Did you know that America is in the 2nd position of countries where people travel the most? As studies show, every American gives 6.70 trips on average each year. Of course! You are one of them. Isn’t it?

On trips, solo or with family, some things are necessary to get. Among those, the most essential is the backpack. This thing doesn’t just hold the clothes but many more things. That’s why it comes with so many loops. But to utilize the backpacks properly, you need to know how to use backpack loops.

Don’t worry! You are exactly in the right place to get your answer. So, let’s proceed without any more delay!

What are Backpack Loops

The curvy or bend line or external points that can bear loads of extra stuff securely outside your backpack’s body are the backpack loops. Additionally, loops come in different sizes and multi-compartment designs.

Specifically, the loop’s material is similar to the backpack attachment straps, and mostly they are made of nylon. But, now, plastic material-built loops are available for larger backpacks. However, some backpack loops can carry projectors or any hiking sticks known as tie-out loops.

The uses of the loops are pretty versatile in all kinds of backpacks. Whether you are using an expensive backpack for hiking or a budget-friendly hunting backpack, all have loops.

How to Use Backpack Loops

“Travel far enough, and you meet yourself.”- David Mitchell. For traveling, mainly if you aim for camping or trekking, or even scouting, backpacks are your partner in your journey. Therefore, backpack loops provide extra hands to carry more stuff like sleeping bags or trekking pools.

So, here we have organized this guide to understand how to use the backpack loops.

Understanding the Type Of the Loop

Firstly, you have to understand what backpack loops are. There are many variations available for it. Specifically, some loops are designed to carry light-weighted stuff, and some can take heavy objects like first-aid kits boxes. So, we made this list of different backpack loops, and they are-

• Top lid loops – It stands right after the top lid with quick connect webbing straps. Generally, it carries lighter backpack attachments or objects with the cover from the ground.

• Back loops – There are so many variations in this loop. It remains right on the top of the back of the bag. Specially, you can carry any stuff horizontally and vertically through it. Also, some backpacks hold two or three back loops on them.

• Bottom loops – The loop is positioned right after the end of shoulder straps on the bottom of the backpack. Specifically, there can on one long loop covering the bottom or two small circles on both sides to hold any stuff.

• Side compression loops – Mostly, it is used for compressing the front, also known as a dedicated sleeve. But it can attach light and thin stuff from the front of the bag right after the chain.

• Shoulder strap loops – As the name suggests, the loops on backpack straps are positioned on the shoulder straps with various designs to hold minor stuff often needed in traveling.

• Hip belt loops – It is positioned in the hip area of the backpack with webbing straps, also known as laptop sleeves. Therefore, you can make it worthwhile to secure gear for backpacking trips or outdoor trips.

• Carry loops – This loop stands right at the beginning of shoulder straps. But you can only use it to carry the bag, and you can’t use it for any attachments or gears. It is also known as a closed-loop or trolly sleeve.
• Special loops – Several unique loops are provided by a few backpacks (i.e., climbing backpacks, frameless backpacks) like ice axe loops, daisy chains, mole nylon webbing loops, etc. Among them, daisy chains are getting popular usability as they can hold at least three gears or heavier loads on the front parallelly with individual loops.

Attachment Tools for The loops

After understanding the loops, you have to pick the attachment for the extra gear like camping gear, digital gear, climbing gear, etc. Additionally, many attachment tools are available in the market, such as carabiners, elastic cords, non-elastic cords, female clips, webbing straps, bungee cords, etc. But we will suggest you use carabiners and hooks to hold the heavy tools or stuffs like a sleeping bag as they can carry it both strongly and smoothly.

Decide and Attach

Now, you must think about the stuff you will carry with the loops and attach it with the tools. Therefore, you have to think about the clothing and equipment whether you need more dress than the tools. Then, you should distribute the loops to hold the stuff you will need.

