Based on our experiences, recent shopping trip, and insights from Cotopaxi's adventure travel pack guide, here's a comprehensive comparison of Cotopaxi's travel bags to help you choose the perfect one for your adventures.

Allpa Travel Pack Series

Allpa 35L

• Best For: Short trips and carry-on travel
• Features:
  • Highly durable, water-resistant fabric
  • Suitcase-style, full-wrap zipper opening on the main compartment
  • Padded laptop and tablet sleeve
  • Weight: 3 lbs 8 oz (1.6 kg)

The Allpa 35L is perfect for short trips or as a carry-on for longer adventures. Its compact size and efficient organization make it a favorite for quick getaways or flights where carry-on is preferred. The internal organization is stellar, with multiple compartments for electronics, clothes, and other essentials. For our family trips, it serves well as an individual pack for each member, allowing easy access to personal items.

Allpa 42L

• Best For: Longer trips or travelers needing extra space
• Features:
  • Larger capacity for extended travel
  • Removable hip belt for added comfort
  • Reinforced grab handles on all sides
  • Weight: 4 lbs 1 oz (1.85 kg)

The Allpa 42L is an excellent choice for extended trips where you need to pack a bit more. The additional capacity compared to the 35L means you can fit in more gear without sacrificing organization. The hip belt adds comfort for longer treks, making it ideal for our camping and hiking expeditions. The reinforced handles are particularly handy when moving in and out of vehicles or airplanes.

Allpa 28L

• Best For: Day trips and minimalists
• Features:
  • Lightweight and compact design
  • Simplified internal organization
  • Easy-access external pockets
  • Weight: 2 lbs 10 oz (1.2 kg)

For those who prefer to travel light or need a reliable daypack, the Allpa 28L fits the bill. It’s great for day hikes, city tours, or as a supplementary bag for longer journeys. Its lighter weight and streamlined design mean it doesn’t weigh you down, and the external pockets are perfect for quick access to snacks or maps.

Cotopaxi Travel Bags: Nazca Travel Pack Series

Nazca 24L

• Best For: Urban travel and office commutes
• Features:
  • Sleek, urban design
  • Padded laptop compartment
  • Hidden security pockets
  • Weight: 2 lbs 8 oz (1.13 kg)

The Nazca 24L is tailored for urban explorers and professionals who travel frequently between cities. Its sleek design makes it a stylish option for business trips or city exploration. The hidden security pockets are a thoughtful addition for keeping valuables safe, and the padded laptop compartment ensures your electronics are well protected.

Cotopaxi Travel Bags: Tasra Backpack Series

Tasra 16L

• Best For: Everyday carry and short excursions
• Features:
  • Lightweight and versatile
  • Multiple internal pockets
  • Comfortable shoulder straps
  • Weight: 1 lb 8 oz (0.68 kg)

The Tasra 16L is an excellent everyday backpack, suitable for short excursions or daily use. Its compact size makes it easy to carry around town, while the multiple pockets help keep everything organized. This is a great choice for a day at the beach, a short hike, or even as a school bag for the kids.

Tasra 35L

• Best For: Versatile travel and outdoor activities
• Features:
  • Larger capacity with versatile use
  • Adjustable chest and shoulder straps
  • Durable, weather-resistant materials
  • Weight: 3 lbs 2 oz (1.42 kg)

The Tasra 35L offers more capacity for those who need a bit more space but still want a versatile and manageable pack. It’s suitable for a variety of activities, from hiking to weekend trips. The weather-resistant materials ensure your gear stays dry, making it perfect for unpredictable weather conditions during our river expeditions or mountain bike trails.

Cotopaxi Travel Bags Comparison, Which One?

Choosing the right travel bag is all about matching the pack to your specific needs and adventure style. Whether you’re embarking on a short day trip, a city excursion, or an extended outdoor adventure, Cotopaxi has a travel pack that can meet your needs. For our family’s diverse range of activities, the Allpa and Tasra series offer the versatility and durability we require.

Remember to consider factors like trip length, the amount of gear, and the type of activities you’ll be engaging in when selecting your pack. And always prioritize comfort and functionality to ensure a smooth and enjoyable adventure.

Safe travels and happy adventures!

Emily Jackson World Champion Freestyle Whitewater Kayaker and Adventure Enthusiast

The post Comparing Cotopaxi Travel Bags: Guide for Adventurers appeared first on Hazeadventure.

I will admit that camping trips can be a little intimidating when it comes to packing, especially as a family of four. But Cotopaxi bags really allow me to pack with ease and bring along everything we’d need for our outdoor adventure. 

Today, I wanted to compare three of my favorite Cotopaxi travel bags. But I also wanted to include some packing tips to help your next trip run more smoothly. Also check out my recent Cotopaxi Travel Bag Comparison article.

Cotopaxi Allpa 70L Duffel Bag

The first of the Cotopaxi travel bags that I’m going to walk you through is the Allpa 70. The Allpa 70 is the biggest volume bag that Cotopaxi has in its Allpa series. And for us, this is our check-in bag because I can fit seven days' worth of clothes for both of my kids and myself, as well as shoes and other essentials. 

Durability

One of the biggest benefits of the Allpa 70L is its durability. Cotopaxi has made the bag out of a really durable material. So even the type of adventuring that we do won’t beat this bag up. 

The bag’s slightly waterproof shell also means that you can throw it in the back of a truck while traveling. And you don’t have to worry about all your belongings getting wet. 

