the car has asthma, and an EpiPen if anyone has severe allergies. 

13. Don’t Pick Up Hitchhikers

I know it can be tempting at times to give somebody a lift, but when you’re far from home in an unfamiliar place, it’s just too risky. It’s true that most people who hitchhike are perfectly harmless, but… you know… a handful of serial killers have really ruined the whole thing for everybody. 

Plus, picking up hitchhikers is illegal in some states, and many states have convoluted rules about where and when it’s technically legal to solicit a ride or pick up a hitchhiker. It’s just not worth the risk and hassle. 

14. Gas It Up

There are parts of the country where a gas station is never far away. And there are parts of the country where you can drive for an hour and never see one. The point is, don’t roll the dice. When you have an opportunity to fill up, take it. Try not to let your gas tank fall below half if you’re driving in a remote area. 

Fun fact: the longest stretch of road without a gas station in the US is a 105-mile section of Interstate 70 in Utah between Green River and Salina. Sure is quiet out there. 

15. Know When and Where You’ll Sleep

If you’re on a multi-day trek, it might be tempting to drive through the night. But drowsy driving is a bad idea, so plan your sleep stops in advance, whether that means stopping at a hotel, motel, campground, or Airbnb. 

Sleeping in your car at a truck stop, highway rest area or Wal Mart parking lot isn’t ideal, but it’s better than driving yourself to the brink of exhaustion. Just make sure you know the local laws wherever you may be. Getting woken up by the cops and told to move on is no fun at all. 

16. Stay Hydrated (But Not Over-Hydrated)

Drinking the right amount of water on the road can be a bit of a tightrope walk. On one hand, staying hydrated is important for staying sharp and warding off fatigue. On the other hand, you don’t want to have to stop and pee every half hour. 

The best advice I can give is to keep a bottle of water handy and drink when you’re thirsty. You might need to drink eight glasses of water on a day when you’re highly active, but when you’re basically sitting in a chair all day long, your body’s needs aren’t as great. 

Avoid salty snacks, which dehydrate your body, and sugary drinks, which trick your brain into thinking you’re thirsty. The best way to practically check your hydration is to look at the color of your urine when you stop for a bathroom break. If it looks a little dark, you should drink more water. 

17. Don’t Leave Valuables Unattended

It’s easy to walk away from your car with your wallet on the seat or your phone on the dash, so always double-check that you have your valuables. It only takes a second for someone passing by to decide to smash and grab. 

Always lock your car before you walk away from it, even if you’ll only be gone for a second. And for goodness sake, don’t leave it running while you go inside to pay for your gas and Twinkies. 

18. Keep Kids Entertained

Taking a road trip with the whole family presents a few extra challenges. It means more bathroom breaks, more snack stops, and usually a lot more “are-we-there-yets.” 

Driving with a car full of fussy kids can also become a safety issue. As the driver, it’s only natural to get increasingly distracted and irritated as pandemonium ensues in the backseat. That makes it harder to drive safely, so plan some ways to keep the kids entertained on long drives. 

Plan some games to play, have some kid-friendly audiobooks ready, stock up on coloring and activity books, or bring some things that kids can read or watch. When I was a kid, my parents would just sit me in the back of the car with a stack of comic books. But I don’t know if kids read comics anymore. 

19. Understand Car Safety for Babies

Traveling with an infant (or even a toddler) brings some additional considerations. First and foremost, read the instructions on your baby’s car seat thoroughly and make sure you know how to install it correctly. Car seats should only be used in the back seat and must be secured tightly. Rear-facing car seats are the safest.

Plan extra breaks if you’re going on a road trip with a baby. Not only will you need to make additional stops for feeding and changing, but most experts agree that babies should not be in a car seat uninterrupted for more than 2 hours without a break. 

20. Take Precautions if Traveling Alone

Pretty much all the road trip safety tips we’ve covered so far are even more important if you’re traveling alone. Without an extra person in the car, you’re at greater risk of fatigue while driving, and you don’t have anyone to rely on in a difficult situation. 

It’s also important to keep in mind that solo travelers are more vulnerable and contrary to what you may believe or have heard, that’s equally true of men and women of all ages. Use caution. Be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid letting people know you’re traveling alone. Don’t dress like a tourist. 

Rock climbing in America has, for better or worse, gone mainstream. You could say that’s a bit of a double-edged sword. With more and more people interested in rock climbing, there are more established climbing routes than at any other time in human history. It’s also harder than ever to get off the beaten path and away from the crowds. 

The good news is, the diversity of terrain in the US offers some of the best rock climbing in the world. From the ancient gorges of Appalachia to the rugged deserts of the Southwest, these are the 10 best climbing spots in America. 

1. Yosemite, California

Yosemite National Park is essentially the birthplace of modern rock climbing, and visiting this iconic park is a pilgrimage of sorts for climbing enthusiasts. The sprawling Yosemite Valley, with its dramatic granite walls, has been alluring to generations of climbers. 

You’ll find just about every type of climbing imaginable at Yosemite. The Northwest Buttress of Tenaya’s Peak offers some of the easier trad climbing, and the sustained crack climbs in Merced River Canyon are the stuff of legends. And then, of course, there is the big wall climbs on Half Dome and El Captian. 

Yosemite supports a wide range of climbing styles, ranging from single to multi-pitch trad and sport climbing. It’s not an easy place to climb, and it’s best to have at least some trad climbing experience. Difficulty ratings tend to be in the 5.6 to 5.14 range. 

Camp 4 is the classic base camp for climbers in Yosemite. It’s so popular in summer that there’s a lottery for campsites in summertime, but the camp is strictly first come, first served during the off-season. There are few things more inspiring than waking up at this legendary camp and getting ready for your day on the rocks.

2. New River Gorge, West Virginia

West Virginia’s New River Gorge is one of a select few sites that are in close contention for “best climbing in the East” status. The scenery is simply spectacular, which makes the New River a popular destination not only for climbing but also for hiking, camping, fishing, and whitewater rafting. 

What makes the gorge special is its Nuttall sandstone, which is basically the perfect rock for climbing. It’s beautifully textured, nearly as hard as granite, and unlike most types of sandstone, it can be climbed even when wet. 

The New River Gorge has 60 miles of sandstone cliff walls, where more than 3,000 climbing routes have been established. Routes range from 30 to 120 feet, and you could quite literally spend a lifetime exploring all the possibilities this place has to offer. 

Admittedly, the New River Gorge can be a tough place for beginners. Small handholds and bolts spaced far apart are the norm. Some of the easiest climbs are in the Sandstonia and Junkyard areas, where there are routes in the 5.6. to 5.7 range. Throughout most of the gorge, though, ratings tend to start around 5.9. 

3. Red Rock, Nevada

Climbers of all skill levels will find challenges and rewards in Red Rock Canyon. There are around 2,900 established climbing routes here, ranging from beginner-friendly 30-foot single pitch sport climbs to epic multi-pitch trad routes. There’s even some great bouldering here, especially at Kraft Mountain. 

Red Rock is best known for the beautiful red sandstone that gives the canyon its name, but there’s a great variety of rock here, including limestone and granite. Avoid climbing the sandstone after rain. It can be extremely crumbly in wet conditions. 

The majority of the routes in Red Rock Canyon fall into the moderate difficulty range. Calico Hills, with their tri-colored rock strata, is prime territory for intermediate climbers with lots of routes around 5.7 and an abundance of fun slabs, cracks, and overhangs to navigate. 

Red Rock Canyon is just minutes from Las Vegas, which makes it an easily accessible climbing destination that feels a lot more off-the-grid than it really is. You can climb here year-round, but the summer heat is pretty brutal, so most climbers stick to the months between September and May. 

4. Red River Gorge, Kentucky

The Red River Gorge in Kentucky is arguably the closest contender with West Virginia’s New River Gorge when it comes to great climbing in the East. You could go either way depending on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Honestly, they’re only three hours apart, so you could conceivably climb both gorges on the same trip. 

Kentucky’s Red River Gorge certainly has an advantage when it comes to beginner-friendliness. There are quite a few routes rated 5.4 to 5.7, but also some extremely difficult climbs all the way up to 5.14. There are nearly 3,000 routes here in total, and the gorge is mostly known for its single-pitch sport routes with an abundance of handholds. 

The defining feature of the Red River Gorge is its multicolored Corbin Sandstone, with cliff faces so near-vertical that they could have been planned out by an architectural engineer. Many of the cliff faces also have a significant enough overhang that the rock stays dry even in rainy weather. 

Visit the Red River Gorge in autumn to take advantage of mild, mostly dry weather and spectacular fall foliage. Stop in at the famous Miguel’s Pizza – a combination pizza place, gear store, and campground – to gear up and chat with other climbers. 

5. Joshua Tree, California

California is home to a lot of iconic climbing spots, but few are more unique and otherworldly than Joshua Tree National Park. Some of the park’s namesake trees are more than 500 years old, and they live alongside almost cartoonishly giant cacti and rock faces that resemble stacks of house-sized blocks. 

It’s a heck of a place to climb. It’s hard to say just how many routes have been established in Joshua Tree, but some estimates put the number over 10,000. Most are fairly short trad climbs that are beginner-friendly, but there are also some extreme challenges here. 

The route known as Clean and Jerk has some textbook face climbing as well as an intimidating crack, with a 5.10c rating. The intense overhang of Big Moe on North Face of Echo Cove is rated 5.11a, and has a reputation for denying even the most advanced climbers. 

With its desert climate, rain seldom spoils the climbing at Joshua Tree. Spring and fall offer prime climbing conditions, and there are several National Park campgrounds close enough to the rocks that you don’t have to drive around too much. Book a site well in advance; they tend to fill up. 

6. Wild Iris, Wyoming

Access Fund

Perched at an altitude of 9,000 feet, Wild Iris is a smooth crag of beautifully pocketed limestone on Limestone Mountain. It’s arguably the closest thing we have in the US to iconic French crags like Buoux or Verdon Gorge. 

More than 300 bolted sport climbs have been established on Wild Iris. Most have ratings in the range of 5.6 to 5.14. Aspen Glade is where advanced climbers can find some of the most challenging routes, while the Main Wall is best for beginners. Intermediate climbers will find plenty to explore in the O.K. Corral area. 

One of the great rewards of climbing at Wild Iris is the scenery. You can get expansive views from atop the crags, especially toward the end of summer when the fluttering canopy of aspen trees below begins to turn golden. 

Wild Iris is very much a summer crag thanks to Wyoming’s relatively short climbing season. Snow often lingers into June, but climbing conditions are usually warm and welcoming through September. Summer weather can actually get deceptively hot on the south-facing rocks of Wild Iris.

7. Shawangunks, New York

Known affectionately as “the Gunks,” the Shawangunk Mountains of New York stretch from the New Jersey state line to the southern edge of the Catskills. At the center of the Shawangunks is a stretch of rock face that extends for several miles and includes over 1,000 established climbing routes. 

There are one to three-pitch climbs here for pretty much every skill level. Most routes are rated from 5.3 to 5.13, so there’s a pretty broad range of difficulty here. The Shawangunks have impeccable rock quality and an abundance of horizontal cracks that will aid beginners. 

The most popular and well known route is known as High Exposure. It’s a 250-foot trad climb with a 5.6 rating and an intimidating overhang midway up the cliff that’s often touted as one of the best 5.6 climbs in the world. 

Being about 85 miles from New York City, the Gunks are probably the most popular climbing area on the East Coast. They’re also one of the most well-established, having been first climbed by Fritz Wiessner in the 1930s. Try to visit on a weekday to beat the crowds. 

8. Smith Rock, Oregon

Smith Rock is a legendary climbing area and one that could very well claim to be the birthplace of American sport climbing. In the early 90s, some of the routes here were the most challenging that had ever been climbed in the US. 

Located just a few miles from the city of Bend, Oregon, Smith Rock’s most recognizable feature is the Dihedrals. This accordion-like series of steep volcanic rock fins is a magnet for advanced climbers. It lends itself to extremely technical climbing, with many routes way up in the 5.12 to 5.14 difficulty range. In many cases, the first bolts are 15 to 20 feet off the ground. 

Still, there are also options here for fewer hardcore climbers. Smith Rock has more than 2,000 established routes in total, including many on the Morning Glory Wall and the Llama Wall that are accessible to beginners. 

Smith Rock State Park provides camping within walking distance of the rock. The area can get a bit overcrowded with hikers and climbers alike on prime summer days, but this is one place where braving the crowds is more than worth it. 

9. Indian Creek, Utah

Just 50 miles from Moab and a 30-minute drive from Canyonlands National Park, the Indian Creek climbing area is at the heart of Utah’s most spectacular scenery. As beautiful as it is, be aware that the Wingate sandstone that forms the canyons is about as solid as chalk, and face climbing here can be a dangerous game. 

Fortunately, Indian Creek isn’t really about face climbing. This is crack climbing territory, and Indian Creek is famous for its picture-perfect splinter cracks. The sandstone in these canyons forms long, parallel-sided, amazingly consistent vertical cracks, offering what just might be the best crack climbing in America. 

Most routes are trad climbs over 30 meters (or 100 feet). The upshot of that is you can never have too many cams, or too long of a rope. It’s common practice for climbers here to pair up and share gear. There’s a great teamwork-focused climbing culture around Indian Creek. 

Indian Creek is on Bureau of Land Management land, which means dispersed backcountry camping in undeveloped areas is allowed. This is a great place to pitch a tent after a long climbing day and enjoy the incredible night sky with almost no light pollution. 

10. Devil’s Lake, Wisconsin

One can’t help but sympathize with Midwestern rock climbers. Pretty much all of the most famous rock climbing destinations in the US are in the East or the West, thousands of miles away. But there are some great, overlooked rock climbing areas in the heartland, and Devil’s Lake is one of them. 

