Campfire’s Out — Now What? How to have a cozy, screen-free night under the stars (no flames required) We get it — there’s nothing like gathering around a campfire. The crackle, the glow, the marshmallow math of just one more. But with wildfire risk climbing and campfire bans in effect across many public lands, it’s time for a new kind of nighttime magic. The good news? There are plenty of ways to stay warm, connected, and enchanted after dark — without lighting a single match. Why the Ban? Before we get into the fun stuff, a quick reality check: fire bans are about protecting land, wildlife, and people. Hotter, drier seasons are turning campfires into serious risks, even in places that didn’t used to worry about it. Most fire bans apply to wood and charcoal fires, but may also restrict things like tiki torches, fireworks, or even some stoves — especially during red flag conditions. Always check with the local ranger district or site manager before you head out. The best source? The National Interagency Fire Center  or your nearest BLM or Forest Service office. Okay, PSA over. Now let’s get to the fire-free fun. 1. Bring the Glow, Not the Flame Who needs firelight when you’ve got string lights, headlamps, and solar lanterns? Bonus points for: •Color-changing LEDs to set the mood •Rechargeable “flame” candles for ambiance •Reusable glow sticks for kids or kids-at-heart (yes, reusable ones are available now) Pack a cozy blanket and a warm drink, and suddenly you’re not missing that campfire at all. 2. Game On Board games and card decks were made for nights like this. Some trail-tested classics: •UNO or Exploding Kittens (easy to play by headlamp) •Hive Pocket – an insect-themed strategy game that’s small and waterproof •Story Cubes – spark imaginative campfire-style storytelling without the actual fire Want something even more analog? Try a round of “Would You Rather,” 20 Questions, or classic ghost stories — made spookier by the surrounding dark. 3. Sky’s the Limit Without firelight competing for your attention, the stars take center stage. •Download a free stargazing app like SkyView or Star Walk 2 before you lose service. •Learn to spot constellations, satellites, or meteor showers (check the International Meteor Organization  for dates). •If you’ve got binoculars, turn them skyward — you’ll be amazed at what you can see. Some of the best public lands for stargazing? Great Basin National Park, Big Bend, and certified International Dark Sky Parks . 4. Camp Kitchen After Dark Just because there’s no fire doesn’t mean you can’t get a little culinary. Try: •A no-burn s’mores bar with marshmallow fluff or chocolate-dipped graham crackers •Camp cocktails or mocktails — pre-batched and poured into enamel mugs •Nighttime snacks like popcorn (popped beforehand), trail mix, or hot cocoa made on a safe camp stove Fair warning: night raccoons may be invited if you leave snacks unattended. 5. Cozy Up for a Wind-Down Ritual Make bedtime part of the fun: •Bring a book or e-reader with a warm backlight •Journal or sketch with a red-light headlamp (easier on your eyes and your tentmate’s) •Try a short meditation or breathwork session before you hit the sleeping bag For extra warmth, fill a hot water bottle using your stove and tuck it at the foot of your sleeping bag. Old-school, but it works. Fire-Free Is the Future We’re not saying you have to love fire bans. But adapting to them is part of being a good outdoor citizen. The upside? You get to try new ways of connecting with the wild — and maybe even sleep better without all that smoke in your hair.

The Mosquito Agenda A bite-sized guide to surviving bug season without losing your mind (or your ethics) Camping is great. Hiking is great. Mosquitoes? Not so much. Every year, as temperatures rise and trails thaw out, we find ourselves asking the same question: Do mosquitoes even serve a purpose? Spoiler alert: they do. But that doesn’t mean we have to invite them to dinner — especially when we are the dinner. Welcome to your seasonal guide to mosquito evasion, with tips that work, tactics that don’t, and a little love for the (surprisingly important) insect world we love to hate. Why Do Mosquitoes Even Exist? Let’s get the existential dread out of the way. Mosquitoes are pollinators. Yes, really. While the females feed on blood to reproduce, both male and female mosquitoes drink nectar from plants and help with pollination, especially in wetlands. They also play a key role in the food chain — feeding bats, birds, frogs, and dragonflies. So no, we can’t just delete them from the ecosystem. But we can make ourselves less appetizing. The Anti-Bite Battle Plan Mosquitoes use a combo of scent, heat, and carbon dioxide to find us. The more you move, sweat, or breathe heavy (hello, uphill trail), the more attractive you are. But don’t worry — you don’t have to hike in a full hazmat suit. Try this instead: 1. Clothing is Your First Line of Defense Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing helps. So does treating your clothes with permethrin, a synthetic version of a compound from chrysanthemum flowers. You can buy it pre-treated or spray it on at home (just don’t apply directly to skin). Field tip: Tuck your pants into your socks. Uncool? Maybe. Effective? Definitely. 