Carry Straps

Something I really appreciate about the Allpa 70 is its carry straps. And this thing has a lot of them. You can carry the bag as a backpack, which is extremely handy when traveling with kids. Or you can carry it with the carry straps that sit on either side.

Compartments and Pockets

As well as the main section of the bag, the Allpa 70 also has other compartments and pockets to separate your clothing. 

There is a zippered interior pocket in the main compartment, two outer pockets on either side of the bag, and a pocket at the bottom of the bag for dirty or wet laundry. There really are pockets everywhere! 

As we do head out on muddy and wet adventures, we tend to use the side pockets of the bag for bathing suits that aren’t 100% dry or clothing that we haven’t had the chance to wash.

Allpa 70 Verdict

Overall, I opt for the Allpa 70 as a check-in bag as I know I can fit a week's worth of clothing for me and the kids. I also know that I can lug this baby around. And it won’t get damaged thanks to its resistant outer shell. 

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

When we are getting ready for a trip, there are two other bags we take with us. And they are the Allpa 28 and 35-litre travel packs. 

The 35 L Allpa is Nick’s baby, and it's the bag he ultimately uses when we go on trips. This backpack is a fantastic bag for him on his own. And there are a couple of cool features that allow him to pack everything he needs in such a small and compact space.

Main Compartment

One of the main reasons why the Allpa 35 is such a great bag for Nick is because of its butterfly zipper. Both the 28L and 35L have this butterfly zipper. And it allows the bag to open up, so you have access to both sides. 

Having access to both sides means that you can really utilize the space in the main compartment. And you can also keep your bag organized. 

Typically, with a normal backpack, you have to dig through to find the item of clothing you need. But with the Allpa 35L, all your clothes are easily accessible.

In particular, the right pocket of the main compartment has a good stretch and is really deep. So Nick has found that he can pack all of his clothes on just one side. 

Additional Pockets

The other thing that’s nice about the 35L Cotopaxi travel bags are the organizational pockets. The pockets in the 35L go really deep. And Nick has managed to organize his camera gear, his books, and his journal separate from all of his clothing. 

Down at the very base of the backpack is another of Nick’s favorite features of the Allpa 35. And that is the bottom pocket where he can securely keep his computer. As we work on the road and we are always flying with our computer. So it is really important that it is easy to get to and safe at all times. 

One more pocket that is worth mentioning is the one right at the very top which is ideal for phones, GoPros, or anything that you want on hand. Nick always keeps his GoPro in this compartment. But he also likes to store his hat, headphones, and pens in here as well. 

Durability

One of the main questions I get asked about the Cotopaxi travel bags, including the Allpa 35, is whether or not they are durable. In general, Cotopaxi aims to make sure their equipment and bags last. So, I’ve found that the outside of the Allpa 35 is a really thick material that is going to withstand a serious beating.

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack

The final of the Cotopaxi travel bags I wanted to mention was the Allpa 28. And the 28 really is the perfect go bag. 

The Allpa 28L is part of Cotopaxi’s Del Dia range. So, the bags are super bright multicolors and are made from upcycled materials. Due to the fact the bags are made from upcycled materials, all the zippers and bag colors are different. So, each and every bag is completely unique. 

Compartments

Like the Allpa 35, the Allpa 28 has a butterfly zip. And when I personally get ready to pack this thing, I’ll lay the bag out in front of me and designate each pocket for something specific.

I usually carry books, an extra set of clothes for my daughter, snacks, baby wipes, my journals, my purse, and even my computer, which I place in the bag’s computer sleeve. But with so many different pockets to make use of, I am able to organize my belongings and have certain things on hand for if and when I need them. 

Handles and Carry Straps

The handles on the Allpa 28 are also a huge perk, as not only do they make the bag extremely comfortable to carry, but they also make it really easy to slide the bag under the seat in front of you if you’re using it as a carry-on. 

Allpa 35 or Allpa 28: Which to Choose?

The Allpa 35 and Allpa 28 are very different in size. And I’d consider the 35 to be a great week or weekend bag. The Allpa 28, on the other hand, is more of a carry on bag for everything you’d need access to on a plane. 

If you’re an individual who wants to carry all your stuff in one bag, then the Allpa 35 is a great option. However, if you already plan on checking in a bag, then the 28 will fit the extra belongings that you want on hand at all times. 

Packing Tips

Now that I’ve covered the three different Cotopaxi travel bags, I’m going to go through some packing tips and how we utilize our space. 

Roll Clothes

Now, Nick and I have very different folding techniques. Nick’s technique is to essentially just fold it and shove it in. And as he doesn’t bring as much stuff as me and the kids, he can get an entire week's worth of clothes in his bag by folding his clothes this way. 

For me, however, I like to fold the clothes, then roll them, and finally shove them into every available corner. This method allows me to get more clothes into a smaller space. And as I have a hard time packing light, it really is the best option. 

Plan Your Outfits

Another way to make sure you’re utilizing your packing space is to only pack the clothes you’re actually going to wear. I’ve found the best way to do this is to lay your outfits out in front of you and really think about which clothes go together, the occasions you can wear them, and whether you can mix and match different items. 

Use Smaller Bags to Organize

Lately my kids have been rummaging around in their bags to try and find things like underwear. So what I’ve started doing is putting all their underwear and little things into smaller bags that are then easy to see and get to. 

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When it comes to fueling my kids before and during a big hike or paddle, there are a few things I like to focus on. And today I’m going to share those things with you, along with some helpful tips. So you can power not just your kids, but your entire family to make outdoor adventuring even more enjoyable. 

