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Backpacking is a one-of-a-lifetime adventure that brings mesmerizing landscapes, breathtaking mountain peaks, idyllic lakes, and oozing horizons at the tip of your feet. It lets you broaden your perspective, and experience something new and extraordinary while enjoying the immersive outdoors activity.

A variety of factors influence your backpacking trip – from the weather conditions to the clothing. To be fully prepared and ready to hit the road, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to get you started. Check it out!

Stay Safe

First things first, staying safe while hitting the road is crucial for a blissful experience. Here are some safety tips for backpacking to help keep you out of danger: 

• Pack a first aid kit;
• Bring a map;
• Stay on the trail;
• Take bear spray and assemble an emergency plan;
• Avoid strangers;
• Bring an extra layer of clothing, just in case.

While we can’t know for sure what you’ll stumble across, it’s better to be safe than sorry – and be prepared as much as you can. Furthermore, it’s recommended you protect your food from wildlife so you don’t end up fighting for it with the animal!

Choose The Destination

Whether this is your first backpacking trip or you are an experienced under-the-sky sleeper, this guide is helpful for everybody. We’d recommend you choose an easy destination since this way you’ll have more time on your hands to explore the areas around.

If the hike is difficult, with cliffs and high-elevation peaks, you’ll end up feeling miserable, tired, and discontent. Before you decide where to go, you can consult an experienced backpacker to give you hiking recommendations.

For starters, choose a place that’s closer to your home – even a couple of miles road trip is more than enough! Choose a trail with higher elevation gain. Additionally, make sure there’s water nearby, so double-check with local land managers.

Pack Essential Backpacking Gear

Since you’ll have to carry all of the items on your back, you must bring lightweight backpacking gear. It’s not practical to adjust a couple of items from the camping gear, since it’s not compact and it’s heavy. The following are some of the items to consider for a backpacking trip.

Sleeping Bag

Before purchasing a sleeping bag, do some research into the pros and cons of the fill. Whether you choose a synthetic or a down fill, it’s always good to do proper research and ask for recommendations. In terms of weather conditions, it’s better to go with a synthetic fill since it’s more comfortable and versatile.

Tent

Bringing a tent is more economical if you travel in a group. And, it will keep you warmer in cold weather conditions.

Sleeping Pads

Feeling cushioned while sleeping outdoors is important for a good night’s sleep. Sleeping pads will keep you insulated and protected from the cold, hard ground. Types of pads to consider when purchasing include:

• Closed-cell foam pads;
• Self-inflated pads;
• Insulated air pads.

Backpack

Make sure your backpack is lightweight and has enough zippers, pockets, clips, and buckles. If it’s comfortable on the hips, it’s a good one!

Kitchen Essentials

Bringing items like pots, plates, pans, and cups is more than enough. You can bring a sponge to wash them and a mini towel for drying. And don’t forget the spork!

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What Clothes to Pack?

You don’t need tons of clothes for your backpacking trip. Check the tips below to help you decide what to bring:

• Baselayers;
• Hiking layers like T-shirts, and hats;
• Rainwear – coats, breathable and waterproof jackets, rain pants;
• Jackets, gloves, hat;
• Hiking shoes – footwear is the most important item! Make sure your boots are lightweight and supportive over the ankles;

Get Ready – Physically, Mentally, Logistically

Getting physically ready before you hit the road is important for staying safe outdoors. Set yourself mentally, physically, and logistically ready by training, hiking, or running before the actual backpacking trip.

Get mentally ready by familiarizing yourself with the environment, the gear to take, and the set up of tents, sleeping bags, or harboring places. In addition to being mentally and physically ready, make sure you follow the guidelines of the location you’ll be staying and that you have the necessary permits to backpack there.

Furthermore, you need to develop some backpacking skills since you don’t want to end up with your pants down, or with your tent falling on your head in the middle of the night.

Prepare The Meals

The idea of smart menu planning is essential when traveling in the backcountry. To help you get prepared for it, we’ve noted down the steps below:

• Write the menu for the entire trip;
• Repackage spices and food;
• Use lightweight containers;
• Experiment with frozen food;
• Bring enough water!

Want to Learn More?

To learn more about backpacking, hiking, or content related to traveling in the backcountry, please feel free to check our blog.

The post Backcountry Backpacking – The Getting Started Guide first appeared on Deepbluemountain.

Hard coolers are insulated containers used to keep items cold. They are highly flexible and can serve multiple purposes. They are most commonly used for food, drink, and medicine storage. And the great thing about these handy storage units is that you can bring them with you even outdoors.

Before you go shopping for hard shell camping coolers, it’s worth considering what features you need. It won’t cost you a fortune but can be a worthwhile investment in your comfort while outdoors. So you should buy a cooling unit with the best qualities that give you the best value for money. 

Durability

Although many hard coolers are on the market, some are better for outdoor activities. The main difference between hard and soft models is their durability and cooling capabilities. Hard coolers are long-lasting and can withstand a high degree of heat. 

Metal cooling units are durable but can be heavy. Nevertheless, you’ll need them for rugged terrains or prolonged exposure to elements. They retain coolness even in direct heat. On the other hand, plastic coolers are lightweight and easily carried by a single person. But avoid keeping them in the Sun or near a heat source.

Most people have no idea how long high-end hard-sided coolers can last. They are typically designed to last several seasons, but some high-end models can last for decades. Of course, they might need some minor upgrades, like rubber latch replacement. But these are minor investments in something that will serve you well for years.