2. Natural Repellents That Actually Work If you’re wary of DEET (more on that below), here are some natural alternatives that hold up: •Oil of lemon eucalyptus – The CDC-approved MVP of natural repellents. •Catnip oil – Smells better than it sounds and performs surprisingly well in studies. •Lavender and tea tree oil – Mildly effective but great for post-bite soothing. Make sure any essential oil-based repellent is properly diluted, and do a patch test to avoid skin irritation. 3. Smoke Out the Swarm Campfires (where allowed!) and herbs like sage or rosemary tossed into the flames can deter mosquitoes. You can also hang out downwind for bonus protection. If fires are banned where you’re headed, pack a thermocell — a heat-activated device that repels bugs in a small radius without spraying anything on your skin. 4. Stay Dry and Scent-Neutral Avoid scented lotions and body washes. Some mosquitoes are drawn to floral or fruity smells — and your sweaty deodorant might be a dinner bell, not a deterrent. Bonus:  choose a scent-free sunscreen to keep your skin bite-free and sunburn-free. What About DEET? DEET has a mixed rep. It’s super effective — even in areas with disease-carrying mosquitoes — but can feel greasy, smell strong, and may irritate sensitive skin. If you’re in a low-risk area and want to keep your impact (and chemical load) light, natural options can work well. But if you’re in swampy, high-bug zones or traveling internationally, don’t feel guilty about bringing out the DEET. Use it responsibly, wash it off at night, and avoid spraying directly into water sources. Love Bugs (From a Distance) Yes, mosquitoes are annoying. But they’re part of a much bigger ecological picture. So while we swat and swipe and lather up in repellent, let’s also remember: healthy insect populations are essential to healthy ecosystems. If you’re looking for ways to protect biodiversity while protecting yourself, consider supporting public lands that preserve wetland habitats — like Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge in Georgia or Horicon Marsh in Wisconsin. These places support both mosquito predators and pollinators alike. Plus, they’re pretty amazing to visit (just bring bug spray). Final Buzz Don’t let bugs cancel your outdoor plans. With the right layers, scents, and strategies, you can enjoy mosquito season without becoming a buffet. Want more smart tips for wilder weekends? Sign up for our newsletter and we’ll send you seasonal field notes — no spam, no swarms, just good stuff.

Not So Easy Being Green: Why Simple Sustainability Hacks Are Hard to Master We all know the drill—bring your reusable totes to the grocery store, skip the plastic straw, eat more plant-based meals, turn off the water while you brush your teeth. These are the poster children of easy environmentalism. So why do they feel so hard to turn into habits? The Paradox of Simple Sustainability Part of the problem is that these actions are so simple they’re easy to forget. We’ve all stood in the checkout line, watching our groceries pile up, only to realize our carefully chosen reusable bags are still in the trunk. Or we’re at a restaurant, sipping from a plastic straw we meant to avoid. Why We Struggle with Easy Wins for Earth These micro-habits slip through the cracks because they don’t trigger the same urgency as bigger environmental efforts like reducing fossil fuel consumption or cutting food waste. But small habits can add up fast—especially when you consider that a plastic bag or straw can last hundreds of years in a landfill. Making Simple Habits Stick 1. Make Them Automatic Reusable Bags:  Keep them in your passenger seat, your purse, or even attach a foldable one to your keychain. Skip Straws:  Set an alert on your phone that pops up whenever you arrive at a restaurant. Save Water: Stick a reminder on your bathroom mirror to turn off the tap while brushing. Eat More Plants: Plan at least one plant-based meal a week. Batch-cook veggie soups or try meatless Mondays. 2. Set Reminders That Matter  Use location-based alerts on your phone for store trips.  Put a sticky note on your dashboard that says “Bags?” 3. Make It Rewarding Keep a mental tally or even a note on your phone of how many plastic items you’ve avoided. Treat yourself to a new plant-based recipe each week when you stick to your habits. Why These Tiny Changes Matter More Than You May Know Although they may seem small, these habits can have a significant impact. If everyone skipped a plastic straw just once a week, billions of straws could be kept out of the oceans each year. Plant-based meals have a much smaller carbon footprint than meat, making them a powerful choice for the planet. Change doesn’t always have to be revolutionary—it can be a series of tiny, conscious decisions that add up.  And when those decisions become habits, they become a part of who you are.

