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The Energy Vampire in Your House (It’s Not Just the Ghost of That Broken Blender) Welcome to your haunted house! If you’ve ever looked at your energy bill and thought, “Wait, why is it so high?”—you might be hosting a whole coven of invisible energy vampires. No garlic or stakes required here, just a little know-how. It’s called phantom power, or standby power, and it’s what appliances and electronics suck up even when they’re “off.” The average U.S. household leaks about $100–$200 a year to phantom energy. Let’s track down the ghouls and kick ‘em out. What the Heck Is Phantom Power? Imagine a ghost slowly siphoning your wallet every time your TV sits idle, your printer sleeps, or your game console waits for you to return from your hike. Phantom power is the small but steady flow of electricity used by devices that are turned “off” but still plugged in. Think chargers (even when nothing’s charging), microwaves with digital clocks, speakers, smart TVs, and the espresso machine you only use on Sundays. This stuff adds up, especially in the fall and winter when shorter days = more indoor time = more electronics humming quietly in the background. The Usual Advice (And Why It’s Not Enough) Yes, yes, we’ve all heard it: “Just unplug things when you’re not using them.” But if you’ve ever tried to unplug your entertainment center one cord at a time, only to realize your TV rebooted and signed you out of everything—you know that advice is not very useful. So instead of treating every appliance like it’s possessed, try these smarter, less annoying tricks. Field Tip: Stake Your Claim with Smart Power Solutions 1. Smart Power Strips = Vampire Slayers They cut power to devices that go into standby mode. Some are even motion-activated (if no one’s in the room, it shuts stuff down) or scheduled to power off at night. Look for: Smart power strips with individual outlet control and app access. Bonus points if they track energy usage. 2. Name and Shame with an Energy Monitor Plug an energy monitor into your wall outlet, then plug your device into that. It’ll show you exactly how much electricity that gadget’s gulping when you think it’s off. Suddenly that innocent coffee maker seems a little… sinister. 3. Haunt Your Own House (Virtually) Some electric utility companies now offer home energy audits (sometimes free!) through smart meters or apps that tell you what’s running, when, and how much it costs you. It’s like ghost-hunting for your electric bill. Check with your provider or click HERE. www.energy.gov/energysaver/home-energy-audits 4. Use Scenes & Routines If you have smart plugs or a smart home setup, create a “Night Mode” or “Out of House” scene. That way, everything that doesn’t need to run while you’re out powers down automatically. It’s kind of like casting a protective spell. But with Alexa. 5. Charge Smarter, Not Longer That phone charger? It’s sipping power all night. Same with your laptop or e-bike battery. Use outlet timers to cut off power after a couple of hours. Or better yet, charge during the day, then unplug. No need for your charger to have a nightlife. Phantom Power by the Numbers • $19 billion: What Americans spend each year on wasted standby power • 5–10%: Of your home’s total electricity use = phantom power • 25 devices: The average number of phantom-sucking gadgets in a U.S. home And it’s growing. Because everything these days has a chip, a clock, or a “standby” light. Even your toothbrush might be haunting your electric bill. Scare the Ghosts, Save Some Green Controlling phantom power isn’t about unplugging everything and living like it’s 1875. It’s about knowing where the energy leaks are and cutting them off at the source. Plus, the benefits go beyond your wallet: • Lower energy = lower emissions • Longer lifespan for electronics • Less clutter and fire risk from tangled cords While the rest of the neighborhood is packing away the Halloween decor, go ahead and exorcise the real ghosts.