Think About Healthy Snacks for Kids in the Right Food Groups

The very first thing I like to think about is food groups. And whether my kids are getting enough fruits, vegetables, meat, and carbohydrates. 

Whenever we are heading off on an outdoor adventure that requires energy or endurance, I always like to make sure that my kids have snacks—especially fruit—on hand to give them quick bursts of energy. 

Over the years, we’ve found that when our kids hit a low, it’s really helpful to have an apple, an orange, or just something with a high sugar content to perk them up and give their bodies the energy they need to keep on pushing. 

Having these easy-to-eat snacks on hand has overall made a huge difference to our adventures. And that’s mainly because they allow our kids to hike, bike, or paddle a little further. 

Timing is Everything

Another tip that can really change the game when fueling kids for adventure is timing. And by timing, I mean not waiting until your kids say they’re hungry.

Kids often won’t say they’re hungry until their energy levels are already dropping. So, if i’ve noticed my kids have already been active for an hour or two, then I'll go ahead and stop what we’re doing for a snack break. 

If I wait until the point where my children are saying that they’re hungry, then it usually means I’m hungry, tired, and I want to stop. 

Reigning it in a bit earlier and giving them the boost they don’t even know they need means we can continue on with our adventure. And we don’t need to wait longer periods of time for them to re-energize. 

Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Having a good night’s sleep is really important in terms of getting out and adventuring. And to help this, I highly recommend eating a little earlier.

Eating earlier means your kids are able to fully digest what they’ve eaten, which, in turn, leads to a better night’s sleep. 

I know it can be hard to plan meal times when out adventuring. But just thinking about nearby restaurants or whether you can stop for a picnic en route before heading back to your campsite can ultimately give your kids the best chance at sleeping soundly through the night. 

Drink Plenty of Water

I can’t emphasize enough the importance of water in regards to fueling your kids for adventure. Like food, if you wait for your kids to tell you they’re thirsty, they’re already at the point of dehydration. So, one thing we found that helped us get our kids to drink more water is having them carry their own water bladders. 

There are various brands out there that make water bladders that kids can carry. And just by having a straw and easy access to water, your kids can constantly rehydrate throughout your adventure. 

Even from when my daughter was young, we’ve attached a bladder to her backpack. So, instead of having to stop and get a water bottle out every time she was thirsty, she could just flip her straw and take a sip. 

Make Food Fun

And my last tip is to make food fun. When you’re out adventuring with your kids, they’re already doing a ton of new things. So standard food just isn’t going to excite them. 

I always like to take along a treat like a bar or a brownie, something that’s special and fun. Through our own adventures, I’ve learned to never underestimate the joy that food can bring to your family. And that's especially true when you’re out burning physical energy. 

For me, I absolutely love eating biscuits. And when I’m out on a hike, there really is nothing that makes me happier than enjoying a special biscuit. 

So think about a food that will really excite your kids and just watch their mood change in an instant. 

Follow our Adventures and Subscribe

Don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel, Great Family Adventure. And keep an eye out for more awesome videos we’ll be publishing shortly.

If you enjoyed this article and are hungry for more family adventure tips, tricks, reviews, and adventures, head on over to the Great Family Adventure YouTube channel and feel free to sign up for our Hazeadventure.com newsletter.

Clothing: Cotopaxi Fuego Down Kids jacket, Cotopaxi Teca Calido Reversable Kids Jacket,  Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket, Cotopaxi Trico Hybrid Women's jacket, Cotopaxi Trico Hybrid Women’s Jacket, Cotopaxi Do Good Kid's Trucker Hat
Portable Fire Pit: LavaBox
Sunglasses: Wiley X

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My husband and I have been taking our kids on vacation since they were newborns. So, we’ve come up with some great strategies on how to plan and execute the ultimate family getaway.

Highlight Your Goals

One of the first things to think about is your goals. Is the goal of your vacation to enjoy time off with your family? Is it to learn a new skill or a new sport? Or is it to try something different and explore an area you’re unfamiliar with? 

If your family, for example, wants to learn how to ski, spend some time researching the best ski mountains for families and base your vacation around that. Another example could be if you were looking to learn how to fly fish or kayak, then research the best regions for these activities and build your itinerary from there. 

Often, by looking into a specific sport or activity, you can come across some unique locations that would have never crossed your mind. 

What Are You Looking Forward To? 

Another thing to consider is what you’re looking forward to. Is there some type of scenery? Is there a famous waterfall? Or a museum, hiking trail, or monument? Anything that sparks an interest and that you’d like to know more about can be a great base for planning a vacation. 

I’m a professional kayaker, so often rivers dictate where we go on family vacations. And some of my favorite family memories are when we’ve gone to areas that don’t have much else going on besides a river running through it. At the end of the day, anywhere you decide to go can become an unforgettable getaway for you and your kids—so don’t overthink things too much!

Take Into Consideration Age Groups

When you’re deciding where to go on vacation, another thing to consider is the age groups of the kids who are tagging along. 

I went on a ski trip with my children to Monarch Mountain in Colorado. And my daughter, Parker, was only two at the time. We did have a great family vacation. But I really thought about how much better the vacation would have been if she was a little bit older. 

So, when you’re planning your vacations, instead of just looking at the best family-friendly areas, really think about the ages of your kids and what you’re hoping to get out of it. If the vacation is something you think may be better suited to older children, then wait a few years so you and your kids can actually enjoy it to its fullest. 

Plan a Budget

The last point for choosing your family vacation is to plan a budget. When it comes to choosing a location, a budget can be a big factor in deciding where, when, and how you’re going to get there. 

