Best and Top Backpack Reviews : 2014-02-16

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Saturday, February 22, 2014

What is the difference between camping and backpacking?

Jack

How do camping campsites look different than backpacking campsites?

Answer
This is a good question.

camping and backpacking are similar, but have a few differences that can be important.

camping usually involves simply driving to a place, setting up tents, and cooking hotdogs and marshmallows. These sites will normally include at least a firepit, may have a nearby restroom facility, and have a water sourceand electricity source in the area. These sites can accomodate any sort of person, be it a long-term RV camper or the overnighters who want to have some fun outdoors.

Backpacking normally means the opposite. When you backpack, you take everything you need with you in a pack into the wilderness, and thus campsites for that can be pretty bare. There may be a few logs for sitting way up in the mountains, and maybe a rock circle for a fire. Most of the time there will be no amenities like those found at campsites where you can drive in. Water sources will be streams or lakes, and electricity may be restricted to what batteries you brought with you.

Best way to pack a camping backpack?

hockey4eve

I am going on a weekend camp trip (2 nights and I will be staying at a campsite). I do not need to bring food but I will need to have a tent and sleeping bag with me. What is the most efficient way to pack a camping backpack? (include clothing, flashlights, tent, toiletries, first aid, etc)

Answer
What fun! Are you hiking a great distance each day? This makes a difference in how you pack. If you are bringing your personal items from your car to the camp site, keep it simple. Most small sized tents come with their own carry case and have a strap. That can go over one shoulder. Your sleeping bag can be carried under your other arm. Your backpack will be on your back. When you pack your bkpk, put the heavier items on the bottom. You want the weight of the bkpk to be lower to your hips than up on your shoulders. Especially if you are hiking for long distances. You might have a flashlight and some TP near the top of the pack in case you need them before you get your gear set up. You may want a self-inflating pad that you put on the floor of your tent and put your sleeping bag on top. Makes getting a good nights sleep better. Oh, pack an extra flashlight. Hope it helps. Have lots of fun and enjoy.

Good Spot for Camping/Hiking in northern TN/southern KY?

tx851

Just wondering where a good place to go camping/hiking in northern TN/ southern KY would be. All the state parks around here are concrete campgrounds and offer little to no real hiking. I'd like something a bit more roughing it style if ya know whta I mean :)

Answer
Dear Hiker.
Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area.
This awesome park straddles KY & TN. I've backpacked there a number of times. Many trails are challenging, but with a payoff of great scenery and often it feels you have the woods all to yourself. You'll enjoy seeing house-sized boulders in the river. The good place to start and get current trail reports, is at the main entrance on the Tennessee side. check out the web site for more info. http://www.nps.gov/biso/index.htm
I'm going backpacking in the Smokies this weekend.

Regards, Joe Cooper

Ideas for camping trip locations? ?

oomps62

I'm looking to go camping with a group of about 10 people in early March, as part of a spring break trip. We try to go camping somewhere in the Southern US so it's a reasonable temperature. I'm looking for suggestions of places by anyone who may have an idea of a place that fits these requirements. It's a week long trip, and some of the activities we have done in the past include backpacking, canoeing, sea kayaking, rock climbing, etc.. Any ideas would be appreciated! Thanks.

Answer
Check out Tennessee State Parks, Great Smokey mountains National Park and Big South Fork on the TN/KY border. All have everything but the sea kayaking..............

Do kids in college use Jansport backpacks?

Poet with

Do most people in college use Jansport backpacks? Would having a vera bradley backpack make me stand out or easily label me as a freshman?

Answer
Nobody will give a flying crap what kind of backpack you wear.

College isn't high school.

Do you know where I can find a Jansport backpack for kids?

I've seen these cute little Jansport backpacks. They look like they are made for kids. Where can I find them in Toronto. Does Jansport have a link on the web to the different models/colours they make?

Answer
I believe that the answerer above me meant www.jansport.com

I hope I was helpful,Take Care!!! :)

Fixed blade laws in Oregon?

rooney

I am planning a backpacking trip across the Oregon coast line and visiting some of the bigger city's like Portland and planning on carrying a large fixed blade. Is this illegal and am I likely to give crap from the local police?

Answer
The same as everywhere , pretty much.

Which means if you carry a dirk on your belt, you're an idiot.
"large fixed blade" in the city limits is just a way to go to jail.

See the problem with such things is many cops have been camping and they know such knives aren't a necessity when camping, but are just fetish items.

Stick it deep in your pack unless you intend to get jail time, just like your hatchet. They can't charge you for a concealed weapon, when it's impossible to claim it's readily available.

Where and what should i do for my honeymoon?

Jake

I am getting married in June. My fiance left the honeymoon planning up to me. I am saving up money but with bills and life being expensive. I will only be able to spend $2000 for the entire honeymoon. For our honeymoon I would like it to be at least 4 days long. A maxium of 12 hours away or closer. We love outdoors (camping, fishing, hunting, hiking) but also enjoy visting new cities. I'd also like to do something fun during this time she will never forget. Something out of the norm. That will really make this honeymoon amazing for her other then me ha ha. So any suggestions would be awesome.

Answer
Search your desires carefully. Are you really okay with a backpacking/camping honeymoon? Or do you expectâif only subconsciouslyâa luxury honeymoon with room service and only pleasant distractions?

For roughing it:
* Camp in SE Oregon, climb Steens Mountain, view the wild Kiger Mustang herd, soak in hot springs and rustic hot pools, wander the Hart Mountain Antelope Refuge, explore desolate Owyhee Canyon, drive/camp on Alvord Desert, hike in Oregon Badlands Wilderness (slightly east of Bend, on the way to/from SE Oregon). In June, it will be too early for backpacking in the Cascades.
* Hike the Oregon Coast Trail for a mix of nature and civilization. Restaurants, grocery, and motels are adequately distributed so you can rely on them most days. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oregon_Coast_Trail
* Rent a fire lookout from the Forest Service or BLM. Rustic accommodations, but with great views and surrounded by forest

For luxury:
* Rent a suite at Sunriver Lodge, Salishan, Timberline Lodge, Crater Lake Lodge, Tu Tu Ton Lodge (Rogue River), or a nice house at the coast. Outside Oregon, Skamania Lodge (in the gorge), Lake Quinalt Lodge in Olympic N.P., Deer Harbor Resort on Orcas Island, or Sooke Harbour House at the south tip of Vancouver Islandâawesome fresh foods.
* Hawaii, but June begins the busy and expensive season.
* I don't know if it can be reliably done for less than $2000, but luxury jungle or coastal accomodations, all inclusive, are available all over Central America: Belize, Honduran Islands like Roatan, and Mexico.

Is this a girls or boys bag?

Hailey

this question is really stupid, but i just need an answer. so i bought a backpack and this is it

http://www.amazon.com/Jansport-T5017ZB-Superbreak-Backpack-JanSport/dp/B004ZJA8CW

i'm a girl and i'm concerned that a guy might wear the same backpack as i do. do you think a guy would wear this backpack? and do you think people will care that a guy and a girl have the same bag? i know it's stupid, but people at my school are very judgmental. thanks

Answer
It's unisex, which means it's appropriate for either gender; it is neither girly nor manly. It also would really not matter if a guy had the same backpack as you -- no one is going to sit around making fun of two people for having the same backpack. People at your school are not that judgmental about trivial things like that, it just seems that way to you because you are being insecure.

Help me pick out a VOLCOM backpack!?

Kaitlyn B

please help me decide between these two badass backpacks.
thanks :]

http://www.surfride.com/product_info.php?products_id=160667&utm_source=googlebase&utm_medium=cpc

OR......

http://www.amazon.com/Volcom-Checker-Wrecker-2-Backpack/dp/B001E8XISI/ref=pd_sbs_a_3

ok it says limited number so PLEASE dont go and buy all that's left..
lol i made this page specifically for this problem! please help!!