Trail Mail: What’s the Deal with Crows? Real questions. Field-tested answers. Got something on your mind? Ask away — your friendly Camp Counselor is in. Dear Field Trip, My friend says she ‘talks to crows’ and that they’re some of the smartest creatures on the planet. I find them kind of creepy — especially when they gather in those giant flocks. Are they smart, or spooky… or both? —Crow-Curious Camp Counselor Says: Short answer? Crows are spooky and  smart. Long answer? They might be one of the most fascinating, misunderstood animals you’ll ever meet. Let’s break it down. Brainy Birds Crows (along with ravens, magpies, and jays) are part of the corvid family — a group of birds known for their sky-high IQs. And we’re not talking “smart for a bird.” We’re talking tool-using, face-recognizing, memory-storing  genius. Some fun facts to feed your curiosity: They recognize human faces.  Not kidding. Crows can remember people who’ve treated them well (or badly) and even pass that info on to other crows. They use tools.  Need to dig out a grub or grab food from a tight spot? A crow will break off a stick or bend a wire to get the job done. They hold grudges.  Once you’re on their bad side… you’re really  on their bad side. They mourn their dead.  Scientists have observed crows gathering silently around deceased flockmates — a behavior that looks a lot like mourning (or at least data collection: “Hey,Carl touched the power line and died. Avoid that spot."). So yes, your friend who "talks to crows" might be onto something — these birds are incredibly  aware and capable of social learning. If a crow brings her a shiny button or dead mouse, that’s a legit sign of respect. So Why Do They Feel So Creepy? Blame the vibes — and Hollywood. Crows are pitch black, vocal, and often gather in large groups (called murders, no less — which doesn’t help their PR). Their calls can sound like harsh (witchy) cackles, and their presence near roadkill or cemeteries has long been tied to death in folklore. However, crows aren’t omens — they’re opportunists. Scavenging is a smart survival strategy, not a sinister plot. Those eerie-looking gatherings in trees around dusk? That’s called a communal roost — and it’s basically crow happy hour. They meet up to exchange info, stay safe overnight, and catch up on the day’s events. (Okay, that last one is speculative. But they do communicate a lot .) Field Tip: Want to Befriend a Crow? Start by observing quietly. Offer the same food at the same time each day (unsalted peanuts in the shell are a classic). Be consistent, respectful, and calm — and don’t try to touch or tame them. You’re building mutual respect , not a petting zoo. With time, they might bring you tiny gifts (sticks, bottle caps, bits of shiny stuff) or just start hanging out nearby more often. You may even earn a few caws of approval. Final Verdict: Spooky? A Little. Smart? Absolutely. And like so many misunderstood creatures, crows just need us to understand them and care for them and their habitat.

National Parks in a Shutdown: What You Need to Know Before You Go When the government shuts down, national parks get caught in the crossfire. And if you’ve ever been excitedly packing for a trip only to realize, “Wait, what’s actually going to be open?”—welcome to my current life. My husband and I are road-tripping to Yellowstone this week, and yes, the gates are staying partially open. But here’s the catch: the skeleton crew holding things together can’t do it all, and that’s where things get messy—literally. Why Parks Stay “Partially Open” During shutdowns, the Department of the Interior has a choice: close parks completely (which is what used to happen), or keep them partially open to avoid the bad optics of turning visitors away. Lately, the trend has been to leave them open—but with almost no staff on duty. Translation? Bathrooms aren’t cleaned, trash cans overflow, trail maintenance stops, and the rangers you do see are likely working without pay. In the last big shutdown (2018–2019), places like Joshua Tree saw real damage: people driving off-road where they shouldn’t, cutting down protected trees, and leaving behind piles of garbage that took months to clean up. And it wasn’t just Joshua Tree. According to the National Parks Conservation Association, that shutdown left scars across the system: prehistoric petroglyphs were vandalized at Big Bend, illegal off-roading tore up fragile desert habitat in Death Valley, and waste piled so high in Sequoia and Kings Canyon that the parks had to shut their gates mid-shutdown. Six years later, the reminder still stings. Should Parks Close Completely? Honestly, yes. As much as I want to hike Yellowstone’s geyser basins, I know that keeping parks open without proper staff is a recipe for abuse. But here we are: the gates are unlocked, people are coming in, and the wild places we love are vulnerable. So if we’re going, we need to be the kind of visitors who lighten the load instead of adding to it. Planning a Park Visit During a Shutdown If you’ve got a trip on the books, here’s how to do it responsibly: Do Your Homework Check the official park website ( www.nps.gov ) before you leave. Most parks post what’s open and what’s not. In Yellowstone, for example, visitor centers and many restrooms are closed, but roads and trails may still be accessible. Expect “Roughing It” Conditions No trash pickup, no flush toilets, no ranger talks. Bring your own toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and plenty of water. If the idea of overflowing pit toilets freaks you out—well, consider it part of your rugged adventure prep. Pack Trash Bags (and Use Them) Bring extras for your group and even for strangers. Nothing feels worse than walking past a mountain of Doritos bags and beer cans at a scenic overlook. A few minutes of cleanup goes a long way. And remember: Leave No Trace and “Pack it in, Pack it out” aren’t just cute slogans — they’re baseline outdoor ethics. They matter every time you head outside, but during a shutdown, they’re absolutely critical. With no staff hauling trash, the responsibility falls squarely on us. Respect Wildlife and Trails With fewer or no rangers around, enforcement is light. That doesn’t mean the rules don’t matter. Stay on trails, keep your distance from wildlife, and resist the urge to “just hop over there for a better photo.” This is classic Leave No Trace territory: travel and camp on durable surfaces, respect wildlife, and be considerate of others. Think of it as a checklist for being the kind of park visitor who helps protect the experience for everyone else. Be Kind to Staff If you do run into rangers or maintenance workers, remember: they’re likely not getting paid right now. A simple “thank you” and a request for how you can best assist goes a long way. Why This All Matters National parks aren’t just “nice to have”—they’re part of our national identity. They deserve better than being treated like pawns in political fights. Whether you agree with me that full closures are the safer route or not, we can all agree that these places are worth protecting. And until the government gets its act together, the responsibility falls a little more on us. So if you’re heading out during this shutdown—whether it’s Yellowstone, Yosemite, or your local historic site—pack a little extra patience, a lot of respect, trash bags, and maybe some bathroom cleaning supplies. The parks need us at our best right now.