The cliffs overlooking Devil’s Lake in Wisconsin are part of a region known as the Baraboo Hills, typified by quartzite bluffs and unique formations of stacked and balanced rocks. They’re very welcoming to beginners and intermediate climbers, with numerous routes rated 5.5 and under, as well as much more challenging climbs up to 5.11.

There are well over 1,500 climbing routes at Devil’s Lake. It’s pretty much all trad climbing here. The tops of the bluffs are mostly accessible by hiking or scrambling up the backside, which makes it easy to set top rope anchors. Consequently, no bolts have been put in place, and sport climbing is not an option. It’s actually quite refreshing to climb in a place unmarred by bolts.

Devil’s Lake is also known for great bouldering opportunities, with more than 1,000 established problems. The rocks are located within Devil’s Lake State Park, which offers camping and is a convenient day-trip from just about any Midwestern city. 

Of course, for most people who take to the road, van life is about more than ditching responsibility and leaving their worries behind. It’s about shifting one’s mindset and re-thinking the boundaries of what one’s life can and should be. It’s a less-is-more approach to life, distilled down to its purest form.

One of the greatest attractions of van life is that it presents an opportunity for simplification. But that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. 

The nomad lifestyle presents a wide range of challenges, from beating the weather and staying within the bounds of the law to eating healthy and maintaining good hygiene. These 30 handy tips for van living will help you avoid some of the most common troubles that befall nomadic newbies. 

1. Get the Right Van

Too many people buy a van first, and then decide they want to try out van life. It should be the other way around. Plan ahead and carefully consider your needs before you buy a van. That way, you can choose a van that best meets your criteria. After all, you have a lot of options – minivan, cargo van, campervan, Class B RV – so think about how much space you need, and how best to utilize it. Four-wheel drive is always good to have, and the most important thing of all is reliability.

2. Start Small

We all learn as we go, so it’s best not to take to full-time van life right away. Start by plotting out a weekend road trip. Then take what you’ve learned over the weekend and try out a full week, then a month, and so on. Everybody makes mistakes when they first try it out, and starting small is a good way to keep the stakes relatively low at first.

3. Get a Van With Windows

Vans without windows look creepy, and they can be pretty uncomfortable. Invest in a van with windows in the back, or customize the van by putting in windows of your own. They’ll make the space feel less claustrophobic, allow some natural light to enter, and give you an option for ventilation. If possible, get windows with screens so you can open them up without letting bugs in. 

4. Minimize

One of the biggest mistakes first-time nomads make is packing too much stuff. The truth is, no matter how luxurious your van setup may be, space is at a premium. Anything you don’t need should stay behind. 

5. Be Honest About Your Toilet Needs

You’re not always going to be at a campground with modern amenities, or have the ability to stop at the nearest rest area. So be honest with yourself about your comfort level when it comes to peeing in a plastic bottle or pooping in the woods. When you have to go in the middle of the night, what are your options? Ultimately, most nomads end up incorporating some sort of toilet system into their living space, be it a basic bucket system or something a little more complex.

6. Chat With Other Campers

The more time you spend on the road, the more people you meet who are doing the same thing. There’s a genuine community surrounding van living, and you’ll learn a lot from talking with your fellow travelers. It’s also a way to avoid the loneliness that sometimes comes with traveling for an extended period of time. 

7. Use Storage Bins

Organization will be an ongoing challenge. Invest in some storage bins to help keep your stuff as tidy as possible. Depending on your space, you might find that cloth storage bins are ideal for many items. Clear plastic bins are also great because they protect their contents and let you see what’s inside. 

8. Learn to Live Without the Internet

The good news is, with many major cell phone providers you can turn your phone into a Wi-Fi hotspot (here’s how it works with an iPhone). The bad news is, you’re still at the mercy of your network, and the road will frequently take you to places where there isn’t a bar for miles. It’s best to learn to live without the internet because at times you will have to. 

9. Get a Doormat

Whether the main doors to your living area are on the side or in the back, get a good, sturdy doormat and put it at the most high-traffic entrance. When you enter, take your shoes off. This will make it much easier to keep the floor of your van clean, and significantly reduce wear-and-tear around the entry. It’s also a good idea to have a pair of slippers or sandals you can change into when you come inside. 

10. Install a Fridge

Being able to keep food and drinks cold isn’t a luxury, it’s essential for reducing waste and keeping yourself well-fed on the road. A miniature fridge like this one from Dometic is well suited to van and campervan life, and small chest-style refrigerators are good too. Choose something that offers a reasonable amount of room, and fits in with the overall way you’re organizing your space. 

11. Get a Road Atlas

Again, at some point in your travels, cell service will vanish and the internet will fail you. It’s only a matter of time. When that happens, a good old-fashioned road map can save your bacon. If you’re hitting the road in the US, invest in a quality atlas that includes detailed maps of all 50 states. 

12. Keep Some Cash Handy

While most of the world is moving away from cold, hard cash, it’s still pretty handy on the road. If you want to buy firewood at a roadside stand or fresh produce from a farmers’ market, cash is king. And be sure to stockpile your quarters for laundromats and the occasional old-fashioned parking meter. 

13. Invest in a Power Inverter

Having electricity where and when you need it is one of the recurring challenges of van life. Get a good power inverter with at least enough plugs for your phone and laptop, or invest in an even bigger one if you’re traveling with a friend or partner.

14. Avoid Fast Food

The convenience of fast food can be hard to resist when you’re traveling by van, but do your best to keep those cravings at bay. Staying fit and healthy on the road can be a real challenge, and skipping the burgers and fries in favor of healthier fare will be a big help. Stock up on fresh groceries, and prepare your own healthy meals whenever possible. 

15. Create a Basic Cooking Setup

Every campervan needs its own kitchen setup. Packing every feature you want into limited space can be challenging, but at minimum, you need a single burner that can be used to prepare basic meals. The Eureka SPRK Camp Stove is a great single-burner butane model, but choose the size and fuel source that makes sense for you. 

16. Obey the Law

While this isn’t always the case, there is a tendency for police to be suspicious of van folks, especially in rural areas. You really never know, so it pays to play it safe. Keep up with insurance, registration, and vehicle inspections to ensure that your van is legal to drive. And don’t speed. Getting a speeding ticket outside your home state sucks. 

17. Set Up a System for Trash

Figuring out what to do with your refuse is one of the not-so-glamorous aspects of van life. Ultimately, you’ll need a system for keeping trash tidy and relatively out-of-sight. Re-using shopping bags as trash bags might work for you, or you might want permanent, enclosed trash bins. Either way, be sure to separate trash from recyclables and empty your bins regularly to keep trash from piling up and getting smelly. 

18. Take Up a New Hobby

There’s a lot of downtime when you’re living on the road. Listening to podcasts and audiobooks are great pastimes for when you’re actually driving, but for the rest of the time, you might want to take up a new hobby or two. Maybe try one of these ones. 

19. Get Some Shoe Organizers

Organization is your best friend in a small space, and hanging shoe organizers are a great investment. They’re not just useful for shoes. They can be used to keep all kinds of gear and supplies tidy – clothes, tools, kitchen utensils, food – and transform any vertical surface into organized storage.

20. Make Your Bed as Comfortable as Possible

When you can’t get a good night’s sleep, van life becomes very miserable very fast. Invest the time and effort to outfit your van with as comfortable a bed as possible. Space is sure to be limited, of course, but do your best. As a general rule, avoid sleeping bags. You’ll be more comfortable in real blankets and sheets, and they’re more conducive to cuddling, should the need arise. 

21. Follow the Off-Season

Van life offers the freedom to travel when and where you like… so be smart about your route. It’s often best to travel during the off-season, avoiding the times when various regions are busiest. For example, it’s wise to steer clear of Florida in winter, when the campgrounds are packed with snowbirds. 

22. Find Free Campsites

Andrew Balcombe / Shutterstock.com

Learn how to identify places where you can park your van for free. And just as importantly, know where you can’t. In the United States, most national forests and many state forests offer free dispersed camping, though the amenities are typically few if any. Some big-box stores, including Wal-Mart and Cabelas, often allow overnight parking, but rules may vary from city to city.

23. Don’t Neglect Your Hygiene

Do your laundry. Brush your teeth. Wash your hands. Whenever possible, take a shower. The nomadic lifestyle might throw up a few roadblocks when it comes to staying clean and healthy, but you don’t want to turn into one of those smelly van guys, so put in the extra effort to not let cleanliness slide. A solar shower like this one from Advanced Elements can be a great investment, and when all else fails, a pack of wet wipes is man’s best friend. 

24. Sign Up for a Gym Membership

Sure, a gym membership will help you stay in shape on the road, but more importantly, it gives you a place to shower. When you sign up for a membership at a major nationwide chain like Anytime Fitness or Planet Fitness, you have access to thousands of free showers all across the US. 

25. Pack Some Survival Essentials

Bottom line, you might break down in the middle of the desert, and you don’t want to die out there. Always stash extra drinking water in your van, and stockpile some survival food rations so you never go hungry. Tools and first aid supplies are important too. 

26. Set Goals and Stick to a Schedule

One of the great things about van life is that you can set your own schedule and be spontaneous. But after a while, you can lose touch with your sense of time and purpose, and it may be helpful to set daily goals or establish a routine that you stick to, within reason. That might involve setting a morning wake-up alarm, establishing mileage goals, or tackling certain chores on certain days.

27. If There’s an Unbreakable Version, Get It

Things have a way of shifting and spilling while your vehicle is in motion, and few things will ruin your day faster than picking shards of glass out of your van’s carpet. Bottom line: skip fancy glassware and breakable plates in favor of stainless steel wine glasses and a rugged enamel dinnerware set. 

28. Stay Warm

Winter weather creates some challenges for van dwellers. Aside from the obvious solutions that aren’t really solutions (wear warm clothes, drink lots of hot tea), there are a few things you can do to make your van more winter-ready.

Covering the windows helps, and there are options to add real insulation to most vans. An energy-efficient space heater is a good investment too, and it’s even possible to install a small furnace or wood-burning stove in some vans, provided you’re able to ventilate it properly. 

29. Stay Cool

Hot summer weather can be just as troublesome as the winter cold. Installing a fan in your van is a big help, and as mentioned before, windows that open and close will make getting a cool breeze much easier while you’re parked at night. It’s also with investing in a windshield sunshade and putting it in place any time your van is parked during warm weather. 

30. Make Some Money

Van living is a very affordable way of life (sure beats having a mortgage), but it’s not without its expenses. Gas isn’t cheap, and even if you find free campsites most of the time, you’ll always have to shell out for food and the occasional tune-up. Luckily, van life lends itself very well to the gig economy.

You can always get odd jobs on the road, but also consider listing your services on sites like Fiverr and Upwork or making something crafty you can sell on Etsy. Speaking from experience, freelance writing isn’t a bad gig either. 

After a year that forced many of us to stay indoors, visiting national parks scratches a very specific itch. The National Park Service has recorded record-breaking attendance at many parks in 2021, and there’s a very good chance that next year will see even more people hitting the road on their very own national park road trip. 

It’s impossible to say which national park is best, but these 12 parks are some of the most unique. Each of them is a place unlike any other. Your favorite park might be one of the most-visited sites in the United States, or it might be way, way off the beaten path. Either way, now is the time to start planning your adventure. 

I’ll just make one important distinction before we dive in. The National Park Service manages more than 400 properties across the United States, including national monuments, national recreation areas, national seashores, national battlefields… the list goes on. 

Only 63 of these sites are proper national parks, and only these are eligible for inclusion on this list, although that doesn’t mean you should ignore all the others. 

1. Yellowstone National Park

Let’s start with the OG. Yellowstone National Park was founded in 1872, making it America’s oldest national park. This park was first advocated by the geologist and surveyor Ferdinand V. Hayden and created by the executive order of President Ulysses S. Grant. Those guys were really onto something. 

Yellowstone National Park is made up of more than 2.2 million acres of some of America’s most unique and spectacular landscapes. The bulk of the park lies in Wyoming, but it also reaches across into Idaho and Montana. It’s a genuine national treasure, home to herds of bison and elk, healthy populations of grizzly bears and grey wolves, and some of the country’s most instantly-recognizable landmarks. 

The park is arguably most famous for geysers like the iconic Old Faithful, and geothermal features like Grand Prismatic Spring. Visiting these sites is certainly part of the Yellowstone experience. But it’s also a great place to simply absorb the magnificent scenery around you, which includes mountain ranges, grasslands, canyons, and some of America’s highest-elevation lakes. 

Yellowstone can get pretty busy during its short summer season, but this vast park offers ample opportunities to get away from the crowds that congregate around all the famous attractions. The park includes nearly 300 backcountry campsites that can only be reached on foot, many of them at elevations above 7,000 feet. 

2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Encompassing more than 522,000 acres in North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National park represents one of the largest protected areas east of the Mississippi. It’s also one of the most dramatically beautiful, with layers of ridges and valleys extending as far as the eye can see. 

Elevations in the park range from 875 feet to the 6,643-foot summit of Clingman’s Dome, one of the highest peaks in the East. Visit the summit early in the morning before the fog burns off to learn why they call them the Smokies. 

Opportunities for recreation and adventure abound, whether you’re driving through the mountains on the Blue Ridge Parkway or hiking through it on the Appalachian Trail, which swings through the national park on its 2,190-mile course from Georgia to Maina. The Smoky Mountains also host one of the world’s most spectacular displays of synchronous fireflies every year for a brief period in late May or early June. 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is America’s most-visited national park – more than 12 million people saw the park in 2020 – partly because it’s one of the only national parks that doesn’t charge an entrance fee. Expect all the major landmarks and campgrounds to be busy, especially on summer weekends. Plan your visit mid-week or during the off-season if you can. 