Roto-molded Coolers

Large hard-sided cooling units made of roto-molded plastic are handy for camping, hiking, and hunting trips. They’re durable, leak-proof, and less likely to break or deform than soft-side models. Even if they’re a little bulky, they’ll hold up to rough use and be easy to clean. Besides, these containers are sturdy enough to sit on them and carry enough food for a long trip.

Premium hard-sided coolers are molded through rotational molding, injection molding, or both. Both processes have distinct advantages and disadvantages. They ensure the consistent thickness of the material, so these units are more likely to resist cracking under pressure. 

Many would say that the primary disadvantages of roto-molded coolers are cost and weight. But these units are high-end models with outstanding features. So the high price just reflects their quality. 

Ice Retention

Ice retention is another feature you should look for. Although hard coolers tend to be bulky, they have improved insulation and protection. These units feature slanted interiors to prevent condensation and keep the coolness inside for a long time. Besides, some new models can use dry ice, which is excellent news if you plan long trips or stay outdoors. Check this link for more info about dry ice.

Roto-molded hard coolers have a reputation as portable freezers due to their impeccable cooling feature. They host innovative materials that provide prolonged insulation. You can choose from various models, ranging from those with stiff lids to units with wheels and extra support to sit on them.

Storage Capacity

If you’re limited on trunk space, ensure the cooling storage you purchase will fit in it. Soft-sided units have a bit of ‘give,’ They are collapsible, so they’ll take up much less space in your storage closet than a hard cooler. So they come in handy for smaller vehicles or shorter trips. 

But hard-sided models come in a range of capacities. They are made of firm materials, which has both advantages and drawbacks, depending on circumstances. These units take up the same amount of space, whether filled with ice or empty.

A large storage capacity makes hard coolers an excellent choice for any outdoor excursion. Also, these portable cooling units can come with features such as drink holders on the lid and detachable umbrella holders. Some models also come with a telescoping handle. 

A 70-liter hard-sided cooler is large enough to cool food and beverages for a weekend for a family of four. But suppose you’re planning to take a longer trip. In that case, you can choose an even larger cooler that can hold the entire fridge contents for the duration of your trip. These units can be as large as 350 liters. But don’t worry – they usually come with wheels. Some smaller models are even designed to attach to bikes. 

Power Requirements

Hard coolers need no power to be up and running. But if your needs for cold storage are consistent, you might think about powered models. Of course, depending on the size, they can have different power requirements. But you can usually plug them into your vehicle’s DC (lighter outlet) or home AC power outlet. 

The great thing about powered models is that they have temperature settings and adequate insulation. So they will keep your items fresh, even when they run off your vehicle’s battery. But these are not convenient for outdoor use. If you plan to use them on holiday or camping, you must have an additional portable power source or solar panel to charge the unit. 

Check the following page for purchase tips on powered cooling units:

So if you are planning to bring your favorite drinks and snacks camping or hiking, you’ll need portable coolers. These units will keep your items fresh, cold, and protected from bugs, rodents, and other ‘intruders.’ You and your crew can count on refreshment anytime you need.

The post Rotomolded Cooler Review – What’s the Best Hard Shell Cooler for Outdoors first appeared on Deepbluemountain.

A vast variety of axes must have been in use during the period when practically everything was made of wood, thus this fact should not come as much of a surprise. Because they were largely employed as tools for both the building of ships, homes, and carts, among other things, it was necessary to have many many sizes and varieties of axes. On the battlefield, the axe was used in a way that was both effective and advantageous. It might be difficult to determine if an axe was employed as a tool or a weapon in each situation. It is possible that when the need arose, the Vikings would resort to using their regular axes for cutting wood as weapons instead.

The Danish Axe

However, there are specific circumstances in which the purpose of an axe cannot be questioned. For example, the heads of axes of a sort that are consistent with their employment as weapons have been discovered in a few different locales. Because of their very thin profiles, axes of this kind are surprisingly easy to use despite their massive dimensions. 

It seems from pictures created during that time that they have had a shaft that was longer than one meter and that they were presumably held with both hands. It is because of the prevalence of this sort of axe among Danish Vikings that it is often referred to as the “Dane axe” or simply “the Danish axe.”

Many Vikings were armed with axes, in contrast to the relatively small number of swords that survived from the Viking Age. They have been discovered in both elaborately decorated warrior tombs from the Viking Age and in plain burials, in which the departed had very few possessions to take with them on their trip to the afterlife. 

What Were the Viking Axes Constructed Of? 

These discoveries have been made in both types of cemeteries. Although they are all real Viking axes constructed of iron, some of the axes have more intricate decoration than others. For instance, the axe that was found in the burial of the magnate at Mammen in Jutland was embellished with silver inlays all over its surface. 

The long-bladed axe that was discovered in Over Hornbaek, which is located close to Randers, is yet another instance of an axe that must have belonged to a magnate. This is embellished with copper and silver inlay in designs that may be interpreted as forming the shape of an animal.

Christian Influences in Viking Axe Designs

In later Viking times, other axes were shaped like crosses. These enigmatic axes each had a head that was only half solid and adorned with a cross design. According to the findings of the research, such axes were sturdy enough to be used in practice. On the other hand, it is much more probable that they were set aside for use in documented Viking rituals (https://en.natmus.dk/historical-knowledge/denmark). 

Although the proprietors of such cross axes were not really necessarily Christian, the axes themselves are reflective of the strong Christian fluxes that prevailed throughout this portion of the Viking era.

Were There Other Weapons in Use by The Vikings? 

The axe was the most prevalent kind of hand weapon used by Vikings. Swords were more costly to produce, thus only the most affluent warriors could afford to own them. The fact that axes are so widespread in archaeological sites very certainly stems from the fact that people used them not just as weapons but also as everyday tools. This is corroborated by the sizable number of cemetery sites found in Scandinavian countries that include axes in the graves of female inhabitants. 

