Entries by Frugal Backpacker

Why Are We Drawn to Nature?

This is a question that has been at the center of many conversations for me over the last eight years. I was never overtly drawn to being outdoors until I entered college. Having constant structure, deadlines, responsibilities, and never enough sleep, I turned to nature for respite. Being outside reminded me of summer camping trips […]

Backcountry Safety Tips for Anyone with a Mom

When I first told my mother that I wanted to major in Outdoor Leadership, she was scared. My mom did not have very much experience hiking, camping, or otherwise being in the backcountry. She was worried about the inherent risks that come with an outdoor lifestyle. It took some convincing, but eventually my mother came […]

Trail Running at Paris Mountain State Park

Looking to get in a convenient trail run/hike? Frugal Greenville staffer, Johnnie’s go-to trail might just be your new favorite. Established in 1935 as the main water supply for Greenville, Paris Mountain State Park is a trail staple for the morning warrior. It offers great scenery and miles of trails, but is close enough to […]

9 V-Day Gifts Under $25

Looking to snag a perfect gift for your sweetie that won’t break the bank? We’ve curated a collection of our favorite gifts under $25. 1- Don’t Die Out There Playing Cards – $7.95 These clever playing cards feature survival tips on each card. It’s a great gift for couples who love bonding over game night […]

Favorite Hikes: Rattlesnake Lodge

This one is for all the local history buffs out there! This hike takes you past the ruins of Rattlesnake lodge, built in 1904 as a summer retreat for Dr. Chase P. Ambler and his family. Dr. Ambler was an avid forest conservationist and is regarded by many as the father of the Great Smoky Mountains […]

A Quick Guide to Water Purification

Take it from someone who has contracted a water-born infection before. Water purification is something you never want to skimp on. After dealing with Giardia from ingesting improperly “purified” water, I always take water purification seriously. There are several methods of purifying water. Here are four of the safest ways (when used properly). 1) Filters There […]

6 Tips for Winter Hiking

Fewer crowds and bare trees make winter hikes unbeatable for solitude and sweeping views. Be prepared to get the most out of winter adventures with these 6 tips. Check the Weather Before any hike you should check the weather, but this is even more important when winter hiking. You’ll want to check not only the […]

Favorite Hikes: Rainbow Falls

Looking for a hike that’s short enough to do in an afternoon, but challenging enough to keep the crowds at bay? You might want to give Frugal Backpacker Greenville Staffer, Marie’s favorite hike a try – Rainbow Falls. Located in Jones Gap State Park, these stunning falls and offer plenty of space to spread out […]

Gifts for the Weekend Warrior

When Fisher isn’t studying or helping customers at our Asheville store, you’ll find him out in the woods or on top of a mountain, relishing all of Western North Carolina’s opportunities for outdoor recreation. As an avid backpacker on a student budget, he digs gear that’s functional and built to last, but still offers great […]

Frugal Finds for Snowpocalypse Survival

Unless you’re living under a rock, you’ve probably heard that it’s supposed to snow this weekend – a lot. The right clothing is the difference between making snow day memories and enduring a grumpy day of being wet and cold. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back with quality cold weather gear at prices so frugal […]