When It Rains, You Store: The Case for Harvesting Rainwater at Home Rainwater harvesting isn’t just for off-grid cabins or arid regions—it’s an eco-friendly practice that can benefit anyone, anywhere. Whether you’re collecting rain in a backyard barrel or witnessing massive rain-harvesting systems in action across the globe, the advantages are clear. What Is Rainwater Harvesting? Rainwater harvesting is the practice of capturing, storing, and using rainwater that falls on your property. This can be as simple as setting up a rain barrel under a downspout or as complex as a whole-house system with underground storage. Why Harvest Rainwater? 1. Save Water (and Money) Collecting rainwater means you’re less dependent on municipal water supplies. This can lower your water bill, especially during summer months when gardens and lawns need more water. 2. Reduce Stormwater Runoff Harvesting rainwater prevents excess water from running off into storm drains, which can cause erosion, flooding, and pollution of local waterways. 3. Support Plant Health Rainwater is naturally soft and free of the chemicals (like chlorine) that are often found in municipal water. This makes it ideal for watering gardens and landscaping. 4. Increase Your Resilience In times of drought or water restrictions, having your own stored rainwater can be a lifesaver for your garden and even some household needs. How Rainwater Harvesting Impacts the World 1. Water Scarcity Relief In regions where clean water is scarce, rainwater harvesting is a critical survival tool. Communities around the world, from India’s desert villages to Australia’s dry plains, use rainwater to maintain drinking water supplies. 2. Improved Agriculture Small-scale farmers use rainwater harvesting to ensure crops survive dry spells, boosting food security. 3. Reduced Pressure on Infrastructure Rainwater harvesting reduces the demand on public water systems, thereby lessening the risk of overuse, especially in rapidly growing cities. How to Start Harvesting Rainwater Start Simple:  A basic rain barrel setup is affordable and easy to maintain. Stay Safe:   En sure your system is protected against mosquitoes, and use rainwater only for safe purposes (such as watering plants) unless it has been properly filtered. Go Bigger if You’re Ready:  If you love it, consider a larger, more sophisticated system. Rainwater harvesting is a win-win—good for you, good for the planet. If you’re ready to make a difference without much effort, it’s time to start capturing those rainy days.

The Poisoning of Michigan, Forever Chemicals, and My Own Story Several years ago, I was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease. Nothing life-threatening, but very difficult to manage and enough to make me start asking questions. I followed the breadcrumbs back, tracing possible causes, and what I found was unsettling: I had likely been exposed to forever chemicals (PFAS) from what is now known as “The Poisoning of Michigan.” Field Trip Founder, Kayt For those unfamiliar, this disaster began in 1973 when polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs)—a flame retardant—were accidentally mixed into livestock feed and distributed to farms across Michigan. The result? Hundreds of thousands of Michiganders consumed contaminated meat, milk, and eggs, unknowingly ingesting toxins that would remain in their bodies for decades. The poisoning wasn’t just a one-time event—it had lasting consequences, with studies showing long-term health impacts on people who were exposed. I was born in 1976, during the height of the contamination, and I was breastfed. Unfortunately, PBBs and PFAS chemicals accumulate in fat and breast milk, meaning breastfed infants often receive a higher dose than their parents. The very thing that was meant to nourish and protect me may have also been one of my earliest exposures to toxic chemicals. The Lingering Health Effects of PFAS Exposure Forever chemicals—named because they do not break down easily in the environment or the human body—have been linked to a staggering number of health concerns, including: Hormone disruption Immune system suppression Liver and kidney damage Increased cholesterol Thyroid disorders Certain cancers (kidney, testicular, etc.) Fertility issues and pregnancy complications At first, I didn’t connect the dots between my own health struggles and my past exposure. Things clicked when I learned about PFAS contamination and had some eye-opening test results, and I started researching. Getting Tested for PFAS Exposure If you suspect you’ve been exposed to PFAS chemicals—whether through contaminated water, food, or past environmental disasters—you can get tested. Here’s what you need to know: Blood Testing: There are blood tests that measure PFAS levels, but not all doctors are familiar with them. The CDC and certain specialized labs can check for PFAS in the bloodstream. Urine Testing: Some studies have suggested that PFAS may also be detected in urine, but blood tests remain the standard. Medical Monitoring: If you test positive for high levels of PFAS, you may qualify for medical monitoring programs that track your health over time. Insurance Considerations: Not all insurance companies cover PFAS testing, so it’s worth checking costs ahead of time. Now, I’m so much more aware of how easy it is to be unknowingly exposed. And the truth is, forever chemicals are everywhere. They’re in our water, our food, our furniture, even our rain jackets. But that doesn’t mean we’re powerless. How to Reduce Your Exposure to Forever Chemicals Here’s what I do to limit my exposure—and what you can do, too: 1. Filter Your Water Reverse osmosis filters and some activated carbon filters (like certain Brita and ZeroWater models) can remove PFAS. Standard filters don’t cut it. Check the Environmental Working Group’s PFAS water contamination map  to see if your local water supply is affected. 