3. Denali National Park and Preserve

Denali National Park and Preserve takes “wild” to a whole other level. The borders of this sprawling Alaska Park encircle more than six million acres of uninhabited wilderness, accessible by only one single ribbon of road. 

Its centerpiece is North America’s tallest peak, 20,310-foot Denali (formerly known as Mount McKinley). The peak’s name, which it shares with the park surrounding it, means “the tall one” in the language of the native Koyukon people who inhabit the area. Dinosaurs roamed this landscape over 65 million years ago, and the northern lights dazzle in its night sky every winter.

The majority of Denali National Park and Preserve contains no roads, no fences, and no marked trails. Wild animals like grizzly bears, lynx, Dall sheep, and moose live here just as they have for thousands of years, mostly uninfluenced by man’s interference. The few designated hiking trails here are mostly short and located near the park’s entrance. 

Parks like Denali exist to protect their precious landscapes and the animals who live there but also to give people an opportunity to experience the rarest of things: true wilderness.

4. Yosemite National Park

California’s Yosemite National Park has everything. The park is arguably best known for its waterfalls, which include Vernal Fall and Bridalveil Fall, but it also has giant sequoia groves, grand meadows, snow-capped peaks, and glacier-scoured valleys. When John Muir famously said, “the mountains are calling and I must go,” these are the mountains he was talking about. 

The heart of the park is the expansive Yosemite Valley, with its sheer rock walls and one of America’s tallest waterfalls, 2,425-foot Yosemite Falls. This valley is also the location of the park’s two most iconic landmarks: El Capitan and Half Dome. 

These features make Yosemite a mecca for rock climbers. There are thousands of climbing routes here, but El Capitan, with its 300-foot vertical drop, is the true prize. Half Dome is a challenge of a different kind. You can hike to the top, but doing so requires a 14-mile round-trip trek that gains 4,800 feet in elevation and traverses perilously exposed rock faces. 

There’s a quieter, more peaceful side to Yosemite as well. Hiking trails meander through untouched old growth forests, and the shady, secluded campgrounds in this park are some of the most popular in California. Opportunities abound for outdoor activities of all kinds, from kayaking and fly fishing to bird watching and nature painting. 

5. Glacier National Park

Nicknamed “The Crown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park is a little over a million acres of wilderness in the heart of Montana’s Rocky Mountains. The park extends all the way to the Canadian border and is actually one-half of Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. 

Glacier National Park is an absolute paradise for hikers, with over 700 miles of trails that visit remote summits, serene forests, and picturesque alpine lakes. One of the most famous landmarks is Hidden Lake, tucked away between the peaks of Bearhat Mountain and Dragons Tail, and accessible via a 5-mile out-and-back hike. 

The most famous feature of Glacier National National Park may be the Going-to-the-Sun Road. It’s one of America’s great scenic drives, bisecting the park from southwest to northeast, and crossing the continental divide at Logan’s Pass. You’ll see some of the park’s most spectacular views from this 50-mile route and can access some of its best hiking trails. Several trails offer an opportunity to get up close with the park’s namesake – and rapidly receding – glaciers. 

Glacier is also a designated International Dark Sky Park, one of a handful of US national parks to be given this distinction. Exceptionally dark night skies and virtually nonexistent light pollution make it one of the best places in America for stargazing. 

6. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

One good thing happened in 2020: the New River Gorge got a promotion. This wildly beautiful waterway was designated a national river in 1978 but is now America’s newest national park. That alone makes it a worthy place to visit. 

The newly-minted New River Gorge National Park and Preserve encompasses one of the most striking landscapes in the eastern United States. Spanning 70,000 acres of land along a 58-mile stretch of West Virginia’s New River, this park includes rolling Appalachian Mountain peaks, over 50 miles of hiking trails, and the rugged rock walls of the gorge itself.

The New River Gorge is known for some of America’s best whitewater rafting, Including the legendary run from Cunard put-in to the Fayette Station take-out. Rapids range from Class III to Class V, and the surrounding scenery is unbeatable. It’s a fantastic smallmouth bass fishing river too. 

If you’re into rock climbing, this is probably the best destination east of the Mississippi. The New River Gorge offers more than 1,400 established climbs, and the intricately featured Nuttall sandstone of the gorge makes it ideal for climbing.

7. Arches National Park

Utah is home to five national parks, each of which preserves a unique slice of the state’s striking desert landscape. It’s not easy to pick just one, but Arches National Park is perhaps the most awe-inspiring of the bunch. It’s an otherworldly red-rock dreamland of strange geological formations. 

Most notably, the park’s landscape is adorned by more than 2,000 natural stone arches. Carved over the course of many millennia by wind, water, and gravity, these arches are scoured out of sandstone and other rocks, often extending hundreds of feet in the air. The largest, known as Landscape Arch, spans 306 feet despite being just six feet thick. The 52-foot Delicate Arch may be the park’s most photographed landmark. 

In addition to these arches, the park is also made up of massive rock fins and pinnacles, rugged canyons, and giant balanced rocks. The Devil’s Garden area of the park contains one of the greatest concentrations of geological features connected by fairly easy-to-access hiking trails. 

Arches National Park offers incredible opportunities for canyoneering, rock climbing, backpacking, and horseback riding. The climate here can be unforgiving, so be sure to plan ahead and do your homework before heading off into the backcountry. Bring sun protection and lots of water.

8. Olympic National Park

It’s hard to imagine that the glacier-encrusted pinnacle of Mt. Olympus and the mossy depths of Hoh Rainforest exist side-by-side. That’s part of what makes Olympic National Park special. This vast, wild playground on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula might be America’s most diverse and varied national park. 

From the windswept coast with its towering, wave-scarred rock formations to the depths of Olympic’s old-growth forest, this ancient landscape offers a little bit of everything. Sea lions sun themselves on the coast, northern spotted owls hunt in the forests, and salmon surge up the park’s rivers and streams to spawn every year. A handful of species, like the Olympic torrent salamander, are found nowhere else on earth. 

Hiking through the rainforests of Olympic National Park is an experience you simply cannot replicate anywhere else in America. These lush, almost surreal forests receive nearly 12 feet of rain every year, making them the wettest places in the US. 

Some of this park’s most alluring attractions are off the beaten path. Don’t miss Hurricane Ridge, with its panoramic views and wildflower-adorned subalpine meadows. Camp on the shores of secluded Crescent Lake, and hunt for anemones in the vibrant tide pools along Ruby Beach. 

9. Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is next-door neighbors with Yellowstone National Park, and as a result, it never quite gets the attention it deserves. It’s easy to be overshadowed by America’s most iconic park, but there’s a case to be made that Grand Teton is even more beautiful than its more famous neighbor. 

The park encompasses much of the Teton Range, which includes eight peaks that top out over 12,000 feet. The tallest, Grand Teton, looms 13,775 above the surrounding landscape. Schwabacher Landing on the Snake River offers one of the most awe-inspiring views of the Tetons, and the former settlement at Mormon Row is a must-visit for its sweeping meadows and dramatic mountain backdrop.

Wildlife abounds in the park. Anglers cast flies for native cutthroat trout while bull elk bugle in the mountains and bald eagles circle overhead. More than 300 bird species inhabit or visit Grand Teton National Park at various times of the year, making it a bird watcher’s paradise. 

Another highlight of Grand Teton National Park is Jenny Lake. Hikers in particular can get a lot out of this area, with trails bearing evocative names like Inspiration Point, Hidden Falls, and Cascade Canyon. The road that encircles Jenny lake also offers one of the park’s best scenic drives. 

10. Grand Canyon National Park

What is there to say about the Grand Canyon that hasn’t been said? I mean, it’s the Grand Canyon. It’s one of those places that words fail to describe. You simply have to see it in person. 

The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long, up to 18 miles across, and, in places, more than a mile deep. More than two billion years of the earth’s history is exposed in the rock strata of the Grand Canyon from top to bottom. This is all interesting information, but none of it prepares you for the actual sight of the Grand Canyon. It’s definitely a place everyone should visit at least once. 

Most of the canyon is contained within Grand Canyon National Park, and the park’s often-photographed viewpoints offer the most arresting views of this natural wonder. There are also campgrounds on both the South and North Rim, with hiking trails that take you along the canyon’s edge, all over the surrounding landscape, and even deep into the canyon itself. 

The Bright Angel Trail is the most popular route from the rim to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, and it’s just shy of 10 miles each way. If you go this route, plan on staying the night in the canyon itself at Bright Angel Campground. And be prepared for the challenges. It can be a transformative experience, but for some, it becomes an ordeal. Around 250 people have to be rescued from the Grand Canyon every year. 

11. Redwood National and State Parks

Giants still live along the coast of Northern California. Coast Redwoods, the tallest trees on earth and some of the oldest, once grew across more than 2 million acres. Today, only a fraction remain, but 45% of the remaining redwoods are preserved within Redwood State and National Parks. 

Redwood National and State Parks are unique in that they’re made up of four interconnected properties, some managed by the National Park Service and some by California State Parks. In a way, it’s all one park. In a way, it’s several. 

Within the parks you can hike among groves of towering redwoods, many of them well over 200 feet tall. You can also pitch a tent and camp beneath them, and join an illuminating ranger-guided tour. There’s also much more to this park than just the giant trees. Redwood National and State Parks include a 40-mile stretch of rugged coastline, including the eight-mile scenic Coastal Drive and numerous overlooks that are popular for whale watching. 

The world’s tallest known living tree, known as the Hyperion Tree, resides somewhere within Redwood National and State Parks. The Hyperion Tree’s exact location is a closely guarded secret to protect it from damage, but you may spot the 380-foot giant if you venture deep enough into the park’s backcountry. 

12. Voyageurs National Park

Encompassing a spectacular chain of lakes in Northern Minnesota along the Canadian border, Voyageurs National Park is one of the wildest places in the lower 48 states. The park spans a little over 218,000 acres, most of it water. It’s a paradise for canoeists, kayakers, boaters, and fishermen. 

Voyageurs National Park gets its name from the early trappers and fur traders – the French-Canadian voyageurs – who were among the region’s earliest explorers. The park encompasses all or part of four major lakes: Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake, Namakan Lake, and Sand Point Lake. The Kabetogama Peninsula makes up the majority of the park’s land area, and most of it is accessible only by boat. 

If you’ve ever dreamt of packing a tent and fishing rod in your canoe and heading off on an adventure, this is the place to do it. Voyageurs is a vast maze of interconnected waterways with rocky shores, secluded wetlands, rugged cliffs, lakes, streams, and forests. 

There are a few developed amenities near the park’s entrances, but for the most part, Voyageurs is truly wild. Backcountry campsites are strewn across the lakes and islands, most of them reachable only by canoe or kayak. In winter, when the lakes freeze over, the park becomes the domain of snowshoers, snowmobilers, and hardy ace fishermen. 

But fly fishing can be intimidating too, and it’s certainly frustrating at times. Learning it makes us feel as though we’ve unlocked the door to a secret world – which, in a way, we have. 

Learning to fly fish requires patience, and a willingness to occasionally be frustrated. Even so, it’s neither as difficult nor as complex as it might first appear. With some basic gear and a bit of determination, it’s a skill that anybody can learn. 

It also helps if you have a more experienced fly-fishing friend who can show you the ropes and guide you around some of the most common pitfalls. In the absence of such a person, this beginner’s guide to fly fishing will have to suffice. 

First Things First

Before we get in too deep, let’s talk about what makes fly fishing different from other types of fishing. Ordinarily, when casting, it’s the weight of the bait or lure that propels itself forward. The line is fairly incidental. 

Flies, on the other hand, weigh next to nothing. Consequently, fly line must be much heavier than conventional fishing lines. When you make a cast with your fly rod, you’re not really casting the fly; you’re casting the weight of the line. That might sound like a minor distinction, but it has a lot to do with why fly fishing looks and feels the way it does. 

Fly Rod and Reel Selection

The first thing every fly fisherman needs is a great fly rod. It doesn’t have to be the absolute top-of-the-line model – you can get a great entry-level rod and reel combo for a few hundred bucks – but it should be the right rod for you. Just like King Arthur needs his Excalibur and B.B. King needs his Lucille, you need a rod that inspires confidence and makes you want to go fishing. 

Fly rods are measured and assessed in various ways, which can be confusing. When you hear a fly fisherman say they use an eight-foot, four-weight rod with fast action, you may quite understandably wonder what on earth that all means. Let’s break it down:

• Fly rod weight is arguably the most important consideration. The weight of a fly rod corresponds to the weight of the line it’s meant for. Fly line weight, for what it’s worth, refers to the actual physical weight of the line itself. Fly rods range from a one-weight (lightest) to a 14-weight (heaviest) and as a general rule, heavier rods are meant for casting heavier lines and catching bigger fish.
• Fly rod length is partly a matter of preference, but certain weight rods feel more balanced at a certain length. The most common sizes are eight-foot and nine-foot, but fly rods are also available in much shorter and longer models. Long rods are generally better for making long casts, while short rods have the advantage of being easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
• Fly rod action refers to the flexibility of the rod, and how much of it bends during a cast. Slow-action rods are the most flexible, bending as far as the midsection of the rod, and fast-action rods are the least flexible, bending only at the very tip. Medium and medium-fast action rods are generally easiest to cast.
• Number of pieces is another way to look at fly rods. Two-piece and four-piece rods are most common, with two-piece rods generally being considered superior. That said, there’s no reason to write off a four-piece rod, especially as a beginner. Four-piece rods are easier to transport, and there are some really great entry-level models.
• Fly reels are rated by weight, much in the same way rods are, and it’s important to choose a corresponding rod and reel so that the reel can hold the necessary amount of the appropriate line. Many fly anglers purchase a rod-and-reel combo, which ensures that the two components are balanced. 