Combat Axes Prove They Were Used in Battle

There emerged a variety of axes with bigger heads as well as longer shafts that were specifically designed for use in combat. These include numerous kinds of intricate axes, developed through time. The largest varieties were known, of course, as Dane Axes and could be as large as a man. They were designed to be wielded with both hands. 

Certain axe heads had silver patterns inlaid onto them. During the latter part of the Viking era, there had been axe heads known as breiox that had edges shaped like a crescent and measured up to 45 centimeters (18 in) in length (broadaxe). If they did exist at all, the double-bitted axes that are represented in contemporary “Viking” art would have been extremely uncommon because they required more material and were regarded as a waste when resources were limited. 

There is no evidence of double-bitted axes used among Vikings that has been found in any surviving examples, authentic artwork, or clear descriptions from historical records. The Norse did not create any axes with two cutting edges at the same time. They made almost exclusively single-headed axes throughout that period. 

The most frequent weapon carried by Vikings was a strong axe that could be swung or hurled with enough power to break a head in two. There are many records of these axes being used in battle throughout the time of the Vikings. 

Mammen Axes and Their Use in Battle

The Mammen Axe was an incredibly good example of this kind of battle-axe, which is equally effective in far and close quarters fighting. For more information on the Mammen age, click here. Most of the Viking axe heads were made of wrought iron, while the cutting edge was made of steel. This made this weapon more affordable than a blade, and it was a regular item that blacksmiths manufactured throughout history.

The blades of battle axes were far wider than those of normal axes, and they had protruding spurs to differentiate them from standard axes. Battle axes were developed expressly for use in combat situations. However, the axes that were used throughout that period came in a wide variety of forms and dimensions, including those that were tiny, huge, broad, thin, light, heavy, with enormous spurs, with little spurs, or without any spurs at all, amongst other variations. 

The post Did Real Vikings Use Their Axes to Hunt? first appeared on Deepbluemountain.

Disclamer: This is a guest post by Hussain from Hiker Needs. You can also visit his pinterest board.

Camping is a wonderful experience that’s enjoyed by people of all ages. There’s nothing quite like setting out into the woods for a relaxing evening or two away from the demands of your technologically inclined life.

Seniors may have some hurdles to overcome when they go camping. Physically, you may not be as strong as you used to be, and your body probably won’t enjoy sleeping in a sleeping bag on the hard ground as it used to.

That doesn’t mean that seniors can’t enjoy a camping trip! With the right tips, you’ll find yourself forgetting about the limitations of age and enjoying the great outdoors stress-free. Read on to discover the best camping tips for seniors.

Tip #1 Get an Easy to Assemble Tent

Setting up a tent can feel strenuous and won’t be an easy task for seniors. Bending down to connect the poles and stake them into the ground is physically laborious and can leave you feeling exhausted and sore.

That’s why it’s so important for seniors to get a tent that’s easy to assemble. Seniors will do best with a tent that does most of the work for you. A great option for seniors is pop-up tents. 

They’re usually lightweight, and super easy to assemble. All you need to do is open the bag, take the tent out, and toss it into the air. Your tent will pop up into its proper shape within seconds! This saves you invaluable time and effort.

Tip #2 Have Support

One of the biggest joys of camping is the activities that you participate in while you’re at your campsite. Whether you enjoy fishing, hiking, bird-watching, or simply going for a short stroll, it’s important to bring along some walking support.

There are tons of great options for walking poles for seniors, and the benefits are enormous. Having a walking stick or pole will take most of the strain off of your joints while you’re walking.

Most seniors struggle with arthritis and joint pain, especially in the knees or ankles. Using a walking stick or pole will allow you to shift your weight so that it doesn’t all fall on your most sensitive joints. This will enable you to walk easier and for longer distances.

Tip #3 Bring a Sleeping Pad

Maybe in your younger years, you enjoyed rolling out your sleeping bag and enjoying a night right on the ground, but most seniors will find this uncomfortable. Sleeping bags offer very little in the way of support for your body, and especially your back.

A great solution to this is to bring along a sleeping pad. They’ll help cushion your weight and allow you to get a more comfortable night’s sleep. They aren’t heavy or difficult to use. All you need to do is roll it out and place your sleeping bag on top.

Bringing a sleeping pad is an important camping tip for seniors because the benefits can’t be understated. As the years pile on, so do the pounds in many cases, and a sleeping pad will help you enjoy camping while fat and at an older age! 

Tip #4 Double-Check Your Pack

As the years roll by, most people’s memories will fade. It’s an unfortunate fact of life and a struggle that many seniors deal with. It can affect your camping trip if you leave behind needed medications or essential gear.

You should always double-check that you have everything you need before setting out camping. Write out a list before you start packing, and refer to that list as you check your pack. 

If you’re going camping with family or friends then have them help you out too. Make sure everyone knows what you need to bring, and let them check your pack before you head out. 

Tip #5 Choose Your Campsite Wisely

Some campers pick their site based on the activities they have available, or the hiking trails that are nearby. While these are all perfectly valid considerations for choosing your campsite, seniors should take a little more care when scouting out potential campsites.

Some campsites are going to be more senior-friendly than others, and there are a few things you should look out for. The first is the distances. Do they offer shorter walking trails? Is the distance from your campsite to the amenities you’re planning on using reasonable? Can you drive up to your campsite, or at least very close by?

These are all excellent questions seniors should be asking themselves. If you can’t determine this information by looking at the campsite online, then feel free to call and even go visit the campsite ahead of time. This way you’ll know the layout of the campsite ahead of time and can plan accordingly.