Here, we will provide the guide to use the loops like a pro,

• For frequently used tools, like GPS, Knife, etc., you must use the shoulder strap loops to quick access them without moving the bag.
• For heavy stuff or tools, like foam sleeping pads, tent, etc. you should use the bottom loops in the back as the lower part of the bag has better performance for carrying heavy stuff. In this case you have be careful enough to attach the sleeping bag to backpack.
• For long-sized tools, like trekking poles, tripods, camping poles, etc., the side compressing loops on the front is the perfect loop. Also, you can use the daisy chains to hold it.
• For light-weighted stuff, like water bottle holders, hiking ropes, etc., you can use the hip-belt loops or hip belts and top lid loops as they have multi-purpose uses. Also, you can carry extra clothes or first aid kits on the top lid loop as it covers them pretty well.
• For uniquecause stuff or tools, like ice axe, customized external pouch, add-on pouches, wet cloth or stuff, etc., the unique loops such as mole webbing, ice axe loops can be handy to use.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Backpack Loops

If you go trekking on a sunny day, it will be a joyride for you. But, when all of a sudden storm breaks in your trekking, it becomes a nightmare for you. So, the backpack loops also have some adfvantages and disadvantages. Here, they are,

The Advantages

• You can carry extra clothes and additional equipment for the travel. Also, you can bring wet or dirty items without any worry.
• The loops can carry all sorts of tools and equipment and heavy stuff like a sleeping bag with them. So, you don’t have to bring extra luggage to have this stuff.
• Backpack loops can be helpful for intersection or wet clearing brush on traveling, which can be a gamechanger for you.
• You can stash heavy tools like telescopes, hiking poles, etc., with the backpack loops and carry them easily for sightseeing and camping as accessory pockets.
• The unique loops like daisy chains restrict the stuff like tripods or poles from spinning or moving. So, you can jump or run with your backpack if you attach this stuff with it.
• The loops can be a lifesaver for you to attach any first aid kit boxes with them. Also, you can carry an efficient amount of water and juice with a water bottle holder connecting with it.

The Disadvantages

• You can feel a bit of discomfort if you use all the loops available with the backpack. Also, it will feel noisy when you will carry it for a long time.
• Unusual use of loops can create mess and hamper the shock of weight transfer to carry the backpack and can be a cause of losing bulky items or heavier items attached with it.
• Wrong attachment clip on the loops can hurt your hip bone or shoulder and can make your shoulder ache in day packs and outdoorsy packs.
• The carrying of the oversized items or pointy items on the loops can slow down your travel as you have to be careful about it in every step.

Conclusion

According to Statista, American is estimated to have about $19.8 billion backpack market value in 2025. So, backpacks are now essential items you have to bring whether you are traveling or sightseeing. Also, you can reduce your extra carriage by using the loops with them.

However, from heavier to lightest items you can carry on any trip,following the instructions we have mentioned here in this article on how to use backpacks.

Resource article:

• How to Fix Zipper on Backpack Properly?
• Best Hunting Backpack Under 100
• How To Choose A Hunting Backpack

Are you planning to sail an adventurous hunt? It would be great with your hunting safety gear and your GoPro hunting camera. But do you know what safety precautions you should take when hunting from a boat?

Hunting itself is a hard skill to master. And hunting from a boat makes it harder and eventually riskier. Therefore, I would like to share my experience on the possible risks you may face from boat hunting and what safety precautions you should take when hunting from a boat.

What Are Possible Risks From Boat Hunting

Former reports show numerous death tolls that are related to boating accidents. On Nov 30, 2020, David Lange, a Research expert covering sports & recreation in the UK & Europe, published a statistic on Statista that shows a total of 12,148 deaths related to recreational boating in 18 years, starting from 2002-2019.

The following precautions can help you in reducing the chance for any unexpected:

• Hunting areas abound with wild animals expose you to the risk of being attacked by them.
• Choosing a boat without checking it well is a greater risk, as there can be defects in the boats.
• Using unstable boats like paddle craft and flat-bottom can be pretty dangerous.
• Falling in the cold water may lead to hypothermia. That makes people unable to swim for the sudden involuntary respiration.
• Taking too many people or too much stuff or overloading the boat with anything will increase the capsizing risk.
• You may get boat injuries if you fall overboard while standing up to aim or to shoot or to reach for the prey.

These were some possible risks you need to consider at first. However, not adapting precautionary measures appropriately will multiply the risks. Therefore, you also need to follow some mandatory safety precautions properly.