Answer
the one from amazon if you are a girl but the one from surfride if you are a boy. i think the one from surfride is kinda lame and bland so i prefer the one from amazon

Friday, February 21, 2014

Must have camping gear?

Q. My husband is interested in taking more camping trips next year, so I thought I'd get him some camping gear for Christmas. Looking for suggestions for what I should get him. (Cheap but durable.)

Answer
Depending on the kind of camping you/hubby/both are interested in, the following gear is useful:

1. headlamp - a flashlight that is worn on the head, thereby freeing your hands (for cooking at night, or hiking before dawn, or finishing a walk after dusk). There are many brands, choose one within your budget (or what is on sale)

2. tent - depending on whether for hike-camping or car-camping, you'd want different weight/size/material (and that will determine the price)

3. sleeping bag - weight/material will depend on whether it's intended for warm-weather camping only, or 4 seasons (and that will determine price)

Then, depending on the style of camping, you may wish to consider:
- type of backpack
- cooking stove
- cooking pots/pans
- waterfilter
- water bottles/camelback
- map holders (waterproof?)
- compass/GPS

That's enough to start Christmas shopping with...

I need a good camping backpack for $40 or less....?

B Dawgg

I need to get a backpack that's durable, at least somewhat waterproof, and has a lot of space inside. I would like to stay inside the $40 price range, but if it's just super awesome for that extra $5 or so, recommend it. It definitely has to be from REI or Dick's because I don't live near any other sporting goods stores. And no I will not buy online, I like to see and feel before I buy.

Answer
It's gonna be difficult to obtain a quality backpack for such short monet at rei,you'd be better off going to a yard sale when spring arrives,and getting a sweet deal on a great bag rather than just an ok one for what you want to spend.

I need a backpack!!!! Can anyone help?

Brittany P

Hi!!! Im going into the 8th grade and i am looking 4 a backpack(yes i no it's early). I have looked everywhwere and still cant find one.Im going to need a pretty big one but nothing that looks like a hiking backpack.I would like it if it had a pattern. My favorite color is purple but it dosn't have to be purple. Thank you 4 your help!!!
Btw Im goin with a candy theme like with crunch nerds bubble yum fun dip and mike and ike
I decided 2 get a jansport it does not have a pattern but it is big and does not hurt my back
http://www.jansport.com/js_product_detail.php?cid=10&pid=TKV2

thanx 4 all the suggestions!!!!
Its the purple and white one

Answer
i ususlly get my backpacks at a skateboarding store like pacsun.
heres some good brands :
A. Saks
adidas
adidas Golf
AmeriBag
Armor Bags
Armor Gear
Boblbee
Callaway GolfÂ®
CalPak
CamelBak
Camp Inn
Case Logic
Chisco
Clava
Clive
Columbia Sportswear
Dakine
Decode
Derek Alexander Leather
Disney Luggage
Dockers Luggage
Eastpak
Eclipse Solar Gear
Ecolution
Everki
Forum
G-Tech
Gravis
Gregory
Ground
GYMSPacific
Heys
High Sierra
Ivar
JanSport
Keen
KIVA Designs
Lewis N. Clark
Little Packrats
Lowe Alpine
Maestro Luggage
Maxpedition
Miquelrius
Mobile Edge
Mountainsmith
National Geographic
Netpack
Nike
O'Neill
Okkatots
Olympia
Osgoode Marley
Outside Baby
Overland Equipment
Pacific Design
Pakuma
Patagonia
Piel
Rawlings Sports Accessories
Roots
Sandbar
Scully
SealLine
Sherpani
Spyder
Sumdex
Timbuk2
Tommy Hilfiger
Trager USA
Transpack
Traveler's Choice
Triple 5 Soul
Wildkin
World Richman
Zitteli
here are some backpack styles:
Camera
Clear
Computer
Drawstring
Hiking
Internal frame
Laptop
Leather
Luggage
Mesh
Mini
Rolling
School
Skateboard
Sling
Snowboard
Travel
Wheeled
heres some stores to go to:
Pacsun
Kohl's
Jcpenny's
Zumiez
Target
Carson's
Walmart
Kmart

Or even try to shop online

where to buy cheap indie backpacks?

Sarah

like from pacsun that kinda style but cheaper im 14 in 8th grade i have a bag but i cant fit my notebooks in it and i have to carry six and two binders so i can fit anything in it please give me ideas i was some at areopostale but they don't have them online are they still in store?

Answer
Try Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/mn/search/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=pattern%20backpack&linkCode=ur2&tag=softwaengin0d-20&url=search-alias%3Daps

Thursday, February 20, 2014

Girly girl in school?

Gaby

So i am the shy smart girl and i have been it since kinder garden so i am about to enter middle school and i want to express myself at home i am a big girly girl but at school opposite in class i am the shy girl who does not participate but in front of my friends i am the loud girl so in my school we have a shirt that has our school name and its grey we can wear that or two other plain white or grey shirts we have gym everyday for a hour so we can not wear jeans and we have to wear gym shoes so my backpack and school supplies scream girly so any cool store advice also i have a question on my weight im 5 1 and i weigh 96 pounds is this to much i am te btw Help plz
Ty ppl for ur awesome comments and sorry 4 the grammar mistakes but i was writting it in a hurry like i am now and to those people critisizing my grammar im te and my 13 year old cousin writes like this when she is working hard on something

Answer
You can still be shy and look hot. Maybe you can go shopping in stores like petite little girls for you in justice . Buy cute pants that stand out and look up on the Internet how to style certain things. Get lots an lots of cute jewelry. Whenever I look underdressed or not so stylish , I add a great jewelry piece and I end up looking fabulous. My advise is get cute sweatpants from "forever 21 kids" cute converse or VANz shoes for gym. And for everything else, add jewlwery and cute pants. Make sure your hair is always niceeeeee!!! Big must. Have it straight or curly or natural . Just make sure it doesn't look undone or stupid. Usually messy is cute but don't cross any boundaries so you don't look like you just woke up !! Hope I helped. ( ugh I feel like a 12 year old now lol)

Homeschool to public high school transition?

I'm going to go to public highschool next year for 9th grade and I've been homeschooled til now. So, I don't really completely know what to expect. Any tips or info on it would be great. (:

Answer
haha it's cool that you're going to public school now! it's going to take some adjusting to, but don't worry, you'll enjoy it.

as far as the school work goes, i can't really give you a fair judgement as to weather it'll be harder or easier than your homeschool work. there's tons of different electives that you can take; for example, you can take a class all on a criminal justice, to a weight training class, to a dance class, to a cooking class, to a computer applications class, to a business class, to an accounting class, to a first-aid class, and the list goes on and on. there's honors classes as well as classes for those who struggle in certain areas as well as just regular classes. one of the biggest tips i can give you though, is right from the summer homework to your first day of school to throughout the year, just don't fall behind. it will come back to haunt you, because it's extreeemmely hard to get back on track, and teachers aren't going to give you too many extra chances. but, if you manage your time well, you should be okay. some of the easiest ways to do this are to use your off period (if you have one) to your advantage, do your homework right after school, and keep a planner. it's much easier said than done, but you'll be happier if you kept on track.

so now that you're in public school, you probably get to experience dating!(: relationships are normally pretty serious, lasting anywhere from multiple months to even a couple years. there's a pretty big selection of guys for every type of girl, so it's nice(: and just like you've probably seen in the movies, there's plenty of making out in the halls. lol

kids are generally somewhat mature in high school; you still have your assholes, but most kids don't just poke fun at others for no reason. you still have your nerds, your jocks, your populars, etc. etc., but it's not horribly as exclusive as the movies make the groups out to be. everyone talks with everyone, so you'll make new friends in no time(: just make sure that you choose the right friends.