Trail Mail: What’s the Deal with Spiders? Real questions. Field-tested answers. Dear Field Trip, I know people keep saying spiders are ‘good,’ but I can’t stop screaming when I see one in the bathroom. How do I know which ones are actually helpful and which ones I should worry about? —Totally Freaked Out Camp Counselor Says: First off, let’s be real: spiders are basically eight-legged jump scares. But here’s the twist — most of them are on your side. Out of the thousands of species in North America, only a couple deserve real caution. The rest? They’re just freeloading pest control. Here’s the quick breakdown (deep breaths): 1. The Free Pest Control Squad Orb weavers, wolf spiders, and jumping spiders are like tiny horror-movie extras that secretly moonlight as exterminators. They eat mosquitoes, flies, even ticks. Creepy AND helpful. 2. The Shy Housemates House spiders don’t want your bed. They want your basement. Their hobbies include hanging out in corners, catching gnats, and scaring the daylights out of you at 2 a.m. 3. The Garden Guardians Garden and crab spiders are basically plant security. They lurk in flowers or spin elaborate webs to ambush pests. Your tomatoes owe them rent. 4. The Villains of the Story Okay, here’s where the shivers are legit: • Black widow = shiny black, red hourglass, absolute goth queen of the spider world. • Brown recluse = violin mark on the back, prefers dark corners and boxes you haven’t opened since 2003. 5. Bite Drama (or Lack Thereof) Most “spider bites” aren’t even from spiders. True bites are rare, and usually happen because someone squished or cornered the spider. Translation: they’re not chasing you. 6. Eviction Kit Don’t want them inside? Grab a cup + postcard. Boom: you’ve humanely relocated your new eight-legged tenant… and maybe impressed whoever witnessed you not totally lose it. The Big Picture Spiders = nightmare fuel for some of us, sure. But they’re also nature’s pest squad, quietly saving you from a mosquito apocalypse. Next time you see one, maybe say “thanks” before you freak out and grab a cup. Psst… Have a burning question? We’re all ears.

Sustainable Halloween: Fun Without the Scary Waste Confession: I used to grab Halloween costumes last-minute from those pop-up stores that smell like plastic and desperation. The result? Pricey outfits worn once, then shoved in the back of the closet. Sound familiar? Here’s the trick (and treat): skip the throwaway costumes and get creative with secondhand, DIY, and swaps. You’ll save money, cut down on waste, and still have all the fun (maybe more). The Scary Truth About Costumes Halloween is a blast, but it comes with a dark side: • 83% of Halloween costumes are made from oil-based plastics (hello, polyester). • Most are worn once — maybe twice — before ending up as waste. • Big-box costumes often cost more than a tank of gas and fall apart fast. The good news? You’ve got way better options. Thrift Like a Pro Thrift shops are basically Halloween treasure chests. Dig around and you’ll find: • Vintage dresses that double as witch or vampire attire. • Oddball pieces to build a costume around. • Accessories with untapped potential. Field Tip:  Check the kid’s toy aisle for plastic swords, capes, or old dress-up items that can be upcycled into grown-up costumes. DIY from What You Already Own (But Weirder) Sure, you can be a tourist or a black cat. But what about… • Moth-attracted-to-light: All gray or brown clothes + pin paper moth wings on yourself + carry a flashlight. • Ceiling fan: Sport workout gear and a sign that says “Go Ceilings!” (boom, punny). • Compost pile: Stick leaves, veggie scraps (paper cutouts), and brown paper “dirt” to your clothes. • 404 Error Costume Not Found: Plain white tee with “404 Costume Not Found” written on it. Nerd gold. Host a Costume Swap If you’ve got kids (or just a closet bursting with one-off costumes), swaps are a lifesaver. Here’s the game plan: • Pick a spot: Garage, community center, or backyard. • Spread the word: Friends, neighbors, parent groups. • Add flair: Serve hot cider, play spooky tunes, and let kids strut a mini-runway of secondhand glory. Build a Costume from Anything Some of the best costumes come from everyday stuff: • Cardboard box + silver spray paint = robot. • Broken umbrella + streamers = jellyfish. • Old bridesmaid dress = zombie prom queen. • Leaf blower backpack + khakis = DIY Ghostbuster. If you can hot-glue it, you can wear it. Treats Without the Trash Here’s where things get sticky (literally): single-serve candy. Those crinkly, non-recyclable wrappers? They’re scarier than any haunted house. Instead, try these swaps: • Bulk bin goodies: Buy chocolates, pretzels, or gummies in bulk and portion them into small compostable paper bags. • Homemade treats: Popcorn balls, pumpkin bread bites, or candied apples — festive and waste-free. Non-edible surprises: Seed packets, pencils, friendship bracelets, or temporary tattoos. Plastic-free brands: Look for companies like Alter Eco (compostable wrappers) or Tony’s Chocolonely (paper packaging). • Apple orchard hack: Hand out mini apples — it’s thematic, healthy, and way more charming than a fun-size Milky Way. The Real Treat Sustainable Halloween costumes and treats don’t suck the fun out of the holiday — they actually add to it. You get to be clever, save money, and skip the plastic guilt. So whether you thrift it, DIY it, swap it, or hand out pumpkin-spice popcorn in little paper bags, you’ll end up with a Halloween that’s memorable, not disposable.