What Safety Precaution Should You Take When Hunting From A Boat

Well, you already know the possible risks. And now, let’s get into the core part – the safety precautions. From hunting safety gear to personal safety, you have to maintain them all to avoid the risks.

1. Learn Swimming

With no doubt, knowing how to swim is a precondition before you go hunting from a boat. In fact, you do not know what can go wrong there. And you are hunting in the water, so swimming is worth the effort. Besides, PFDs and staying close to the boat will not always be favorable.

2. Consider Taking Boating Lessons

If you do not know how to ride a boat properly, you better take lessons on it. Besides, hunting takes a lot of patience and effort itself to master. On top of that, hunting from a boat needs some learning and practice before going for it. Hence, take a course on it. Besides, you will need a boating education certificate if you do not have one. However, the lesson plans may change according to your boat type and hunting area.

3. Know The Safety Drills

Any emergency can occur as you are hunting from the water. Hence, learn how to give first aid and CPR. Practice swimming while grabbing an unconscious person. In case you are alone and need help, get yourself in the H.E.L.P position.

Know The Local Laws & Keep The Hunting License With You

Acknowledging and maintaining the local laws of your hunting area is a must. Otherwise, you can get into trouble with legal issues. And, of course, keep your validated hunting license in your pocket in case you need it at an instance.

1. File A Float/Rescue Plan

It includes many necessary things like the information about your boat, owner’s address, departure date and time, rescue contact number, and the travel route for safety. So, file a float plan every time with a trusted authority or a reliable person before going for the trip. You can check out a demo of a float plan on the Boat-ed’s website.

2. Plan & Pack Smart

As I mentioned earlier, overloading raises the risk of capsizing. Hence, make a list of essentials like hunting safety gear, food, water, icebox, first aid kit, GPS, flashlight, lighter, two sound-signaling devices, a handheld radio, and a communication device. Besides, if you are going as a team, make sure the baggage is balanced. Last but not least, if you take a hunting dog, ensure that it is well trained.

A quick tip: Pack the things in recyclable plastic bags to keep them dry.

3. Pre-departure Checking

Check if the fuel level is full and store enough oil for the trip. Ensure the bilge is dry and the pump is functioning well. Mostly, recheck if you have required documents like the boating license, hunting license, boat registration, permits, and local charts. Besides, take commonly used spare parts and a well-packed toolbox. Also, check the essentials and keep the first aid kit in an accessible place. Lastly, check if the battery is fully charged and store spare batteries for devices like flashlights and radio.

4. Wear PFD – Personal Flotation Device

Wearing a US Coast Guard or your regional coast guard approved life jacket or PFD is the first and foremost safety measure you need to take for the whole trip. Besides, if you hate the bland orange color, you can choose yours from the various colors and designs they offer. Most importantly, have a spare PFD, even if you are hunting alone.

5. Dress According to The Climate

Check the climate forecast of the hunting area and dress accordingly before going there. Dress warmly as the low temperature of the water can lead to the sudden shock of hypothermia. Consider wearing waterproof clothes if you have any. Besides, wear a pair of quality insulated hunting boots to prevent cold-feet situations.

6. Anchor The Boat Before The Shot

Taking shots without anchoring the boat results in missed shots and even falling in the water. Hence,  making the boat standstill by anchoring the boat first is the safest option. At Least turn off the engine before you take the shot. You can also check out this link here, to avoid top mistakes and tips on anchoring a bay boat.

7. Avoid All Sorts of Intoxication

Of course, any intoxication endangers the normal state of your mind. Hence, you are unable to swim or react real quick if you consume alcohol or drugs. Even in your complete senses, this will rapidly increase the risks when the boat overturns, or you fall at an instance.

Well, these were some basic precautions you must follow strictly.

And as we all know, hunters tend to choose remote regions for hunting at ease. Therefore, following precautions is a must. Last but not least, taking plenty of rest before the trip and being prepared both mentally and physically are mandatory for that adventurous trip.

In case you want to capture those precious moments, let me remind you to take a quality device like a GoPro hunting camera. Wish you good luck with the hunting!