2. Avoid Non-Stick Cookware Skip Teflon and other non-stick pans. Instead, use cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic cookware. If you have non-stick pans, never overheat them—this releases toxic fumes. 3. Watch Out for Stain-Resistant and Water-Repellent Products Forever chemicals are in stain-resistant furniture, carpets, and clothing. Avoid water-repellent outdoor gear unless it specifically states PFAS-free. Check makeup and skincare labels for PTFE, “fluoro,” or “perfluoro” ingredients—these are PFAS in disguise. 4. Be Careful with Takeout Containers Grease-resistant fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, and pizza boxes often contain PFAS. Opt for food that isn’t wrapped in waxy or coated paper. Pop your own popcorn instead of buying microwaveable bags. 5. Choose Safer Cleaning Products Avoid “antibacterial” or grease-resistant wipes—many contain PFAS. Use vinegar, baking soda, and castile soap for cleaning instead. 6. Be Selective About Fish and Meat Fish from contaminated lakes and rivers can be high in PFAS. Check local fish advisories before eating what you catch. Certain organ meats (like liver) can accumulate PFAS at higher levels than muscle meats. 7. Demand Change Support PFAS bans in food packaging and firefighting foam (a major source of water contamination). Vote for officials who prioritize environmental protections. Contact brands and ask if they use PFAS in their products. Many are switching to PFAS-free alternatives, but many need consumer pressure to make the change faster. What You Can Do to Help Rid the World of Forever Chemicals Push for Regulations – Many states are working to phase out PFAS, but we need stricter national regulations. Call your representatives. Clean Up Local Waterways – PFAS aren’t just in drinking water—they’re in rivers, lakes, and soil. Join local clean-up efforts to reduce contamination. Support Companies That Go PFAS-Free – From Patagonia to Beautycounter, more brands are eliminating forever chemicals. Vote with your wallet. Educate Others – Most people don’t even know about PFAS. Share what you learn! The Bottom Line I can’t go back and change the fact that I was exposed to forever chemicals as an infant. But I can limit my exposure now and help others do the same. The more we know, the better choices we can make. If you’ve never thought about forever chemicals before, now is the time. Filter your water, check your cookware, avoid stain-resistant and non-stick coatings, and start paying attention to what’s in the products you buy. And if you’re concerned about past exposure, talk to a doctor about getting tested. Forever chemicals don’t have to define our future, but we have to take action now.

Our 1% for the Planet Pledge: Why Giving Back Isn’t Optional Anymore Field Trip’s 1% for the Planet pledge is tied to the ways this little adventure is starting to grow — brand partnerships, sponsorships, and now our merch shop too. Our Field Trip merch is hosted on Bonfire, and we choose their eco-friendly options whenever we add items to the shop. That matters to us. If we’re going to put more stuff out into the world, we want it to be done with as much thought as possible. No random plastic junk. No “buy this because a logo exists.” Just useful, wearable things that feel like Field Trip and line up with what we actually care about. And if Field Trip earns money by talking about the outdoors, celebrating the outdoors, and encouraging people to spend more time outside, then Field Trip needs to give something back to the outdoors. That should not be complicated. That is what joining 1% for the Planet means to us It puts a stake in the ground. As Field Trip grows, a piece of that growth goes toward organizations doing real work for our planet — protecting habitat, restoring damaged places, supporting cleaner air and water, planting trees, fighting wildfires. This is not a shiny badge to slap on the website and call it good. It is a starting line. It is one way of saying Field Trip is not here just to make the outdoors look good in photos. We are here to help people care about it, spend time in it, learn from it, laugh a little along the way, and protect it. So when you read an article, share a post, open the newsletter, buy something from the Field Trip shop, or support one of our brand partners, you are helping build something bigger than a website. You are helping turn this into real-world support for the places, people, and wild things that make the outdoors worth fighting for. We are just getting started.

