1. Clothing:

The first and foremost thing one should and ought to worry about on every trekking trip even if it’s as small as a one-day trek or a week-long one. Weather is a premise that can’t ever be controlled so you need to be the one that’s prepared for any unforeseen situation. It might be a sunny day whilst you start off one and within hours, the heavens could be pouring down on you. Or maybe you just packed light thinking it to be a sunny affair and the temperatures drop down to a ridiculous low. Be what may, packing the right clothing can make all the difference on your trip. So, ensure that you take a gauge of the weather before making your move and always carry an extra set of clothing. Pullovers and windcheaters are great for windy conditions while a set of rainwear can pull off as an extra layer for when the weather takes a turn for the worst. Whatever you choose to pack, ensure you have a backup ready.

 2. Sun protection:

Another aspect commonly ignored by trekkers is sun protection, and we don’t just mean carrying a sunscreen for your trek ahead. The last thing you want is a sunburn or snow blindness while you are out on your trek. Carrying sun protection can help you deal with problems such as premature aging, cataracts, and even skin cancer. Ensure you carry along with you some quality sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV radiation. For snowy conditions, there are extra-dark glacier glasses available in the market. Sunscreen or sunblock is another essential that can help with exposure to UV. An SPF 30 sunblock is recommended if you are indulging in any outdoor activity. Looking to get all your trekking products in one place? Then head to Golf Galaxy and get 20% off on tour trek products.

 3. First Aid:

A first aid kit is another essential that you always should have in your trekking arsenal. You need not head out in the market picking out bits and pieces for that. Various pre-assembled first aid kits serve individual kits. A standard first aid kit should include basics like gauzes, adhesive bandages, disinfectant spray or ointments. The kit can also include over the counter medications, in case of need or emergencies of any sort. Make sure you don’t overdo on the kit and carry things as per the duration of your trip.

 4. Navigation:

Navigation is an essential part of any trekkers kit, and this should not be limited to just your smartphone. If you are traveling to new regions, make sure to carry a map of the local area, a compass, a GPS device, or altimeter watches. It is too easy at times to stray down the wrong path. Having navigation tools at your disposal will definitely come to your aid if you are stranded or lost in a new place. When it comes to maps, learning a read, a topo map can do wonders, and you can learn to do that easily. Same goes for compass and Personal Locator Beacon(PLB).

 5. Torch or headlamps or flashlights:

Many times, trekkers ignore to pack one for their trek. Losing your way to taking a detour to your destination and back can take hours, and you really don’t want to be stranded in a place where you can’t see ahead of yourselves. A headlamp and torch is a must-have for all occasions and also to avoid accidents of any kind while making your way in the dark. How about getting yourself a sturdy trekking bag to keep all your things? Get up to $26 off on the UA Storm Recruit Backpack via Frugaa.

 6. Emergency provisions:

Emergency provisions include extra food and water. You need not really pack yourself a two-course meal or a full-fledged lunch like a picnic. Bring along small snacks or bars that can be easily carried in your backpacks or pockets When it comes to carrying water, two liters a day suffices a normal individual, but there are also other factors to consider here including the duration and intensity of the trek you have planned.

So, there we have the 6 essential things that every trekker should have in their backpack while heading out on a trek. Happy trails.

Basics first. Does your Dad have a favorite joint where he likes to chill out? Maybe, he likes to bowl. Make a list of all the things that your Dad loves and try and collate them together in a schedule for the day. Also, ensure that you tell your father in advance about this one on one outing of yours. The last thing you want is a canned date and your plans going down the drain. Once in the clear, you can head to each and every venue that you have planned together to spend some quality one on one time together. In this post, we will look at some fun activities that you can plan for your father this Father’s Day:

1. Head Outdoors:
By outdoors, we mean a hike, trek, a bike ride or a simple picnic alongside your family. The month of June is an excellent time to head outdoors and what better way to celebrate Father’s Day than in the lap of nature. If your Dad happens to be an avid outdoorsy person, perhaps you can even get them a gift that they like trekking equipment, a backpack, binoculars, etc. Your Dad is sure to love this gesture of yours. How about getting your father a bouquet case or some flowers on this very day? Get 25% off on all purchases at 1-800-Flowers only at Frugaa.com.

2. Go Scavenger Hunting:
It’s always a good time for a good scavenger hunt and what better way to spend time with your dad than participating in one? There are many local events that take place around this time of the year. If you are unable to find events nearby, you can always plan out your own scavenger hunt. This would allow you to bring out some creative liberties that may otherwise be not possible with local scavenger hunts. You can arrange to have your dad find his last clue at his favorite local joint or a picnic lunch.

3. Movie Marathon:
Nothing as amazing as a movie marathon for a special day. This year, compile a list of all your Dad’s favorite movies and be ready with ample popcorn to go along with it. There are many hits to choose from here including Rocky, Home Alone series, Remember The Titans etc. Whoever said you have to finish watching just a single movie this Father’s Day right? Now you can get all your favorite movie titles from one stop shop. Go to Amazon.com and get up to 30% off on all your orders.

4. Grill Days:
Now, as much is grilling a Dad only endeavor, this time help plan one on Father’s Day. Send out an invite to friends and family for the occasion or just simply plan quality family time. Everything tastes better on a grill and whoever has ever said no to barbecue food? You can finish this with a barbecue relay race in the end where two teams vie against each other to collect the most barbecue tools.

5. Head to a Water Park
The temperatures are rising this summer and what better way to beat the heat and enjoy some quality time than heading to a water park? Book some tickets for the family and surprise your dad with a trip to the water park this Father’s Day. Splash around and have a ball of a day enjoying different water rides alongside your dad and family. Father’s Day outing couldn’t be more fun this year.