Resource article:

• How to Choose Binoculars for Hunting?
• How to Wash and Dry Hunting Clothes?
• Itasca Hunting Boots Review 

How many times have you gone to close the zipper of your backpack and instead of closing it, it has been opened? Really annoying. Because we spend the whole day ensuring that the zipper is not working. Here, I will present all cases of zipper problems and how to fix zipper on backpack. Let’s dive into it.

There is no doubt that a zipper is very comfortable and fast, much more than buttons. For different reasons, the zipper can get stuck. When it happens in a backpack, we need to fix the zipper soon to access the essentials inside the backpack.

Tools You’ll Need:

You can easily fix a backpack zipper with the following tools.

• Pair of pliers
• A graphite pencil
• Lubricants (petroleum jelly, Vaseline, candle, crayon wax, etc.)

How to Fix Zipper on Backpack?

There are two main reasons behind the stuck zippers: the first is that the puller has come out completely and the second is that it opens only a little. To fix a zipper slider that has come off, you will need to re-insert the sides of the zipper and gently squeeze it. On the contrary, if you want to fix an open cursor, you just have to put it back in place and tighten it a bit.

Method 1: Fix Entire Zipper That Doesn’t Close Properly

Several times, you will have encountered the problem that the zipper does not close properly. When you have placed it, it has been opened at the bottom or in the center. This situation repeatedly occurs in old backpacks. So, get kryptek camo pattern-based Slumberjack Carbine Backpack to avoid the problem. The broken slider of the zipper and the head of this have been worn. They are opening and sufficiently preventing their union.

To fix a zipper that does not close properly, you must first separate each of its parts. Also, lower them completely if needed. In this way, you must try to stretch both parts so that nothing fits between them.

Next, use the pliers that we have previously recommended and tighten the head of the zipper. Make sure that the parts are joining correctly. If they are not fixed, do the process again from the beginning.

Method 2: Zipper Repair That Has Come Off

To fix a zipper whose cursor has come off, you will need to perform a different process. So, first of all, see if it has come out on one side or on both sides. The problem is very common in an Elk Hunting Backpack.

If it is only on one side, you will have to put the head of the zipper back into space where the stop is located and stretch it. If the zipper has been broken on both sides, start by putting the head on the first teeth of the zipper. Then, hold it well so that each tooth corresponds to the other. With all of them in place, use the pliers again and tighten the head well so that it does not come off.

Method 3: Rub With A Pencil

Graphite is a very effective dry lubricant, so you are looking for a traditional pencil that is not mechanical as it would lose effectiveness. Rub the tip of the pencil along the both sides of the zipper teeth. It especially affects the parts where the teeth intersect since this is where jams usually occur.

Try to move the zipper by pulling gently and slowly. The zipper pull should be done without forcing. Once you check that the zipper is working properly again, wash your hands and clean the graphite residue with a piece of absorbent paper.

Method 4: Apply Lubricant

Getting lubricant products like petroleum jelly, crayons, wax candles, olive oil, moisturizer or lip balm are worth it, among others. Apply the chosen lubricant directly to the zipper teeth, making sure that the product does not touch the fabric in case it could damage it.

You can use a cotton swab to better control the lubricant so that it does not slip onto the fabric. Test if the zipper works, and if it doesn’t, re-apply the lubricant. Once it works, wipe the zipper and its surroundings with a cloth soaked in soap and water to remove any debris. If the backpack can be put in the washing machine, do so.

Caring Tips For Backpack Zipper

Follow these instructions to take care of your backpack’s zipper. These caring tips are very simple. See below:

• Close before doing laundry. If they stay open, you run the risk that the teeth will fit badly later.
• Spread the inner side of the closure with candle wax. They will go up or down more quickly.
• Grease the teeth of the poorly fitting zippers with a little petroleum jelly or oil. You will extend its lifetime.
• Avoid ironing the zipper. It will leave marks and your garment will no longer look flawless.
• Tie a ribbon or thread to the closure slider.

Conclusion

Here I have pointed out all methods on how to fix zipper on backpack. With pliers and lubricants, you can fix any backpack zippers quickly. While fixing the zipper, be careful and do every step gently to avoid permanent damage.

If none of the tricks work, perhaps it is that the zipper is not stuck but has broken. In that case, it is best to change it for a new one. Check if the entire zipper pull is broken. In some cases, it will be enough to replace the damaged part and not the whole.