From Garden Beds to Bulk Bins: How to Cut Your Grocery Bill in Half Every time I leave the grocery store, I feel like I just got pickpocketed by the produce aisle. Lettuce for four bucks? A sad little bundle of herbs for six? Don’t even get me started on the sticker shock for organic berries. But here’s the thing: there are clever, community-minded, and seriously money-saving ways to eat well without selling your soul (or your paycheck) to the checkout line. Some are as old-school as planting potatoes, others are as modern as splitting a Costco run with your neighbor. Together, they’ll trim your grocery bill, cut down on packaging waste, and maybe even make eating feel fun again. Grow Your Own (No Green Thumb Required) The OG grocery hack is right outside your window. You don’t need a full-blown homestead — a sunny windowsill or balcony works wonders. • Lettuce & greens: $3 seed packet = weeks of salads. Snip and let it regrow. • Herbs: Basil, mint, cilantro, parsley. They regrow endlessly and you’ll feel like a culinary wizard. • Tomatoes & peppers: Even one plant will give you salsa bragging rights. • Potatoes: Plant sprouting spuds, harvest a whole bag later. Lazy-gardener gold. Field Tip:  Regrow green onions from kitchen scraps in a jar of water. That celery or lettuce stub you cut off? Plant it and watch as it grows again. Infinite greens, zero dollars. Go in on Bulk Together Here’s a radical thought: you don’t actually need 20 pounds of rice. But you do need the savings from buying it that way. Enter: the bulk buddy system. • Split memberships: Warehouse stores like Costco or Sam’s can be pricey to join solo. Team up with a neighbor or friend and share the card. • Divide the haul:  Buy bulk pantry staples (rice, beans, oats, coffee) and divvy them up into jars or cloth bags. •  Save space:  Not everyone has a basement to stash 50 cans of tomatoes. Splitting means you get the savings without the clutter. Meal Co-Ops: Dinner by Committee Cooking in community is an underrated life hack. Imagine: you cook one big meal, your friend cooks one, your sister cooks one — boom, you’ve got three nights of dinner handled with a third of the work. •  Family meal swap:  Rotate who cooks on certain nights. • Freezer club: Each person batch-cooks something freezer-friendly (soup, chili, casseroles), then you swap portions. • Neighborhood potluck 2.0:  Instead of everyone bringing a dish, everyone brings ingredients for one recipe, and you prep them together. It’s cheaper, faster, and more fun than staring at your stove alone. Hunt for Hidden Deals (Outside the Store) Not all food savings happen in a fluorescent-lit supermarket. • Farm stands & CSAs: Community-supported agriculture boxes often give you a whole week’s worth of local produce for less than a single cart of “organic” groceries. • Ugly produce apps:  Companies like Misfits Market or Imperfect Foods sell the odd-looking (but totally edible) veggies that stores reject. Cheaper and less wasteful. • Community gleaning groups:  Some towns organize harvest days where volunteers pick fruit from unharvested trees or fields — free food, plus you keep it from rotting. The Real Win None of these hacks are about deprivation — they’re about abundance. More meals, more flavor, more time, more community. Whether you’re clipping homegrown basil, splitting bulk oats with your neighbor, or pulling a frozen lasagna out of your sister’s meal co-op stash, the payoff is the same: a lighter grocery bill and a heavier sense of connection. And honestly? That tastes better than any $4 head of lettuce.

