UnBound
Travel Stories, Photography Tips, & Reviews
Gear Review: A Month Long Road Trip With PackFire, I Couldn’t Be Happier
Kristin and I loaded our converted van and headed for a month in Colorado. At first we really didn’t know what to expect from the trip, but we had a few goals to summit peaks, trail run a total of 50 miles, and spend time around the Estes Park area taking photos and rock climbing. Turns out the weather on this trip didn’t really cooperate with us, but in hindsight, my favorite memories from the trip come from hanging in woods making s’mores over the Packfire fire pit at the end of the day, here’s why.
Best Gear We Tested And Liked This Week
Gear is everywhere and it is hard to know what is “good gear” and what is “bad gear” so, I have paired up with a few gear heads to create a space highlighting the gear we personally tested and liked each week. Our gear recommendations vary widely from kayaks to climbing gear to dog treats, but they all have one thing in common; helping you adventure.
Our goal is to share gear that improves your ability to adventure.
Gift's For An Adventurous Dad That Don't Suck
We all know at least one adventurer Dad in our lives who we want to spoil. Luckily, for me, that is my Dad. He’s a big fan of hot rods, not much of a camper, but always down for a hike. While I don’t always get him gifts for Father’s Day, his birthday, or the holidays, when I do he smiles and is grateful. Sometimes that gift is a pair of socks, he often laughs, but I figured it was time to get him something rad and thankfully, with my career as an adventure content creator, I have had the opportunity to test a lot of gifts that Dad’s would like. Heck, if I was a Dad, I would love these gifts! Maybe, I am just selfishly putting together a wishlist? Okay, let’s not go there. Here are epic gifts to give your Dad:
This Isle SUP Is Perfect for Vanlife, Here’s Why!
The ISLE Switch Compact is a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) and kayak hybrid that promises convenience, portability, and versatility for anyone looking to get out on the water with ease. I recently tested it out on Lake Tahoe with my dog, and here's my honest review of this product.
The Best Adventure Travel Gifts Under $50
The best gifts don’t have to break the bank, at least that is what we think here at The Adventure Travel Network. To show this, we put together a list of our favorite gifts for 2025 that are all under fifty bucks. These gifts are perfect for birthdays, stockings, or just anytime gifts. One thing is common between all the gifts, they help you adventure!
I Turned The North Face Gear Box Into A Boot Bag—and You Should Too
When I upgraded to a new backcountry ski setup, I faced a problem familiar to many: shuttling gear to and from the car in a haphazard, inefficient way. Enter The North Face Base Camp Gear Box. What started as a general-purpose gear hauler has become my ultimate boot bag, streamlining my ski days into a grab-and-go dream. But there’s more to this gear box than meets the eye, and it’s worth exploring its features and versatility before deciding if it’s right for you.
After 2 Years, The Benchmade Station Knife Is Still Scary Sharp
Rarely do I get to write a review about a product almost two years after purchasing it, but today I have the pleasure of discussing the Benchmade Station Knife. This culinary knife is the ultimate “one-knife quiver” that truly does it all. Two years in, the edge still scares me—it’s that sharp—and I use it daily. From meal prep at home to cooking on the road, this knife has proven itself time and time again.
The Sonos Ace Are Almost The Perfect Headphone, But They Have One Flaw
When I picked up a pair of the Sonos Ace, my expectations were straightforward. I wanted a solid set of over-ear headphones that could help me drown out distractions while working and deliver high-quality sound for my lazy music-listening days. I didn’t expect them to become my daily companion for just about everything. But here we are, and the Sonos Ace has proven to be far more versatile than I could have imagined, integrating seamlessly into so many aspects of my life that I often forget how limited my previous headphones were in comparison.
Of a Lifetime by The North Face Makes You Want to Charter a Sailboat To Antarctica
When I first saw Of A Lifetime pop up on my computer screen, I figured I’d give it a quick watch. Five minutes in, I realized this was no ordinary ski video. This was something special. I paused, headed to my TV, and settled in to experience the full 44 minutes on the biggest screen in my house. It was the best decision I made all week.
I Took Nike's ACG Torre Mid Backpacking in Lake Tahoe, Was It a Mistake?
When my girlfriend and I planned an ambitious three-day backpacking trip across Desolation Wilderness in Lake Tahoe, I was ready to push myself and test my gear. We aimed to start at Loon Lake and end at Emerald Bay, carrying three days' worth of food and supplies. There was just one caveat—I would be wearing a brand-new pair of Nike ACG Torre Mid boots.
18 Gifts For The Adventurous Women In Your Life
Shopping for that adventurous woman in your life can be a challenge—she’s always seems to be chasing that next trail, slope, or flight. Whether the adventurous woman in your life is conquering summits, chasing powder, or planning her next epic road trip, this gift guide has something for every type of outdoor enthusiast. From hiking essentials to travel must-haves, gear for van life, and gadgets for trail running, we’ve rounded up thoughtful gifts to inspire and fuel her passions.
Upgrade Your Travel Kitchen With These Gifts
There’s something magical about cooking on the road—whether it’s a warm meal shared around the campfire or a solo cup of coffee enjoyed in nature’s stillness. A travel kitchen that’s both functional and inviting can make those moments even better. This guide is your go-to for thoughtful gifts that upgrade camp kitchens, from must-have tools to clever gadgets. Perfect for vanlifers, road trippers, and anyone who finds joy in cooking while traveling.
Leatherman and the Malloy Brothers Team Up for Limited-Edition Adventure Knife Release
Leatherman, renowned for its multi-tools and innovative designs, has announced its latest limited-edition tool under the brand's skunkworks-style Garage initiative. The new release, dubbed GARAGE BATCH #007: MALLOY SPECIAL ($300), is inspired by the adventurous lifestyle of the iconic Malloy brothers—Chris, Keith, and Dan—known for their contributions to surf, film, and creative culture.
5 Reasons You Might Not Be Enjoying Hiking and How to Fix It
Hiking can be a detoxifying and peaceful outdoor activity, offering everything from physical exercise to breathtaking views of nature. However, it’s not uncommon for some hikers—both beginners and seasoned adventurers—to feel less than enthusiastic about hitting the trails. If you find yourself not enjoying hiking as much as you’d like, you’re not alone. The good news is that many of the reasons behind your discomfort or lack of excitement are fixable. Here are five common reasons you might not be enjoying hiking and what you can do to turn it around.
Stay Warm This Winter With These 5 Merino Wool Layers
Winter is upon us, and as the temperatures drop, staying warm and comfortable is a top priority. Merino wool is renowned for its exceptional insulating properties, moisture-wicking abilities, and comfort. It's a natural choice for those seeking to stay cozy and stylish during the winter months. In this article, we'll explore five excellent Merino wool layers that you should consider adding to your winter wardrobe.
"Friendly Reminders" Might Be The Best Self-Care Book For Outdoor People
For the few of you who do not follow Scott Tatum on Instagram, you are missing out. But, that is okay, because he just released his first book, Friendly Reminders: Lessons From A Self-Care Savage, which condenses his wisdom from IG into a beautiful book with illustrations of your favorite places, like Yosemite and the American Southwest.