What’s the Best Fly Rod?

I’ll start by saying that there’s no perfect answer to this question. As you get more and more into fly fishing, you might find yourself owning multiple rods, each best suited to a different situation or style of fishing. Still, it’s always good to have a solid, jack-of-all-trades rod to start out on. 

The most versatile fly rod is arguably a five-weight. That’s just about right for any trout-fishing scenario and can also handle larger fish reasonably well. An eight to nine-foot, five-weight rod with medium-fast action is a great rod to learn on. 

Lines and Leaders

Let’s talk fly line. In a typical fly-fishing setup, the fly line has three or four different components, each of which has an important job to do. These are those components, listed here in order starting with the one that goes on your reel first:

• Backing goes on your reel before you tie on your main fly line. It’s there to help fill the reel – most reels are meant to take around 200 yards of backing – but also to give you an extra line to work with if a big fish makes a hard run and starts taking too much line.
• Fly line is the most important component of your setup. Typical lines are about 90 feet in length and provide the weight needed to make a cast. Once again, lines are measured by weight, so if you have a five-weight rod and reel, you should be using anywhere from four to six-weight line. Most fly lines are weight-forward, with the thickest, heaviest potion at the head, followed by a smooth taper back to the mainline.
• Leaders go between your fly line and the fly. The mainline is thick and highly visible, so you need a thin, low-visibility leader in-between. Leaders are usually between six and 12 feet long – nine feet is a good length to start with – and made of clear or lightly tinted monofilament or fluorocarbon line. Monofilament works best with dry flies because it floats; fluorocarbon is better for wet flies because it sinks.
• Tippets are optional, but many fly anglers choose to add one to the very end of their line. A tippet is essentially an even thinner, almost-invisible line that goes between your leader and your fly. Tippets are most commonly used when nymphing, which is a particular type of wet fly fishing, but in most situations, it’s perfectly acceptable to skip the tippet and tie your flies directly to the leader. 

Types of Flies

Building up a formidable arsenal of flies is one of the most fun parts of fly fishing. A lot of anglers take great pride in the breadth of their fly collection. Of course, as you accumulate flies, you’ll notice that there are certain patterns that you’ll use over and over again, while others are basically eye candy. 

There are really far too many fly patterns to even begin counting, but pretty much all of them can be divided into two categories: dry flies (which are fished on the surface) and wet flies (which are fished below the surface). 

Dry Flies

Dry flies are probably the first flies that come to mind when one thinks about fly fishing. They float on the surface of the water and are typically made of feathers, hair, and/or foam. Dry flies are some of the most beginner-friendly flies because they’re easy to see on the surface, and that visibility makes it easy to tell when you have a bite. 

Some of the most popular and useful dry fly patterns include Blue Winged Olive, Parachute Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, and Stimulator. These patterns are all designed to mimic the adult versions of aquatic insects, like mayflies and caddisflies, which hatch in the water and are frequently gobbled up on the surface. 

Dry flies also include a family of flies referred to as terrestrials, which are meant to mimic insects like grasshoppers, ants, and beetles, which sometimes fall onto the surface of the water. Popper flies, which are more commonly used for bass fishing, are also, technically, a type of dry fly. 

Wet Flies

Wet flies are designed to have just enough weight that they sink, and are meant to be fished below the water’s surface. Anglers cast wet flies and either allow them to drift with the river’s current or swing them across the current. 

Wet fly fishing techniques are a bit more advanced than dry fly techniques. That being said, they’re useful to learn because trout feed more commonly below the surface than above it. Most wet flies fall into one of two categories: nymphs and streamers. 

Nymphs are small flies that mimic the juvenile form of aquatic insects like mayflies, stoneflies, caddisflies, and midges. Live nymphs often cling to rocks at the bottom of the river and are frequently dislodged and float loose in the current. Some of the most popular nymph fly patterns include Copper John, Prince Nymph, Hare’s Ear, Walt’s Worm, and Frenchie. 

Streamers are typically larger wet flies that are meant to imitate minnows, crayfish, leeches, and other aquatic critters. The Wooly Bugger is arguably the single most essential streamer pattern, but it’s always good to have a few handy. Muddler Minnow, Sculpin, and Clouser Minnow are also great patterns.

Fly Size

Fly sizes are measured by the size of the hook used in the fly; each hook size has a corresponding number. These measurements are somewhat counterintuitive because smaller flies have higher numbers (e.g. a size four fly is smaller than a size two fly). 

Most fly patterns come in multiple sizes, so you can choose the ideal size based on where you’re fishing, what you expect to catch, and what type of insect or minnow you need to imitate. Fly sizes are typically only in even numbers; odd-numbered fly sizes are more common in Europe than in the US. 

The most common nymphs and dry flies used for trout fishing fall within the range of sizes 12, 14, and 16. Larger-sized six, eight, and 10 flies may be effective when fish are actively feeding, and smaller 18, 20, and 22 flies may be called for in cold water or when fish are inactive. The largest sizes, two and four, are typically reserved for streamers. 

Fly Fishing Gear and Accessories

There’s a whole look associated with fly fishing – the vest, the waders, the little hat with the flies stuck in it – and you may very well acquire a whole boatload of gear and accessories over time. Only a few of these are truly essential for a beginner. 

A basic fly box is necessary to keep your flies safe, dry, and organized. Tools for cutting line and removing hooks are handy too, like a pair of forceps and line snippers. You’ll also need a landing net to help guide any fish you catch safely to the bank without injuring them. If you plan on keeping your catch, invest in a creek to keep them alive while you fish.

Waders may or may not be essential, but they are handy. Most of the best trout fishing takes place in chilly weather, and waders allow you to comfortably enter the water, which opens up a lot of possibilities. The two basic types of waders are hip waders, which are essentially wading pants, and chest waders, which are more like wading overalls. 

A fly fishing vest is optional too, but it’s helpful because it provides storage and organization for all your other gear. A good vest allows you to take all this stuff with you as you fish, rather than leaving it behind on the bank. 

Casting a Fly Rod

Once you have a rod, reel, line, a few good flies, and all the gear you need, the most important next step is to practice casting. Casting a fly rod is actually quite similar to casting an ordinary fishing rod, but because the weight you’re casting comes from the line, the first step to a good cast is to let some line out of the reel. 

When you let out line, it provides some weight that can “load” the rod when you start your casting motion. As a general rule, a good cast starts with letting out about three rod-lengths of line. How you proceed once you’ve done this depends on what type of cast you’re about to make. There are a lot of different casts, but the two basic ones every beginner should master are an overhand cast and a roll cast. 

Overhand Cast

The overhand cast is a basic cast that most other forms of casting are based upon. It’s probably what you’re envisioning in your head if you think about a picture-perfect fly cast, with the rod arched overhead to propel the weight of the line forward in a graceful curve. 

Roll Cast

A roll cast is a handy maneuver when you’re fishing in tight quarters, such as a trout stream with trees and bushes on either side. In these situations, there isn’t much room to make a big overhand cast, so anglers will instead use a roll cast, which sends the line straight out across the water with a flick of the wrist. 

Casting takes practice. Much like developing a good golf swing, it will only improve over time as you get a feel for it. Look for a place to practice where there are few obstructions around, like an open field, or better yet, a sandy beach near an open expanse of water. 

Ultimately, there are few things more satisfying than the moment when you make your first perfect cast. Once you’ve done that, there’s nothing left but to head to your nearest river and try it out for real. 

Anybody who works or plays in the great outdoors will eventually need to tie a knot. You might need to secure a tarp, hang a hammock or tie off a boat. No matter the situation, you can’t rely on a series of random loops that you call a knot unless you want to lose your tarp, fall on your butt or watch your boat float away. 

Luckily, most basic knots are actually not all that complicated. Once you learn one or two, you’ll start to develop an intuition that makes learning additional knots even easier. So read on, practice your skills, and watch your knotsmanship improve. 

1. Overhand Knot

The overhand knot is about as basic as a knot gets. Ask a little kid to tie a knot, and this is what you’ll get (unless that kid is some kind of knot-tying super genius). Chances are, you already know how to tie an overhand knot without even thinking about it. 

If not, take a second to brush up on it, because this simple knot is the basis of many other knots. Look at it this way: you need to learn basic addition before you tackle trigonometry. 

To tie an overhand knot, simply create a loop, push the working end of the line through the loop, and then pull both ends to tighten. That’s it! This knot is commonly used as a stopper, either when hand sewing or to prevent fraying or unraveling at the ends of rope, and is sometimes used as a basic safety knot for climbers. 

Aside from its simplicity, the chief advantage of this knot is its security. It’s a good knot to tie if you want the knot to be permanent. In some situations, this can also become a disadvantage, as the knot can jam badly and is difficult to untie. 

2. Slip Knot

The slip knot (not to be confused with the heavy metal band) is one of the most commonly tied knots. Its most frequent use is in knitting, where it’s used as the first loop when casting on. A slip knot also makes a good stopper knot, can be used to temporarily secure an item, and functions as a basic snare. 

One way to think of a slip knot is as a slipped overhand knot, with a bight or loop that allows the knot to release when the working end is pulled. A slip knot will also tighten when the opposite (running) end is pulled. Thus it can secure an object and withstand heavy tension, as long as weight is applied to the running end and not the working end. 

Some knot-tiers refer to any knot that can be quickly undone by pulling an end as a slip knot. Technically, that’s incorrect. There’s only one “true” slip knot. A noose is very similar to a slip knot, but the two are actually two distinct knots. 

3. Bowline Knot

The bowline is arguably the best knot for creating a fixed loop at the end of a line. It’s often thought of as a nautical knot, and while it is definitely an important knot for sailors to learn, the uses for a bowline extend well beyond maritime situations. 

The bowline is an ancient knot. Its first known documentation dates back to 1627, but the knot itself has almost certainly been around much longer. Not only is the bowline easy to tie and untie, but it’s capable of holding a lot of weight. The loop will keep its shape under tension, and it doesn’t bind, which means it can be easily untied even after being used to bear a heavy load. 

The bowline is an excellent tie-down knot for tarps and tent pegs and is also commonly used to secure the ends of a hammock to trees. It also works as a rescue (or self-rescue) knot; you can lower it down for someone to step into, or tie it around yourself should you need to be hoisted up. 

4. Clove Hitch

When you need to secure a line to a stationary object like a pole or post, the clove hitch is one of the best knots for the job. It is often used to tie lashings to a tent or tarp, secure a clothesline, temporarily moor a boat, or when building pioneering structures. 

One caveat is that, depending on the type of cordage used, the clove hitch can slip under too much tension. Thus it is usually called upon when one needs a temporary knot that can be easily untied or adjusted. One of the great advantages of a clove hitch is that you can easily adjust the length of the running end by feeding rope from either direction, which will loosen the knot and allow it to be re-tightened. 

Here’s a fun fact: when you pass a rope around an object and then tie it to itself in a clove hitch, it’s known as a buntline hitch. This knot is commonly used to tie a necktie, in which case it’s called a four-in-hand knot. It’s one of the simplest and easiest necktie knots. 

5. Square Knot

The square knot, also known as a reef knot, is a simple knot that has been used since Ancient Greek times and has a multitude of uses. It gets its nickname from its purpose among sailors, who use it to reef and furl sails. 

A common method of tying two ropes or lines together, square knots are also associated with macrame. They’re used to tie bandages, belts, sashes, and even trash bags. You’ve almost certainly used this knot, perhaps without even thinking about it. 

Despite its many uses, the square knot comes with a safety warning. This knot should never be used to secure the ends of two ropes together – known as “bending” in knot parlance – in any situation where personal safety is involved. The knot is simply not stable enough, and many deaths and injuries have been caused by misusing a square knot for bending ropes together. 

The bow most people tie their shoelaces with is essentially a square knot. If you think about how often you have to re-tie your shoes, then you understand why this knot should never be used to hold a person’s weight.

6. Sheet Bend

Also known as a weaver’s knot, weaver’s hitch, or becket bend, the sheet bend knot goes by many names. But it is universally regarded as one of the simplest and most practical knots for bending two lines together. It’s also used to weave fishing nets, which is where it gets a couple of its more common nicknames. 

One of the sheet bend’s greatest advantages is that it can be used to join two lines of completely different thicknesses and rigidity. If, for example, you need to securely connect the end of a rope to the end of a paracord, the sheet bend can do so quite securely (though a double sheet bend is generally recommended when the two lines are vastly different). 

The sheet bend is an important knot for climbers, and it is widely taught in scouting. When tested against other bending knots such as the butterfly bend, the sheet bend is generally considered to be less secure. That said, it is more than sufficient for most common everyday uses, and its relative simplicity makes it one of the first bends one should learn. 

7. Clitch Knot

The clinch knot is one of the most important knots for fishermen. In fact, this knot is so synonymous with this particular application that it is often referred to as a fisherman’s knot. 

Every angler needs a good, solid knot to connect their fishing line to a hook or lure, and the clinch knot gets the call more often than any other knot. It’s simple to tie and is effective with either monofilament or braided line. The knot actually tightens and gets stronger when weight is applied to it, which will come as a relief when a big fish is pulling hard on your line. 

The clinch knot has been used by fishermen for over a hundred years and is still one of the most popular knots. There’s also a slight variation to the original, known as the improved clinch knot, which is even stronger. Once you’ve mastered the original, try out the improved clinch knot, and then decide which one works better for you. 

8. Figure Eight Knot

Equally useful to climbers and sailors, a figure eight knot is a type of stopper knot, its main purpose being to create a thick point in an otherwise uniform-thickness rope or line. Thus it can prevent the tag end of the line from slipping out of a retaining device. 