There might be somewhere that you really want to visit. But it's really expensive, or flight tickets or car rental are out of your price range. So what we like to do in this instance is look at the different times of the year. By making use of seasonal deals, you can visit the vacation spot later on in the year for far cheaper than peak season. 

Clothing: Cotopaxi Fuego Down Kids’ Jacket, Cotopaxi Teca Cálido Reversible Kids’ Jacket, Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket, Cotopaxi Trico Hybrid Women’s Jacket, Do Good Kids’ Trucker Hat
Bikes:  E-Bikes Powered by Bosch – Yuba Spicy Curry, Riese & Muller
Sunglasses: Wiley X

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Don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel, Great Family Adventure, and keep an eye out for more awesome videos we’ll be publishing shortly.

If you enjoyed this article and are hungry for more family adventure tips, tricks, reviews, and adventures, head on over to the Great Family Adventure YouTube channel and feel free to sign up for our Hazeadventure.com newsletter.

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Family Fun in Ocean City Maryland

Today I’m going to share with you five of my family’s favorite things to do when visiting Ocean City. And as each of us came up with something different as we all enjoyed individual experiences, activities, and adventures, you’ll have a diverse list of Ocean City attractions that may appeal to you and your family. 

Staying in a Cottage

For me, the number one thing I loved most about Ocean City was the fact that we rented a cottage. I got to open the door and walk straight out onto the beach. So that was definitely the highlight of my entire trip, just being able to enjoy the beauty and the scenery of the ocean. 

Jolly Rogers

When I asked my son, Tucker, what his favorite thing to do in Ocean City is, he said ride the rides at Jolly Rogers. Jolly Rogers is an amusement park in Ocean City. And although Tucker was at first nervous about riding the roller coasters, by the end of the day, he was riding all of them. So not only did he enjoy the experience, but he also overcame his fears. 

Flying Kites

My daughter Parker’s favorite thing to do in Ocean City was flying kites. Flying kites is a popular thing to do in Ocean City. And there are huge stores that sell hundreds and hundreds of different styles of kites. When we were in Maryland, it was quite windy. So the kids got to pick out their special kites and then spend time flying them, which was obviously the activity that stood out most to Parker on our trip. 

Jet skiing

Nick’s favorite part about Ocean City—no surprise to me—was jet skiing. During our time in Maryland, Nick absolutely loved having the opportunity to get on a jet ski. And he also loved watching the kids have fun on them too. Parker especially was so enthusiastic, which made it a really big win. 

Nick did get to rip around by himself. So I think for him, he just really enjoyed being on something motorized out in the ocean—that’s kind of Nick’s style. 

Kayaking

And the final favorite Ocean City activity that we would all agree on—because my whole family loves it—is kayaking. We went kayaking inside the Marsh Bay Area of Ocean City. And it was a really special experience because it was incredibly educational. We learned all about the ecosystem and the environment. And then, on top of that, we saw an eagle. So it was really great for all of us to be out on the water together. Our trip to Ocean City Maryland was filled with family fun!

Follow our Adventures and Subscribe

Don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel, Great Family Adventure, and keep an eye out for more awesome videos we’ll be publishing shortly.

If you enjoyed this article and are hungry for more family adventure tips, tricks, reviews, and adventures, head on over to the Great Family Adventure YouTube channel and feel free to sign up for our Hazeadventure.com newsletter.

Clothing: Cotopaxi Fuego Down Kids’ Jacket, Cotopaxi Teca Cálido Reversible Kids’ Jacket, Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket, Cotopaxi Trico Hybrid Women’s Jacket, Do Good Kids’ Trucker Hat, Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker
Kayak: Jackson Kayak TakeTwo
Bikes:  E-Bikes Powered by Bosch – Yuba Spicy Curry, Riese & Muller,
Portable Firepit: Lavabox
Sunglasses: Wiley X

The post Family Fun in Ocean City, MD appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Think About Where You’re Spending Your Money

The first thing to think about when buying kids’ clothing is where you’re actually spending your money. For us as a family, for example, we were really excited when Cotopaxi came out with a kids' line.

Cotopaxi is a company that I know is making charitable donations to different organizations in order to preserve some of the beautiful places that we like to visit. For this reason—as well as their sustainable practices—I know that the clothing I buy for my kids is making a lesser impact on the environment.

Size Up in Kids’ Clothing

Another thing I like to do when I purchase new clothing for my kids is to size up. I understand that clothing needs to fit kids, especially when you’re out on adventures. But my daughter, for example, can wear a sweatshirt or a jacket that's a little bigger. I just roll up her sleeves, and that way, I know it's going to last her an entire season. Sometimes I’ll even size up two sizes so that way we get two winters out of them.

Choose Companies that are Durable

Another tip is to choose companies that are durable. Often we make decisions to buy things, but that product actually won’t last us more than a few months. One of my son’s biggest problems is the knees wearing out on his pants. So when I’m shopping for clothing for him, I’m looking at brands that I know are going to work for wear and tear. 

Look for clothes that are durable, comfortable and ones that you’ll be able to pass down to younger siblings or cousins. 

How Often Will Your Kids’ Wear Them?

Something else to think about is how often will your kids actually wear the item of clothing. Think about the design of the clothing item and how comfortable it will be when wearing it. You may buy something that’s more sustainable and environmentally friendly. But if your kids aren’t actually going to wear it, then it ultimately isn’t the right choice. 

