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Most of us know the feeling. You close your laptop, but your brain doesn't switch off. You're technically not working, but the notifications keep coming

We test out the latest iteration of deuter's legendary Guide packReviewSpecsGalleryRetailersMany years ago when I first went to Chamonix, the deuter Guide was the pack that was on not only many of the guides backs, but also on plenty of punters backs too and it wasnt long before I succumbed and bought one myself!The reason for its popularity was firstly its uncluttered design that still managed to include all the necessary features for mountaineering, but also its absolutely bombproof build you could really give it some abuse and it would shrug it off with ease. And if you managed to ever wear one out then you were doing well!Fast forward to 2026, and we have in front of us the latest version of deuters legendary pack, and as you would expect things have changed a little in the intervening couple of decades. The most obvious difference is the weight of the pack; the 34+ 6 version we tested tips the scales at just over 1.2 kg (and the largest model in the range, the 44+6 is only about 40g heavier), and this is probably around half the weight of an equivalent sized Guide pack from 20 years ago. And thats before you take off the strippable features the lid and hipbelt fins which reduces the overall weight even further. This huge reduction in weight is mostly to do with the use of materials, of which huge advancements have been made over the years, and some canny design choices.The 2026 Guide pack is lighter than everIts also worth noting that the Guide isnt even the lightest model in deuters climbing/mountaineering rucksack range the Guide Lite models are lighter still, but in order to shed so many grams deuter have stripped back the features on these packs, so you dont get a separate lid or the pocket and gear loop found on the Guides waistbelt, and theyve also used lighter fixings such as cord in the place of compression straps on the Guide. There is also another option the Durascent packs. These are not only very light but are also waterproof, with taped seams, waterproof material and a rolltop enclosure. They are also the most expensive of deuters mountaineering packs.Light fantasticThe Guide 34+6 uses a 210gsm recycled nylon ripstop, and this is both lightweight and durable. Its a far lighter grade of fabric than the Guide packs used in the past, which in hindsight were probably a tad over-engineered (and subsequently pretty heavy), but for todays fast-and-light mountain goer, the balance the pack strikes between weight and durability is pretty much spot on. The Guide 34+6 is no heavyweight to start off with, but the great thing is that you can strip off features that you dont need for specific outings, to save even more weight. So if you can do without the hipbelt fins because the packs not fully packed or you want them out of the way while climbing, then just whip them off. Dont need the extra storage the lid provides? Off it comes. You can even remove the backplate if you like, however unless carrying really light loads we wouldnt really recommend this as comfort/stability will be compromised,The Guide is streamlined yet offers plenty of storage optionsStorage optionsLike most alpine/climbing packs, the Guide 34+6 has a sleek profile that is not encumbered by external pockets that would potentially get in the way while shimmying up chimneys or attaching gear to the outside. So the main chamber and an external pocket on the lid is where most of your kit must go. But this pack has some clever tricks up its sleeve to maximise the storage options. The Guide comes with a stretchy helmet holder which attaches to the front of the pack via shock cord/toggles and frees up space in the main compartment. As well as the pocket on the lid, you also have a small, zipped pocket on the inside of the pack, and this is ideal for stowing keys and other valuables. On one side of the hipbelt you have a gear loop and on the other theres a small zipped pocket, ideal for snacks, gels, penknife etc. You even get a little stretchy sunglasses-holder on the chest straps, and its these numerous details that show how well thought-out the pack is. But the biggest secret weapons the Guide has with regard to storage is its extendable lid, and its direct-access zip to the main compartment. By extending the lid straps and over-filling the main compartment, you can get the full 40L capacity the Guide offers, and this will be especially useful when either winter mountaineeting or ski touring/mountaineering, when you will be carrying a fair amount of kit. And a killer feature on this type of pack is the U-shaped, dirct-access zip to the main compartment. This is invaluable when you need to access specific items of gear quickly, such as snow safety equipment (probe, shovel etc) in the unfortunate eventuality that youre caught in an avalanche.The