The figure eight knot is essentially a modified version of a simple overhand knot, but with several key advantages. The main advantage is that a figure eight knot is larger, and prevents a line from slipping through a retaining device more effectively. 

Also, much like an overhand knot, the figure eight knot will jam under pressure, but it will not bind as tightly. That makes it easy to undo, whereas overhand knots often bind so tightly that the rope must be cut rather than attempting to loosen the knot. 

As we get older, we start to understand our fathers are not invincible, mythical figures. They’re ordinary folks, just like the rest of us. But we never lose our desire to grow up to be the kind of guy who can do all the important man-stuff that our dads could do.

These 101 skills are a good place to start. These are things every man should know. Master them. After all, you might just have kids of your own someday, and you’ll want them to think you can do anything. 

1. How To Build a Fire

There was a time when if a man didn’t know how to build a fire, he would die. Think about that next time you’re roasting marshmallows. You may not rely on fire for survival, but you can still take a page from our caveman forefathers. Being able to gather tinder and kindling and use it to get a fire going is an essential skill. You should be able to do it with one match (or better yet, without matches). 

2. How To Change a Lightbulb

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How many men does it take to change a light bulb? The correct answer is one. That means you also need to learn to take the globe off your ceiling light fixture, which is actually the hardest part, but I have faith in you. 

3. How To Tie a Necktie

One thing every guy needs to know is how to look sharp when he has to. That means you need to wear a tie sometimes, and if you’re over the age of 12, then it’s no longer acceptable to wear a clip-on or ask your mom to tie your tie for you. There are a few different necktie knots – the four-in-hand knot is arguably the simplest – and once you learn, it’s like riding a bike. 

4. How To Parallel Park

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Don’t be the guy who holds up traffic backing up, pulling forward, and making multiple attempts to squeeze into a space. Some of us parallel park exactly one time, to pass our drivers’ tests, and then never do it again. If that sounds like you, then you should probably brush up on your skills. 

5. How To Listen

I don’t mean “how to wait until it’s your turn to talk,” I mean how to listen. Being an active, engaged listener is an essential conversation skill, and something every man can get better at. Not only will it enhance your personal relationships, but it’s an essential business skill as well. 

6. How To Take a Good Photograph

You don’t have to be Ansel Adams, but being able to snap a good shot is something everybody ought to be able to do. It’s really just a matter of learning to visualize lighting and composition. Once you do that, you’ll be capturing photographs worthy of hanging up on the wall in no time. 

7. How To Brew Great Coffee

Feel free to choose your preferred coffee making method – French press, pour over, AeroPress – but make sure you really learn how to use it. Buy fresh beans. Grind them yourself. Heat the water to just below boiling. Take your time. A great cup of coffee is its own reward. 

8. How To Tie a Tourniquet

There are certain skills that you may never need but could be life-saving in the unlikely event that you do. If a serious accident or injury should occur, knowing how to tie a tourniquet to stop bleeding is absolutely crucial. 

9. How To Know if Someone is Lying

If there’s one skill that will serve you well throughout your entire life, it’s being able to tell when someone is trying to hoodwink you. Spotting a liar isn’t always easy, but most people have certain “tells” that give them away. Liars often avoid eye contact or may do the exact opposite and make direct, self-conscious eye contact. They may change the subject abruptly, their breathing or posture may change, or they may cover their mouth when speaking. Being able to spot someone who tells porky pies will certainly help you in the long run.

10. How To Hang a Picture

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As an adult man, you can’t really get away with hanging Led Zeppelin posters on your wall with masking tape anymore. When you get your first grown-up apartment, it’s time to get some art and learn to hang it. 

11. How To Cook an Egg

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Okay, there are a few ways to make eggs. Let’s start with an easy one. Place eggs in the bottom of a pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil, then cover and turn the heat off.

Let the eggs sit for nine to 12 minutes, depending on how well done you like them, and then transfer them to an ice bath to cool. Boom. You’re done. Once you’ve got that down, move on to eggs over-easy. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, you know. 

12. How To Change the Oil in Your Car

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Mechanic skills don’t come naturally to everyone, and that’s okay. You don’t have to learn to take your entire engine apart and put it back together (although if you wanted to, that wouldn’t be the worst thing). But every man should know how to check their oil, when it needs to be changed, and how to change it. 

13. How To Sew a Button

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When your shirt loses a button, don’t be one of those guys who just go on wearing their shirt with a button missing. Learn to sew a button back on. Get a little sewing kit and keep it handy, because this is a skill you’ll always need. 

14. How To Talk to a Crowd

Public speaking produces serious anxiety in a lot of us, whether we have to do it for school, for work, or for any number of other reasons. But learning how to confidently address a group of people will take the edge off, and it’s a great skill to have, even if you don’t need it all that often. You may be called upon to give a wedding toast or eulogy someday. 

15. How To Paddle a Canoe

Whether it’s a day of fishing with buddies or a romantic paddle with your best gal, you may find yourself in a situation in which you need to paddle a canoe. Work on your J-stroke, which involves rotating the paddle away from the canoe toward the end of each stroke, and counteracts the canoe’s tendency to turn away from the side you’re paddling on.

16. How To Navigate

I’m not talking about using Google Maps here. The ability to navigate using a map and a compass has become something of a lost art, but it’s a skill that could quite literally save your life if you find yourself lost in the wilderness. 

17. How To Fix a Leak

A leaky pipe or faucet can be the bane of your existence – but not if you know how to fix it! This is a great skill to have, not only for your own peace of mind but because you can save hundreds of dollars by fixing a leak yourself instead of calling a plumber. 

18. How To Throw a Punch

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I’m by no means advocating starting a fight if you can avoid it, but you might find yourself in a situation in which you have no choice but to defend yourself. That being the case, you’d best know how to serve up a good old knuckle sandwich. If you do it wrong, you’ll hurt yourself more than your opponent.

A few tips: always wrap your thumb around the outside of your knuckles, keep your arms level with your shoulders, use a jab/cross combination, and aim two inches past your target for good follow-through.  

19. How To Give a Massage

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Every man should learn how to give a good massage (ask any woman, and they will confirm this). Giving a good massage is a great way to woo your partner and build intimacy in your relationship. But you need to have some idea what you’re doing, or this can just be a terrible experience for everyone involved. 

20. How To Catch a Fish

Not everybody enjoys fishing. But I’d be willing to bet that the guys who catch more fish tend to enjoy it more. Nobody expects you to start winning Bassmaster tournaments or anything, but a few basic skills like making an accurate cast, baiting a hook, and learning how to fight a big fish to the bank will all come in handy and help you get more out of your time by the lake. 

21. How To Jump Start a Car

If you own a car, you should also own a set of jumper cables and know how to use them. This isn’t just for your own benefit. If someone else’s car battery dies and needs assistance, you want to be able to help them out. 

22. How To Admit You’re Wrong

When you find yourself in a heated argument, it’s easy to ground down no matter how wrong you may be. Ask yourself, am I arguing because I think I’m right, or am I arguing because I want to be right? It takes a bigger man to go into a disagreement willing to be convinced and able to admit when they’re wrong.

23. How To Cook Meat on the Grill

At a bare minimum, every guy should know how to grill a perfect hamburger. Grill over charcoal. Get the coals good and hot before you put the meat on the grill. Flip your burgers as many times as you want, but don’t press them. Once you get that down, you’re ready to tackle steaks and chicken. 

24. How To Cook Meat Somewhere Other Than the Grill

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Becoming a grill master is all well and good, but don’t let that be the only way you know how to cook. Being able to feed oneself is a basic survival skill, and will also give you the ability to prepare a delicious meal for friends, family, romantic partners, and so on. Learn how to broil, braise, pan-sear, and slow-cook. Your food will get better, and so will your overall quality of life, trust me. 

25. How To Play Bar Games

Somebody in your friend group needs to know what happens when you scratch off the 8-ball, and how to score a game of darts if the bar has an old-fashioned dartboard instead of one of those electronic ones. Bar games like pool and darts are great social activities, and they give you something to do other than standing around staring into your IPA. You should at least have a basic idea of how they’re played.

26. How To Sharpen a Knife

Any guy who owns a knife should know how to sharpen it. That’s true of kitchen knives as well as pocket knives, hunting knives, and so on. Learn how to really use a whetstone or a steel honing rod. Pull-through sharpeners are bush league, and can actually do more harm to your blade than good. 

27. How To Write a Letter

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What a lost art letter writing is. In the age of texts and DMs, it’s not hard to see why our collective writing skills have declined, but the ability to write a letter is something everyone should know. Start formally – you know, “dear whoever” – and use the following paragraphs to describe why you’re writing, tell a story, ask questions, and give details. End the letter formally as well. “Sincerely” usually works, but choose an appropriate closing based on who you’re writing to.

28. How To Haggle

In the US and a lot of other western cultures, negotiating the price of an item or service isn’t a big part of daily life. But in many parts of the world, haggling over price is expected and encouraged. Even here, more things are up for negotiation than you might think, and you can save a lot of money if you know how to drive a hard bargain.

29. How To Fell a Tree

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If you have a wood burning stove or fireplace, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of cutting down a tree for your own firewood. But felling a tree is tricky and more than a little bit dangerous, so you need to know what you’re doing.

Learn how to predict which way a tree will fall, and how to make it fall the way you want it to. Always plan your escape route. With a chainsaw, axe, and felling wedge, anyone can correctly take down a tree with a little know-how.

30. How To Split Wood

Next after felling a tree is processing it into usable firewood. There’s a knack to splitting logs, and if you have a quality axe, a sturdy chopping block, and a good swing, it doesn’t have to be exhausting back-breaking work. Swinging an axe isn’t about brute force, it’s about accuracy and velocity. It also helps if you keep your axe sharp. 

31. How To Buy a Suit

Any man can clean up nicely when the situation calls for it… but to do that you need a good suit. Start by getting measured by a tailor, and do a bit of research on different types of suits and when they’re appropriate. In a way, buying a suit is like buying a car – it’s an investment you’ll have to live with for years to come. 

32. How To Paint a Room

Here’s the most important thing to remember about painting a room: the work begins long before you open a can of paint. Clean the walls, fill in holes and let the compound dry, sand down the rough spots, tape off all the switch plates and molding edges. Lay down your primer coat. Then and only then are you ready to paint. Start by painting all the edges and corners with a brush, and then cover open areas with a roller. 

33. How To Craft a Cocktail

Learning to whip up a tasty cocktail is a skill that will come in handy on countless occasions down the road. And I hate to break it to you, but rum and coke ain’t a cocktail. Start with a couple of fairly easy recipes, like a Negroni or an Old Fashioned, and then expand your range from there. Ideally, you should know how to make at least one good cocktail for any type of liquor. 

34. How To Drive in Bad Weather

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No matter where you live, there’s always a likelihood that at some point you’ll be forced to drive in some nasty weather. Whether it’s rain, snow, sleet, heavy winds, or blowing sand, it’s important that you know how to safely navigate those conditions. Slow down. Know how to pull yourself out of a skid. 

35. How To Build a Shelf

A handful of basic carpentry skills will serve you well in life. Let’s start with one of the most basic: building a shelf and hanging it on the wall. This one fairly simple job includes a lot of skills – cutting, staining, leveling, stud-finding – that are applicable to more complex projects you might tackle later on, so it’s a great jumping-off point.

36. How To Buy Flowers

First, start with knowing when to buy flowers. Then focus on choosing the right flowers for the right occasion (roses for Valentine’s Day, lilies for a funeral, etc.). Most importantly of all, learn your partner’s favorite flowers and commit them to memory. If your significant other hates roses but loves orchids, you gotta keep that straight!

37. Grow Your Own Food

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This is another one of those “people used to die if they couldn’t do this” skills. These days, being able to grow your own food is more of a recreational activity, but it’s also a great self-confidence builder and an excellent way to get produce that isn’t loaded with chemicals and pesticides. It’s also not that hard, as long as you don’t neglect your crops. Anybody can keep a tomato plant alive, trust me. 

38. Whistle With Your Fingers

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Remember how your father could call you home from six blocks away with that piercing whistle? It’s an essential dad skill, and it takes a bit of practice, so get crackin’! Here’s a tip: one of the keys to whistling with your fingers is rolling your tongue toward the back of your mouth.

39. How To Identify Poisonous Plants

Nothing ruins a hike or camping trip faster than getting a nasty rash from all the poison ivy you failed to notice. Every man should learn how to recognize and avoid the most common poisonous plants, including poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. “Leaves of three, let them be,” as my grandfather used to say. 

40. How to Identify Edible Plants

Speaking of plants, it’s also good to know which ones you can eat, and which ones you can’t. Most of us never find ourselves in a survival situation, but you never know. So you’re better off learning at least a few basic plant identification skills. Besides, foraging for wild edibles is also a lot of fun. Start by getting a quality guidebook to edible plants with full-color photographs. 

41. How To Change a Tire

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Don’t be that dude who gets a flat and then has to stand helplessly by the side of the road waiting for a tow truck. Roll up your sleeves, get out the jack and get to work! Safety is important here, so remember to always start by turning on the hazard lights and engaging the parking brake, then place the jack beneath the exposed metal part of the vehicle frame nearest to the tire that’s flat. 

42. How To Make Pancakes

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Pancakes make people happy. Ergo, if you learn how to make pancakes, you’ve learned how to create happiness. And I mean make pancakes from scratch, not from a boxed pancake mix. You only need seven ingredients: flour, milk, eggs, butter, sugar, salt, and baking powder. 

43. How To Communicate with Your Barber

Too many guys end up with the wrong haircut because they don’t know how to communicate to their barber what they want. Learn to describe your preferred hairstyle, and when in doubt, bring a picture.