At the end of the day, the best clothes to buy are the ones you know your kids are going to wear. And remember that the clothing doesn’t even have to be new. Patagonia, for instance, has done a really good job of paving the way for people to reduce, reuse, and repair their clothes. And that’s why I love these outdoor clothing companies. Not only do they produce durable clothing items. But they are showcasing that you can be sustainable and smart about purchasing decisions when it comes to outdoor kids' adventure clothing.

Follow our Adventures and Subscribe

Don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel, Great Family Adventure, and keep an eye out for more awesome videos we’ll be publishing shortly.

If you enjoyed this article and are hungry for more family adventure tips, tricks, reviews, and adventures, head on over to the Great Family Adventure YouTube channel and feel free to sign up for our Hazeadventure.com newsletter.

Clothing: Cotopaxi Fuego Down Kids’ Jacket, Cotopaxi Teca Cálido Reversible Kids’ Jacket, Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket, Cotopaxi Trico Hybrid Women’s Jacket, Do Good Kids’ Trucker Hat, Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker
Bikes:  E-Bikes Powered by Bosch – Yuba Spicy Curry, Riese & Muller,
Sunglasses: Wiley X

The post Sustainable Kids Clothing Options appeared first on Hazeadventure.

The Bridge Walk

The first thing is the Bridge Walk. Now, I’ve been visiting the Fayetteville, West Virginia, area for many years. But something that I just did recently for the very first time was the Bridge Walk. 

The New River Gorge Bridge is one of the tallest and biggest arch bridges in North America. And although I’m a little scared of heights, my son and I, Tucker, had the opportunity to do the Bridge Walk on our last trip to the park. 

Let me tell you, the walk was a crazy experience. It was super fun and a little intimidating. But I’m not going to give away more information because I think a lot of it is the element of surprise. 

Just being suspended and walking on a plank below the bridge is something that’s really unique. The Bridge Walk gives you a different perspective of the New River Gorge. And it’s just super cool to learn more about the bridge itself. 

If you do plan to do the walk, then there are two different tours that you can do. There’s the informative tour or the less informative tour where you simply just walk across under the bridge.

For us, we did an informative tour. And we learned a lot about the history, the structure, and the surrounding area of the New River Gorge. When it comes to the walk, there are height restrictions—so be sure to check out the rules and regulations before you take your family there.

Hiking

There are so many cool hikes to do in the area. And one of my favorites is the Endless Wall Trail, where you can go all the way to the Diamond Point Outlook. That trail is really cool because it gives you a beautiful view of the New River Gorge and the dramatic cliff walls.

If you’re a climber, those walls are well-known in the climbing community. But as a family, we just like to hike the trail because it’s really fun and it’s not too long. It’s about two miles out to the point and two miles back. So it’s a great distance if you have littles that you want to take along on the hike. 

Another of my favorite hikes in the area is Long Point. It’s another great family-distance hike, and it has beautiful views of the New River Gorge. It’s a great place to get out, explore, and get in some physical activity with your family. 

But even if you don’t make it out to the point, just being out there in the woods surrounded by the greenery is a fantastic experience that I highly recommend.

The Town of Fayetteville, West Virginia

Something I love to do when we’re visiting the New River Gorge National Park is actually spending time in the small town of Fayetteville, West Virginia itself. It’s actually self-proclaimed as one of the coolest little towns in North America—and I would have to agree.

It really does have small-town vibes. And although it’s very little, it has really good food and some great shops. There are even gear shops if you’re needing equipment for any outdoor activities. 

In the town, two of my favorite restaurants are Pies and Pines and the Cathedral. So we usually do breakfast at the Cathedral and dinner at Pies and Pines. If you like artisan pizza—ones with unique toppings—you cannot miss that dinner destination. And to be honest, I’d drive all the way up to Fayetteville just for Pies and Pines pizza. 

Kayaking

For those of you that aren’t whitewater kayakers, there are also flat-water kayaking opportunities, as well as recreational boating in the National Park.

If you like or are interested in white water rafting or riverboarding, for example, you should definitely check it out. The waters in the area are actually world-famous and are well-known whitewater rivers. For us, as kayakers, it’s a top destination. 

Paddling down the river is such a great adrenaline rush, and obviously, some seasons will be better than others. So if you’re planning on getting out on the river, spring and summer are two great options.

Sometimes the water can be higher and lower, and different water levels can mean different levels of intensity. The rivers can change drastically depending on the water levels. So depending on where you’re at with paddling, there are definitely a lot of options for everyone. 

The great thing about the New River Gorge is there are so many companies that can take you out rafting. They have a lot of information that they can provide. And they can help you feel comfortable while paddling, depending on your level. 

Hang Out at the Creek

One final tip—if you’re coming to the New River Gorge National Park, is to hang out at the creek down at Fayette Stations. When we’re at the creek, we like to play with little foam boats, and the kids end up having a really fun time.

If you don’t have toy boats, then play with sticks, look for crayfish, or throw rocks. The creek is extremely beautiful, and it has a great view of the New River Bridge and the New River Gorge. 

Follow our Adventures and Subscribe

Don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel, Great Family Adventure, and keep an eye out for more awesome videos we’ll be publishing shortly.

If you enjoyed this article and are hungry for more family adventure tips, tricks, reviews, and adventures, head on over to the Great Family Adventure YouTube channel and feel free to sign up for our Hazeadventure.com newsletter.