well-padded lumbar pad and removable hipbeltBack systemThe Alpine backsystem found on the Guide has been developed over many years, and essentially consists of an ergonomically-shaped PE backplate with a sewn-in spring steel frame that gives stability and support even when filled to the maximum recommended weight of 12kg, plus strategically-positioned cushioning at the lumbar and upper-back areas, which provide both comfort and ventilation. The straps and hipbelt are also an important part of the carry system, and again deuter seem to have hit a sweet spot in terms of the amount of cushioning provided here without adding too much weight. As mentioned previously, the hipbelt can be removed if required, however given that the hipbelt should take the strain when carrying heavier loads, we would recommend that this is left in place during walk-ins. The backplate itself could conceivably be used to sit or lie on if sleeping/resting on a rocky ledge, however since it is rigid (unlike some others which are foam-based) then dont expect too much comfort! Overall the Guides backsystem provides about as much comfort, support and ventilation as you could expect from a lightweight alpine pack, and any upgrade to this would surely add too much weight.In useWhat I like the most about this pack is its versatility. If youre into the more technical end of mountain activities, you could well be doing scrambling, alpine summer, Scottish winter, ski touring, via ferrata during the course of the year, and this pack due to its features and volume can really do it all. For climbing/scrambling you have a light and sleek pack that doesnt get in the way when moving on rock, and you can remove the lid and hipbelt fins after youve reached your route; plus you can use the side compression straps to reduce the pack size further once youve removed kit. For alpine or winter mountaineering you have the extra storage that the extendable lid provides, as well as the provision for carrying kit on the outside of the pack; ice axe attachments, helmet holder and a rope strap that enable you to carry a rope under the packs lid. And for ski touring/mountaineering the U-shaped direct-access zipper is a brilliant feature that enables you to get to essential kit quicker (e.g. shovel/probe), while skis can be carried in an A-frame configuration. Theres nothing to stop you using the Guide for day hikes either, of course; the pack doesnt have stretchy side drinks pockets, but it is hydration-system compatibe, so theres no need to go thirsty!In terms of quibbles, we didnt find much to fault the Guide 34+6 on. The packs hipbelt is an all or nothing situation, in that you can either have it on or not. Some alpine packs give you the option of just removing the padding and using a strap to keep the pack stable, however the Guide doesnt offer this. A strap on its own doesnt have any comfort or support benefits, however it does help prevent the pack moving around, so that could pethaps be seen as one small area where this pack could be improved.The author using a previous (heavier!) incarnation of the Guide while scrambling on TryfanVerdictThe Guide has come a long way; its always been a great pack, but has now been thoroughly modernised and updated to cater for the demands of the modern mountaineer. Todays technical mountain goer is likely to be participating in a range of activities throughout the year from rock climbing and scrambling, to mountaineering in the Alps in the summer and Scotland in winter, to a ski touring trip here, and a via ferrata route there and the Guide manages to cater for all of these activities, in a pack that is full of features yet is light and streamlined. The attention to detail is really impressive, and theres features that we havent even mentioned in this review, such as its SOS label and emergency whistle, or its internal wet compartment. We also havent talked about its sustainable credentials, which include the use of recycled fabrics, the absence of PFAS forever chemicals, and its certifications from Bluesign, ClimatePartner and Green Button.If youre in the market for an all-round technical backpack then you must check out the Guide range (and also the Guide Lite and Durascent models) as these really will fit the bill for many outdoorists who are involved in technical mountain activities.More info at: www.deuter.co.ukWeight: 1210gBackpack volume: 34 litresDimensions: 66 / 29 / 24 (L x W x D) cmRecommended load: 6-12 kgBack length: 44-54 cmFeaturesSOS labelDetachable hip finsFront opening with J-shaped zipperExternal compression straps at the sidesHip fin pocket with zipper closureGreen Button certifiedClimatePartner certified productErgonomic & padded shoulder strapsBluesign productWet compartment insideLid compartment outsideHydration compatible (up to 3L)Height-adjustable lidDetachable lidMade without PFASBody fabric recycledSki attachment at the sideAlpine back systemRope strapKey clipIce axe attachment on both sidesGlasses stow systemDetachable mesh helmet holderRemovable backplateSafety whistleSternum strap buckle with one-handed operationPull-Forward adjustmentErgonomic & padded hip finsVariFlex hip finsActiveFit shoulder strapsTop-loader with drawcord & lid closureBluesign certified body fabricStabilizer strapsHip fins with gear loop and ice clipper slotStockists of the deuter Guide 34+6 include:www.outside.co.ukwww.climbersshop.com