44. How To Calculate Square Footage

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Remember in high school math class when you thought “I’ll never use any of this in the real world?” Well, you were right about a lot of that. But there are a few crucial math skills you may very well need to know, and the ability to determine the area of a space in square feet is one of them. For a rectangular space, all you have to do is multiply length and width. 

45. How To Throw a Football

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You don’t have to be an all-star athlete to throw a nice tight spiral. It all starts with the right grip – ring and pinkie finger between the laces, thumb wrapped around the other side just beneath the white ring, index finger close to the tip – and ends with throwing the ball in one smooth motion that involves your entire body. 

46. How To Accept Criticism

Whether it’s at work or in your personal life, taking criticism isn’t always easy. First off, try to avoid reacting defensively. Listen to what the other person has to say and really think about it before you voice your counter opinion. Remember that there are benefits to getting feedback. Regardless of whether you perceive it as positive or negative, it’s still an opportunity for growth. 

47. How To Accept a Compliment

For a lot of guys, receiving a genuine compliment is even more uncomfortable than taking criticism. It’s tempting to deflect a compliment by saying something like, “it was nothing,” which ultimately just makes the person giving you the compliment feel foolish.

The best response to a compliment is to simply say “thank you” and express your appreciation with something like, “thanks, it makes my day to hear that!” And if you receive a compliment on something you don’t deserve sole credit for, be sure to give credit where it’s due. 

48. How To Put Out a Fire

Do you know where the fire extinguisher is in your house? Do you know how to use it? For most household fires, a fire extinguisher is the best way to safely smother the flames. In the absence of a fire extinguisher, a blanket or baking soda will work. Don’t use water, especially for electrical or grease fires. 

49. How To Shuffle Cards

If you’re playing cards and it comes to your turn to shuffle, don’t pass the deck along just because you’re not a good shuffler. Truly, an overhand shuffle is something anyone can do, but wouldn’t it be nice to do something a little more stylish? Try a ruffle shuffle. It’s simple enough that you can master it in no time, but offers just enough flair that you don’t look like a total rookie at the card table. 

50. How To Play at Least One Card Game Well

On the subject of cards, you should be really good at at least one card game, and it’s best to be passable at a few others. Pick one to really focus on (poker is probably a good choice) and really hone your skills. It’s not a bad idea to get good at gin rummy, blackjack, and a handful of others too. 

51. How To Shake Hands

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A lot of people believe that they can learn a lot about a person from their handshake. Whether or not that’s actually true, it illustrates the importance of having a good handshake, because you will be judged by it. Good timing is important. Eye contact is a good idea, but don’t maintain it for so long that it’s weird. Squeeze firmly enough that your hand doesn’t feel like a limp noodle, but not so hard that it’s like a vice-grip. Don’t be one of those guys who holds on for way too long either. When the handshake is over, let it be over. 

52. How To Talk to Kids

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Here’s the thing about kids: they’re fully functional humans, just like you. They have all the same fears, emotions, hopes, and aspirations. So don’t approach them with baby talk, and don’t act over-excited in an attempt to match their energy level. Don’t talk down to them. Speak with kids like the three-dimensional people they are, and you’ll be just fine. 

53. How To Make a Great Playlist

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Remember mixtapes? How about burned CDs? We don’t have to make them anymore, because we can simply let Spotify’s algorithm tell us what we like, but isn’t it better to add a personal touch? Next time you’re throwing a party or planning a romantic evening, make a killer playlist to go along with it.

Choose songs based on three criteria: 1). You like it. 2). Other people will like it. 3.) It’s appropriate for the occasion. 

54. How To Apply Basic First Aid

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Know CPR. Know the Heimlich maneuver. Know in which situations each one is appropriate. Being able to save somebody’s life is not a bad skill to have. 

55. How To Tie a Knot

I mean how to tie a real knot, not an assortment of random loops. This might be hard for you to hear, but if you’re making it up as you go, it’s not a knot. There are plenty of knots out there, each with its intended purpose, but let’s start with a bowline. It’s one of the most basic and versatile knots. You’ve probably heard the mnemonic that goes along with it: “the rabbit comes up through the hole, the rabbit runs around the tree, and the rabbit hops back into the hole.”

56. How To Iron Clothes

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You have a presentation today, and your last clean dress shirt is jammed in a wad in the back of your drawer for some reason. What are you going to do? You’re going to iron your shirt. Like a man. 

57. How To Find and Purify Water

If you only learn one survival skill, learn how to find and treat water. Learn to read a landscape for signs that point you toward a water source, and learn how to use multiple methods of making water potable, including boiling, filtration, and purification tablets.

58. How To Ask for Help

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Refusing to acknowledge you need assistance doesn’t make you more manly, it makes you an idiot. Don’t wander around lost instead of asking for directions. Don’t blindly bumble through an assignment you have no idea how to do. Don’t throw your back out lifting something that obviously needs two people to carry. Just don’t. 

59. How To Do a Proper Push Up

Balance on toes and palms with your hands about shoulder width. Your legs and torso remain in one straight line. Lower your body by bending your elbows alongside your torso until your chest nearly touches the floor. Pause. Push yourself back up. Repeat. 

60. How To Set Up a Ladder

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Let’s talk about ladder safety. Being able to correctly set up a ladder is really important, and lots of accidents are caused by doing it incorrectly. The most essential thing is the angle of the ladder against the wall, which should be about 75 degrees. Here’s how you know it’s set up right: stand facing the ladder with your toes touching its feet, then reach your arms out straight. Your hands should be able to comfortably rest on a rung.

61. How To Escape a Sinking Car

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Here’s the scenario: your car has gone over the guardrail and ended up in the lake/river/bay/ocean and starts to sink. The first thing you should do is roll down your window. If the car is still on the surface, this will allow you to slither out. If you’re already submerged, rolling down the window will allow your car to fill with water (take a deep breath) which is actually a good thing because it will equalize the pressure and allow you to open the door. 

62. How To Dance

You might not be Fred Astaire, but any guy can learn at least one partner dance well enough that nobody has to be embarrassed. You know that thing where you bob your head and sway your shoulders back and forth? Sorry, but that’s not dancing. 

63. How To Lift Something Heavy

Let’s say you need to pick up a big box of books that are sitting on the floor. First off, make sure your feet are firmly planted, about shoulder-width apart. Bend your knees and squat down next to the box, keeping your back and neck as straight as possible. Get a good grip on it, and lift by pushing up with your legs.

64. How To Tell a Joke

You don’t have to be a constant gag-factory (honestly, nobody likes that guy who always thinks he’s a stand-up comedian) but have at least a handful of good jokes in the bank so you can pull one out when needed. 

65. How To Pick a Lock

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For some, lock picking is a full-fledged hobby. For others, it’s just a good skill to have. Wouldn’t it be nice to know you can always get into your home or office if you forget your keys? And in case you’re worried about pursuing an illegal activity, know that picking a lock is only against the law if the lock belongs to somebody else. 

66. How To Back Up With a Trailer

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Whether you’re launching a boat, backing a camper into a campsite, or trying to angle a U-Haul into your driveway, you’re likely to eventually find yourself in a situation in which you need to back your car up with a trailer attached. If you’ve never done it before, start by practicing in an empty parking lot. The key is turning the wheel in the opposite direction that you want the trailer to go. 

67. How To Make a Shelter

Being able to build a shelter in the woods using available materials could save your life if you ever find yourself lost in the wilderness. Also, you can use the same skills to build a super cool fort with your kids. 

68. How To Crush One Song at Karaoke

When it’s your turn at the mic, be ready. Every guy should have at least one song that they can totally nail on karaoke night. Practice in the shower if you want. The most crucial thing is to pick something within your range that you can actually sing. Nobody needs to listen to you butchering Bohemian Rhapsody for six minutes.

69. How To Entertain Yourself

There’s no excuse for boredom. When you’re by yourself and blessed with free time, resist the urge to zone out in a YouTube black hole. Do something! Play a game, build something, cook something, write something, read something. The ability to self-entertain is probably one of the greatest skills a man can master. 

70. How To Diagnose Your Check Engine Light

Few things fill us with as much dread as an illuminated “Check Engine” light. Is it just a tripped sensor, or is your car about to implode? Eliminate the mystery by learning how to use a scan tool, plug it into the OBD II port under the dash, and translate the code it reads out. 

71. How To Change a Diaper

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Regardless of whether you plan on becoming a dad, there will probably come a time when you need to change a diaper, maybe for a nephew or godson. Don’t be intimidated. It’s not that hard, and with a few tricks, you can make quick and tidy work of changing a diaper. Plus, people always seem to be impressed when a man knows how to do this. 

72. How To Get a Stain Out of a White Shirt

When you get a spot of coffee, ketchup, blood or any other hard-to-remove stain on a light-colored garment, don’t panic. And resist the urge to start rubbing, which will only make it worse. First. Saturate the stained area with vinegar and let it sit for a while. Then make a paste of vinegar and baking soda and use it to scrub the stained area with a toothbrush. Dab the shirt back in the vinegar as needed while you do this. Afterward, launder the shirt as you normally would. 

73. How To Use Chopsticks

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Don’t be the one American dude at the Chinese restaurant who has to ask for a fork. Learn how to use those chopsticks like a pro. Two important tips: first, stay loose. Clenching tightly will only make it harder. Second, only the top stick moves. The bottom stick stays steady. 

74. How To Unclog a Toilet

We all have the ability to clog a toilet, so you’d best learn how to unclog one too. First and foremost, buy a good toilet plunger (not one of those cheap-o ones) and keep it in your bathroom. With the toilet bowl filled with water, use the plunger to create a tight seal and give it three or four good, solid pumps. 

75. How To Prune Trees and Shrubs

Most bushes and small trees prefer to be pruned in late winter, while dormant before any new spring growth has started (though there are exceptions). Prune away any dead, dying, or broken branches, as well as any that cross or grow inward or downward. As a general rule, you should remove no more than 20% of a tree’s canopy when pruning. 

76. How To Open a Bottle Without a Bottle Opener

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There are ways to open a beer bottle using a lighter, belt buckle, ring, or countertop. Master them, and you’ll always be able to access your favorite suds when no one thought to bring a bottle opener. 

77. How To Open Wine Without a Corkscrew

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Okay, you have a few options here. You can push the cork into the bottle using a butter knife or spoon handle, but the cork will then be inside the bottle, and it may crumble a bit, leaving bits of cork in your wine. You can also insert a serrated knife into the cork at about a 45-degree angle, and slowly start twisting to work the cork out. Be cautious so the cork doesn’t fall apart.

78. How To Build a Shed

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Building a shed is kind of like building a house, only smaller. And the stakes are lower because, you know, you don’t have to live in it. But going through the process will teach you some next-level carpentry and construction skills, from framing the walls to setting the roof joists. These are things every guy should know.

79. How To Make Small Talk

Look, small talk isn’t for everyone, so if you hate talking about the weather, just know that you’re not alone. But if you’re at one of those awkward gatherings where you need to create a conversion out of nothing, being able to make small talk is a good skill to have. Ask open-ended questions, and keep things light and positive. Most people’s favorite subject is themselves, so you can always ask about that when all else fails.

80. How To Lift Weights the Right Way

Having good form for your squats, bench presses and deadlifts will ensure that your workout routine isn’t hurting you or causing long-term damage, which it definitely could be if you’re doing these things wrong. 

81. How To Use a Chainsaw Safely

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Maintain a boxer-like stance, with your legs at a 45-degree angle the leg opposite your dominant hand slightly forward. Wear eye protection, keep both hands on the bar (that’s what the blade of a chainsaw is called), and cut slowly and steadily. Plan your cut so you know exactly where the bar will exit the wood. 

82. How To Remove a Tick

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Okay, don’t freak out. I know ticks are super gross and creepy but remain calm. Use a pair of blunt tweezers to grasp the tick and slowly, carefully work it out of your skin. It may take a minute or two, so be patient and don’t force it, or you could end up leaving the embedded mouthparts behind. Ugh. So gross. Also, get one of those tick remover tools and keep it on your keychain.

83. How To Swim

Swimming is an amazing full-body workout. It’s also a great way to not die after you fall out of a boat, so if you didn’t get swimming lessons as a kid, you might want to learn it now! Mastering breaststroke, backstroke, and freestyle swimming will help you feel much safer and more confident near the water.

84. How To Speak Another Language

It can take years to become truly fluent in another language. That’s a great thing to aspire to, but at the bare minimum, you should be able to speak (and understand) a few key phrases in another language. The more the better, especially if you plan on traveling internationally. The better able to speak another language you become, the deeper and more genuine your experience in another country will be. 

85. How To Ask Someone Out on a Date

Every man should be able to ask someone out on a date, and also – this is the most important part – do so without coming across as a creepy weirdo. Start off with some light conversation, ask questions that show your genuine interest without being too prying, and extend a simple, friendly invitation. That’s all there is to it. 

86. How To Play One Song on Guitar

If you’re sitting around a campfire and a guitar is being passed around, you’ll be glad you took the time to play that one song well. If you can master three or four chords, there’s no limit to the songs you can play. 

87. How To Properly Pour a Beer

A good pour releases flavors and aromas that a sloppy pour does not. You also don’t have to pause halfway through pouring a beer while you wait for the foam to subside. Here’s the strategy: hold the glass at a 45-degree angle, and pour along the inside surface of the glass, gradually turning it straight up once it’s about halfway full. 

88. How To Shovel Without Hurting Yourself

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Whether you’re digging a ditch or clearing snow from your driveway, using a shovel is hard work. Keep your legs bent and your back straight. Toss the dirt or snow behind you rather than throwing it forward; that will reduce the strain on your back.