students definitely have their own sense of originality in highschool; you actually see your true goth kid with the huge bell-bottom pants with the chains and the long hair that covers their face, to the girl that wears nothing but pink and huge bows in her hair everyday, to the kid that likes to stick out with a bunch of funky colored clothes. it's really all about your taste. girls generally wear hollister, aeropostale, pac sun, american eagle (etc. etc.), skinny jeans, flare jeans, vans, and converse though. however, don't let that influence you; be your own person and wear what you wanna wear!(: girls wear their hair like you probably see on a day-to-day basis; however, you'll see your few kids that decided to dye their hair some wacky color....lol. as far as makeup goes, girls generally wear a lot, so you'll definitely see your cake faces. girls generally wear eyeliner, mascara, foundation, and lip gloss, and you have some (like me) that wear blush and light eyeshadow too. like i said though, don't be a cake face, because people are just going to know you as being plastic.

haha as a warning, don't be the freshman that runs down the halls because they're late for a class, or is walking around aimlessly with their schedule in their hand. if you can, write down the classroom number of your next class that you have on your hand or something. lol(:

oh and a few last things, the halls are REALLY crowded. the only way to get around is to be pushy, because otherwise you'll pretty much get ran all over. also, always bring your id to school. you don't need to go as far as to put it on a lanyard and carry it around on your neck all day, but just stick it in a spare pocket in your backpack or bag. you don't really need it on a day to day basis, but the administrators always find some stupid reason for you to need it, so it's always good just to have.

i'm sure you'll enjoy highschool. you'll make the transition in no time(: if you wanna know anymore, just ask me, i'll be happy to tell ya(:

good luck!(:

GOOD BACKPACK COMPANY!?!?

Twilight..

so i need a backpack for school and trips and stuff. i am a 13 almost 14 year old girl and i want one that would be defined as "cool" i guess you could say... like something burton or roxy or hurley or something. i like most colours (not plain pink... only pink if mixed with other colours) and gray is good too. also preferably under $50 if possible. links are appreciated !

Answer
I am currently using Hurley tote I bought at PacSun! Very good quality. ^__^ But I also admire the colorful jansport backpacks, they are very popular at my middle school.

Backpacks for freshmen??!?

Q. I am a girl going into high school, and in my school people don't go to their lockers much. I need a really large, preferably fashionable backpack. Does anyone have any ideas????

Thanks :)

Answer
Hurley makes some good backpacks, but honestly just because other people don't go to their lockers doesn't mean that you shouldn't. I really screwed up my back carrying so many books all the time. It's really better to just use a bigger purse and switch your books out in the middle of the day.

Can someone give me some info on backpacking through Yellowstone, or Southern Alaska?

the dude

I want to spend 2 or 3 weeks hiking through one of these places, and sleeping under the stars, after I get back from this deployment. Does anyone have any good info on this? Cost, feasibility, anything I need to know about it.

Answer
In Yellowstone, you will be on designated trails and camping in designated areas, even in the back-country. You will leave 99 percent of the crowd behind, simply by leaving the paved road, but depending on the time of year you may be a long ways from isolation.

The good news is that as a solo hiker with flexibility, you may be able to simply arrive, ask the back-country rangers where the fewest people are and make your plans on-the-spot with truly expert advise.

Want my Advise? Right between Yellowstone and Glacier (Just south of Glacier, literally across the highway) is the Bob Marshal Wilderness. You have a real chance of passing through this area without seeing another person. Take a fish pole and you should be able carry and catch enough food for at least 10 days. Know Bear-safe camping, there are both Black and Brown (Grizzly).

Alaska, especially the inland passage and South, is made for boat travel. Consider taking or renting a canoe or kayak. With either, it is possible to carry everything you need for several weeks. It is not an environ to be taken lightly. There are animals there that put you in the middle of the food chain! Experience in wet conditions and dealing with bugs would be advised. The area not part of Denali National Park is largely National Forest. Pick an area and call the nearest USFS office for trail and camping updates.

Again with the advise:
Go to Telegraph Creek, British Columbia. Canoe or Kayak the Stickeen River 90 miles to Wrangell Alaska. Late June or early July is optimum for reasonable river flow, and weather. There are numerous opportunities to pull ashore and spend a day or two hiking. Glaciers and Hot-Springs. Pre arrange your air, ground or water shuttle.

How does Yellowstone National Park work when visiting?

The_Report

Do i need a guide? Can I just go in and do what I want? Must I follow a trail? Must i get outdoors training if I go to the backcountry?

This is what I want to do. I want to go see wolves. I don't care about the other wildlife (well, I do, but for this trip, I am just interested in wolves). How can I do this? Must I look for them myself? Is their a tour I can take? How can I do this?
this is helpful, but basically I've just been getting information on what I can't do or what will kill me. I want to know what to do, not what not to do. How do i see wolves? And is there a horseback riding tour?

Answer
edit: http://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/things2do.htm
Check the above link for things to do:

â¢Backcountry Hiking & Camping
â¢Bicycling
â¢Boating
â¢Camping
â¢Concessioner-led Activities & Tours
â¢Day Hikes
â¢Fishing
â¢Horseback Riding and Llama Packing
â¢Park Education
â¢Picnicking
â¢Ranger-Led Programs
â¦Summer
â¦Fall
â¦Winter
â¢Viewing Historic Points of Interest
â¢Viewing Natural Points of Interest
â¢Wildlife Viewing
â¢Winter Activities
â¢Yellowstone Association Institute Courses

Yellowstone Park is now the premier place to see wolves â even from the roadside. According to wildlife biologist Doug Smith, who runs the Yellowstone Wolf Project, all it takes is a little patience. Since their reintroduction in 1995, more than 100,000 visitors have reported seeing Yellowstone wolves. Your best chance of spotting a gray wolf in the Park is in "Lamar Valley", where the parkâs largest pack (the Druid Peak pack) resides.

You do not need a guide. However, you might enjoy your visit more if you chose to go with a guide. I only say that because there is a lot to learn about backpack camping. This link has a list of businesses which have permits to operate in Yellowstone National park.
http://home.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/hikebusn.htm

This link will answer most of your questions about visiting the back county of Yellowstone National Park.
http://home.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/upload/bc_tripplanner9-08.pdf

5 year old going into kindergarten how much should I spend on clothes?

Amanda

My daughter is going to be starting school in August and I plan to take her school shopping next week and spend about $200 on clothes. We already bought her backpack and lunch bag so it would be only for shoes and clothes. How much do you spend and buy and how old are your kids?

Thanks for answering my question! I'm just curious this is my first baby so I have no clue
Thank you lorelei I was actually concerned that $200 would not be enough. Its not that I want to be excessive but I would like my daughter to look decent and have enough of everything. I know clothes at her age get destroyed pretty quickly which is why I feel its necessary to get her alot.

Answer
wow...I asked a similar question about my 18 month old a few weeks ago and got alot of the same answers...I personally will shop at thrift stores and second hand stores but the clothes must have tags on them and not been worn or be so cute it dose not matter...I have found good deals at The Children's Place and Carters. I also like Sears, Jcpenny and Gymboree (for sales). I think $200 is very reasonable if she needs everything! I would however look into outlet shopping near you. I went the The Children's place outlet and got her jeans for like $5.00 brand new! For shoes I like Walmart or target...I would also be sure to get an old T-shirt for her to wear when she dose painting in school...even if the paint say "washable" it dose stain sometimes...I also would deam and few things as "fancy" clothes like for church or her first day of school! Good luck!!

P.S I plan on spending $300-$500 on my 18 month old Fall/winter entire wardrobe!!

What Do You Think About My Back To School Wardrobe?