Fairylights are a camping essential and if you disagree youre probably reading the wrong blog. Seriously though, ambient light that relaxes and makes a space feel cosy is a must, and that aesthetic preference doesnt vanish simply because were camping. Youll no doubt have seen these kind of fairylights all over TikTok over the past year or so, but are they worth the hype? Read on for our full review.What are they?Multi Functional USB Rechargable String Camping LightsFeatures10m long with 120 LED lightsUSB rechargableEasy to store and carrySelectable lighting modesThese little lights have been all over TikTok for the past year or so, for good reason and yes, the hype is justified.At 10 metres long with 120 LED lights, theres plenty of cable to work with, even for my somewhat excessive tent setup. Theyre USB rechargeable, which means no faffing with batteries mid-trip (though Id definitely recommend taking a portable power station with you on any camping trip), and the clever retractable design means the lights wind back neatly into the body of the unit. This genius fact alone means theres none of the usual pre Christmas-style chaos of tangled fairylight cables to deal with when youre setting up or packing down.When the fairylights themsevels are not in use and neatly stowed inside, the unit itself doubles as a lantern complete with a hanging hook, so its genuinely pulling double duty. In fact, scratch that, theyre pulling triple duty as theres also a USB-out port, meaning it can be used as an emergency power bank a handy bonus feature you wouldnt necessarily expect at this price point. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Camping with Style Blog (@campingwithstyle)The VerdictAbout that price, coming in at between 7.99 and 12.99 depending on where you pick them up (Amazon and TikTok Shop both stock them), these are an absolute no-brainer. Equally at home strung up in the garden on a summer evening as they are inside a tent, theyre one of those simple little purchases that quietly makes a big difference to your setup. Find these, and others like it, on Amazon from about 7.99-12.99 or on TikTok shop for around the same price. The post Worth The TikTok Hype? 10m Camping String Lights Review appeared first on Camping Blog Camping with Style | Travel, Outdoors & Glamping Blog.

Did you know that May is National Walking Month? It's a campaign that has been created by a great charity called Living Streets

This June, values lead footwear brand KEEN and specialist independent mountain sports retailer Ellis Brigham, are excited to join forces with Trash Free Trails for the second year, as they roll out a series of purpose-led social walks, designed to clean up some of the UKs most-loved outdoor spaces.Part city or trail wander, part community clean-up, the free of charge events invite people to get outside, cover some ground and quietly make a difference along the way. Setting off from Ellis Brigham stores in Manchester, Bristol, London and Keswick, each route blends easy going group walks with litter-picking, citizen science and the occasional quirky discovery underfoot.Four events will take place across the UK:Manchester Social 6k Walk Saturday 6th June. 11am-14.00pmBristol Social 5k Walk Sunday 7th June. 11am-14.00pmLondon Social 5k Walk Saturday 12th June. Covent Garden. 11am-14.00pmKeswick Citizen Science Expedition 10k Walk Sunday 13th June. 11am-17.00pm.Gain first-hand experience of how you can remove, record and report vital data on terrestrial pollution, all while enjoying one of the UKs most beloved national parks. Powered by Trash Free Trails innovative research into single-use pollution.Each event will be led by Trash Free Trails brilliants ambassadors and shaped around relaxed participation whether that means logging data, filling a bin bag or just noticing whats been left behind on the trail. All events are family and dog friendly and free of charge to attend.Alongside the walking, participants can expect goodie bags and prizes for the most unusual litter finds (the stranger the better).Sign up at Trash Free TrailsIndividual links to event sign-up pages:KeswickManchesterBristolLondonWhere to next?NEWS | Berghaus Launches Revolutionary Responsive Legwear Technology For WomenGEAR | New Hiking & Outdoor Gear For Autumn/Winter 2025GEAR | Craghoppers x National Trust Launch Third Collection Autumn/Winter HighlightsThe post KEEN and Ellis Brigham team up with Trash Free Trails for series of community clean ups appeared first on Camping Blog Camping with Style | Travel, Outdoors & Glamping Blog.