Nowadays, it is usual to orient ourselves and move around daily with the help of a device with GPS. But many doubts arise when we want to choose between going hiking with the support of a GPS device or a Smartphone. Here, I will present smartphone vs GPS for hiking: which one is right for you?

Below I discuss the main factors that we must consider to assess the device that best suits hiking. The features of both GPS and Smartphones are very wide. But all GPS devices and smartphones are equally reliable. After reading the differences, you can decide the right decision for your hiking.

About Smartphone For Hiking

The smartphone has a built-in GPS that helps to navigate hiking. The navigation works through an app like google maps. It requires the internet and shows data using exact locations and satellite signals. A GPS sensor works behind the smartphone.

In hiking, the smartphone looks like a lifeline. During an emergency, you can make calls, ask for assistance and support. Also, the latest smartphones are durable and easy to handle. Real-time navigation of the smartphone’s GPS makes it effective for hikers.

About GPS For Hiking

A GPS device allows you to find your way correctly anywhere, even in areas with no cell phone coverage. The device is resistant to shocks and external elements (rain, dust, etc.). You will get greater precision in the reception of GPS signals.

GPS devices are sending precise coordinates to track the approximate location. They have preloaded clear maps like paper maps and sensors so you can navigate without the internet while hiking. Furthermore, the addition of altimeters and barometers allows you to carry more facilities with you.

Smartphone vs GPS for Hiking- What’s The Difference?

It is becoming more and more accessible to reach any place on the planet. But it is necessary to be equipped appropriately in hiking. Here, I have pointed out the differences between Smartphone and GPS for hiking:

1. Coverage

During hiking, we have all been moving erratically with our mobile phones until we find a point of good coverage. So, we do not cut a call or finish sending a message. However, this unforeseen event is common and can cause us much more than an inconvenience. It keeps us reachable and connected in the hiking areas. GPS Watch For Hunting such as the Garmin Foretrex 401 Waterproof Hiking GPS provides greater precision about your position. In addition, it includes connections to anywhere in the world.

2. Battery Life

The smartphone is practically a small handheld device, but one of its great handicaps is the battery life. Its features have increased exponentially, but not the power of its battery. The higher the energy consumption, the less autonomy. GPS devices ensure better performance. In full GPS mode, 16 hours vs. the maximum 4 hours of a Smartphone. The GPS device is compatible with an interchangeable battery.

3. Advanced Navigation

Beyond smartphone maps, hiking in the mountains requires other tools for advanced navigation that guarantee our safety. Basically: 3-axis compass for precise orientation, altimeter and barometer that warns us of pressure changes. It allows us to anticipate meteorological changes. The weather can be an ally or an adversary in our adventures.

4. Resistance

Resistance is a factor in favor of GPS. The GPS has been specifically designed to carry out a specific type of activity, usually outdoor. They usually resist humidity, rain, shocks, heat and extreme cold. Smartphones are more delicate devices and with less demanding resistance certificates. The characteristics of the activity we carry out will determine the choice.

5. Display

The screen is a factor that plays in favor of GPS devices. There are currently GPS brands that offer a good functional design and a quality mapping archive. If we focus on the use of the devices in the mountains, it is important to view the maps on a resistant and trans-reflective screen. It ensures visibility in the impact of sunlight. It is true that there are Smartphones with larger screens. But in no case do they integrate the characteristics mentioned above.

6. Usability

The design of most Smartphones makes their use popular and optimal. However, GPS is designed exclusively to meet specific needs that a Smartphone cannot solve. For example, the buttons of most GPS devices are designed for the outdoor enthusiast.

7. Connectivity

The use of the internet plays in favor of Smartphones. Smartphones can connect directly to the internet without connecting to a computer, offering us many possibilities: online downloads, content exchange (google maps, tracks, routes etc.) or access to many apps. They do not currently have the GPS.

Conclusion

Smartphone vs GPS for hiking: For occasional hiking, surely it will be enough and your smartphone will give you better performance. You can synchronize it with multiple tools, social networks to control your routes, current location, daily exercises, heart rate and much more automatically. If you are going on an extreme and long-time hiking activity, the GPS is the better option instead of a smartphone.