Clothing: Cotopaxi Fuego Down Kids’ Jacket, Cotopaxi Teca Cálido Reversible Kids’ Jacket, Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket, Cotopaxi Trico Hybrid Women’s Jacket, Do Good Kids’ Trucker Hat
Sunglasses: Wiley X

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I landed in Kigali at night and met Maurice and Emile, who would be guides and drivers for my time. For a capital city, I was surprised at the clean, crisp air and the blinking lights rolling on endless hills into the horizon. Welcome to the land of a thousand hills.

Rwanda: A history of strife and a mindset towards change

I arrived in April, which is an important time in Rwanda, for it marks the beginning of observing the 100 days of genocide, which began in April of 1994 and lasted until July of that year. It was a brutal, heartbreaking time when all across the country, murderous violence broke out, neighbor against neighbor, even inter-family murder, over the fomented differences between Hutus and Tutsis. Long-laid political agenda to wipe out the Tutsis erupted overnight. During the 100 day campaign, a million Tutsis were killed.

Since this awful time, Rwanda has been healing. Now, I walked the grounds of the Kigali Genocide Museum alongside many Rwandans who had come to visit loved ones buried in the mass graves, and to remember so that this never happens again. While it was difficult to take in, a visit to the genocide museums of Rwanda provide helpful context for travelers coming to visit.

Hiking in Rwanda: The Start of our Adventure

But like I said, Rwanda is home to much more than gorillas and genocide. The next day, I headed off the Nyungwe National Park. Nyungwe is the lungs of Rwanda and the source of water. Here in the mountains, shrouded in dense canopy and mist, I came to hike into the literal tree tops. I met Ami, a local guide. Together we would hike under massive trees until we came to a rope bridge strung across the sky. From here, we would no longer need to stare with our necks craning up to see the tree tops, we could hike above them.

Ami and I watched as the sun went down from our spectacular vantage point. It was a wild welcome to the national parks of Rwanda.

An Early Start

I awoke at 4:30 in the morning as rain and wind lashed at my tent. It had rained fiercely all night, it was the rainy season after all. I began packing my gear and preparing for a trek to see the chimpanzees of Nyungwe. Sleepily I greeted Ami again. He communicated via radio to the trackers who were following a band of recently awoken chimps. We hurried to hike along the trail to find them. We met the team of trackers who urges us into the forest, we needed to move fast. After waking up, the chimps were on the move and hunting for food.

The chimps were elusive. While we saw did catch up to them, they were hustling down the trail. Each time we were able to catch up to them, they would turn and jaunt deeper into the jungle. I saw a lot of chimpanzee backsides, but very few faces!

Rwanda’s countryside in lush, green, and extremely fertile. It’s also where some of the best coffee in the world is grown. As we drove alongside Lake Kivu, a giant lake of incredible beauty, we passed through vast coffee fields and farms growing all sorts of food products.

Volcanoes National Park

I arrived to Volcanoes National Park, one of the most special places of East Africa. Here lies the Virunga Uplift and, a la the namesake, a string of volcanoes. Volcanoes National Park lies at the junction of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The three countries share this unique and important landscape, the only place in the world where the famed mountain gorillas call home.

Following Dian Fossey

In the 60’s, a daring young woman named Dian Fossey moved here and began to study the mountain gorillas. She played an integral role in launching the scientific study of mountain gorillas as well as the conservation effort to keep the gorillas from going extinct to habitat loss and poaching. Her book, Gorillas in the Mist and her work with the National Geographic Society, inspired people all over the globe.

Today, you can visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund campus, where the research of gorillas and education of new generations of conservationists (such as the locals who live in the land surrounding the lone remaining habitat) continues. The gorilla population is on the rise. The people who live near the gorillas have discovered that it’s in everyone’s best interest to care for these gorillas. This is one of the few good news stories in conservation today, and is worth celebrating.  

In Search of Gorillas

I met with Jolie, a guide, to hike into the forest to visit a family of mountain gorillas. We set off early with the hopes of spotting a family group of 22 gorillas, a dominant silverback, his entourage of females, and their offspring. The family is growing. Two brand new babies had just been born a few weeks prior.

Trackers radio’d to Jolie that the group had been spotted. We pushed through the brush and suddenly I found myself standing right next to a juvenile gorilla, quite the surprise! The family was lounging in an open area, casually eating their daily rations of 20+ kilos of vegetation. Getting to see the family in such an open area was a rare treat, as often they are obscured in the dense bamboo forest. I was so lucky!

The best moment came when one of the brand new babies became curious and approached me. Still learning how to climb and move, he awkwardly clambered up a bamboo barrier that was right in front of me. Penned in by the bamboo jungle, I couldn’t move away. Swaying and standing at the top, the little tyke reached out, curious about my camera lens. The mother casually watched, unconcerned. The baby, who’s not old enough to have a name yet, did his best to balance on the top of the bamboo. His fuzzy, matted hair glittered in the sunlight. My heart melted.

Mount Karisimbi

I had one more goal in mind for my time in Rwanda, to hike to the top of the highest point, Mount Karisimbi. There are eight volcanoes in the chain, five of which are in Rwanda. Karisimbi is the tallest.

To get there is no small accomplishment. I met with Beck, a guide familiar with Karisimbi. Joined by a team of porters, we set out across the forest to begin our two-day ascent. The mud! Oh the mud! There’s no getting around the mud if you are hiking in rainy season. We hiked for miles in ruthless, never ending mud. Often sinking up to my shins in mud, the trail was an exhausting adventure. It felt truly wild. I was loving every minute of it.

After a long slog, we at last made it to base camp. We had climbed over 3,000 feet of elevation gain, which is not easy when every step it feels as though the mud will suck your boots right off your feet.