The Squirrel Did What Now? A Love Letter to the Misunderstood Mascots of Urban Nature Squirrels once vanished from cities—then we brought them back to “remind” us of nature. Here’s why we should never forget them again. My husband calls them freeloaders. I call them fuzzy little urban legends. We’ve got a running feud in our backyard over the bird feeders—which, in my opinion, double perfectly well as squirrel feeders. He once installed a camera birdhouse. Guess who moved in? Squirrels. Guess who was delighted? (Me.) Have you seen baby squirrels? So cute! Squirrels have long been the chaos gremlins of suburban lore—pillagers of seed, chewers of wires, hoarders of who-knows-what in the attic. But what if I told you they were once purposefully reintroduced to New York City… not as pests, but as heroes? Yup. Let’s talk about how squirrels went from urban outlaws to moral educators, why they’ve always been low-key rewilding champions, and what their story says about how we design spaces for both humans and nature. From Eradicated to Entertaining: A Very Squirrelly History By the 1840s, industrialization had done a number on city wildlife. Forests were cleared, green spaces shrank, and the eastern gray squirrel? Pretty much gone from U.S. cities. But in a twist that feels almost poetic, city planners in the mid-1800s decided to bring them back—not for science, but for the vibes. In parks from Philly to Boston to New York’s just-built Central Park, squirrels were reintroduced as gentle reminders of a world beyond soot and smokestacks. Reformers thought seeing wildlife could boost moral character. Children were encouraged to feed them. People wrote letters to newspapers about how charming they were. Imagine that. (And, trust me, they really are charming.) Nature as a Moral Compass The reintroduction of squirrels into urban parks was not merely for aesthetic pleasure. Reformers believed that exposure to nature had moral and educational benefits. Observing and feeding squirrels was viewed as a wholesome activity that could instill virtues such as kindness and responsibility in both children and adults. This perspective was rooted in the belief that nature could serve as a counterbalance to the moral pitfalls of urban life. However, this idealistic view faced challenges. As the squirrel population grew, concerns arose about their impact on park vegetation and the potential for human-wildlife conflicts. Despite these issues, squirrels remained a fixture in urban parks, symbolizing a successful integration of nature into city life. Other Creatures, Same Story Squirrels weren’t the only animals reintroduced to urban settings to reconnect people with nature. In 1864, New York’s Central Park saw the introduction of Java sparrows, house sparrows, chaffinches, and blackbirds. These efforts aimed to enrich the urban environment and remind city dwellers of the natural world. Rethinking Urban Wildlife While squirrels were once reintroduced to “remind us of nature,” they now remind us of something else: how easily we forget to plan with  nature instead of against it. Instead of building cities and then wedging in green space, what if we designed with shared habitats in mind from the start? Modern rewilding projects—like green roofs, pollinator corridors, and wildlife crossings—echo the same idea. Make space for the wild things. They’ll show up. Unsung Heroes of the Forest (and the Suburbs) Yes, squirrels eat your birdseed. They also: •Accidentally reforest entire areas by forgetting where they buried nuts. •Aerate soil and boost forest health through their digging habits. •Support urban ecosystems as prey for raptors and scavengers. (Sorry squirrels.) •Teach your kids (and you) how to sit still and observe. They’re scrappy little engineers, foragers, and survivors. And they’re not villains—they’re just really good at being squirrels. Confession: I’m a Squirrel Sympathizer I’ll admit it. I root for the underdog. Especially the kind with twitchy tails and no sense of personal space. Are squirrels chaotic? Sure. But they’re also a reminder that the line between “wild” and “urban” is more flexible than we think. If you are a regular reader, you likely know that I have been adventuring in squirrel rehabilitation. It has taught me a lot about these sweet creatures who have their own personalities and the squirrelly behaviors that benefit the wider world. We reintroduced squirrels once to bring nature back into our daily lives. The real question is: what else are we willing to make room for before it’s too late? Never Again Should Be Now Reintroduction is a last resort. It’s a way of saying: we messed up, but we’re trying. Squirrels remind us that it’s possible to come back from the brink—but wouldn’t it be better not to hit the brink in the first place? So, next time a squirrel tightrope-walks your power line or thwarts your best anti-squirrel feeder, maybe—just maybe—you should offer a silent thanks. They’ve been through a lot, they’re still here, and they are largely responsible for some of the magical places we love most.