Tip #6 Bring Extra Layers

Seniors tend to be more sensitive to temperatures than others, and you’ll be able to feel this more potently when you’re outside. Even if you’re camping in the summer, temperatures can still drop more than 10 degrees at night.

The last thing you want is to be shivering all night long, so it’s important to bring extra layers and blankets to keep warm. Don’t assume that the weather is going to hold just because the forecasters said so. 

As most seasoned campers know, weather can change on a dime. So, don’t feel shy about bringing extra sweaters, blankets, jackets, or even a scarf and gloves! There’s no reason to compromise on your comfort and if you’re not sure if you’re going to need something or not- then bring it anyway. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Tip #7 Bring a Chair

Many campers feel that one of the best parts of camping is being a part of nature. That means sitting right on the ground or using a log or stump to rest on for a minute. Most seniors won’t be able to do this comfortably, and it can turn your relaxing trip into a painful experience.

Instead, bring along some solid camping chairs. A good camping chair will be light, made of comfortable material that is easy to wash and offers plenty of support. You can set up your camping chair right in front of your tent, or pack it in its bag and bring it with you when you go for walks. 

This will keep you comfortable and give you the ability to rest whenever you want without having to worry about heaving yourself on and off the ground. A good camping chair won’t be expensive, and it will save your body a ton of stress.

Final Thoughts

Camping is an experience that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re young, old, fat, skinny, have limitations, or don’t, there’s always a way for you to enjoy the great outdoors. All you need are the right tools and tips to help you make the most out of your camping trip. These camping tips for seniors will help you transform your camping trip from one fraught with worry to one of complete relaxation.

About the Author

Hussain from Hiker Needs is a passionate hiker and traveler that loves the outdoors and enjoys what nature has to give, whenever he can he loves to write and give tips & honest reviews to help others get outdoors and just seek more unforgettable experiences. You can find him for more on Pinterest as well.

The post Camping Tips For Seniors first appeared on Deepbluemountain.

There’s a point in life where you might get interested in trying new, different things. Hobbies are particularly wide in range and fields, so you might end up getting attracted by the most particular, specific hobbies in the world. 

Some hobbies are related to indoor activities while other hobbies are directly linked to the outside world, thus, you definitely have multiple choices to pick from.

However, there’s a particular field of hobbies that are related not only to nature but to animals. A good example of this is, of course, fishing, which involves catching fish while you are pretty much engaging with nature and its many wonders. 

Different Types of Hobbies to Try out

But when it comes to hobbies that are directly linked to animals, there’s one particular hobby that can be considered controversial, but at the same time, incredibly interesting: Hunting. For newcomers, hunting is indeed something that can be perceived as intimidating, especially with all the controversy that might be behind it, and how it is understood by the traditional citizen.

There’s also the fact that to hunt, you require not only equipment, but also knowledge, experience, and proper guidance if you are a rookie, thus, it can be a little difficult to get into, especially if you have little to no understanding of it.

Thankfully, you can always get help when it comes to learning the basics of hunting, and all other aspects related to it. For example, if you check out Matt Pamer’s Ohio Guide Outfitters, you’ll get a solid idea of how a professional service provider can help you out.

That being said, for those wanting to experience the thrill of the hunt, and learn why people are interested in it, how it can be done, and some of the social aspects of it, you should definitely keep on reading, since we will try to guide you through the most important aspects of this practice, to let you decide whether to give it a try or not.

Understanding the Hunt

Let’s first talk about the most important question when it comes to hunting: Why do people actually hunt? Well, there are many reasons for it, but it all comes down to the thrill of the hunt.

You see, back in the day, to hunt was more of a matter of surviving. Without it, people had greatly reduced chances of surviving through the day, and when hard times came, especially during winter, meat was an essential asset to have in order to survive.

Meat is arguably one of the most important types of food we can add to our diets since it ensures that our bodies are healthy and strong enough to carry on with an incredible amount of responsibilities that involve the development and survivability of our communities.

If you are interested in more in-depth details on this matter, you should definitely check this article out!

Although nowadays the way we hunt has definitely changed, and the way it actually influences our society has also diminished, there are people who are still seeking the thrill that comes from the activity, regardless of said changes.

The Thrill Behind Hunting

Taking that into consideration, we can say that there are way too many reasons someone would like to experience this specific practice. Some are general, some are more personal, but we can share the most common reasons hunters enjoy this specific activity.

1. To experience what nature has to offer in a personal, more engaging manner.
   
   The difference between hunting and many other nature-related activities is that you engage in nature in a much more profound way since you pretty much have to understand several aspects of it besides your equipment and the things you should and should not do to engage in a successful hunting trip.
   
   This engagement can be attractive to a lot of people since it involves reading, understanding, reacting, and acting using all the information nature provides you.
   
   
2. Creating a Bond with a Location, its Flora, and its Fauna
   
   If you have a particular connection with a specific place, learning how to hunt might teach you how to create a very peculiar, special bond with it, and all it has to offer, from its plants to its animals. Learn more about how to preserve the flora and fauna of the Earth.
   
   This bond can be very deep and intimate, and for some people, it can be an incredible source of memories, experiences, and teachings.
   
   
3. Learn How to Face Nature and Its Challenges
   
   To be able to succeed and survive in nature is a skill that can be very attractive for a lot of people. The idea of providing for yourself through your own methods is what makes a lot of people want to learn how to hunt.
   
   
4. To Be More Aware of Your Relation with Nature and Its Wonders
   
   It is certainly true that we as a race have changed the way nature and its assets work and coexist. For some people, being aware of these changes and the fact that we are actually influencing nature whenever we take from it, is the way they cope with it, and redeem themselves.
   