Cabin Comfort, Wild Soul: A Spring Stay at Spacious Skies Bear Den Sponsored by Spacious Skies, a brand we genuinely love and trust. I’m usually a tent camper—zippered doors, crinkly sleeping pads, waking up with dew on my boots.  So when my husband and I (along with our Bark Ranger, Beans) booked a cabin at Spacious Skies Bear Den , I was half-expecting to feel a little… distant from the outdoors. I was wrong. Our cabin at Bear Den Even tucked into four walls and a real bed, this place feels like it breathes with the forest. Maybe it’s the way the cabins back up into Pisgah National Forest. Maybe it’s the birdsong at dawn or the smell of pine smoke on the breeze. But I’ve never felt so deeply connected to nature while still being able to plug in a coffee maker. Beans Approved Spacious Skies Bear Den is incredibly pet-friendly. Beans earned her unofficial Bark Ranger badge roaming the shaded trails and lounging on the cabin porch like she owned the place. We weren’t the only ones with furry campers, either—there’s something comforting about knowing your dog is just as welcome as you are. Bark Ranger Beans Spring in Bloom We timed our visit with the Spring Bloom Trail —a seasonal event across Spacious Skies campgrounds, celebrating native flora and pollinators. At Bear Den, early wildflowers pushed through the leaf litter, painting the forest floor in soft bursts of color. It was the kind of gentle, intentional celebration that reminds you how much is happening at ground level. Signs of the Storm Even as spring wakes the mountains surrounding Bear Den, the scars from Hurricane Helene are still visible. Uprooted trees, downed limbs, erosion—reminders of how fast the landscape can change. But there’s resilience in the forest. The trails have been cleared, the campground thrives, and the forest is rebuilding itself leaf by leaf. There’s something humbling about standing in a place where destruction and renewal share the same space. The Heart of the Campground Bear Den isn’t just beautiful—it’s kind. I don’t mean the views (though they are stunning), I mean the people. The staff were some of the friendliest folks we’ve met on the road—quick with a recommendation, always up for a chat, and clearly proud of this patch of mountain. From the camp store stocked with s’mores essentials to the impeccably clean cabins, you get the sense that everything is run with care. Rooted in Inclusion One of the reasons I admire Spacious Skies as a campground family is their genuine commitment to inclusion. They’re not just welcoming to everyone—they’re actively working to create safer, more joyful outdoor spaces through partnerships with organizations like LGBT+ Outdoors , Black Folks Camp Too , and others that are expanding access to nature for communities who’ve historically been excluded. It’s not performative—it’s intentional, and it shows. From representation in their media to the feel on the ground, there’s a sense that everyone belongs here. And even tucked into our cabin, we didn’t miss out on the magic.  We were steps from trails that wind through the woods, enjoyed a fishing lake that glows gold in the evening light, and our balcony overlooked a creek that provided the best kind of white noise for sleeping that exists. If you’re looking for a place where spring feels like a welcome back, where even the cabins let you feel rooted, and where your dog is considered part of the family—Spacious Skies Bear Den should be on your list. We are looking forward to visiting other Spacious Skies locations after such an enjoyable stay at Bear Den. This content is sponsored by Spacious Skies. Field Trip always tests products and venues before recommending them to our readers. We genuinely love and trust the brands you find featured on our platform.

A Sky Worth Saving: Why We Need to Protect the Night You know what I didn’t expect to miss when I moved from a rural town in Maine to an even more rural place in South Carolina? The stars. I thought they’d be a given. But because we are situated in more of a neighborhood community, the glow of porch lights, driveway lights, and in-home lighting dulls the night sky until it’s more gray haze than twinkling canopy. And once you notice it, you can’t unsee it. This week marks International Dark Sky Week, a global celebration of natural night—and a call to action to protect it.  Because darkness isn’t just about aesthetics or stargazing. It’s essential to wildlife, sleep, science, and our cultural connection to the cosmos. We’ve already lost so much of the night to light pollution. But there are real, simple things we can do to reverse that trend. So here’s how I’m showing up this week (and beyond)—and how you can too: I Audited Our Home Lighting DarkSky.org has a guide to outdoor lighting that is DarkSky Approved . It helps you identify the kind of outdoor lights that are friendly to the night sky. I found a few upgrades I’ll be making this spring. I Signed the Pledge The Protect the Night Pledge  is a simple commitment to reduce light pollution in your own life and speak up in your community. The more of us who sign, the stronger the signal we send. I’m Talking to My Community Whether it’s submitting a local proclamation or just chatting with neighbors, awareness is a powerful tool. I’ve started mentioning light pollution when people ask about my native plant and pollinator projects—because many nocturnal species rely on dark skies too. If Field Trip stands for anything, it’s that everyday people—not just policymakers or scientists—can protect wild places in big and small ways. The night sky is one of those places. So this week (and beyond), I’m dimming the lights. Looking up. And remembering that some of the most magical moments happen after dark. If you want to join me, check out the International Dark Sky Week website  and find an action that speaks to you. Because the night deserves better than a constant buzz of LEDs and floodlights. Let’s keep the stars in our skies—and the night wild, quiet, and full of wonder.