Free Squirrel Guide: Nutty Neighbors and Why They Matter Those fuzzy-tailed daredevils leaping tree to tree? They’re not just after your birdseed. Squirrels are unsung heroes of the forest canopy—seed planters, truffle spreaders, and all-around ecosystem engineers. Every acorn they forget to dig up is a future tree, which means entire forests are built on squirrel scatter-brain. And yet, squirrels get stuck with the “nuisance” label. Too often, they’re chased, trapped, or misunderstood. That’s why we put together the Nutty Neighbors Squirrel Guide—a free, printable resource that’ll help you see your backyard acrobats in a whole new light. Click HERE  to access our free Squirrel Guide. Why Squirrels Matter Squirrels aren’t freeloaders on the bird feeder—they’re keystone players in healthy forests. Here’s why: • Forest makers: By burying thousands of nuts and forgetting some, squirrels accidentally plant entire oak and hickory groves. • Food web connectors: They’re both predator (insects, fungi, seeds) and prey (for hawks, owls, foxes). • Soil helpers: By spreading underground fungi like truffles, they boost tree health from the roots up. Squirrels in Trouble Of course, it’s not all fun and games. Habitat loss, cars, and plain old bad PR mean squirrels are often fighting an uphill battle. Humane coexistence—like sealing attics properly, planting native trees, and providing safe outdoor spaces—goes a long way toward keeping them thriving where they belong. Fun Squirrel Facts You’ll Find in the Guide • They can rotate their ankles 180 degrees to climb down trees headfirst. • Some ground squirrels roll in rattlesnake skin for DIY camouflage. • Chipmunks? Yep, technically part of the squirrel family. • And peanuts? Not real nuts, and not great squirrel food either. Our Nutty Neighbors Squirrel Guide is packed with squirrel myths, feeder peace-keeping tips, and wild stories from around the globe (rainbow-colored giant squirrels in India, anyone?). Download Our Free Field Trip Squirrel Guide. Because every time you appreciate the squirrels in your backyard, you’re rooting for healthier forests, sharper ecosystems, and maybe even a little more laughter when they outsmart your “squirrel-proof” feeder.

Nature, Friends, and a Flying Saucer: How Disc Golf Won Our Outdoorsy Hearts Sponsored by brands we genuinely love and trust: Idio Sports, SOLE, and Farm to Feet. The Case for Chucking a Disc Through the Woods (With Purpose) When’s the last time you chased a frisbee through the woods and called it cardio? That’s disc golf in a nutshell—except the discs are purpose-built and the walk is half the fun. We got hooked because disc golf meshes everything we love: free or low-cost access, a “show up and throw” vibe, real-deal time outside, and a community that cheers for your birdie and helps you find your lost midrange. Disc golf’s superpower is how easy it is to get into—and how welcoming it feels once you do. As Jack Tupp writes in The Disc Golf Revolution , the cost to play is low enough that “anyone can afford not just to play, but to play the best,” keeping courses truly mixed and community-forward. You’re not buying into a clubhouse; you’re showing up to a park with people from every walk of life. A Walk in the Woods That Actually Fits Your Life Rounds are typically around 2 hours (often less), which means you can sneak in nine after work or loop the full course on a Saturday and still make the farmer’s market. And because most courses are free—or cheaper than a drive-thru lunch—you can bail after a few holes if the weather becomes an issue, start where it’s convenient, and keep it casual. Easy to Learn, A Lifetime to Master You don’t need lessons to enjoy disc golf from your very first day. Most of us bring some built-in “throw a thing” muscle memory, so it’s fun from the jump—then gets delightfully nerdy as you learn angles, wind, and lines. Mastery? That part can take forever in the best way. Field Tip: Start with a putter and a neutral midrange. You’ll learn control faster than if you jump straight to high-speed drivers. Forest Bathing…With a Scorecard We’re big “touch grass” people, and disc golf is basically structured forest bathing. You’re moving, breathing, noticing mushrooms on a stump—and you didn’t need to book anything. Bonus: compared with traditional golf, disc golf courses generally avoid the water- and chemical-heavy maintenance that environmentalists critique. Okay, But What Do I Need? Short answer: not much. A starter disc or two, a water bottle, and decent shoes will carry you far. If you want to spend money anywhere, spend it on your feet. Disc golf is miles of walking plus explosive footwork on concrete or packed-dirt tees. Happy feet = better throws + more fun. For Your Feet: Small Upgrades That Make a Big Difference 1) Socks that actually work on-course We’ve been testing Farm to Feet’s Rock Hill Light Targeted Cushion —a collab inspired by disc golf’s East Coast hub—and it’s a sweet spot: U.S.-sourced merino for moisture + temp regulation, targeted cushioning in high-impact zones, and a seamless toe to help prevent blisters. 2) Insoles for extra comfort (especially if you’re new) If you’re playing in everyday sneakers or older trail shoes, supportive insoles can make a huge difference. SOLE footbeds are heat- and wear-moldable for a custom feel, and they use recycled cork through the brand’s ReCORK program —very Field Trip energy. They’re especially great if you need more arch support or stability for those tee-pad pivots. If you already have disc-golf-specific shoes with solid support, you might not need them—but for beginners or anyone wanting extra comfort, they’re a smart upgrade. 3) Shoes built for disc golf, not just “outdoorsy” We’ve been impressed by the 2025 Syncrasy EVO from Idio Sports : waterproof liner powered by Sympatex, a protective Drag-On toe cap for forehand toe-draggers, a low (6mm) drop for balance, and outsole features designed for bracing and pivoting on tees. Why Right Now? Disc golf’s growth has been wildly organic and community-led for years—tournaments ballooned as the player base exploded, and the grassroots momentum kept rolling. It still feels like the best-kept secret in outdoor rec: friendly, affordable, and everywhere once you start looking.    Ready to Play? Grab a friend, pick a park, and go chase a disc between some trees. Psst—big thanks to Jack Tupp, author of The Disc Golf Revolution , whose writing nails why this game is such an inclusive, time-flexible, low-cost gateway to more outside time.