   Just understanding the damages we are causing and how we are actually enjoying the things that nature has created, makes a huge difference for some hunters.

The Legality and Morals of Hunting

As mentioned earlier, one of the reasons why so many people that are interested in hunting, don’t actually try it out, is because of the morals shared by a wide range of people inside of society.

Thing is: Hunting is a legal activity that is accepted by the government of the United States under certain rules. There are many regulations behind the activity, and also, laws that support the practice for the sake of wildlife regulation and management, as shown at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hunting.

The locations where you obtain your license to hunt and learn the basics of it, often teach the mindset you should have when hunting, the reason why it is allowed, and they teach the most efficient way to hunt without causing pain or stress to the animals you are hunting.

Hunting is something that is done with respect and proud emotions and thoughts towards nature and its animals, so as long as you decide to give it a try and learn how to engage in it with the correct mindset, you’ll be just fine!

The post Guide to Ohio Whitetail Outfitters and Deer Hunts first appeared on Deepbluemountain.

While many people choose to travel during the summer months, it’s important not to overlook the winter. The weather might not be as reliable as during the summer but there are a lot of benefits to travelling during the winter. When it comes to travelling during winter, the key is to plan in advance, to be prepared and to ensure that you have enough warm outdoor clothing to keep you cosy on your adventures. 

Regardless of what you are doing or where you are going, there are some tips that will help you to make the most out of any winter travel experience. Whether you’re going on a city break, rad-tripping with friends, hiking in the mountains, embarking on a surf trip or spending some time with the family, there is a lot that you can do to make sure that your winter travels are the best that they can possibly be. 

Let’s take a look at a few things you need to know about wintertime travel to ensure you make the most of your next trip.

Fewer Crowds

As we have already mentioned, most people choose to holiday during the summer months. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t or shouldn’t travel in the winter. In fact, it can be beneficial. With fewer people travelling during the winter, you can be sure that the rights you visit, the trails you explore or the beaches you go to will be less crowded, allowing you to enjoy them all to yourself.

Less Expensive

Winter is considered to be “down-time” in many tourist destinations. Some seasonal destinations will even have fewer cafes, restaurants and hotels open during the wintertime. With fewer visitors, this typically equates to better deals. As more people want to stay at home during the colder months of the year, many operators slash their prices in an effort to attract winter travellers like you to come to visit. Travelling in the winter is generally cheaper, as long as you steer clear of winter-specific destinations such as ski areas.

Colder Weather

Of course, one thing that you should expect when travelling in the winter is colder weather. However, this doesn’t mean that your entire holiday needs to be spoiled. Just because you need a few extra layers to keep warm, doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy the destination to the fullest. Cold, crisp winter days can be great so long as you have the right clothing. As the old adage goes, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad attire”. 

Shorter Days

During the winter months, the days tend to be a little shorter, meaning less light if you are taking part in outdoor activities. To get the most out of the slightly shorter days, be sure to plan in advance and get an early start to maximise the sunlight. Starting your day in the dark allows you to get a headstart on getting to your location so you can maximise the time you have available at your chosen destination. Being prepared is key so be sure to put a plan in place the night before, check the weather and plan accordingly. 

Make The Most Of Your Travels This Winter

Whatever type of trip you are planning this winter, with the right preparation and a positive mindset you can be sure that you will have a holiday to remember. Make sure that you keep a close eye on the weather, pack enough warm clothes to stay cosy and put a plan in place that allows you to get the most out of your trip. With the right preparation, your winter travels will be everything you were hoping for.

The post Everything You Need To Know About Wintertime Travel first appeared on Deepbluemountain.

For many people, hobbies are a way to destress and unwind from the unending hustle and bustle of everyday life. Work can be stressful and that is why companies allow their workers to take time off to relax and recenter themselves. When workers return from these vacations, they are usually more energetic and enthusiastic about work. 

There are hundreds of activities and hobbies people engage in to kill spare time and relax. We know of common hobbies like mountain climbing, cycling, swimming, hiking, gaming, reading, writing, and so on. However, these days, we are beginning to see people take on more and more rather unusual hobbies; interesting but unusual, nonetheless. These hobbies include suing, extreme ironing, beetle fighting, news-raiding, insect collecting, toy voyaging, and magnetic fishing, the subject of this article. 

Unusual or not, the truth is every hobby appeals to a particular set of people. When asked why they enjoy the activity, many find it difficult to describe how they feel about their chosen hobby. For some reason, they connected with it and that is fine. In the end, what you choose to spend your spare time on should be something you find interesting and that makes you happy. Hobbies should be fun!

What is Magnetic Fishing?

You’re probably confused right now and that’s not out of place, many people get confused about this hobby too. For starters, you do not need a hook because magnetic fishing is not done with traditional fishing gear. Yes, what you are hoping to catch isn’t fish but rather, any metallic object you can find at the bottom of the lake, river, or stream you choose to go fishing in. 

Magnetic fishing or magnet fishing is a game, sport, or hobby that involves fishing for metallic objects at the bottom of a water body. Instead of a hook, fishers make use of powerful magnets with incredibly high adhesion. These magnets are known to enthusiasts as super magnets, retrieval magnets, neodymium magnets, or search magnets. Click here to learn more about neodymium magnets.

Fishers engage in the sport hoping to find treasures like militaria, old coins, or other things of value. Some believe that one day, they may retrieve an actual treasure chest from the bottom of the ocean! Although the chance of this happening is slim, you will find that the idea does better than harm. 

Magnetic fishers may be one of the most optimistic sets of people in the world today. Because each expedition is built entirely on hope, faith, and positivity; these traits have become second nature to magnet fishers.  