No Smoke, All Stoke: The BREEO Y Series and the Art of a Clean Burn Sponsored by, BREEO, a brand we genuinely love and trust. We love a good campfire. Stargazing, s’mores, long chats with friends—it’s the soul of any campsite. But nothing kills the vibe faster than a faceful of smoke and a wardrobe that smells like Eau de Burnt Log. That’s where smart fire-building and a few choice tools (hello, Breeo Y Series ) come in. Whether you’re at a national forest campground or lighting up on your backyard deck, here’s how to enjoy a clean burn and actually see the stars through it. BREEO Y Series Fire Pit Step One: Build It Like You Mean It Before we get into fire pits, let’s talk technique. A smokeless fire starts with the right setup: Dry wood only.  This seems obvious, but it’s the #1 culprit of smoky fires. Stick with seasoned hardwoods—oak, hickory, maple—and skip anything damp or resinous. Airflow is everything.  Stack your wood in a teepee or log cabin formation to let oxygen move freely. A good rule? If it looks like a game of Jenga, you’re on the right track. Start small.  Use kindling and natural fire starters (like wax-coated pine shavings or crumpled paper). Get a good blaze going before adding larger logs. Why Breeo’s Y Series Is the Smoke-Free MVP You can follow all the rules and still get smoke-bombed—unless your gear is working with you, not against you. The Breeo Y Series Fire Pit is built to do exactly that. Here’s what makes it different: True portability.  Lightweight with a built-in handle and foldable legs, this pit goes from your patio to a dispersed campsite in the middle of nowhere without breaking your back. Burns hot, not smoky.  Breeo’s double-wall design pulls in air from below, superheats it, and pushes it out over the fire—reigniting smoke particles before they escape. Translation: your marshmallow isn’t marinated in ash. Deck-safe design.  A built-in heat shield means you can set it up on composite decking without fear of melting your outdoor investment. (Just extend the legs to full height. Easy.) Fuel flexibility. Wood, charcoal, or pellets—whatever you’ve got, it’s game. Great for folks who camp in places with fire restrictions or want to switch to pellet mode on a whim. No complicated setup. No need for purchasing a bunch of extras just to get a great fire. Just click the legs open, drop in your firewood, and then enjoy. Keeping the Fire Burning—Without the Fog A smokeless fire isn’t set-it-and-forget-it. Here’s how to keep it that way: Feed it gradually. Tossing a giant log on a small flame drops the temp and spikes the smoke. Add smaller pieces as needed. Mind the ashes. Too much buildup blocks airflow. Scoop it out regularly (once it’s cool!) to keep things running smoothly. Use a lid. Breeo sells a Y Series Lid that helps keep your pit clean and dry between uses—and puts the kibosh on soggy starts. What About the Smell? Not a Breeo owner yet and couldn’t avoid a smoky fire? Happens to the best of us. If you got caught downwind or went old-school with a basic fire ring, here’s how to de-smoke your setup (and yourself): Hair hack: Rinse with apple cider vinegar and cold water, or spritz with dry shampoo if you’re still off-grid. Clothing cure: Hang gear outside overnight. For a deeper clean, soak smoky clothes in baking soda and warm water before washing. Fabric spray fallback:  A quick hit of diluted vodka (yep, really) helps neutralize lingering odors. Just spray lightly and let it air dry. Trust me, you won’t smell like a distillery. And remember what Smokey Bear says: “Only YOU can prevent wildfires.” No matter how smokeless your fire pit is, always check local fire restrictions, keep a water source nearby, and never leave a fire unattended. The right technique plus the right tools—especially something like the Breeo Y Series—makes it easy to enjoy the glow without the cough. This content is sponsored by BREEO. Field Trip always tests products before recommending them to our readers. We genuinely love and trust the brands you find featured on our platform. Want more tips like these for making the most of your weekends and your wild places?  Sign up for the Field Trip newsletter  and we’ll drop them straight into your inbox—no smoke signals required.