People Who Give a Damn: Mare Ruland on Pee Cloths, Purpose, and Building Community I’ve been a fan of Kula cloth for a while now. On the surface, it’s a genius piece of gear — a reusable pee cloth that keeps toilet paper waste out of the backcountry. But what hooked me wasn’t just the product; it was the people behind it. From their colorful designs to founder Anastasia’s “The Kula Diaries” emails (seriously, they’re always a bright spot in my inbox), the whole vibe goes far beyond gear. Intention, humor, and genuine care are stitched into every part of the brand. Some people see a problem on the trail and walk past it. Others give a damn — and do something about it. That’s what this new Field Trip series is all about: highlighting the humans putting their creativity, grit, and heart into making the outdoors (and the planet) better. For our first conversation, I talked with Mare Ruland of Kula Cloth , the now-famous reusable pee cloth that’s equal parts practical and joyful. Mare and her sister Anastasia have turned a simple backcountry frustration into a worldwide movement — and then expanded that same energy into Hiker Trash Apothecary , a line of biodegradable soaps that make even rinsing off feel like an act of care. Here’s Mare, in her own words. What exactly is a Kula Cloth for those not familiar? Kula Cloth is a reusable antimicrobial pee cloth designed for anyone who squats to pee outside. It replaces toilet paper in the backcountry, helps reduce waste, and brings a little color and intention to your pack. It’s practical, easy to clean, and rooted in Leave No Trace principles. Kula can also be used for home use, boats, RVs, and especially for travel to places where plumbing is fragile! I always like to say Kula goes wherever you “go.” What inspired the launch of Kula Cloth — and now, Hiker Trash Apothecary? My sister, Anastasia, created Kula Cloth after being frustrated by the amount of toilet paper waste she saw in the backcountry. She wanted something reusable and beautiful that people would be excited to carry. I joined her a year later to help grow the brand because I loved the product and even more so, the community it created. Kula is now a globally recognized brand that sells thousands of Kulas all around the world. Hiker Trash Apothecary grew out of that same energy — a desire to bring joy, care, and sustainability to even the smallest trail routines. The soaps are biodegradable, handmade, and full of personality. What’s been your proudest moment so far with either brand? There have been so many, but it’s the human moments that really stay with me. Just today, someone asked us to send Kulas for her final backpacking trip while living with stage 4 cancer. And not long ago, a customer shared in their order notes that they had just lost their hiking partner in an accident — we sent a special memorial gift, just for them. We read every note that comes in with an order. This work is so much more than gear — it’s connection, care, and being present with people in real moments of their lives. What do you hope people feel when they use a Kula or try your soaps for the first time? I hope they feel seen. These products are made with so much intention, and our goal is for people to feel cared for — not just by the gear, but by the brand and community behind it. How do you balance running a mission-driven business with actually running the business? It’s a dance. Sometimes we’re in logistics mode, sometimes we’re at the post office, and sometimes we’re holding space for someone who shared something personal. We lead with our values, and that helps us stay grounded even when things get busy. What advice would you give to someone trying to reduce waste or shop more consciously in the outdoor space? Start where you are. Bring one reusable item. Mend something instead of replacing it. Support small brands that align with your values. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing … little shifts matter. What’s a non-Kula, non-Hiker Trash project or product you’re excited about right now? I work on the marketing team at Granite Gear, and I’m genuinely obsessed with the Zip Ditty bags. They’re my favorite piece of gear — so simple, versatile, and weirdly joyful to use. I love seeing people fall in love with them too. Complete the sentence: “Giving a damn means…” Caring deeply and showing up for people, the planet, and your purpose. Even (especially) when no one’s keeping score. Anything else you wish more people understood about the work you do? That it’s real. The messages we get, the stories people share, the tears, the laughter — it all matters. We’re not just making and selling gear. We’re building a space where people feel less alone in the outdoors and more connected to themselves and each other… one pee cloth at a time. People Who Give a Damn is a recurring Field Trip series highlighting folks who make a difference for the outdoors and the earth. Know someone we should meet? Drop us a line.