At the Peak

We set out in the early morning with a fog still hanging thickly over camp. Today would be no easier, as the mountain got steeper while somehow remaining very muddy. As the sun rose, the clouds began to slip away, and we were treated to a gorgeous view of the other volcanoes poking their summits through the clouds.

As we approached the summit, the wind was howling. The clouds were ripping past us, but clinging to the rocks. It was a strange and beautiful sight. Gazing off, I could see the vastness of East Africa, clouds huddling in the forest of the Congo, and the beautiful landscape of Uganda and Rwanda. A stunning experience to celebrate such a beautiful time alongside wonderful people.

MANY THANKS TO VISIT RWANDA FOR ALL THEIR HELP!

Check out my previous article on Australia’s Grampian Mountains and the Great Ocean Walk.

Backpack: Mystery Ranch Bridger 45,
Top: Otero Fleece Full-Zip Hooded Jacket – Men’s

The post Hiking in Rwanda: a land of mist and magic appeared first on Hazeadventure.

I took the Coulee up to the highest point in Rwanda, the Osprey Exos 48 has seen some solid miles in the Southwestern United States, and I have used the Bridger series extensively over the past few years. I'll share my personal pros and cons for each one so that you can have a point of reference to juxtapose with your backpacking needs. Let the battle begin!

If you want to compare with other similar-size trekking bags, check out another backpack review, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60.

Mystery Ranch Coulee 40 Backpack Review

Price: $289 (USD)

Weight: 3.8 LBS (1.7 KG)

Volume: 40 Liters

What makes the Mystery Ranch Coulee backpacks (not just the 40) unique is the central-zipper opening system. This clever design allows the pack to quickly splay fully open. Since this is the smallest of the three backpacks on today's docket, some very strategic packing will be required to make this into a multi-day bag. But once you get everything in there, the Coulee makes it easy to target certain items, without having to pull everything out through the top. 

Bottom Sleeping Bag Compartment

Unlike the Coulee 20 and 30, the 40 has a bottom sleeping bag compartment. I'm not a fan of the curved zipper though. It makes it a little more challenging to actually pack and unpack this part of the bag. You can, however, get at it via the upper section, and I found myself using that approach instead (since my sleeping bag is the first thing I pack, and the last thing I remove at the end of the day). 

Adjustable Yolk on the Coulee 40

The Coulee 40 has an excellent adjustable yoke system that comfortably distributes the pack weight (something that Mystery Ranch always excels at). However, in the absence of a ventilation system, it is a rather warm backpack to wear. 

Side Strap System

Another unique design is the side strap system, but I'm a little unsure about how best to utilize it. Because the pocket compresses quite a lot once the strap is clipped in, I have mostly been sticking my trash and toiletries in there. Also, the low positioning of this compression strap means that longer items, such as trekking poles, fishing rods, camera tripods, etc., end up sitting a little loose. 

It should also be noted that Mystery Ranch doesn't try to make the lightest packs on the market. They focus on comfort and integrity. I'm perfectly pleased with this equation, but if you're on the hunt for an ultralight option, then this is something to be aware of. 

Ultimately, despite a few dings, the main selling feature for this backpack, in terms of my own experience, is that even after long days filled with big miles, my shoulders and hips were always happy. 

Osprey Exos 48 Review

Price: $240 (USD)

Weight: 2.8 LBS (1.2 KG)

Volume: 48 Liters

The Osprey Exos 48 has the largest capacity of these three bags, but is also the lightest and least-expensive of the lot. In my opinion, this is a really nice entry-level backpack that will also appeal to folks who are concerned with shaving ounces. 

Great Ventilation

The area where this pack excels the most is its ventilation system. Osprey is known for their generous air-flow designs, and the Osprey Exos 48 stays true to that trend. From the standpoint of temperature regulation and back-sweat reduction, Osprey has put forward a comfortable bag.

Comfort of Carry

I find both the Coulee and the Bridger by Mystery Ranch to be a much more comfortable carry. But with that said, the final grade has to be calibrated to the price point. And this is an affordable option. No doubt about it. Oh, and the set increment adjustable torso that integrates with the back ventilation system is really straight forward. I had a good experience with this design. 

In terms of weight, the Osprey Exos 48 achieves its sub-3-pound frame by cutting some corners. The buckles are small (or removed entirely) and the straps are a little flimsy. The accordian-style side straps are an example of innovative thinking, but the real-world application falls a bit short if trying to store those longer items that I commonly carry, like trekking poles and tripods. You have to fish it through the byzantine of straps everytime you want to take something out or stow it. To be honest, as a filmmaker, I have found this to be super annoying.

Lacking Quick Release Straps

I experienced a similar frustration with the external, sleeping-pad-storing straps. I really just wanted to be able to freely unbuckle them, rather than fumble with the complex cinch points. Lastly, if you want to strip this pack down even further, then know that it has a detachable lid (though it isn't that easy to get on and off). 

As a seasoned backpacker, I wouldn't be willing to sacrifice some key aspects of comfort and functionality in favor of weight and cost. But if you are someone who puts those pros at the top of your priority list, then the whole evaluation changes in your favor. 

If you want to delve even deeper into my thoughts on this backpack, check out my Osprey Exos 48 Review. 