12 Numbers to Know Before Your First Camping Trip This Spring Spring’s calling and your gear’s been in hibernation. Whether you’re dusting off your tent for the first time this year or finally making good on that New Year’s resolution to get outside more, a little prep goes a long way. Here’s a checklist—with numbers!—to ensure your first camping trip of the season is more ahhh than ugh. 1 Tent Check Pull it out. Set it up. Make sure the zippers zip, the poles aren’t snapped, and no critters made it into their winter Airbnb. Bonus: airing it out gets rid of that stale gear smell. (Heck, do a dry run and camp in your backyard for a night or two.) 2 Nights Minimum Give yourself at least two nights out—especially if it’s your first trip of the year. The first night is for shaking off the rust. The second is when the chill really sets in (in the best way). 3 Forecasts to Watch Check the weather from three sources: NOAA, a weather app, and the local ranger station. Spring is moody. Be ready for sun, wind, and maybe even snow flurries. 4 Campsite Essentials You don’t need everything—just the right things. Make sure you’ve packed these four campsite MVPs: • Headlamp or flashlight (fully charged or with fresh batteries) • Comfy camp chair • Fire setup or stove • Simple sustenance: camp snacks and a water jug or filter 5 Miles (or Less) to Hike Don’t overdo it. Early-season trails can be muddy, snowy, or washed out. Pick an easy hike nearby, and remember: it’s not about bagging peaks; it’s about stretching your legs. 6 Feet of Rope Yep, this multi-use camper’s best friend can be a makeshift clothesline, emergency guy line, or bear bag hanger. Throw a length of paracord in your kit—you’ll always find a use for it, trust us. 7 Principles of Leave No Trace Refresh Brush up on your Leave No Trace  skills. Spring campsites are especially vulnerable after winter—tread lightly, even if it’s just a quick weekend trip. 8 Degrees Can Make or Break You Temps can swing heavily between day and night this time of year. As little as 8 degrees can make the difference between comfort and misery. Pack layers. Yes, even if the forecast says 70 and sunny. 9 Days Out to Book Spring weekends fill up fast, especially in popular public lands like Yosemite, Great Smoky Mountains, and Shenandoah. Reserve your campsite at least 9 days ahead—longer if it’s a holiday. 10 Campfire Rules to Know Before you light a match, check for fire restrictions. Spring is wildfire season in many areas. Use this checklist  from Reserve America to enjoy campfires responsibly and safely. 11 Backups Worth Keeping in the Car You don’t need to bring the whole garage—but a few extra stashes can turn a mishap into a minor hiccup. Keep a tote or duffel in the car with these just-in-case heroes: • Extra snacks (trail mix, bars, something salty) • Blanket • Backup batteries and chargers • Rain poncho • Small first aid kit • Dry socks and a warm cap • Tarp or groundsheet • Paper map (yes, really) • Multi-tool • Camp towel • Headlamp Peace of mind packs light. 12 Hours of Daylight (Give or Take) Use it well. Wake up with the sun, stretch into golden hour, and enjoy how good everything tastes when you eat it outside. Spring camping isn’t just a trip—it’s a reset.

Native Plants Are Trending—Because They’re Easy, Not Fussy—And Just Might Save The Planet You know when you start looking at buying a car, and you settle on a few models you are interested in, and suddenly you start noticing those vehicle models everywhere ? I recently enrolled in the Native Plant Studies Certificate Program through the South Carolina Native Plant Society, the SC Botanical Garden, and Clemson University. And suddenly, it seemed to me that everyone was talking about native plants. Except, I don’t think it’s just me. My neighbor mentioned that she was headed to a plant sale because the vendor specializes in native plants. A podcast I listen to (having nothing to do with gardening) brought up native plants. At the grocery store, I heard, “I’m replacing a whole patch of my lawn with natives.” I crack open the April edition of Better Homes & Gardens Magazine  and see an article featuring Benjamin Vogt, native plant educator, author, and founder of Prairie Up . Then, a friend texted me because her book club was buzzing about planting native plants, and she thought, “Wait…should I be doing this too?” My short answer was yes. My long answer: native plants aren’t just a buzzword—we are hearing more about them because they are a simple, beautiful, low-maintenance way to support pollinators, birds, biodiversity, and climate resilience. And you don’t need a landscape design degree or a full yard makeover to get started. In fact, as a formerly self-proclaimed black thumb, I can confidently say that native plants were the first plants I ever managed to keep alive—and thriving. Because the secret isn’t trying harder. It’s planting smarter. Native Plants 101: What’s All the Fuss? Native plants are species that have evolved in your region alongside your local climate, soil, and wildlife. That means: They don’t need constant watering or chemical fertilizers They support native pollinators (like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds) They attract birds and beneficial insects They typically thrive with less fuss—and actually prefer it when you chill out and let them be a little wild Unlike common landscaping plants you’ll find at the big box stores, many of which are non-native or even invasive, native plants play a critical role in creating functioning ecosystems. According to Pollinator Partnership , roughly one in every three bites of food we eat exists because of pollinators. And pollinators depend on native plants. Why You’re Hearing About Native Plants More Lately Sure, native plants are “having a moment,” and April is Native Plant Month, but it’s not just hype. Here’s why the movement is growing: Climate consciousness. People want ways to make their spaces more resilient and regenerative. Lawn fatigue. Turf grass takes a lot of water and care—for not a lot of ecological benefit. Aesthetic shift. That wild, slightly unruly garden look? It’s in. Like really in. Lower maintenance appeal.  