89. How To Be a Good Reader

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If you’re reading this, then you obviously know how to read. That being said, there’s more to being a good reader than just reading. Comprehending and engaging with the text in an active way is on another level. One of the best things you can do for your brain is to set aside time for reading and choose reading material that genuinely interests you. 

90. How To Stop a Fight

How much you should insert yourself into a conflict that doesn’t involve you is open to debate. Putting yourself in harm’s way to physically break up an altercation isn’t always a good idea, but every man should have the ability to verbally diffuse a situation before it escalates. Look for the underlying causes of the conflict, determine the facts, and speak calmly with relaxed body language.

91. How To Escape a Rip Current

Few things are more terrifying than realizing a rip current is carrying you out to sea. First and foremost, stay calm. Even strong, experienced swimmers can exhaust themselves and drown when they try to fight a harsh current. The best thing to do is swim parallel to shore until you’re out of the current and then turn toward land. 

92. How To Do One Great Card Trick

Master one awesome card trick, and you’ll have something interesting that you can pull out of your sleeve – figuratively speaking, but maybe also literally speaking – in any situation. It’ll be a hit at parties, and you will be able to keep kids entertained whenever you need to, at least for a couple of minutes.

93. How To Fillet a Fish

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If you’re good enough at catching fish that you need this skill, then I must say, kudos to you good sir! The next step is transforming your catch into a tasty meal. To do that, you need a good knife that’s designed for the task, because accidents are more likely with a dull knife. Lay the fish flat on its side, and cut horizontally along the spine to separate the meat from the bones. For most types of fish, you’ll only need to adjust your cutting angle when you go around the ribs.

94. How To Keep a Houseplant Alive

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Your mission is as follows: get a plant and don’t let it die. Not a cactus. That’s cheating. Seriously though, any man worth his salt should be able to maintain at least one healthy houseplant. Snake plants and pothos are great low-maintenance plants for beginners, but whatever you get, be sure to research its specific needs. 

95. How To Break Down a Door

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You might need to do this someday to escape a burning building or get to someone in danger, so listen up. Breaking down a door by running into it with your shoulder might look cool in movies, but you’ll probably do more damage to yourself than the door. Instead, give the door a series of firm kicks near the place where the lock is mounted.

96. How To Make Your Bed

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A lot of dudes spend years with a perpetually unmade bed. But you know what? You’re an adult now, and it’s time to shape up! Make that bed tight as a drum. Make it like there’s a drill sergeant standing behind you. 

97. How To Trim Your Beard

Most guys go through a phase where they want to have a beard. Some stick with it, others don’t, but unless you’re auditioning to be in ZZ-Top, you’ve got to learn to tame that thing. There’s an art to trimming your beard and shaping it in a way that best fits your face. Start with the longest hair length, and trim gradually. Also, it’s important to have a plan. Start with an idea of what you want the finished product to look like. 

98. How To Read Body Language

It’s amazing how much of human communication is non-verbal. A person’s body language is at least as important as the words coming out of their mouth, so learn how to pick up on non-verbal cues. They’ll let you know when your partner isn’t fine even when they say “I’m fine,” and they’ll alert you when that guy at the bar is about to punch you in the face. 

99. How To Pack a Suitcase

The more you travel, the more you start to realize the importance of smart packing. Don’t just jam your clothes into a suitcase; put some planning into how you use the space. For example, roll your pants and shirts instead of folding them. Use the space inside your shoes. Pack your suit inside-out to reduce wrinkles. If you’re going on a plane, know how big your carry-on can be, and know what you can and can’t pack inside it. 

100. How To Turn Leftovers Into Dinner

When you get right down to it, anybody can cook a meal. But making dinner out of yesterday’s leftovers? Now that takes skill. If you have leftover pasta, make a casserole. If you have leftover steak, make a stew. If you have leftover rice, make fried rice. If you have leftover veggies, put ‘em in an omelet. You can also make a taco out of just about anything; just sayin’.

101. How To Drive Stick

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The first car to have an automatic transmission was the 1948 Oldsmobile. Before that, driving meant driving a stick shift. These days, being able to drive a car with a manual transmission is gradually becoming a lost art, but there are many who swear by it, not only for fuel economy, low maintenance, and increased control, but because it’s more fun. Ultimately, driving stick makes you a better driver. 

If that description strikes a chord, then this list is for you. For men with a need for speed or a thirst for adventure, these are 30 extreme hobbies that you just have to try. 

1. Skydiving

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Let’s start right at the top: skydiving. It’s one of the most well-known hobbies for adrenaline junkies. It’s something everyone really ought to try at least once. For some, it’s a thrilling once-in-a-lifetime experience. For others, it’s the start of a lifelong obsession. 

Yes, jumping out of an airplane is pretty hardcore, but it’s actually much safer than one might assume. With all the safety measures in place, accidents while skydiving with a reputable company are exceedingly rare. 

2. Whitewater Rafting

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With risks that range from smacking your noggin on a rock to straight-up drowning, it’s safe to say that whitewater rafting is not a hobby for folks who like to play it safe. But there’s also something undeniably appealing about it that goes way beyond the simple adrenaline rush you get. 

Whitewater rafting connects you to the river you’re riding in an intense way, and it sharpens your body and mind to a heightened state. You’ll also develop a powerful camaraderie with the people you raft with. 

3. Downhill Mountain Biking

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A particularly extreme variation of mountain biking that involves rugged, steep terrain and death-defying jumps, drops, and obstacles, downhill mountain biking is not for the faint of heart, as these GoPro POV videos will attest. But it does look thrilling!

Everything about downhill mountain biking is heightened, from the reflexes and physical stamina required to the actual bikes used, which are far heavier and stronger than traditional mountain bikes. Downhill mountain biking is practiced in dozens of countries around the world. 

4. Running of the Bulls

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You’ve seen the videos. Bulls are let loose on a city street, and people run away. A few of them may take a horn to the groin. What could be more fun! 

Running with bulls – or, more accurately, running away from bulls – is a tradition in Spain that dates back to the 14th century. The most famous example is the encierro, which takes place every year in Pamplona as part of the festival of Sanfermines, but similar events are held in Portugal, France, and Mexico. 

5. Hot Pepper Eating

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Don’t think eating hot peppers qualify as extreme? Tell that to this guy. There’s a whole culture around eating hot peppers, and for those who truly enjoy eating the spiciest foods imaginable, it can be not only fun but also community-building. 

For the heat-obsessed, the quest for spicier foods is neverending. If you find yourself hoarding hot pepper seeds for your garden and concocting your own fiery hot sauces, then you’ve officially graduated from dabbler to full-fledged hobbyist. 

6. Boxing

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Boxing is one of the world’s oldest sports. There are 2,000-year-old pictures depicting boxing matches on the walls of Ancient Egypt, but by all accounts, the modern form of boxing evolved from 16th-century prizefights in Great Britain.

These days, boxing is a sport that improves self-confidence and self-awareness, all while honing your mind and body. Crucially, boxing also involves respect for your opponent and for the sport itself, making it an honorable pursuit, and much more than a mere exercise in violence. 

7. Deep-Sea Fishing

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Deep-sea fishing for big game offers an extreme thrill that no other form of fishing can match. Imagine a battle stretching for hours with a fish weighing hundreds of pounds, leaving you breathless, bone-tired and, if you’re lucky, victorious. 

The fishermen who go out after big game like marlin, sailfish, and yellowfin are a different breed, just like the fish they pursue in the ocean’s depths. Try your first deep-sea fishing charter, and there’s a good chance you’ll be hooked too. 

8. Bouldering

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Bouldering is a form of rock climbing that is, somewhat paradoxically, both more extreme and less extreme than traditional rock climbing. It’s less extreme because the scale is smaller – seldom will you find yourself more than 15 feet above ground – but more extreme because no ropes or harnesses are used. 

Only a pad is used to protect you if you fall. Bouldering is done indoors and outdoors, and it’s an intense form of exercise that uses almost every muscle in your body. 

9. Ice Swimming

ChBaltes, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Who’s ready for a swim? Taking a dip during the frigid winter months is commonly known as ice swimming, and accomplished ice swimmers swear by its benefits. There’s evidence to suggest it improves circulation, boosts the immune system, and reduces stress. 

Whether that’s true or not, plunging into icy water releases a flood of endorphins that creates a unique rush. It’s exhilarating. Most ice swims don’t last more than 30 seconds or a minute, so start with a few seconds and work your way up. 

10. Knife Throwing

www.knifethrowing.info, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Knife throwing as a hobby has grown exponentially in the last decade, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s a fun and exciting pastime, and it gives you a chance to really track your progress in a tangible way as you get better and better at it. 

Plus, it makes you feel like an old-timey assassin. If you’re new to throwing knives, start by looking into knife throwing classes in your area where you can learn the ropes in a safe environment with a trained instructor. 

11. Sand Surfing

Josh Spencer, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Sometimes referred to as sandboarding, sand surfing is a sport that involves riding down sand dunes while strapped to a board similar to a snowboard or surfboard. It hasn’t totally caught on as a mainstream hobby, but the folks who are into it are very into it. 

Most of the best sand surfing spots in the US are in desert areas in the Southwest, where there are some massive dunes to board down. There are also great places to sand surf on both coasts, and even in areas around the Great Lakes. 

12. Hang Gliding

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Gliding through the air beneath what amounts to a giant kite is perhaps the most peaceful and freeing of all extreme sports. It’s truly a unique experience that can only be described by those who have done it. 

Hang gliding essentially involves launching yourself and the non-motorized glider you’re harnessed in off a high point using only foot power. The trick is launching into the wind for proper takeoff. Otherwise, you’re in deep trouble.

13. Cave Exploring

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The world that lies beneath our feet beckons to be explored. For those who heed that call, it often goes far beyond a hobby and becomes a full-blown obsession. Caving is serious business. 

A lot of that has to do with the risks involved. While some caves are well-trodden and popular among novice explorers, most have dangerous passages with all manner of obstacles. There are risks of becoming lost, getting stuck, drowning, and all manner of other potential hazards. Still, who wouldn’t want to discover this world that few ever see?

14. Body Surfing

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Body surfing is pretty much what it sounds like – surfing without a surfboard, using only your own body to ride the waves. It’s actually a much older sport than board surfing, most likely originating in Polynesia thousands of years ago. 

Many modern body surfers use a pair of swim fins as their only piece of equipment, while others use none at all. Body surfing enthusiasts often cite a feeling of greater connectedness with the waves as the main reason for eschewing surfboards.

15. Free Soloing

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Free soloing is about as hardcore as rock climbing gets, and it’s definitely not a sport to be taken up lightly. It’s an extremely technical and demanding form of climbing that uses no ropes, harnesses, or other protective equipment. And you must climb alone. 

Alex Honnold made headlines and entered the record books in 2017 when he ascended to the top of Yosemite’s El Capitan in just such a manner. Few humans are built to achieve such a feat, but there is a devoted group of daring climbers who try. 

16. Big Game Hunting

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Hunting big game may seem like a one-sided sport, but that’s not always the case. Many big game hunters face significant dangers getting close enough to their quarry for a clean shot, and in many cases that danger comes from the animals themselves.

There’s a lively debate to be had about the ethics of killing large game animals, and which side you fall on may determine whether this is a sport for you. At the end of the day, revenue from hunting licenses goes a long way toward preserving wildlife habitat, and hunting is arguably the most sustainable way to harvest meat for the table.

17. Extreme Ironing

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Extreme ironing. It’s a sport that begs the question: “do people actually do this?” As it turns out, yes they do. The Extreme Ironing Bureau even has its own Facebook page.

Just what is extreme ironing? It’s an adventure sport in which participants iron clothes in extreme and hard-to-reach locations, such as the top of a mountain, in a river raft, or at the bottom of the ocean. In that way, it actually combines a lot of different extreme hobbies. I swear I’m not making it up. 

18. Parkour

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The idea behind Parkour is for participants to get from point A to point B in the most complex way possible. There was a moment in the early aughts when Parkour had its 15 minutes of fame, but this extreme sport has not gone away. Far from it.

Parkour is usually done in an urban environment and involves going over, under, around, and through all manner of obstacles. It evolved from military obstacle course training and requires some real skill to perform safely. 

19. Kitesurfing

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Kitesurfing is a bit like standup paddleboarding, except you and your board are propelled across the water’s surface by the wind. There’s a bit of a learning curve to it, but it’s also a fairly beginner-friendly hobby. 

As extreme sports go, kitesurfing is pretty laid-back. But there are still dangers to be aware of. In addition to the physical demands and the effects of exposure to the elements, many kite surfers have found themselves accidentally being blown farther out to sea than intended, and then struggle to get back. 

20. Swimming With Sharks

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Also known as shark diving, swimming with sharks is probably the greatest underwater adrenaline rush you can get. There are a few variations on this activity, but the two basic versions are shark cage diving and cageless diving.

Cageless diving is usually performed in shallow reef areas with relatively small, non-aggressive species like nurse sharks and reef sharks, which are unlikely to intentionally attack a human. Cage diving is generally reserved for more dangerous species like great whites.

21. Bungee Jumping

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One of the most traditional extreme hobbies, bungee jumping has been around for many years. It was inspired by the practice of land-diving, a ritual among natives of Pentecost Island in Vanuatu, but became a mainstream hobby in western culture in the late 1970s. 

You know how bungee jumping works. The jumper leaps from a high point, such as a bridge across a deep gorge, harnessed to a cord that stretches and recoils to keep them from hitting the ground. It’s a pretty extreme rush, and no matter how many times one does it, the thrill never fades. 

22. Ice Climbing

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Few extreme hobbies are as thrilling as ice climbing, nor are there many that offer a more beautiful environment. It involves climbing ice formations such as icefalls, frozen waterfalls, and icy cliff faces. 