Another good thing about the hobby is that the necessary equipment is relatively inexpensive when compared to a similar hobby- metal detecting. You see, in metal detecting, aside from the metal detector itself, other accessories like headphones, handheld pinpointer, scoop and digging tools, search coil covers, and several others are needed for the hobby. Whereas, in magnet fishing, with just the right magnet and a strong rope, you are ready to start treasure hunting.  

Perhaps, the most appealing part of this strange hobby is the surprise effect and the uncertainty of what one might pull out of the floods. In fact, fishers have retrieved different metal pieces ranging from coins to nails, old bicycle parts to historical objects from World War II such as badges.

More interestingly, some fishermen have been able to retrieve old safes from the depths. Sadly though, these safes are usually empty since chances are that they were probably dumped into the river after a robbery. Notwithstanding, magnetic fishermen remain hopeful that one day, a treasure chest will be discovered. 

Magnetic Fishing Gear

There really is not much that is needed for this hobby. With basic equipment, you can start fishing right away. The basic magnet fishing equipment includes:

• A powerful magnet
• A rope
• Grappling hook
• Transport box

Magnets

Performance is key when selecting the magnets. For this hobby, regular magnets will not cut it as they do not have the type of adhesion needed to pull stuff out of the water. You would want to get a neodymium or recovery magnet that can pull out objects that weigh up to a few hundred kilos.

When you go shopping for one, have the following at the back of your mind:

• Traction or adhesive force: In magnet fishing, while the traction of the magnet is incredibly important, having one that is too strong may put you at a disadvantage. This is because if your magnet gets stuck to an object weighing between 200 and 300 kilos, it is not coming out easily. As a matter of fact, you would have to dive to get it out. Therefore, you should only use magnets that have a pulling force of 150 kilograms, at most. 
• Size and Shape: The most common search magnets are usually between 70 and 100 mm in size. They mostly come in square and round shapes since these shapes have more practical support surfaces. 

Ropes

Unlike traditional fishing, lines are not used in this sport because they are not strong enough; ropes are used instead. These ropes are commonly made from polypropylene and so, do not absorb water as much as regular ropes. Visit https://www.britannica.com/science/polypropylene to learn more about polypropylene. 

As with the magnet, traction is also an important factor when it comes to ropes for magnetic fishing. Ropes with more traction support better grip which makes pulling much easier. 

Since the magnets are to be dropped to the bottom of the water body, you would need a long rope. 15 to 20 meters is the recommended length. Anything beyond that becomes difficult to handle especially when storing it. Also, take note of the diameter because thicker ropes become significantly heavier when they eventually soak water. The rope should not be more than 10 mm in diameter. 

Grappling Hooks

While this exercise is an exciting one, magnetic fishermen all deal with one frustrating issue. Often, the objects that are caught by the magnet are snagged on something under the water. Many potentially incredible prizes have been lost this way and that is why enthusiasts decided to add grappling hooks to their fishing gear. That said, it is worth mentioning that grapple hooks were not specifically invented for this hobby. 

Thanks to their shape, irregularly shaped objects found by your magnet can easily be pulled out of the water. Based on factors like their build material and build quality, some grapple hooks are more reliable than others. Enthusiasts can find high-quality grapple hooks from several companies. You can visit Brute Magnets to look at some options. 

Transport Boxes

Transport boxes are useful for transporting your gear and the prizes you can retrieve. Your means of transport may determine the size of the box, but the material is nearly always plastic. Other secondary equipment that you can carry along in the box include a pair of gloves, a pair of fishing boots, and maybe a change of pants. 

Final Thoughts

A lot of people debate the legal status of magnetic fishing; however, it is legal in both the United States and the United Kingdom. In the US it is allowed everywhere else except South Carolina. In the UK you cannot fish in waters that are managed by the Canal and River Trust. If this is a hobby you would like to try out, you would have to check with your local authority to know if it is permitted. 

The post Grappling Hooks in Magnetic Fishing first appeared on Deepbluemountain.

Whether you are going camping at a nearby location or heading off on a world tour, proper planning is required – and this includes all of your travel gear.

It is not wise to head off to a shopping centre without proper planning, or you will spend too much money and purchase items that you won’t need. This is your guide on preparing for your shopping and getting the most bang for your buck.

The Essentials Required For Camping

It can be easy to be over-awed when shopping for camping gear, especially if this is a new experience for you. There are so many products available, but there is only a certain amount of room in the 4X4 to carry it all. In addition, there are all kinds of cool new gadgets on the market desperate to capture your attention; you should try to ignore a lot of them unless you want to waste money.

You will need high-quality, waterproof camping tents that are appropriately sized for the number of people going camping. Other essential items include lighting, a shovel, a well-stocked first aid kit, your sleeping bags (or air mattresses or camping stretchers), a reliable cooler or fridge, cookware, a fold-up table and a washing-up tub. That is it (aside from your clothes). Anything else will be considered extra, so choose wisely.

The Gentle Art Of Packing Light

Travelling light begins in the planning process. Make a list of everything you need and stick to it so that you can save some valuable space in your backpack, luggage or vehicle. If you were to go through your average travel bag now, you would have many items that serve the same purpose, and you would be able to make greater efficiencies.

The most guilty culprit is your clothing. People tend to choose complete outfits and pack every single item to have a new outfit every day. Instead, it is much better to select items that can be mixed and matched to reduce the volume of clothes you are carrying.

Electronics are another offending item. When the family heads away, do you need four tablets, the laptop, charging devices for each, plus the whole array of accessories including headphones, keyboards and more? You can share these devices and save a lot of space by minimising cables and accessories as well.