Mystery Ranch Bridger 45 Review

Price: $375 (USD)

Weight: 4.4 LBS (2 KG)

Volume: 45 Liters

The crown jewel design feature (as with all of the Bridger packs) is the super comfortable and widely-adjustable yoke system that has an integrated, double-strap, running-vest-style chest piece. It is hands down the most comfortable yoke system I have ever come across. And unlike the flat yoke on the Coulee 40, the Bridger 45 has a subtle airflow chamber built into the back padding. It's still not as breezy as the Osprey Exos, but it is certainly a step up from its Coulee cousin. 

Hip Belt on the Bridger 45

The other thing I'm drawn to with the Bridger 45 backpack is the articulated hip belt. It moves with my body on the trail better than any belt I've tried. 

Similar to the Osprey Exos, the Bridger 45 has a detachable lid, but this one is much easier to get on and off (thanks to the use of buckles), and it can also convert to a fanny pack!

The flay-style opening makes the Bridger 45 just as pragmatic as the Coulee 40. The only real difference is the double zipper front opening, rather than the center-zipper approach. 

Front Mesh Pocket

Something that the Bridger and Exos have in common that the Coulee lacks is the front mesh pocket. I have come to really appreciate this and actually wish that the larger Bridger packs also adopted this simple feature. 

Bottom Sleeping Bag Compartment

The Bridger, like the Coulee, has a bottom sleeping bag compartment. But, unlike the Coulee, the Bridger uses a straight zipper (yay!). Curved zippers tend to fail quicker over time, and a straight zipper is just easier to use. 

User Friendly

Though the Bridger 45 is by far the heaviest and most expensive backpack out of these 3 contenders, it is also the most comfortable and user-friendly. For me, those two aspects trump everything else. And so…drum roll please…this backpack is my own personal champion. 

I hope this battle royale of the overnight backpacks gave you some insight into which of these three overnight backpacks will work best for you. The only other thing to consider is your existing gear. Because these are all sub-50-liter bags, you will have to be intentional about how you pack, and avoid overly bulky items. 

If you want to compare with other similar-size trekking bags, check out another backpack review, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60.

The post Osprey Exos 48 vs Bridger 45 vs Coulee 40 Backpack Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Set the Scene

First things first, set the scene for getting onto the plane. When we’re traveling, we as adults understand that it’s going to be stressful. You’re slightly out of control, you’re on someone else’s schedule, and you can’t control what the lines will look like. There really are a lot of unknowns. 

We recommend that the second you enter the airport, set your expectations, as it really helps the kids understand. Tell them it's going to be wild and crazy, and explain that things will be more hard and challenging. Also, remember to remind them that it’s okay if things don’t go as you planned because it's not necessarily in your control.

For us, when we fly with our kids, we like to tell them, “All right guys, let’s go see what we’re getting into,” and kind of set the scene for the feel of the day. At the end of the day, we’re just going along for the ride, and we’re going to do the best we can, but it’s going to take some teamwork, and everyone needs to play their part. 

Pack Spare Outfits

When flying with kids, you should always pack a spare change of clothes. For me, I have my mom bag, which has a change of clothes and some different things in it to make sure that if accidents happen, I have the things I need to help make the flight a little easier. 

For example, when we were potty training my daughter Parker, it was really important for me to have a whole second outfit with us when we were flying. Sometimes having to find a bathroom for your kid is very challenging, and accidents do happen. So, by having a spare change of clothes, it doesn’t matter if they don’t quite make it to the toilet. 

Think about some of the things that are really stressful for you, or the things that you’re worried about happening, and ask yourself the question: What can I do to help alleviate some of that stress? 

Drinks or Bubble Gum During Take Off and Landing

When kids are screaming on planes, a lot of the time it’s because of the pressure in their eardrums. There are two tricks you can do to help alleviate the pressure in your kids' ears. 

Adults do the fake yawn or popping of the jaw to see if we can ease the pressure, but for babies, instead, have a bottle on hand (or try and time breastfeeding for take-off/during descent when the pressure really changes). For my older kids, I would give them something that I knew they’d be really excited to drink. For example, my kids don’t drink a lot of juice, but if I put it in a bottle, they are going to pound it during takeoff and landing. So that's one trick that you can use when flying with kids.

As kids get older and they’re no longer drinking out of a bottle, then chewing bubble gum does the same thing. I always keep bubble gum in my bag and hand it out throughout the flight to prevent the pressure from building up in their ears. 

Have Entertainment on Hand

One other thing I like to bring with me is a surprise toy, magazine, or activity book that the kids weren’t anticipating. You can say to them, “If we get all the way to our seats on the plane and everyone’s behaving, I may have a little surprise for you.” Sometimes, that’s what I do with my kids, and usually, it's something that I know is going to keep them engaged for a while. 

Another way is downloading a learning app on an Ipad if they do have screens. I’ll go ahead and download one without the kids knowing, so when we get onto the plane, I’ll say, “Hey, I downloaded this game for you guys to try,” and it usually ends with them being engaged for hours. 

To recap, some of the things I like to take on the plane with me are:

• Bottles for little ones
• A change of clothes for parents and children
• Bubble gum
• Baby wipes (I can’t say enough about baby wipes in general as they’re great for cleaning up)
• A surprise app
• An activity book
• A toy or something that is going to grab their attention.

Flying With Kids: Conclusion

Traveling can be stressful, and if you’re bringing that stress into the adventure with the kid, then they’re going to absorb it, even if you’re not communicating it to them. Do everything you can when engaging with your kid to make sure that the whole experience is as positive as possible, even if sometimes it means lying to yourself.

Packs:  Cotopaxi Dimi 12L Backpack – Del Día – Kids'

The post The Ultimate Guide to Flying With Kids appeared first on Hazeadventure.