Anyone who has ever rock climbed shouldn’t have too much trouble transitioning to ice climbing. That being said, ice is more volatile and fragile than rock, and the dangers of ice climbing are greater. 

23. Motocross

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Motocross is a popular form of off-road motorcycle racing. If zigzagging along a winding track with steep inclines and sharp curves at a thrilling rate of speed sounds like your idea of a good time, then you may have found your new hobby. 

No two motocross tracks are exactly the same, and a big part of the sport’s excitement comes from traveling and getting to know new tracks. Motocross also attracts a lot of gearheads who are into the mechanics of motorcycles, especially since the bikes used for motocross are uniquely built for racing.

24. Extreme Pogo

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You may have hopped around on a pogo stick when you were a kid, but most likely never considered turning it into an extreme sport. But a couple of years ago, a few individuals did just that, and they created extreme pogo, also known as Xpogo.

Extreme pogo involves achieving maximum height and performing aerial tricks using specially designed pogo sticks that are capable of launching you up to 10 feet in the air. Honestly, it sounds like a lot of fun!

25. Freediving

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Freediving is a form of diving that involves no breathing apparatus of any kind. Instead, divers can only dive as deep and as long as their breath will allow. Fins are typically the only equipment freedivers use. 

There is such a thing as competitive freediving, but most people who dive in this manner do so for the pure enjoyment of immersing themselves in an ocean environment with no modern conveniences to get in the way. Freediving is also associated with traditional forms of fishing and sponge collecting. 

26. Wildlife Photography

Roieg, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

If you have a knack for taking great pictures, then wildlife photography is a great way to incorporate some adrenaline into your photography projects. It’s often peaceful and serene, but it can also get pretty intense. 

As anyone who has photographed animals like moose, grizzly bears, and wolves will tell you, there is some very real risk to life and limb that comes with the territory. Be safe, and always approach your subjects with due respect.  

27. Parasailing

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Parasailing isn’t necessarily extreme in terms of skill level, physical endurance required or danger faced by the participant. But it certainly feels extreme, sailing high above a body of water attached to a giant sail. 

Parasailing involves being pulled behind a vehicle – usually a boat – attached to a parachute-like sail that gives you the necessary lift to become airborne. It’s a popular activity for vacations and holidays. The moment of take-off really gets the blood pumping.

28. BASE Jumping

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Jumping from a tall structure and free-falling at up to 100 mph for the few seconds until your parachute opens is, to put it lightly, not for the faint-hearted. But that’s BASE Jumping for you. By the way, B.A.S.E. is actually an acronym. It stands for Building, Antenna, Span, and Earth (i.e. the four things BASE jumpers jump off of). 

Just so you know, BASE Jumping is illegal in a lot of places, including most US cities and all US national parks. It is permitted at Perrine Bridge in Twin Falls, Idaho, and one day out of the year at the New River Gorge in West Virginia.

29. Cheese Rolling

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Every year, a few dozen people hurl themselves down a steep hill near Gloucester in England while hundreds of others watch the spectacle. The goal of those who enter the Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling is to be the first to catch the 9-pound wheel of Double Gloucester cheese sent spinning down ahead of them. 

If you haven’t seen the resulting chaos, you really need to check it out. One lucky participant may catch the cheese wheel. Many others go to the hospital. It’s really something!

30. Canyoneering

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An adventurous hobby that combines several extreme outdoor sports into one, canyoneering is essentially the exploration of canyons (some simply call the activity “canyoning”). It’s popular in rugged parts of the American Southwest like Zion and Arches National Parks. 

Canyoneering combines hiking, swimming, rappelling, rock climbing, route finding, and problem solving. There are some very real dangers involved, and rescuers end up having to go in after lost canyon explorers every year. But for outdoor lovers with a thirst for adventure and an interest in navigation, it’s a perfect pastime. 

Satisfying? Sure. Fulfilling in a deep, soul-cleansing way? Absolutely. But fun? Nothing that causes this many blisters should ever be called fun. 

My point is, backpacking is hard work, and even those of us who love it to our very core will freely admit that most of the time, it’s no picnic. That’s why, when you offer a backpacker any trick or tip to make their trek simpler, easier, or less arduous, they’ll almost certainly take it. 

The backpacking hacks listed below are intended to do just that. If you have a lot of experience on the trail, then you may have heard some of these before. Others may surprise you. 

In any case, I hope that some of these tricks make your hike simpler and – even just a little bit – more fun.

1. Bring Duct Tape

Good old reliable duct tape! Is there anything it can’t do? Well, yeah… actually there are a lot of things it can’t do, but let’s focus on the things it can do. For example, you can use it to quickly patch a leaky tarp, cushion your toes against blisters, or fashion a makeshift zipper pull if one breaks. 

Long story short, you should bring some duct tape on every backpacking trip. You don’t need a whole roll, of course – that would be way too heavy and take up valuable pack space – but you can wrap some around your trekking poles or water bottles so it’s always within reach when you need it. 

2. Get a Floating Key Chain

It’s easy to lose track of your keys while you’re wading or jumping across a stream. If they fall out of your pocket, the last thing you need is to see them sink to the bottom like a stone. 

There’s a simple solution: get a floating key chain! You can buy one (they’re commonly used for boat keys) or fashion one yourself using the cork from a wine bottle. Either way, your keys will be much easier to retrieve if they fall out of your pocket and into a body of water. 

3. Repackage Your Food Ahead of Time

Food contributes a lot of weight to your hiking pack and takes up a ton of space. There’s very little you can do about the former, but you can ease the latter by repackaging all your hiking food before you hit the trail. 

A lot of the “space” taken up by prepackaged food is just air, so by taking food out of its original packaging and packing it in resealable plastic baggies, you can save a lot of space. If you have the ability to vacuum-seal the bags, that’s even better. Repackaging also offers an opportunity to portion out your food and avoid carrying more than you need. 

4. Sleep With Your Water Bottles

When backpacking in chilly weather, the last thing you want is to start your day by taking a big drink of ice-cold water (or worse, having to thaw out water that has frozen overnight). You can avoid these issues by keeping your water bottles with you in your sleeping bag while you sleep. Just make sure they’re tightly sealed and leak-free. 

If you want to score some extra hiker bonus points, fill your water bottles with hot water before you go to bed. Then, not only will you keep your water warm, but it will keep you warm as well. 

5. Time the Sunset

Most of us would rather not reach camp after dark if we can avoid it. If you’re getting close to the end of a long day on the trail and aren’t quite sure how much daylight you have left, there’s a simple trick to time the sun as it sets. 

Hold your hand out at arm’s length, with your palm facing you, and align the bottom edge of your pinky finger with the horizon. Each finger represents about 15 minutes of daylight, so you know that when the bottom of the sun touches the upper edge of your index finger, you have about an hour until sunset. 

6. Make a Lantern

The beam from your headlamp can be a little harsh. Create a gentler ambient light by wrapping the headband around a translucent water bottle with the lamp facing inward. It’s much more pleasant when you’re reading in your tent or chatting with your hiking buddies after dark.

7. Wear Your Jacket Backwards

There are few things worse than hiking all day with a sweaty back, and we’ve all been out on the trail on a day when it’s too warm to hike in a jacket and too chilly to hike without one. 

Here’s the solution: wear your full-zip jacket backward so that it’s open in the back. The “back” of the jacket will keep your front warm, and your backpack should provide enough insulation for your back that it stays warm without getting too sweaty. 

8. Pack Some Floss

First of all, oral hygiene is important on the trail, so a roll of floss is always a smart thing to bring. But floss can also double as a durable thread if you accidentally rip your clothing, backpack, or tent and need to quickly sew it up. 

9. Double Down on Fire Starters

Certain things are so essential that it’s always wise to have a backup. The ability to get a fire going is one of those things, so always pack multiple methods of starting a fire. If your go-to is a lighter, then throw an extra pack of waterproof matches in your backpack, just in case.

10. Use Your Clothes as a Pillow

A separate camping pillow is a luxury few backpackers allow themselves. It takes up valuable pack space and adds a small but not insignificant amount of weight. Instead, use your spare clothing as your pillow. You can simply use the stuff sack you keep your clothes in or fill a t-shirt with other t-shirts for a slightly softer option. 

11. Waterproof Your Pack with a Trash Bag

Not all hiking packs come with a rain cover. And even if your backpack does have one, it’s not always reliable in heavy rain and wind. That’s why a lot of experienced backpackers use the old trash bag trick. 

By using a trash bag to line the large inner compartment of your backpack, you can be pretty sure that everything inside will stay dry. The best bags for the job are heavy-duty trash compactor bags between 12 and 20 gallons. 

12. Save Your Batteries

First and foremost, always bring extra batteries. You never know when you might need them. That being said, it’s always a good idea to remove the batteries from headlamps (and any other gear that requires batteries) when not in use. That way, you eliminate the possibility of accidentally turning it on in your pack and running out the batteries. 

13. Bring Camp Sandals

Once your day of hiking is done, chances are the first thing you’ll want to do is take off the shoes and socks you’ve been wearing all day. But walking around the woods barefoot is not a good idea, so it’s best to bring a pair of lightweight sandals or flip-flops you can change into at the end of the day. They’re also great for midnight bathroom runs!

14. Don’t Forget the Paracord

There are endless ways a length of paracord can be useful on the trail. You can use it to secure tents and tarps, make a clothesline, hang a bear bag, strap things to your backpack… the list goes on. Paracord can even be pulled apart to make tinder for starting fires. 

The point is, paracord is something every backp[acker should carry with them into the backcountry. How much you should bring is the real question. Some hikers like to wrap a small amount around their trekking poles, but there may be times when you’ll be grateful for the full spool. 

15. Make a Spice Kit

Hiker food starts to get pretty bland after a few days on the trail. Honestly, how much ramen and instant mashed potatoes can a person eat? 

Spice things up by bringing a selection of your favorite seasonings. Store each spice or seasoning blend in a mini zip bag (those little ones that extra buttons come in) and then roll up the bags and store them all in a pill bottle or similar plastic container. 

16. Bring Printed Maps

GPS is great, and online maps are all well and good, but it’s always best to bring printed trail maps. Even if you only use them as a backup, it’s important to know you have something you can rely on if your batteries die. Also, if you use your phone as your primary navigation tool, download offline maps so you can use them even when you don’t have service. 

17. Choose a Spork

Some hikers are more obsessive about the weight of their packs than others. But you don’t have to be a total nut about pack weight to appreciate the convenience of bringing one eating utensil instead of two. Pack a spork instead of a fork and spoon, and choose a long-handled one that’s good for stirring and reaching deep into food pouches.

18. Keep Electronics in Your Sleeping Bag

You know the toll that cold can take on the batteries in all your electronic devices. Few things are more frustrating than waking up on a chilly morning and finding your phone battery dead, but you can avoid that by keeping your devices in your sleeping bag with you at night. 

19. Pack Baby Wipes

Maintaining your traditional hygiene routine is next to impossible when you’re on a backpacking trip. That being said, it’s best to at least try to maintain at least some semblance of cleanliness, and baby wipes are a great option. 

Giving yourself a quick wipe-down at the end of the day will make you feel much cleaner, and hopefully a little less smelly. Baby wipes add some weight to your pack, but they’re worth every ounce. Just remember you also have to pack out your used wipes

20. Use Your Pockets

Ever wonder why hiking clothes and gear have so many pockets? It’s so you can carry more stuff, of course. Seriously though, you’re not packing at your full potential until you learn to use your pockets to your advantage. 

Keep snacks in your hip belt pockets so you can chomp without breaking your gait. Keep your phone in your pack’s shoulder strap pocket for easy reach. Choose an inner zippered pocket for keys, wallets, and other valuables. A fanny pack is also great for essentials like your lighter, headlamp, and first aid kit. 

21. Make Your Own Waterproof Matches

Just about any match becomes a waterproof match if you dip the tip in candle wax and let it dry. You can also coat it with clear nail polish. Besides, it’s a fun pre-hike project. Choose solid wooden matches with sturdy stems that give you a long burn time. 

22. Pre-Filter Murky Water

Every backpacker should have some way of purifying water (the LifeStraw bottle and Sawyer water filtration system are two great options). We often imagine ourselves drinking from pristine mountain streams, but sometimes you may be forced to collect water so sludgy that it might clog your filter. That’s no good. 

It’s always wise to carry a pre-filter of sorts; something you can run water through to remove the big particles so your regular filter can do its job. A coffee filter or bandana is great for this purpose, and any piece of cloth will work in a pinch. 

23. Beat Mosquitoes

Plenty of hiking trips have been ruined by relentless mosquitoes. Any time you plan on spending time in the woods, it’s best to devise some way of warding off these little bloodsuckers.

A good repellent that contains plenty of DEET usually does the trick, but if you’re not into putting chemicals on your skin, there are a few natural remedies worth trying. Burning sage leaves has been shown to be effective, and numerous plants including basil, rosemary, citronella, and lemon balm can help deter mosquitoes. 

24. Mark Your Bottle To Stay Hydrated

It’s easy to forget to drink enough water out on the trail. It helps to add markings to your water bottle so you can stay on top of your water intake. 

Nalgene bottles are great because they already have markings on them that measure how much water is inside. But you can add your own time-of-day markings using marker or tape to keep tabs on how many liters of water you want to drink by the hour. 

25. Bring Car Clothes

No matter the length of your backpacking trip, you’ll be endlessly grateful for some clean clothes to change into at the end. If you’re leaving your car parked at the trailhead, keep a fresh set of clothes in the vehicle for just that purpose. If you’re having someone pick you up after your trek is done, ask them to bring some with them.