The Benefit Of Shopping Online

Retail outlets are designed in ways to make your purchase more. But, unfortunately, promotional items are stacked before you at every turn, and it is tough to avoid impulse shopping. 

Get that list of essential travel items you need, head to the relevant websites and purchase only the things on that list. Then, put your blinkers on and avoid those impulse purchases.

Set A Budget – And Stick To It

Travel expenses can vary greatly depending on how you reach your destination, where you are heading to and how long you plan to be away, so it’s essential to make a budget early on.  

A lot of money will be required for the actual travel and accommodation (unless you are camping), plus you are going to need spending money (again, unless you are camping).

Don’t blow the budget at the first step of planning. Instead, allocate an amount you can spend on items you are taking with you and don’t spend a cent more.

Unnecessary Or Bulky Items That You Should Cross Off Your Shopping List

Likely, you will not need everything that is in your suitcase. Reduce your load by getting rid of unnecessary extras. 

• Books and magazines: They are heavy, bulky and are non-essential in 2021. You can read almost anything on a tablet or a kindle, plus books and magazines are available at airports and any city in the world you visit if you absolutely must have a genuine reading experience.
• Denim: This material takes up a lot of room in your luggage and is notoriously difficult to dry after cleaning. Packing your favourite pair of jeans is acceptable, but don’t go beyond that when it comes to denim.
• Toiletries: Only take what is essential, like your toothbrush and favourite scents. Most items like shampoo, conditioner, soaps etc., will be available for free at your hotel. This especially includes your hairdryer. 
• Sheets or towels: There is a near-endless supply available at your hotel. 

Plan To Bring Souvenirs Home With You

In almost every instance, you will collect items on your travels and return with more in your luggage than when you left. So avoid those exorbitant excess baggage fees and save some room in your luggage for those mementos and gifts you will pick up on your travels.

The post 6 Things You Need To Know Before Shopping For Travel Gears first appeared on Deepbluemountain.

Not all binoculars can benefit you in your chase against a deer. To avoid any mistakes, you need to know all about hunting binoculars before you take your pick. In this article, you will learn about the different types of binoculars and their application. Besides, what things do you need to consider before buying hunting binocs and maintaining the one you own.

What Types of Binoculars Are There?

With hundreds of binoculars available in the market, sometimes it gets tough to choose from so many different types. Below I have noted the most common type of binoculars available and what purpose they serve.

Porro Prism Binoculars

Porro prism binoculars are the first set of modern binoculars. These binoculars send the light through a pair of prisms in a quick horizontal zigzag light path. Therefore, the light coming from the objective lens amplifies and provides a 3D sharp image of the target. Also, they offer a wider field of view for activities like astronomy, sports, scouting, hiking, etc.

Roof Prism Binoculars

The roof prism system features a roof-shaped surface for a higher magnified and brighter image than Porro binos. It is due to the straight series of convoluted pathways created by the prisms in-between the eye and the objective lens. So, these compact binoculars are more straight tubular, stylish, and lightweight than Porro binos. Roof prism binoculars are used for birdwatching and hunting.

Field Glasses

Field glasses only use optical lenses for magnification. The convex objective lens functions as the objective. On the other hand, the concave lens functions as the eyepiece to create a right-side-up image. Field glasses have a narrow field of view and low magnification power (up to 5x) than prism binoculars. However, these binos are more compact, lightweight, and durable. And, they are often used for watching sports, opera, horse racing, etc.

Night Vision Binoculars

Night vision binoculars allow you to see in the dark with electronically assisted optics. It amplifies light through photocathode, photomultiplier, and phosphor screen. As a result, your eyes manage to see in low-light conditions such as spelunking, hunting, wildlife observations, and surveillance.

Marine Binoculars

Marine binoculars have a broader objective and ocular lenses that offer a wider field of view but low to moderate magnification power. Besides, these binoculars come with rubber coating and are highly durable, fog-resistant, and waterproof. The common uses are marine operations, whale watching, and snorkeling.

Things to Consider When Choosing the Right Binoculars for Hunting

Binoculars are an essential element of hunting, whether it’s early morning or late afternoon. But, it’s difficult to find good hunting binoculars on a budget. Here are a few things you need to consider before choosing a pair of hunting binoculars.

Magnification

If you are searching on the internet, you may have come across binocular descriptions like 8×50. Here 8 is the magnification factor, meaning the binocular can magnify an object up to eight times. 50 is equal to the objective lens diameter. 

In general, a magnification factor from 7x to 10x is well suited for hunting as it provides better stability. However, many compact hunting binoculars offer stability features nowadays. So, you can go as high as 20x magnification but with extra expenses.

Field of View

A wide objective lens size means a detailed and brighter image due to a greater field of view. In general, the field of view goes up to a distance of 1000 meters. Smaller objective lens diameter provides higher magnification. So, the field of view decreases if the magnification is high.

The flip side is, binoculars with a larger objective lens are costly. So, it’s better to stick around 40 mm of objective for a pair of hunting binoculars.

Eye Relief

Eye relief refers to the distance between your eye and the eyepiece. Insufficient eye relief will not allow you to see a clear image, putting stress in your eyes.

If you wear glasses, then get a pair with adjustable eyecups or the one with 14-15 mm of eye relief.

Extra Features

While hunting, you never know what condition you are about to be in. So, it’s always a relief to have waterproof binoculars. Some hunting binos are even for-resistant as well.

Also, look for rubber coating as it provides a better grip if your palms get all sweaty or wet. 

Design and Budget

Last but not least, you need to look for prism binoculars as the perfect hunting accessory. Field glasses are cheaper, but they are not well-suited for hunting.