GoPro releases stunning action cameras to shoot a view with wide angle lens and in HD quality. Its operation is straightforward so that anyone can use GoPro cameras. Sometimes, Our GoPro won’t turn on due to technical or software errors. Don’t be worried if that happens. Here, I will present the causes of the problem and how to fix it.

GoPro turns on by pushing the power button once. If it is not turning ON, find the root cause and troubleshoot it. The reasons are many. You may need to swap the default battery or reset the camera or restore the camera software. To detect the main issues and troubleshoot them, keep reading.

Possible Causes Of GoPro Won’t Turn On

The first and main reason for the problem is the battery. GoPro normally runs at a minimum 5% charge. Plug your Gopro and wait for a while to charge it up. If it will not turn on, remove the battery and check its state. Go to a nearby service center or camera repair shop to check the battery. A damaged battery cannot run your Gopro even for a second.

GoPro does not work without an SD card. Check the presence and condition of the inserted SD card. Sometimes, the camera system software is corrupted via a virus. In that case, the camera cannot start the system. You may need to reset the camera.

Take a look at the outside of your GoPro. If someone accidentally falls off the camera, the inner components can be detached. Mount your GoPro for hunting carefully to avoid fall off. If you want to take stunning shots of underwater fishing, the GoPro HERO9 is the best option. Open the camera housing and connect the components on the socket board. Never open the Gopro yourself without having enough technical skills about the GoPro cameras.

How to Fix GoPro That Won’t Turn On?

If you do not use the Gopro camera carefully, you can face several problems. Not turning on is one of the leading issues for them. If your GoPro doesn’t turn on, follow the steps to fix it and take stunning shots again. Let’s see the steps:

Step 1: Check Battery Status

GoPro comes with a durable battery and provides long-lasting performance. If your GoPro is not turning ON after pushing the power button, check the battery status. To do this, connect the GoPro with the default charger. After doing this, if your camera won’t turn on, change the battery. Must place the original battery.

Step 2: Check SD card

You cannot run GoPro without an SD card. If the SD card is corrupted or damaged, replace the SD card. Also, you can fix the SD card by formatting it on the computer. In some cases, the sd card worked again after a complete format.

Step 3: Reset the System

If your battery and SD card are OK, reset the camera system. Sometimes, viruses from SD cards corrupt the Gopro operating system. By resetting the system, your GoPro will be working again. To reset, press and hold the Mode button for 8/10 seconds.

After releasing the button, let at least another 10 seconds pass before trying to switch on again, again using the Mode button. The reset does not format the SD card but removes the issues that corrupted the OS.

Step 4: Get Gopro Support

If the following steps are not working, contact GoPro support. They can solve your problem. If your camera needs repair or replacement, you will get the proper solution from them. Incredibly they provide good support and service.

In short, Charge the camera properly to avoid damage to the battery. Use Micro SD that meets the support of your Gopro camera. Always keep the camera firmware updated. Do not leave the ports open. With these simple steps, you have probably solved the problem and the camera will be fully functional again. If the camera still does not respond, you should contact support.

Regular Maintenance Tips for GoPro

At the end of the day, especially if you have been to the sea or in places full of dust, it is very important to wash the GoPro to remove the salt and dirt. Because, they may have accumulated between the cracks of the doors. Do not use soap or aggressive detergents. Simple lukewarm water is enough to clean but not to ruin the characteristics of the plastic. It covers the GoPro and does not leave strange streaks on the lenses or on the rear screen.

Use original or compatible but high-quality batteries. Avoid those that are poor or not expressly compatible. They could block your GoPro and, in the worst case, create damage. Especially when the camcorder works at full capacity for several minutes, it tends to get hot. An incorrect power supply of the camera or if the battery is of low quality could cause it to lockout.

Conclusion

By following the instructions I have presented here, you can fix the GoPro won’t turn on. Also, maintain the Gopro camera carefully. Always update your camera system, keep SD card virus-free and use the battery optimally. Never use the camera while charging. It may decrease the battery life and you will face the problem again.

After all, the GoPro camera comes with high-end accessories. We made mistakes every time and faced lots of problems with the GoPro. Before using the GoPro camera, read the instruction manual carefully and then use it. I hope you will never face any issues.