Lynn

http://www.forever21.com/htg81/product.asp?catalog_name=FOREVER21&category_name=girls_dresses&product_id=2055986079&Page=1

http://www.jessicasimpsoncollection.com/SHOES/Kids-Shoes/ROSE-YELLOW-KIDS.html
http://www.gymboree.com/shop/dept_item.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524445991780&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306254958&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395917465&bmUID=1280391315295&productSizeSelected=0&fit_type=

http://www.gymboree.com/shop/dept_item.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524445991866&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306254958&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395917465&bmUID=1280391333438&productSizeSelected=0&fit_type=

http://www.gymboree.com/shop/dept_item.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302775331&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524445991734&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395917465&bmUID=1280391338146

http://www5.jcpenney.com/jcp/X6.aspx?GrpTyp=PRD&ItemID=184c47a&DeptID=77892&CatID=77894&SO=0&Ne=5+29+3+1031+8+586+904+18+949&shopperType=G&N=4294939995&Nao=0&PSO=0&CmCatId=77892|77894

http://www5.jcpenney.com/jcp/X6.aspx?GrpTyp=PRD&ItemID=18c4308&DeptID=77892&CatID=77894&SO=0&x5view=1&Ne=5+29+3+1031+8+586+904+18+949&shopperType=G&N=4294939995&Nao=63&PSO=0&CmCatId=77892|77894 (in yellow!)

http://www.shopjustice.com/girls-clothing/tops-tees/glitter-art-dogtag-tee/8794283 (in blue!)

http://www.shopjustice.com/girls-clothing/boots/shortie-slouch-boot/7030807 (in grey)

http://www.shopjustice.com/girls-clothing/skirts-skorts/plaid-skort-with-buckles/9131514 (in light blue!)

I'm Going into middle school!
First, Gymboree, yes i know! My mom loves it, i hate it! But they actually had some cute stuff there. And i actually like Justice thank you -.-

Answer
ok girls. im going into 8th grade and i remember the fashion in 6th grade. not much has changed, but popular stores to shop at are 1
http://www.aeropostale.com/shop/index.jsp?categoryId=3534619 (aeropostale which is big fashion!) for 6th at least 2.
http://www.hollisterco.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/home_10251_10201_-1 (hollister kinda expensive but there soo cute and pretty) 3.
http://www.abercrombie.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/home_10051_10901_-1 (abercrombie, higher fashion than hollister^ but cute but spendyy) 4.
http://www.forever21.com/Default.asp (forever21 not expensive and very fashionable) 5.
http://www.ae.com/web/index.jsp (american eagle- very nice casual and cute not spendy)
http://shop.pacsun.com/home.jsp (pac-sun very trendy also big in fashion idk if expensive i dont really go there)
i cant really think of any at the moment but ya those are really cool stores. also backpacks are in not hand bags. jansport or dickies for back packs. ya hope i helped because i love doing that!<3 also all of these stores should be at your local mall.. idk about abercrombie though because they arnt in my mall but i see people wearing it all the time! so hope it helped!!

Should I get this backpack?

Cathy

Ok, so I have been browsing around for a while and I'm looking for a backpack for next year (7th grade). I like the vs pink ones, ps aeropostale (I like the look of the backpack but the design is just too girly), abercrombie kids, and hollister. This hollister one doesn't say the size but it was about $50 and now it is on clearance for $20. http://m.hollisterco.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?parentCategoryId=%5BLjava.lang.String%3B%407ac67ac6&catalogId=10201&categoryId=12747&langId=-1&productId=1000967&storeId=10251&topCategoryId=12552 Should I get it? About how big do u think it is? If not, suggest a couple. THX

Answer
yeah, go for it:D its really nice:P and its probably the best size for a 7th grader:P

I don't have a kid, but seems like the society make a big deal "going back to school"?

Eric C

and I didn't grow up here. All the TV ads these days are gearing towards the back to school sales. Are parents here really get their kids all new cloth, new computer, new backpack, new stationary every year after the summer? is it so important to kids to wear new cloths going back to school? is your kid be judged by how he/she dressed in school? what about that thing called "study"??

Answer
It was very common for me to get new clothes (for school and the winter) right before school starts. I would also get supplies: Notebooks, calculator, pens, pencils, etc. at that time.

Retailers are pushing the back-to-school sales right no, since, because of the economy, sales are down sharply.

On the other hand, my wife always got her "school" clothes in November ... when fall and winter clothes make their way to the clearance racks.

Where should I put Europe in my round the world trip itinerary?

whr

I'm going to be backpacking around the world and I can either backpack Europe at the beginning of my trip or backpack it at the end of my trip. I'm going to be traveling to Tokyo, Singapore, Australia, and Hong Kong. I plan on staying a week in Tokyo, a week in Singapore, a week in Hong Kong, a little under a month in Australia, and about a month and a half in Europe. I think Europe will probably be the most hectic and expensive portion of my journey being that I'll be going to several countries and traveling by train frequently. I will say I look forward to Australia and Europe more than the other places. So what do you think, should I backpack Europe before or after I go to the other places?
I will add I'm starting my trip in May. So I'll either be backpacking Europe in May-june (beginning) or in July-august(end)

Answer
My children just did something similar, but they were not backpacking. They started in Europe, which is what I recommend. I don't know how much foreign travel you have done, but Europe is more comparable to our culture than the eastern countries (other than Australia), so you could sort of break in there. I have traveled all around Europe and I don't find it overly tiring. July and August are very hot there (possibly in the Orient as well), and most Europeans are on vacation in August, so everywhere you go will be congested. I mean, most jobs are off in August - it's not just the schools. It could be difficult to just pick up the train in Europe in August while everyone' on vacation.

The hectic parts of your trip will be those where you're spending a week - you'll find so much to do.

Whenever you do this, you will have a fantastic time. Have fun!

Can I start a career after having a baby as a single mom?

Danceuse86

I'm 25 years old, with a university degree, speak 4 languages fluently and lots of other qualifications/experience. I have to admitt that I have an impressive resume. Here's the situation though: I've been backpacking through Australia for the past year with my boyfriend, who's from the US (I'm from Canada.) We just found out that I'm pregnant and have decided to keep the baby. I move back to Canada in March, and my baby is due in August. I'll have to use the time in between to find a place to live, and a casual job to hold me over until I can get a real job at some point after the baby's born (I don't want to risk searching before because I'll be so large and that could affect my chances.) I have plenty of savings, so money shouldn't be too much of a concern for a while. The father of the baby is also supportive and will be there financially and so are my friends/family. I'm excited to be a mommy, but am worried that since I'll mainly be raising it alone, it'll be hard for me to kick start a career after the baby comes.
Has anyone else ever started a career under tough circumstances like this one? Any advice/suggestions well appreciated! Thanks. xx

Answer
Can you work online as a translator among your four languages? Working from home would be ideal for you, at least for the next year or so.

You did not mention the kind of career you want. Would it require full-time or even abnormally long work weeks? If so, I hope it pays enough so that you can hire a nanny or daycare.

If you will live in an English speaking part of Canada, maybe you can find a French speaking nanny/daycare (or one speaking an exotic yet useful language like Mandarin or Arabic). If you will live in a French speaking area, you could hire a nanny/daycare speaking either English or one of those exotic languages. That way, the child learns all the languages from the youngest possible age.

When you say you will "mainly be raising it alone", does that mean the father will seldom see the child in person? If so, discuss with your boyfriend having him video chat with his child, like via Skype over the Internet. Virtual interaction is better than a phone call, I'm guessing.

This might seem off-topic, but I think you should speak neither English nor French to your child. I assume that, in Canada, he or she will learn both of those languages via school, television, other kids, maybe a nanny, etc. You could speak one of your other languages to him/her one day, then another language the next day, then switch back to that first language on the third day, then back to that second language on the fourth day, etc. In other words, just endlessly alternate between the two languages from day to day. Your child deserves the multilingual advantage that you have!

To set up yourself and your child for success, you should do some homework. Good parenting requires forethought. Be sure to read plenty of books on parenting, think about what they all say, but don't accept on faith any single thing that a book says.