Prism binoculars provide better magnification and adjustable eyepieces, which come in handy while chasing an animal track. These binoculars are a bit expensive, but you have hundreds of different products from different manufacturers to choose from.

Tips to Maintain a Binocular

Surely a pair of high-configuration binoculars will help you track your prey, but maintaining the binos will ensure efficiency in the long run. Here are some tips for maintaining your hunting binoculars. 

Clean your lenses

Keep your lenses dirt-free with a soft brush or compressed air, and then use a cleaning solution on a piece of cloth to gently clean the lenses.

Adjust your eyepieces

Most hunting binos feature adjustable eyepieces to focus on a specific target. Carefully use this feature depending on your surroundings and distance to get the best picture possible.

Avoid direct sunlight

Avoid leaving your binoculars under the direct sun for long periods of time. A prism may wear out as it absorbs and blocks infrared and ultraviolet light spectrum.

Seek professional help

Prism and night vision binoculars are sensitive due to their complex mechanism. Always let a professional take care of your hunting binoculars if necessary.

Conclusion

Imagine backpacking a telescope every time you go out hunting. Not a pleasant thought, is it? Binoculars have changed the hunting game for good. But, you have to learn the differences and know the things that matter in a pair of hunting binoculars. Besides, maintaining a binocular is pretty easy. But I highly recommend seeking professional help if you face any difficulty that’s beyond your reach. After all, binoculars are your second set of eyes while tracking an elk down the ridge!

The post How to Choose Binoculars for Hunting? first appeared on Deepbluemountain.

With that, the biggest advantage is for people who are fond of bike riding. The good news for them is that they don’t have to turn their back to bike rides. They can ride safely amid coronavirus concerns if they are enthusiastic about taking significant steps to conserve their health and prioritize the health of others too.

We understand that with all the news on-air at this time, it can be stressful for people to decide if they should carry on with their old biking routine or not. But we all know that daily exercise is an excellent way to surpass this frustrating period. It will lessen the anxiety, help sleep peacefully and charge up the productivity of your body as well as your immune system.

Why is biking the best option during corona virus outbreak?

It provides strength to your immune system

Cycling has a constructive effect on the fitness of almost everyone. When you are cycling, your air-ducts are super ventilated, and the supply of blood is better. You inhale more than usual oxygen in the outdoors. The freshness is healthy, most importantly for your lungs.

It becomes a part of your everyday exercise

The bicycle is undoubtedly an excellent means of transport and more so in the period of COVID-19. The gyms are closed, and so many people are working from home. It has become pretty hard to get your daily chunk of exercise. Cycling being environmentally friendly and providing you with the fitness benefit is the best option in this situation, and so you can easily cover short distances this way.

It keeps you distant from other people

The bicycle turns out to be the best suitable form of self-protection. You can effortlessly maintain your distance from other people, even other bikers, while riding. The chances of you breathing in the micro-drops transmitting the coronavirus when you’re cycling are zero.

It relaxes your mood and keeps you happy

Right now, with such a large amount of people stressed out and frustrated from everything that this virus pandemic calls for, relaxation of your mind and body is necessary. So the most benefitting tip is also the most required, and the most enjoyable is that you permit your mind to lighten and body to ease by cycling outdoors. And the most beautiful part is the happiness hormones. Your body produces endorphins and is let out during cycling.

Is it safe to ride outside in the outbreak?

It is safe to ride outside and the best possible option is riding alone because you have to lessen your risk as much as you can and keep other people and yourself safe. 

When people get together any of them coughs or sneezes, the droplets get attached to things and object or people, and when people contact them and touch their face the virus spread. And so, the best plan for you to have fun is bike riding.

Go out, ride either alone or with a group of people you trust. Enjoy in the distant open areas outdoor, and make sure that you ride in times when you know your route will not be much crowded.

Is it okay to ride in cold weather during coronavirus?

Surprisingly people believe that corona has the stuff to do with the coldness of the weather, and they are afraid to ride outside during the colder weather because of the agitation of illness, but that is not the truth. No data says you will get sick from some respiratory disease when bike riding in cold weather.

Is it necessary to wear a mask while bike riding?

While COVID-19 vaccinations are still occurring but it is recommended that people are bound to wear masks publically and especially when surrounded by people who do not live around you in your house, because other social distancing measures are becoming difficult to manage.

And with that, it gets important that you keep in mind that even if you want to avoid it, you should have your face covered in case of a sudden interaction, and for that, you can go for full-face mountain bike helmets. That way, even if you are not wearing mask, you will not be harmed.

Is it safe to use bike share or shared scooters during the coronavirus outbreak?

It is okay but only if you pay the same cautious attention to your hygiene that you would if you drink from someone else’s glass or held a shopping cart handle.

You have to sanitize the handlebars of the bike you are riding before you go and after you’re finished. If you, for some reason, can’t do it, make sure to wear full-fingered gloves or be careful while touching any substance and make sure you wash your hands. Do not touch your face a lot.

Conclusion

While the COVID-19 pandemic has emerged an air of the unrevealed into our society, it has also set out as a reminder for people who ride or even when they do not of the many benefits of bicycling. Learning how to ride safely amid the coronavirus is a necessity if you want to ride. It is highly known that bicycling links people, it amends our health, lessens our frustration levels in times of unpredictability like the current days, and permits us to determine nature in our way.  

While the coronavirus outbreak carries on to evolve and switch the way we work, we hope that you continue to get out and breathe freely and ride your bikes, not to let your community be forgotten. But we also desire that you’ll do so safely and stay protected with your community members.

The post How to Ride Safely Amid Coronavirus Concerns first appeared on Deepbluemountain.