Native plants aren’t as needy. Once they’re established, they do their thing with less effort. (My kind of gardening.) From Black Thumb to Backyard Habitat I used to be the kind of person who killed plants on contact. I thought gardening meant fighting weeds, constantly watering, and panicking over every yellowing leaf. It turns out, the issue wasn’t me—it was the plants I was trying to grow. Now, I’m learning how ecosystems work, what plants actually want, and how to create spaces that are both beautiful and beneficial. It’s not because I’m a master gardener—it’s because I finally stopped trying to control everything and let nature do its thing. How to Start Without Overhauling Your Whole Yard You don’t need to be a botanist or bulldoze your lawn. Here’s how to baby-step your way into native plant bliss: 1. Pick a small patch. Start with a neglected bed, a corner that doesn’t get much love, or even a few pots. No need to go full prairie overnight. 2. Know your zone. Use tools like Native Plant Finder  to find plants that actually belong where you live. 3. Remove invasives first. Before you plant anything, get rid of the real troublemakers—think English ivy, Japanese honeysuckle, Bradford pear. They crowd out natives and offer almost no habitat value (even if they can be pretty). 4. Source smart. Look for local native plant nurseries or native plant sales through your state’s native plant society or botanical garden. Skip the generic garden center unless you know exactly what you’re buying. 5. Let it be wild. Native gardens aren’t supposed to look like golf courses. That seed head? Bird food. That bare patch? A native bee nesting site. That general chaos? A thriving microhabitat. Native Plants Just Make Sense They save water. They cut down on maintenance. They support wildlife. And they’re beautiful in a way that feels like home—not like a landscaping catalog. Why Native Plants Just Might Save the Planet Okay, bold claim—but not baseless. Native plants are climate champions hiding in plain sight. Because they’re adapted to local conditions, they don’t guzzle water or need synthetic fertilizers, both of which take serious energy to produce and distribute. Their deep root systems help prevent erosion, filter stormwater, and even sequester carbon in the soil. And when planted at scale—think urban greenways, roadside verges, and rewilded yards—they help create habitat corridors that reconnect fragmented ecosystems. It’s not just about having a prettier yard. It’s about shifting how we live with the land. One milkweed or goldenrod at a time. If you’re ready to start your own wild corner of the world, there’s no better time than now. It’s Native Plant Month, after all.

All Treat, No Plastic: Easter Baskets That Don’t Trash the Planet Easter’s got a lot going for it—sunny spring vibes, an excuse to eat chocolate for breakfast, and of course, the classic Easter basket. But if you’ve ever peeled back a layer of crinkly plastic grass or tried to unwrap a candy that’s double-bagged in plastic, you know the holiday can be a sneaky single-use offender. This year, skip the landfill-bound fluff and build a basket that’s big on charm, low on waste. Here’s how to create a plastic-free Easter basket that’s sweet, sustainable, and still totally festive. 1. Start With a Basket That Lasts Skip the dollar store specials wrapped in shrink wrap and go for something reusable. Woven baskets from thrift stores, canvas tote bags or backpacks, or small wooden crates. They’re actually useful long after the last jelly bean is gone. Bonus: get creative with something your kids already need. Think: a backpack for visits to grandma’s (goodies hidden in all the pockets), an umbrella for spring rain opened up and filled with fun, a reusable lunchbox  for camp. 2. Swap Plastic Grass for Natural Nests That neon green plastic “grass” might look cheerful, but it’s a microplastic nightmare. There are some compostable options on the market now, but these often come in plastic bags and still are just waste. Instead, try: Shredded paper from your recycling bin Fabric scraps Raffia, dried moss, or hay (especially cute for woodland-themed baskets) A colorful tea towel or bandana that can double as a gift Tip: If you’re outdoorsy, grab some pine needles, leaves, or wild grasses—just be sure to avoid anything invasive or protected on public lands. 3. Choose Treats Without the Trash Many Easter candies are wrapped in plastic or come in plastic-stuffed packaging. Instead, opt for: Bulk bin chocolates or foil-wrapped goodies (foil is recyclable in many areas—just ball it up!) DIY treats like homemade cookies, fudge, or chocolate bark wrapped in wax paper or beeswax wraps Glass jar goodies like trail mix, honey spoons, or dried fruit Or lean into seasonal fun with nature-themed goodies like seed bombs or mini potted herbs. 4. Rethink the Filler Gifts Instead of plastic toys or cheap trinkets, think longer-lasting and low-impact. If it will likely end up in the donation bin or trash, put it back on the shelf. Reach instead for: • Nature-themed books or field guides • Small gardening tools or packets of pollinator-friendly seeds • Sidewalk chalk in cardboard boxes • Upcycled or handmade crafts • A pass to a nearby national park, trail, or botanical garden Local tip:  Many local libraries host springtime craft or egg-hunt events—great for kids and totally free. Greening Up Easter Going plastic-free this Easter doesn’t mean skimping on fun—it just means getting creative and intentional.