Here are some random ideas I have:

I wonder whether acting and public speaking lessons would be valuable for an older kid. That would really help his self-presentation, I'm guessing.

Another example: don't just order him to do his school work because it's required. At the start of each semester, look at a list of classes he's taking. Sell him on the value of each course subject - how exactly will it be helpful. You might have to search on Google/whatever for something like "math motivation" to get ideas for how to sell the benefits of a subject. Unfortunately, schools and teachers seldom sell kids on the value of trying to learn what they teach.

When he's old enough, have him try lots of different activities (hobbies; clubs and elective classes at school). Explain the various reasons why each activity is worthwhile:
* Develop skills he can use in life
* Figure out what career he'll probably be good at and excited about
* Be a more interesting person, especially to people who are interested in that activity
* Get practice with difficult technical subjects, to be better prepared when trying to learn them in college or on the job. Some subjects are difficult enough that it will be very helpful to have been exposed to them before and to have a lot of practice.

Some parents only pressure their kids to go to college and then get a particular kind of job; I wonder whether parents should suggest exploring less common alternatives. For instance, it might be good to somehow encourage entrepreneurial thinking, living and working overseas, and whatever other nontraditional paths you can think of. I don't know how to sell kids on those kinds of ideas, but it seems worth trying. I think that preparing for life is even more important than preparing for college.

Still another aspect of leadership is responding to problems that come up. A couple examples:

1) If your child is anxious or has social difficulties, don't just ignore it or give up if you can't figure out how to help. Hire a family counselor or child psychologist.

2) If your child does not understand a particular school subject fully, hire a tutor. Even if he/she currently has an A grade, this might be valuable if homework or tests show wrong answers that he/she cannot explain. This has a side benefit of teaching the child to seek outside academic help when needed, rather than accepting poor performance.

What is the coolest store to buy childrens clothing and excessories?

Q. I'm going to see my child who I sponsor through a world vision type deal in Kenya, I get to bring her presents and I want to ger her really cool stuff like colorful things. what store has really nice things like backpacks, nailpolish, clothes for children
My child is turning 9 and is a girl

Answer
wow i just wanted to let you know how much respect i have for you. haha i kinda just dropped cus i went weak in the knees. the disney store!!!! and limited too. its an all girl store. she is absolutly blessed and very fortunate :o) i hope everything goes wonderful :o) (haha cant stop smiling... :o) )

i need help planning my trip to disneyworld in the summer with my family for 3 days we are 2 parents 3 kids ;)?

naamanaamm

help! help! help! disney trouble.. desperate need for advice ;(

Answer
Three days is not a long time to see Disney World - the good news it will leave more for the next trip. I suspect this may be your first trip so start with a good guide book, they are worth the money especially when you are learning the ropes.
Visit the Disney web site as well as others such as All Ears for menus, reviews and restaurants.
If it is in the budget, stay on site. This allows you to use Disney transportation to get around and takes some of the pressure and parking fees off of the "getting there" - this will be important on a short trip. Several locations offer accomadations for 5 (you don't mention the childrens ages.)
As for meals, this will be a major expense espcially eating in park. The good news is that many of the counter service and definitely the sit down locations offer large enough portions to share. If you want to try a sit down location, try to do at least one such as Liberty Tree Tavern Character meal for the experience, make ADR's or advance seating with Disney directly. Have a few choices and times as some fill up quickly.
Pack lightly but spares in case someone gets wet - mole skin and very comfortable shoes. You will be walking a lot! Sunscreen, umbrellas as it rains in the afternoons, hats and sun glasses are a must. A good back pack for the parks - freeze water bottles to carry and get portable personal fans before you leave. They are expensive there. Keep spare socks if wearing them in the backpack and nothing is more miserable than soaked feet from a water ride.
Choose your priorities - we allow each family member to select the one thing they most want to do or restaurant they want the most and then branch out from there. For me it's Soarin, my son Tower of Terror, Breakfast at Boma and so forth are always high on our list. If we get to 3 or 4 things on each list great. But start with Number one for each family member. Remember - you can't do everything in all 4 parks in 3 days - you will be very very tired as it is. Enjoy some shows for a break - Nemo in Animal Kingdom, Stunt Cars In HS, are just a couple of great examples.
Most of all, don't sweat the small stuff, prepare for lines but have fun!

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Hiking/Hunting Backpack?

Pancake Ef

I'm looking for a good hiking backpack. I will obviously use it for hiking/hauling camping gear. I do go on hiking/hunting trips. So It may carry ammo etc. So it will have to carry a lotttt of junk.

I prefer it to be water proof, I don't like bright colors, because I will also double this as a SHTF situation backpack too ha.

Any links would be much appreciated. I will not spend more than $200.

Answer
I use the Cabela's Extreme Alaskan Outfitter Pack with Frame it is more @$240.us They have a smaller version @$160.us

Frame packs are best for the big game wilderness hunter as these have greater carry capacity for bulk objects ie a big horn sheep or elk and a set up to carry our firearms. There is also a wheeled version. I don't know of any other supplier that carries these or even compares to these, and you pay for what you get.

68 litre backpack for travel in NZ and Australia?

roy b

I will be traveling in NZ for 4 weeks and Australia for 2 weeks. I will be there from this June to July, which is your winter. My question is I will be using a 68 litre backpack that has good back straps/hip support but no wheels. I feel if I buy a bigger pack that does have wheels I will have difficulty carrying it when I have to.
For anyone who has backpacked before, any advice.
I am male, 19 years old, in fit shape, but have a small frame.

Answer
Check out regular sports shops, and ask for a camping backpack (search online for DofE backpacks) they're comfy with thick shoulder straps so they don't cut in, and they strap with a wide belt around your waist so that not all of the weight is on your shoulders. You can also attach items to the outside of the backpack and there are varioud outside pockets to store stuff you may need during the day time; snacks, etc.

Good luck with your trip and have fun!

Where you get your camping gear?

So i was wondering where everyone got their camping gear and if they ever bought goods online? also was wondering if you ever buy used camping gear? Any response will help thank you in advance!

Answer
Mostly 2nd hand through yard sales. I do shop around compare products reviews and prices. For basics walmart or other sporting goods retailers but I never pay full price, seasonal deals are always the best time to buy new equipment.

Camping/backpacking gear is probably the most often resold or donated to the good will item there is. For one time campers they try it and find they don't like it and end up selling or giving it away. Watch the local penneysavor for garage sale ad's often they will list camping equipment in the ad and that is when I go have a look. I buy typically several hundred dollars worth of gear for pennys on the dollar and then I give it to my local Boy Scout troop.

Buyer beware is the norm though you need to know what your looking at and be able to verify all is in working order or you don't buy.

There are several online sources, and I never buy "online", that I shop to compare and read the reviews these are the ones I use the most,
http://www.rei.com/
http://www.campmor.com/
http://www.backpacker.com/

I'm going camping on a canoe trip what should I bring?

Ariathell

We pack up all our gear on the canoes and make camp on the river as we go. I looking for things that could come in handy and snacks that will be tasty and give me energy for these long days of canoeing.

Answer
here are a couple of check lists

http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/canoe+multiday+touring+checklist.html

http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/camping+basics.html

http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/energy+foods.html

http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/family+camping+checklist.html

http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/backpacking+checklist.html

What would you name these people, please answer! 10 points for best names?

Ryssa

I want unique names please!

Boy 1: http://www.womenhairdesing.com/wp-content/uploads/gold-hair-color-for-teen-boys-from-kenton-duty-cool-short-spike-hairstyle-_1.jpg
Bio: 16, junior in high school, gay, main character, loves interior design

Boy 2: http://image.shutterstock.com/display_pic_with_logo/91282/91282,1312781408,5/stock-photo-portrait-of-happy-teenage-boy-with-headphones-and-backpack-82390525.jpg
Bio: 17, junior in high school, gay, other main character, becomes boy 1's boyfriend, loves music

Group: http://image.shutterstock.com/display_pic_with_logo/2700/2700,1224607401,11/stock-photo-modern-lifestyle-group-of-teenagers-19348417.jpg
There are five people in this picture. Three boys and two girls. They are the bullies and bully the boys because of their out of closet relationship.

