HybridCamper/05-09-2025

As the weather warms up and the flowers start to bloom, it's time to dust off your RV and hit the open road. But before you do, consider the gadgets that can elevate your camping experience from ordinary to extraordinary. These must-have RV gadgets for 2025 not only make your life easier but also add a sprinkle of fun to your adventures. After all, who doesn't want to enjoy a little luxury while surrounded by nature? Let's dive into the gadgets that will have you saying goodbye to the mundane an...

Van life for sure has its perks. Waking up to mountain views, chasing sunsets, and the freedom to go wherever the road takes you. But after a few too many ramen packets, PB&J sandwiches, and overly ambitious cook-ups that leave a pile of dishes in the sink, reality hit me. I really needed to find some recipes that were quick, healthy, and actually satisfying. These campervan meals are some of my favorites because they’re healthy, delicious, and designed to make campervan cooking simple. Plus...

I’ll never forget the first time I woke up at 3 a.m., fully zipped into my sleeping bag, teeth chattering, completely miserable. I couldn’t stop shaking and I was just white knuckling until the sun came up. Since then, I’ve picked up a bunch of tricks that actually work. Tent camping in colder temps can still be a lot of fun, as long as you go in with the right setup. From understanding sleeping bag ratings to boosting body heat with simple gear hacks, here’s how I stay warm (and get real sleep)...

There’s something incredibly freeing about hitting the trail alone. No compromises, no pressure—just you, the outdoors, and the chance to move at your own pace. Solo hiking offers solitude, clarity, and a real sense of self-reliance. But with that freedom comes responsibility. Being alone on the trail is empowering, but it also means you need to be more intentional about planning and safety. In this guide, I’m covering everything first-time solo hikers need to know: how to prepare before you go,...

I’ve been camping with dogs for years. Sometimes car camping, sometimes deep in the backcountry. As any seasoned pet owner will tell you, bringing your four-legged friend on a camping trip can be a lot of fun... but it also takes way more prep than you’d think, especially the first time. From gear that’s actually worth packing to keeping your dog safe, dry, and (somewhat) calm (I have herding breeds so iykyk), here’s everything I’ve learned the hard way. Getting Ready Before the Trip Vaccination...

Fifth Water Hot Springs has become one of Utah’s most famous soaking spots, thanks to its milky blue water and easy access from Salt Lake City. But with popularity comes crowds, and not everyone loves what it’s turned into. Some say it’s overrun with influencers, drones, and too many people, while others think it’s just part of the deal with well-known outdoor destinations. If you still want to visit, here’s how to avoid the madness and get the most out of your experience. How to Get to the Fift...

When I first tried to insure my van, I thought it would be simple. Call an insurance company, explain my setup, get a policy, and move on. Instead, I hit roadblock after roadblock, denials, high premiums, and confusion over what was actually covered. Turns out, insuring a converted van, especially a DIY camper van conversion, is way harder than I thought it would be. Some insurance providers won’t touch self-built vans, others won’t cover full-time van lifers, and most policies leave gaps that c...

Is Van Life Really As Cheap As it Sounds? Van life can be as cheap or expensive as you make it. Gas and groceries are obvious, but what about tolls, paid campsites, cooking fuel, and health insurance? Those costs can honestly add up so fast. Some people make van life work on a tight budget, while others spend as much as they would in a house. This guide breaks down the real expenses: what to expect, what most people forget, and how to keep costs under control. The Big Expenses You Can’t Avoid Bu...

Dispersed camping means you’re finding your own spot on public lands instead of staying in a developed campground with picnic tables and bathrooms. BLM land, national forests, and other public lands make this possible, offering millions of acres where you can camp for free. But as more people head off the grid, some areas are cracking down with new restrictions, fire bans, and stay limits. I know this topic can be a bit confusing so I wanted to break it down in this post! We’ll cover how to find...

As winter starts to loosen its grip and the first signs of spring emerge, it’s the perfect time to begin preparing for your upcoming camping adventures. Getting your gear ready now not only ensures a smooth start to the season but also gives you peace of mind as you head into the great outdoors. Taking the time to inspect, repair, or upgrade your gear will help you avoid last-minute surprises. Here’s a checklist of essential tools and gear to check before your first spring camping trip. Tent Che...