Trail Mail: What’s the Deal with Plastic? Real questions. Field-tested answers. Got something on your mind? Ask away — your friendly Camp Counselor is in. Dear Field Trip, “I’m suddenly seeing a lot of articles on plastic being bad for the Earth. I recycle our plastic, so I’m not sure why it’s any different than glass or metal. Can you explain?” —Trying to Do My Part Camp Counselor Says: Ah, plastic—the material we love to hate, and also… can’t seem to live without. You’re right: glass, metal, and plastic are all technically recyclable. The difference is in how often they actually get recycled and how long they stick around if they don’t. Here’s the quick breakdown: • Glass + Metal = Recycling MVPs. Aluminum cans? They can be melted down and reused pretty much forever without losing quality. Same with glass bottles. In fact, most of the aluminum on shelves today has been through the recycling loop multiple times. • Plastic = The Slacker Cousin. Here’s the rub: even when you toss your yogurt cup or soda bottle in the blue bin, odds are high it won’t get turned into something new. Why? 1. Sorting Reality Check. Glass and aluminum are easy to separate and endlessly reusable. Plastic, on the other hand, comes in tons of different types (those #1–7 numbers on the bottom). Some are recyclable in theory, but many local facilities can’t process them. If they can’t find a buyer for that specific plastic type, it gets trashed. 2. Market Demand. Recycling only “works” if there’s a market for the material. Virgin plastic (made from fossil fuels) is usually cheaper and higher quality than recycled plastic, so manufacturers often skip the recycled stuff. Without buyers, bales of collected plastic get landfilled or incinerated. 3. Downcycling, Not Looping. The plastic that does get recycled often can’t come back as food-grade packaging. Instead, it’s “downcycled” into things like park benches, carpet fibers, or plastic lumber. That buys it one more life, but eventually, it still ends up as waste. So when the EPA says less than 10% of U.S. plastic is recycled, that’s not just people being lazy (though contamination—like tossing greasy Ziplock bags or the wrong plastic in the bin—doesn’t help). It’s mostly that the system itself isn’t built to handle plastic the way it handles glass or metal. The Lifespan Problem Glass shatters, metal rusts, but plastic? It can take hundreds of years to break down, and even then, it just turns into microplastics. Those tiny bits are now showing up in soil, oceans, wildlife, and—yup—our own bodies. So it’s not that you’re wrong to recycle plastic (please keep doing it). It’s just that plastic doesn’t have the same circular life cycle as glass or metal. Best bet? Reduce it where you can, reuse the plastic you do bring home, and recycle as a last step. Psst… Have a burning question? Hit us up at www.ExploreFieldTrip.com .

Secondhand September: Why Your Closet (and the Planet) Will Thank You You’ve probably seen it floating around social media: Secondhand September. It’s not a rulebook or a strict challenge, but more of a collective nudge — a reminder that fast fashion is, well, too fast for the planet, and that the clothes we already have (or can buy used) are more than enough. Here’s why it’s worth jumping in, and why it’s honestly way more fun than hitting “add to cart” on something new. The Fast Fashion Fallout Let’s be real: most of us love the thrill of something new. But fast fashion is designed to make us crave and then toss — leading to: • 92 million tons of textile waste each year (you read that right, tons ). • Factories pumping out greenhouse gases like they’re going out of style. • Workers often paid pennies for long hours in unsafe conditions. Buying secondhand isn’t a perfect solution, but it is one of the easiest ways to step off the fashion hamster wheel. The Joy of the Hunt Secondhand doesn’t mean settling. It means treasure hunting: • Thrift stores with racks of one-of-a-kind finds. • Local buy/sell groups where your neighbor’s “cleaning out the closet” becomes your score. • Swaps with friends that feel more like a party than a shopping trip. There’s something satisfying about knowing nobody else will show up in the exact same jacket. Plus, secondhand often means higher-quality fabrics and timeless cuts you just don’t see at fast fashion prices. How to Join Secondhand September No official sign-up. No complicated rules. Just… shop secondhand this month (and maybe longer). A few ideas: • Check your local thrift store before buying new. • Browse resale apps like Poshmark, Depop, or Vinted. • Host a clothing swap with friends. • Actually wear what’s already in your closet (radical, I know). Field Tip: Think Ahead for Halloween Parents everywhere are already hunting down costumes, and here’s the deal: secondhand is your secret weapon. Skip the big-box store frenzy and: • Grab costumes at thrift shops. • Search resale apps for barely-worn outfits. • Better yet, host a neighborhood costume swap. It’s cheaper, greener, and a whole lot more fun than buying new. Secondhand September is less about going without and more about remembering that enough is already out there. Each time you buy used, swap with a friend, or mend what you’ve got, you’re voting for a slower, saner, and more sustainable way to dress. So go ahead: make thrifting your new seasonal sport. Who knows what gems are waiting?