Thanks! That's all! First and last names please!!!

Answer
Boy 1:
-- Jesse Morrison.
That was the first thing that popped in my head when I looked at the picture you posted. He definitely looks like a Jesse. I could also see Brooks, Zane, Abel, Jameson, Finley.

Boy 2:
-- Holden Fleming.
Again, Holden was the first thing that popped in my head when I saw the picture. It's also pretty unique, like you requested. I could also see Jonas, Cooper, Wesley, Julian.

Group:
From left to right
-- Devon Sutton, Lucas Sutton, or Jasper Sutton.
-- Carys Hodge, Emmeline Hodge, Harper Hodge, or Elodie Hodge.
-- Piper Galloway, Juliette Galloway, Vivian Galloway, Arden Galloway or Sadie Galloway.
-- Emmett Reeves, Tanner Reeves, Jacobi Reeves, Ian Reeves or Bennett Reeves.
-- Austen Clemons, Cole Clemons, Riley Clemons, Landon Clemons, Jackson Clemons.

Sorry if they aren't really unique, but I used names that I thought they looked like. Good luck! :)

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Any Ideas???

luv2shop10

For art class we have to make a sculpture inspired by Claes Oldenburg (see pictures below). He takes small objects and makes them into huge sculptures. For my class we have to choose something small (Ex: waterbottle, pencil, cheeseburger, dodge ball) and that can be found in a school. I was wondering if anyone had any idead of things I could make. I would really like to make something unique and if this helps you any: I'm an athletic girly girl in middle school and my favorite subject is writing so objects that relate to that in any way would be helpful.

http://www.oldenburgvanbruggen.com/flyingpins.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/96/247473398_5c1742e194.jpg

http://www.oldenburgvanbruggen.com/gartenschlauch.htm

http://www.oldenburgvanbruggen.com/balancingtools.htm

http://www.oldenburgvanbruggen.com/spoonbridge.htm

http://www.oldenburgvanbruggen.com/freestamp.htm

http://www.oldenburgvanbruggen.com/tornnotebook.htm

http://www.oldenburgvanbruggen.com/droppedbowl

Answer
A pencil sharpener, paper clip, stapler, sneaker, backpack, schoolbook, a sign that says ''principals office'', or ''girls'',''boys'' (bathrooms)

review on Harajuku lovers the Yummier Backpack?

Emily B

i want to get a Harajuku lovers the Yummier backpack, but i've never seen one (i'm buying it online) My main use of it will be to carry my 15 inch Macbook Pro and/or books to school. will my computer fit in it? what do you use yours for? is it good quality for the price? i have other HL bags&i'm pretty happy with them for the price. is there anything bad about the Yummier Backpack? thank you(:

Answer
Here's one negative review:
http://www.zappos.com/harajuku-lovers-yummier-backpack

NORTHFACE JESTER BACKPACK QUESTIONS! (((10 POINTS!)))?

BruinsF

NORTHFACE JESTER BACKPACK QUESTIONS!!! (((10 POINTS!!!)))?
Hey so im going into 8th grade next year and i am planning to carry most of my stuff in my backpack instead of carry them. well i might carry the things i need for two of my classes and then go to my locker and exchange them for my other two classes. Binders are usually 2-4 inches but they could be less. Here are my questions:

is the jester backpack big enough? how much can it hold?

its only $55 so should i buy a diffrent one instead, if so, what kinda? (btw i really want a northface backpack cause my other one lasted me 4 years)

what do you put in your backpack when traveling class to class?

How wide is the backpack?

whats the diffrence between the regualer jester backpack and the womens jester backpack? which do u prefer?

here is the link:

http://www.thenorthface.com/catalog/sc-gear/jester_2.html?parent_category_rn=&cm_vc=Search

Thanks you!!!! =)

Answer
1, just reading the measurements, it sounds like it definitely could.
2. on the reviews almost everyone gave it 5 stars. the first review said it lasted them 4 years of high school
3. nothing, they make us put out bookbag in our locker. but I carry around my big binder, a folder, purse with lots of stuff including my small,pretty pencil pouch for pencils and pens, my big, ugly pencil pouch for colored pencils and miscellaneous things, and a book.
4.13 inches.
5. looks like for feminine colors. well I'm a female so I'd guess the women's one.

Are there any custom backpacking tent makers?

I am looking to get a custom made tent (built to my designs) and am looking to see if there are any manufactures or builders out there. Something along the lines of Feathered Friends (sleeping bags) or Robert Beckman (bike panniers) where you can have a one of a kind to your specs tent made. Thanks!

Answer
I am an REI member and a big fan of their tents (I have two), but as far as I know, they won't custom build a tent for you. Their website does allow you to enter criteria and it will recommend different brand/models for you, but that is not the same thing.

However, in their April 2007 issue, Backpacker Magazine gave good reviews to small company called Big Sky that DOES let you custom design your own tent (in addition to having standard set models). I've not used (or even seen one) myself, but Backpacker mag gave them an editors choice award (some other reviewer sites have been less enthusistic however).

I want a new backpacking setup. Anyone know a good website that reviews gear like tents, sleeping bags, etc?

Matt

Answer
http://www.thebackpacker.com/
http://outside.away.com/outside/gear/index.html -- click on what kind of gear you are looking for and it will take you to reviews
http://www.backpackgeartest.org/
http://www.trailspace.com/
search on -backpacking gear reviews- you will get several sites

What kind of backpack should i get?

I'm going into 6th grade. Should i get a rolling backpack, a regular backpack, or a messanger bag?

Thanks

Answer
A rolling backpack is the best for your back, a regular backpack is the best for hiking and camping on the weekends, and a messenger bag is the coolest of all the book bags.

Of course the coolest kids don't bother with books or homework anyway, they're too busy memorizing cheers, football plays, and the latest street names for recreational drugs.

Whatever type of backpack you choose, make sure that it's of high enough quality that the cool kids can use it to carry their Arby's uniform to the bus stop after you graduate highschool and donate it to Goodwill.

You'll want those lapels looking sharp when they hand you your beef and cheddar!

traveling with kids?

sarahnsqui

we're going to be camping in Colorado for a family vacation with my husbands siblings/dad/etc...there will be a 14 month old and my baby who is 3 months...what are some ideas for activities?

Answer
14 mo old - We bought a child carrier backpack for my first son and that sures makes nature oriented stuff easier. My son loved the pack, and so if we went on a hike he just road along in the pack, the sites alone will keep them entertained for the most part.

At 3 months you can get a front carrier, and tote that one along.

Wherever you camp, scout out the area very well before you let the 14 mo old wander around, make sure there are not any dangerous critters or bushes or whatnot. Have a big tent so they can also just use the tent as a playarea.

Buy a few new toys (don't go overboard) and give them a new toy when you first get there, when they bore of that one, give them another new toy.... depends on the attention span of your child how long this will or if it will work at all. (my 16 mo old this would never work, his attention span is like 3 minutes.)

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

I am planning a solo camping trip and its my first one. What would ya'll recommend bringing, the necessities?

mafralen

Just looking for equipement and tips for a 3 day camping trip.

