Practical tips, honest tests & smarter choices

Tipstest: practical travel, outdoor and gear guides

Grey tent pitched on a sea cliff at sunset, overlooking the Pacific Ocean

Cover storyGear Tests & Reviews

Do You Need a Tent Footprint?

Do you need a tent footprint? Learn what a footprint does, when it protects your tent, when to skip it, how it should fit and which cheaper alternatives work.

10 min read

Read the guide

Latest guides

Explore the sections

Travel Tips

Practical travel planning advice: how to plan a trip step by step, build a realistic budget, pack the right things, and prepare for the details that usually go wrong.

All Travel Tips

How to Fly With a Toddler

How to fly with a toddler: book around naps, choose lap or own seat, pack a smart carry-on, get through security with milk and snacks, and calm meltdowns.

Field note

What to wear hiking comes down to layers of moisture wicking, quick drying fabric, supportive footwear with good socks, and protection from sun, wind and rain.

From What to Wear Hiking

Outdoor Guides

Beginner-friendly camping and hiking guides that cover preparation, safety, skills and checklists.

All Outdoor Guides

Camping Clothing Checklist

A camping clothing checklist covering base layers, warm midlayers, rain gear, sleep clothes, shoes and seasonal changes, plus how many clothes to pack per trip.

How to Cook While Camping

Learn how to cook while camping with simple methods, a tidy camp kitchen, easy meal ideas, food safety basics, campfire tips and clean up habits that work.

Hiking With Your Dog: Trail Rules and Tips

Hiking with your dog: trail and leash rules, where dogs are allowed, what to pack, trail etiquette, and how to keep your dog safe from heat, water and wildlife.

Gear Tests & Reviews

Clear buying guides and comparisons for travel and outdoor gear, from backpacks and tents to footwear and clothing layers.

All Gear Tests & Reviews

Active Lifestyle

Walking, beginner outdoor activities and active travel ideas for everyday life.

All Active Lifestyle

Every guide, newest first