Hiking & Backpacking Site
	Megan Kopp BellaOnline's Hiking & Backpacking Editor

5 Christmas Gifts Under $25
Christmas gift ideas for the hiker/backpacker on your list.

Are Plastic Water Bottles Safe?
The debate about potential health hazards associated with bisphenol-A (a chemical used in making polycarbonate plastic like that used in some water bottles) continues. Check out this article for updated facts.

Are Water Bottles Safe? - Take Two
News on the bisphenol-A / polycarbonate plastic front as a major Canadian retailer pulls Nalgene water bottles from its shelves.

Backcountry Ovens
Steaming hot biscuits, cheesy pesto pizza, chewy chocolate brownies -- stop salivating and find out more about the ease of baking in the backcountry with an Outback Oven.

Hiking Gear for Women
These days companies entire product divisions are dedicated to cutting women’s stuff from a whole new cloth, not just downsized from gear designed for men. And it’s often the little, thoughtful details that equal big comfort for women in the great outdoors.

Hiking Poles
Slip-sliding away -- used to be a common refrain before I learned about the joys of hiking with a good pole.

How to Buy a Backpack
It can make or break your trip – make sure you take the time to ask the right questions before you buy a backpack.

Sleeping Pads for the Backpacker
Sleep is often elusive for backpackers -- what with pointy sticks and stones sucking the heat from the core of your body. Finding the right sleeping pad is critical.

SPOT to the Rescue
Out of cell range, no satellite phone in hand -- how can you send a message for help (or let family and friends know that you're okay)? SPOT's at your side, ready to help.

Stocking Stuffer Ideas
Making a list, and checking it twice -- I'm making sure you have the perfect stuffers for those hiking socks!

Zip-off Hiking Pants
Multi-function gear helps reduce your packload when hiking or backpacking, which is why convertible pants are a popular choice of clothing for many hikers.