Answer
as an eagle scout i did a lot of camping in various types of weather here is what you need:

tent
backpack (you will be able to fit almost everything in one as opposed to suitcases; needs to be at least 4800 cubic inches)
a backpacking stove
eating utensils (such as metal pots and pans and cutlery this will make for easy cleanup)
as much food as necessary for the trip
clothing for the season
a Global Positioning System (get one in the range of about 300 to 400. they are good and some can float on water)
lots of water
a means of communication ( such as a cell phone)
a map and compass (if you re not careful the batteries in the gps will run out)
toiletries ( such as a toothbrush)
a shovel to dig your latrine
a flashlight
a watch
Extra Batteries
rain gear for everyone in your group
highly reflective blanket
fire starters
wood (if you're going to a campsite; If not you can just collect some in the woods)
matches or another way of starting a fire
let someone know where you re going and when you re expecting to be back so they know when to send for help if necessary
AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST TAKE ANOTHER RESPONSIBLE ADULT. YOU MUST HAVE A BUDDY BECAUSE YOU NEED TO HAVE SOMEONE TO TAKE CARE OF YOU AND/OR YOUR INJURIES !!!! YOU'RE CHILDREN WILL NOT KNOW WHAT TO DO

I need some Camping Necessities; Please help!?

Bess

My friend and I are camping for 2 nights/3 days in the Adirondacks in Lake George in June. What are some good meals (ie no cooking!!), and some supplies we could bring? We have a small car, so we won't be packing much. Thanks!

Answer
You will need a tent, sleeping bags, a backpack or duffel you can carry, clothing changes and a light jacket. All weather radio, matches in a waterproof cover, flash light, a lantern with fuel, can opener, bottled water, boxed juices, a canteen, knife, fork, and spoons, food staples ie canned and single serve like tuna, ham and chicken salads, beef jerky and dried fruits, potato chips, pretzels, and hard candies. A cell phone, fully charged, is essential. Bring a blow horn and a whistle in case you need a way to call for help. Mace is a given. Be safe and cautious and have fun.

Best Eurotrip backpacking routes? need help, please.?

Andy

I am planning to take go backpacking in Europe alone this summer starting in early august for about 5 or 6 weeks on a $4000 budget. I plan to go to these cities (in order): Madrid, Barcelona, Marseilles/Nice, Florence/Rome/Venice, Dubrovnik, Athens, Istanbul, Budapest, Lucerne, Munich, Prague, Berlin, Amsterdam, Paris and end in UK.

i plan to spend just a night in most cities and 3 or 4 nights in a few select ones. I'm wondering if this is feasible based on my time and budget. the rest of the famous cities i've already been to so i want to go to the ones i've missed except london, berlin, munich, venice, rome, florence and paris which are must sees.

good night spots? backpack type? eurorail routes? climate info?

thanks in advance

Answer
If you spend one night in each city, you will spend all day on the train in many cases.
Keep your schedule a bit more flexible, realize that you may have to drop any city on your list if you run out of time.
I personally try to have at least two nights in every second destination, this is mostly because travel is so time consuming and when you arrive in a city late afternoon and have to leave in the morning you have no time at all to see anything of the city, and because it is easier on you while traveling.
You can not see all of Europe in one travel, better realize that and not try to do everything, Less cities gives more time and enjoyment and in the long run let you 'see' more of Europe.

You might consider a few overnight trains as part of your travels, but do not expect to arrive well rested, as many people do not sleep well in trains.

Use a good rail planner to work out your schedule before you even leave for Europe:
http://reiseauskunft.bahn.de/bin/query.exe/en?newrequest=yes&protocol=http:&
And get more information on traveling by train in Europe on this website:
http://www.seat61.com/
He has several pages on rail passes, and many routes to places when you start from the UK, but often those routes are also useful when you travel only part of the way.

For a backpack, a small one. The best is a day pack that you can easily carry on your back all day.
This will safe you loads of time and worries about finding places to leave your pack.
If you have limited time you do not want to track back to your hostel to collect your pack before leaving the city, nor do you want to spend time and money on left luggage office or lockers in every city.
You will have summer weather, which is hot, all the way from Madrid to Lucerne, from there is can still be hot but it can also be mild and wet. From 40's C in the south to 15 C if you are not lucky in Berlin and London, but western Europe can have warmer weather in summer too.
Count on shorts and T-s for the first part of your travel and add a pair of long trousers for the second part, carry a light weight rain jacket and a thin sweater for when you have bad weather, if you hit the bad weather jackpot you might want to go shopping locally for a second/warmer pair of long trousers.
Your one night per city plan does not leave you much time for practical things, like laundry, but you will find that traveling light will safe you time in the long run. Hostels often have laundry facilities available for low costs.

Being on the move much also does not allow you to find the cheapest options in each city, so expect to spend more on food and local transport than you would when traveling a bit more slowly.
As I have not traveled most of your southern destinations I can not be sure of budget there, I would expect that $US 75 to 100 per day will cover you there, western Europe is more expensive, $100 per day for most destinations there, London and Paris at least $125 per day. More if you go drinking each night.

Hostels are likely your best bet, with your tightly planned and overfilled schedule you will want to make train and hostel reservations a few days ahead, still try to talk with people traveling the other way round to get recommendations. Hostel booking sites with reviews will help you too. You can book everything before even leaving home, but in that case, one missed train or a strike or something like that will leave you a paid for travel you can not use, or a very expensive flight to catch up on your schedule.
Booking about 3 days to a week ahead should do well and allow you some flexibility, and the option to change your plans if you feel the need.

Suggestions for New Backpack?

I am a male high school student who is looking for a backpack that is durable, spacious backpack that could possibly fit a laptop and could be used for day hikes. I currently have a Jansport Big Student, but it is not a good backpack for hiking. I was thinking of the North Face Jester, but there have been several reviews saying that it ripped on the seams. The backpack should have good organization.

Here are a few questions I had about the Jester for anyone who owns it:
-Is it durable?
-Could it fit a laptop?
-How large is the main compartment (it would be awesome here if you could give me dimensions!)?
-How effective is the waist belt and are the back/straps comfy?
-When jostled around, do the small items stay in their organizer compartments?

I am open to any other suggestions for a good backpack. My only other requirement is that it should be under $100.

Thanks,
Alex

Answer
The IBEX Computer Backpack from Swiss Gear WengerÂ® combines functionality and portability allowing you to carry your laptop with style. It features air-flow back padding and extra durable material.

Best hiking trail at Red River Gorge?

blerica132

Going to Red River Gorge to Backpack for a few days and wondering if anyone has any suggestions for the best hike that isn't that easy but not extremely strenuous. I would like to see the most I can out of our hike like the arches etc. Any suggestions??

Answer
I would first off recommend the Clifty Wilderness Area adjacent to the Gorge. There you will find huge old trees and the only arch that spans a river in the area. Very nice and you can do the Rock Bridge trail two mile loop very easily, but it will be popular. The Swift Creek trail is also very nice, longer, and offers a little more solitude and nice campsites. For a longer hike in the actual Gorge I would recommend staying at one of the Koomer Ridge campsites. The trails there are nice and offer easy access to quite a few large arches. Bring bug spray though, the sand fleas are bad in July and August. You can take Koomer Ridge to Buck Trail and over to the Rough Trail or Gray's Arch. From further west you can access Courthouse Rock which I highly recommend, but I'm not sure if there is a longer trail that links in to those on that side. The Rough Trail is the longest trail through the heart of the area and is your best way to see the most in the Wilderness area. It is very possible to do a long several day loop while in the Gorge, but for once, I would say that this area is not best done backpacking, but day tripping it. To see the most of it in only a few days I would recommend setting up base camp and doing 4-5 mile (total) in an out trips from each of the access roads. We were able to see much more of it in that time. Don't miss Clifty though!!

4 day outdoors man get-a-way close to Ohio?

Joshua

Im looking for somewhere around cincinnati area that i could escape for a few days. Im looking to backpack to a site set camp, go fishing and possibly climb and repel. Im an ultralite hicker by nature and im looking plan this as a vacation. I want to have the ability to build a fire and set up camp away from civilization. I hiked zaleski but found it too pre set up. I want to do all that i can. Thanks. I have no problem driving over a few hours.