CollaborationChoosing the right canopy size can make or break your event. Get it wrong and youre left with a cramped, awkward setup get it right and everything flows perfectly. Many event planners opt for something custom to match specific needs and layouts. Read on to find out more.Choosing the right canopy size for an event is essential to ensure comfort, proper coverage, and a smooth experience for your guests. Whether youre hosting a small gathering or a large celebration, the size of your canopy directly affects how well your space functions. Many event planners opt for a custom canopy tent to match specific needs, branding, or layouts, making it easier to create a practical and visually appealing setup.Standard Canopy Sizes for EventsThe best canopy size depends on the number of guests and the type of event, but standard sizes provide a reliable starting point:Canopy SizeCoverage (sq ft)Best For88 ft64 sq ftSmall booths, vendors1010 ft100 sq ftSmall parties, stalls1015 ft150 sq ftMedium gatherings1020 ft200 sq ftLarge parties2020 ft400 sq ftWeddings, big eventsFor most events, a 1010 works well for small groups, while larger gatherings typically require 1020 or multiple canopies for enough space.How to Choose the Right Canopy Size for Your EventSelecting the right size becomes easier when you focus on a few key factors:Number of guests: More people require larger or multiple canopies.Seating vs standing layout: Seated setups take significantly more space than standing arrangements.Event type (formal vs casual): Formal events usually need more room for tables and dcor.Space availability: Always measure your venue to ensure the canopy fits properly.Weather conditions: Larger canopies provide better shelter but need stronger support.Common Mistakes When Choosing Event Canopy SizesAvoiding common mistakes can save time, money, and frustration:Underestimating guest count leads to overcrowded and uncomfortable spaces.Ignoring space for tables and equipment reduces usable area quickly.Choosing a size without measuring the venue can result in poor fit or setup issues.Forgetting weather protection needs leaves guests exposed to sun or rain.Prioritizing price over usability often results in inadequate coverage.When planning an event, its always better to estimate the canopy slightly larger than your actual needs to avoid running out of space.If you also need custom canopies tailored to your specific requirements, you can use products from vividtent, which offers a wide range of reliable and versatile options for various events.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the best canopy size for a party?A 1010 works for small parties, while 1020 or larger is better for bigger gatherings.How big of a canopy do I need for 50 guests?Youll likely need multiple 2020 tents or a larger event tent for adequate space.Is a 1010 canopy enough for events?Yes, for small gatherings or vendor booths, but it may be too small for larger groups.How do I calculate canopy size for an event?Estimate about 10 sq ft per standing guest and 15 sq ft per seated guest.ConclusionThe best canopy size for your event depends on your guest count, layout, and environmental conditions. Standard sizes like 1010 and 1020 cover most needs, while larger options or multiple canopies work better for big gatherings.The post What Canopy Tent Sizes Work Best for Events? appeared first on Camping Blog Camping with Style | Travel, Outdoors & Glamping Blog.

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