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Kate Fletcher

Kate is a professional ski instructor who has been adventuring her way around the world since 2015. Whilst immersing herself in cultures from over 50 countries across 6 continents, she seeks the mountains where ever she goes. Explore the outdoor world with her as she hikes, climbs and skis through life on instagram @bagsalwayspacked. Visit www.bags-always-packed.com for off the beaten path hiking guides and backpacker travel budget secrets!

Unless you’ve been hiding off-grid for the past few years, you’ve probably noticed the van life trend taking over social media all around the world. I absolutely get it, who wouldn’t want to live a life where you can explore new places all around the world and take your home with you? It’s certainly something …

Read More about Scout Truck Camper Reviews? (Pros, Cons and Verdict)

When you tell people you’re about to head off to Pakistan the reaction is almost always the same… “Sorry, did you just say Pakistan!?” “yep” “why are you going there, isn’t that a super dangerous country!?” (accompanied by a mixture of confused, surprised and concerned looks). When I followed this by saying I was going …

Read More about K2 Base Camp Trek Report: Difficulty and Lessons Learned

When you think of camping or backpacking foods, you usually don’t think of gourmet meals. Personally, plain pasta and tuna usually comes to mind. However, this can be both bulky and heavy to pack in. Not an ideal combination when you want to save those extra kilos and that precious space in your backpack. Not …

Read More about Freeze Dried Camping Food: Our 10 Favorite Brands

As temperatures drop towards winter, don’t let the cold keep you from camping and backpacking. There are so many ways to stay warm and extend your adventures no matter what the conditions. A question we have seen come up is: “What about battery powered tent heaters and do they work?” Battery powered tent heaters do …

Read More about Battery Powered Tent Heaters? (Camping In The Cold)

As a solo female traveler, I frequently find myself hiking alone. People often ask me how I do it, am I ever scared, what if something happens, don’t you get lonely? All very similar questions I get about simply travelling alone. The trend of solo travel is on a dramatic increase, and so is solo …

Read More about Is Hiking Alone Safe? The Complete Guide For A Solo Hike

Waking up in the morning, looking out the window to 8 inches of fresh powder, stepping into your boots, gliding to work and then getting paid to ski all day, everyday. Sounds like every snow bums dream. Right? Being a ski instructor may sound like the most glamorous job in the world, (possibly second only …

Read More about How Much Do You Get Paid As a Ski Instructor?

Skiing is probably not the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Australia, but alas, I can assure you, we do indeed have mountains and those mountains have snow! In fact, whilst it may not have the majestic appeal of the European Alps or North America’s Rocky mountains, Australia’s relatively mellow terrain …

Read More about Where Is The Best Skiing in Australia for Beginners?

When you think of China you probably think first of the Great Wall, one of the countless magical wonders of the world. Images of the majestic piece of medieval architecture are probably quickly followed by images of China’s millions of people and crowded streets. When you combine the two, it makes for an unpleasant experience …

Read More about Visiting The Authentic Great Wall of China, Without the Tourists