Answer
Red River Gorge isn't in Northern Kentucky. It's in Eastern Kentucky. This are sits approximately 50-60 miles east of Lexington (depending on what part of the Red River Gorge you are staying in. It is in the Daniel Boone National Forest. The National Forest headquarters are in Winchester, Kentucky. You can get on Google and simply type in "Daniel Boone National Forest". The site will give the rules for back country camping.It will also give you campgrounds you can camp in that aren't super-developed as far as amenties go. Another close-by place is Cave Run Lake, which is also in Daniel Boone National Forest. To get to Cave Run Lake you would simply take I-75 south and then I- 64 east. You can get to Red River Gorge by going the same way, but when you got to Winchester, Kentucky on I-64 you would then take the Mountain Parkway. You can fish at Cave Run and repel in the Red River Gorge. And actually both areas within the Daniel Boone National Forest are only about 30 miles apart.

Ohio has Wayne National Forest, but it doesn't have these features as far as I klnow. You could get to Wayne National Forest at its southerly most point by driving on U.S. 52 east. You might try typing Wayne National Forest on Google and see what that brings up.

Camping Merit Badge Answers?

Tushar Ver

Answer
Camping requirements

1.Show that you know first aid for and how to prevent injuries or illnesses that could occur while camping, including hypothermia, frostbite, heat reactions, dehydration, altitude sickness, insect stings, tick bites, snakebite, blisters, and hyperventilation.
2.Learn the Leave No Trace principles and the Outdoor Code and explain what they mean. Write a personal plan for implementing these principles on your next outing..
3.Make a written plan for an overnight trek and show how to get to your camping spot using a topographical map and compass OR a topographical map and a GPS receiver.
4.Do the following: a. Make a duty roster showing how your patrol is organized for an actual overnight campout. List assignments for each member. b. Help a Scout patrol or a Webelos Scout unit in your area prepare for an actual campout, including creating the duty roster, menu planning, equipment needs, general planning, and setting up camp.
5.Do the following: a. Prepare a list of clothing you would need for overnight campouts in both warm and cold weather. Explain the term "layering." b. Discuss footwear for different kinds of weather and how the right footwear is important for protecting your feet. c. Explain the proper care and storage of camping equipment (clothing, footwear, bedding). d. List the outdoor essentials necessary for any campout, and explain why each item is needed. e. Present yourself to your Scoutmaster with your pack for inspection. Be correctly clothed and equipped for an overnight campout.
6.Do the following: a. Describe the features of four types of tents, when and where they could be used, and how to care for tents. Working with another Scout, pitch a tent. b. Discuss the importance of camp sanitation and tell why water treatment is essential. Then demonstrate two ways to treat water. c. Describe the factors to be considered in deciding where to pitch your tent. d. Tell the difference between internal- and external-frame packs. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each. e. Discuss the types of sleeping bags and what kind would be suitable for different conditions. Explain the proper care of your sleeping bag and how to keep it dry. Make a comfortable ground bed.
7.Prepare for an overnight campout with your patrol by doing the following: a. Make a checklist of personal and patrol gear that will be needed. b. Pack your own gear and your share of the patrol equipment and food for proper carrying. Show that your pack is right for quickly getting what is needed first, and that it has been assembled properly for comfort, weight, balance, size, and neatness.
8.Do the following: a. Explain the safety procedures for: 1. Using a propane or butane/propane stove 2. Using a liquid fuel stove 3. Proper storage of extra fuel b. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different types of lightweight cooking stoves. c. Prepare a camp menu. Explain how the menu would differ from a menu for a backpacking or float trip. Give recipes and make a food list for your patrol. Plan two breakfasts, three lunches, and two suppers. Discuss how to protect your food against bad weather, animals, and contamination. d. Cook at least one breakfast, one lunch, and one dinner for your patrol from the meals you have planned for requirement 8c. At least one of those meals must be a trail meal requiring the use of a lightweight stove.
9.Show experience in camping by doing the following: a. Camp a total of at least 20 days and 20 nights. Sleep each night under the sky or in a tent you have pitched. The 20 days and 20 nights must be at a designated Scouting activity or event. You may use a week of long-term camp toward this requirement. If the camp provides a tent that has already been pitched, you need not pitch your own tent. b. On any of these camping experiences, you must do TWO of the following, only with proper preparation and under qualified supervision: 1. Hike up a mountain, gaining at least 1,000 vertical feet. 2. Backpack, snowshoe, or cross-country ski for at least 4 miles. 3. Take a bike trip of at least 15 miles or at least four hours. 4. Take a nonmotorized trip on the water of at least four hours or 5 miles. 5. Plan and carry out an overnight snow camping experience. 6. Rappel down a rappel route of 30 feet or more. c. Perform a conservation project approved by the landowner or land managing agency.
10.Discuss how the things you did to earn this badge have taught you about personal health and safety, survival, public health, conservation, and good citizenship. In your discussion, tell how Scout spirit and the Scout Oath and Law apply to camping and outdoor ethics.

What is a good "ideal" weight for fully loaded backpack when backpack camping?

ltkenbo

I am 5'7" and about 160 pounds. My current bag setup weighs about 35 pounds fully loaded (includes food, tent, sleeping bag etc.). Is this a reasonable weight for backpacking?

Answer
Light is great as long as you bring what you need. You have very good weight, it really depends on the person, the average all around weight for myself has been between 72 and 75 lbs but I'm comfortable with it.

Do a lot of high school girls still wear backpacks?

MAGGIE XD

A lot of high school girls have tote bags these days but does a lot of average high school girls still carry backpacks?

Or is it just the "nerds"?

Around 50% of girls wear backpacks? 25% maybe? What percentage?

Thx.

Answer
I'd say about 80% of girls including myself carry backpacks at my school, while the remaining 20% carry either messenger bags or tote bags. It doesn't matter whether or not you're nerdy to carry a backpack or not. Plenty of preppy not-so-nerdy girls wear backpacks. Plenty of super nerdy girls carry totes as well.

what do girls wear for backpacks at high school?

I'm 14 and going into high school. I was wondering what purses are popular (brand) in hs. I need to find one b4 school starts so please help..
I live in Mt pleasant sc, I'm going to wando high school on August 21st, as a freshman and I wanted to know if I should order a backpack. I was gonna get a solid black Jansport, but I don't think anyone wears them here. I wanna get a purse as a backpack but idk what people wear and what brand to wear. PLEASE HELP!

Answer
I know this from experience! Im about to be a senior this year and im telling you , in high school you need PRACTICAL, not cute haha no one cares about having a stylish backpack when you have 4 notebooks and 3 textbooks to carry. And an over the shoulder bag will look cute but will hurt your shoulder after a while of carrying so many books. Im serious, stick with a jansport or something that will last you. Most people use backpacks anyways and just carry a purse on the side. Listen to the wisdom of an upperclassman :P get something that will last, you will appreciate it haha

Cool backpacks/school-bags (or whatever) ?

Q&A

Hi, im 17 and im starting my senior year at high school. I am looking for a cool school bag or backpack (i dont know how it is called in america -im from argentina), do you know where can i get one?, are there any in Abercrombie, Ralph Lauren, Hollister, GAP, Banana Republic?... im a boy...

THANKS!

PS: provide links if possible

Answer
West 49, America Egela, Cool shops

where online can i find expensive infant baby boy clothing?

B W

I am wanting to find a place to buy a bundle of clothing but for a great cost for my brother and sister in law who are expecting there first child.. if anyone can help it would be appreciated....

Answer
salvation army or good will store stuff is usually cheap and clean because infants grow so fast they do not have time to wear it out. Yard sales and flea markets too. tell you sister most insurances not give out free car seats. Also any of these places you can find baby essentials cheap too like changing table, crib high chair, swing, jolly jumper, baby backpack, and all she would need to buy at say walmart would be a crib mattress. they grow too fast too buy expensive and these places you will often find quality clothes from baby gap, old navy, carter, Oshkosh etc.

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