Outdoor Travel Resources
These are my go-to websites and brands for when I’m trip prepping for my outdoor trips!
As a blogger & creator I’ve also linked my favorite resources for my business at the bottom as well in case you are interested in learning about the tools I use to make this website a reality!
Backcountry Emily contains affiliate links and I may receive compensation – at no extra cost to you! See my Privacy Policy for more information.
My Free Resources
Ultralight Gear List & Fill-in Spreadsheet
Access my personal ultralight gear list – with backpacking clothing and gear I’ve tested over hundreds and thousands of miles of thru-hiking and backpacking around the world!
Includes the exact weights of each item, direct links, and even your own fillable pre-organized spreadsheet to add in your own gear!
I respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.
Yosemite Reservations Guide
Get this month-by-month breakdown to learn when you need to make reservations for visiting Yosemite National Park.
Includes information about all the different kinds of permits and reservations: peak-hours, backpacking, camping, lodging, and Half Dome!
I respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.
Backpacking & Hiking Resources
AllTrails Plus
AllTrails is where I go first to research and find hiking trails near me – around the world! Use “backcountryemily30” for 30% off!
Outdoor Status
Set trackers for the most popular sold-out backpacking permits in North America & be instantly notified via text message when there’s an opening.
GaiaGPS
The best digital topographic maps. Easily plan routes on your computer and smartphone, upload GPX files, and get the most detailed map layers.
FarOut Guides
The best thru-hiking trail guides. I’ve used FarOut for the PCT, JMT, and CT and don’t know how I would have survived the trails without it!
Backcountry Foodie
Instead of paying $15/ backpacking meal, learn to make ultralight, delicious, calorie-dense & bear canister friendly backpacking meals in your own kitchen.
Reserve Nature
Set trackers and be notified via phone call or text for campground cancellations across North America & New Zealand.
Outdoor Gear
REI Co-op
As a former REI employee, I can honestly say this is one of the best places in the USA to shop for outdoor gear and to be a member. 1 year returns, brands with amazing warranties, and high quality gear to last multiple seasons outside.
Gossamer Gear
I’ve been using Gossamer Gear as my main backpacking packs and tents since 2019. I own 6 packs and 3 shelters. You could say I’m obsessed. They love innovating in Ultralight gear, but also keeping prices reasonable.
Garage Grown Gear
GGG is the best place to shop for small cottage brands – whether you need a full ultralight kit or you’re looking for super niche UL accessories.
Enlightened Equipment
I own 2 EE sleeping quilts – one of them went the full Pacific Crest Trail! They’re high quality and I also love their clothing line as well – they have custom made-to-order options and stock gear!
SKIDA
SKIDA makes some of my favorite outdoor clothing accessories. I love fun prints to inject color & personality outside – and these perform so well! I have their alpine hat, balaclava, bandana, Viska pant – and even a couple dog bandanas!
Sierra Stick
More small brand love – Sierra Stick is simple – skin balm for outdoor lovers. I have a tube in my backpack, purse, and nightstand. Not only do I bring this on hikes, but it’s my daily lip balm – and I’ve never had a lip sunburn since I started using it! Use code “backcountryemily” for 30% off your purchase!
Creator Resources
Kit
Create the email newsletter of your dreams! I’ve been so happy using Kit to build my mailing list with sequences, automations, and the Creator Network – it’s so easy!
Rockporch
This is one of the best and easiest to use affiliate programs for outdoor and travel creators! Easily earn income from hundreds of vendors like REI, Hipcamp, LL Bean, and even Walmart!
Profitable Part-Time Blogger
I can’t recommend the PPTB program enough. Nina’s lessons and audits are invaluable – this course should be twice as expensive as it is. I’ve seen my traffic (and income) more than double since joining and implementing her advice!
Stay22
This is the best affiliate program for sharing hotels from around the world with your audience! Stay22’s unique link tracking and AI optimization maximizes your bookings and earnings.
TravelPayouts
Travelpayouts is connected to so many travel affiliate programs. Joining this lets you share links and earn from eSIMS, Rental Cars, VPNs, busses, hotels, and more!
BigScoots
Bigscoots has been such an amazing web host. Their 24/7 support for their shared hosting plans is amazing and so helpful (I’ve used it multiple times). And if you need more personalized help, their managed plans are fully featured as well!