6. Put on a show:
Rather than anything else, there is always a chance to do something original. You can rope in your siblings and other family members for this one. Prepare an original skit, do a comedy or just sing a song for your Dad on Father’s Day. You could also prepare a DIY craft for him. There are many ideas floating around on the Internet with Father’s Day themed crafts. Your dad is bound to love the originality of a surprise show especially catered for him. There are bound to be laughs, praises, and smiles all across. There could not be a better way to celebrate a special day for your father?

So, there we have a small list of fun activities that you can plan this Father’s Day. The important thing here is to enjoy some quality time together and have fun.

The Science of the Solstice

While the summer solstice is the longest day of the year, it’s not the longest day ever. That record is held by the year 1912. So, what’s the deal with the solstice? Well, as you know the earth orbits the sun and sits on its tilted axis as it does so. This means that the Northern Hemisphere sees more sunlight throughout the day between the months of March and September. However, the other months see the Southern Hemisphere get the sun. It’s why we have seasons. The tilt of the Earth’s axis (23.5 degrees or thereabouts) means each hemisphere receives sunlight differently as we orbit the sun.

In June, our summer solstice is when the sun’s rays are at their most northern point. The sun hits along the Tropic of Cancer, directly overhead. When you take into consideration the fact that solstice literally means sun standing still it all makes sense. This is why we celebrate the summer solstice. In fact, we have done for… well, thousands of years. So, dealing with striking sunrays is absolutely inevitable! You might want to consider stocking up summer skincare essentials from SkinStore.com now available at a discounted price.

The Solstice & Stonehenge

The solstice is a day of celebrating for pagans across the world. Many of whom perform rebirth rituals as they have been performed throughout history. Stonehenge is the largest of these celebrations, at least it is in the UK. However, it draws visitors from all over. People gather to enjoy the sunrise. While many of them dress up to partake of the occasion, it isn’t compulsory. This is just one of the many pagan festivals that is held to celebrate the arrival of the summer solstice.

For other countries, the day is linked to fertility, while other rituals may be based on religion. The Polish Wianki celebrations mirror that of those in the UK. However, in Estonia, the day is set aside to mark the shifting patterns in the agricultural industry. Ukraine takes it to another level, though. Here, revelers hop bonfires in a bid to test both their religious faith, as well as their courage. This is also mimicked in Russia. In Sweden, they snack on strawberries and in China the Dragon Boat Festival takes place. That’s just a few examples, there are festivals being held to celebrate the summer solstice all over the planet.

The Celebration

You don’t have to call yourself a pagan to enjoy the day – there are plenty of ways in which you can participate. One of the most popular options, of course, is to hold a barbecue for friends and family. If you are lucky enough to get along with your neighbors you may want to consider a block party for which you might require a wine refrigerator available at Compact Appliance for a low price. You can hold games for the children and really take advantage of the long light and the official start of summer. Of course, you may want to choose a country theme and get adventurous by embracing their traditions for the day.

However, if you do plan to celebrate the solstice in a religious manner, there are a few things you should know. It’s all about creating a sacred space. So, how you choose to proceed will be very much up to you and your religious beliefs. Generally speaking, you should create a circle (you can use stones or wood) that will align to meet the sunrise (or sunset). This tends to factor in the landscape around you as to incorporate the natural beauty of your surroundings. If you want to dress for the occasion, then handmade clothes made from natural fibers are generally preferred (floral crowns are a must). You can dress in similar garments to your own ancestors or perhaps the culture where you are joining the festival. For example, for those religions who worship the sun, the participants generally wear white robes with yellow sashes. Black is generally not recommended as it can welcome dark forces.

If you want to incorporate a bit of both for your friends and family then you can do that, too. You can still enjoy a barbecue and settle down with friends to enjoy the sunset. If you are really adventurous you can invite your friends to a no sleepover. You can catch the sunrise together before crashing for a few hours and firing up the barbecue all over again.

It really doesn’t matter what you do to recognize the summer solstice, as long as you have fun while doing it. Just don’t forget to feast, hold a bonfire, and enjoy being with the ones you love.

1. Cummins Falls, Tennessee
Cummins falls are the largest of waterfalls in Tennessee and are located on the Blackburn Fork Scenic River in Jackson County. The water from these falls flows into a large swimming hole which has become a popular attraction among swimmers and other tourists. Not only is it a hit among the locals but also those travelling from other parts of the country of world. It was there for atleast the last 100 years and continues to be undisturbed by human establishment or interference.

2. Hamilton Pool, Texas
If you truly wish to soak in the blessing of nature and a view worth hiking long distances for, then Hamilton Pool in Texas would be a treat. The Hamilton Pool Reserve is located in Austin and has a 50 foot waterfall which falls into the hole. This swimming hole is surrounded by an area which a lot of hikers and tourists choose from picnics, camping and hiking trails.

3. Jacob’s Well, Texas
This swimming hole is basically an underwater cave located in Texas which attracts hundreds of visitors every month. It is a dangerous diving spot where the water stays at a temperature of 68 degree Fahrenheit throughout the year. This too is among the best swimming hole in the country and is one which must be experience by anyone visiting Texas.

4. Brandywine Falls, Ohio
Brandywine falls are the 2nd largest waterfall in Ohio and offer a view and experience which is simply unmatchable. Not only do they appear beautiful, but lend you a certain peace of mind which is hard to find in the hustle bustle of the city. The natural waterfall plunges deep into a swimming hole which has become a favorite swimming spot for many from US and even from outside. The falls are surrounded by hiking trails, biking paths and picnic spots.

5. Havasu Falls, Arizona
Havasu falls are popular waterfalls which are located in Supai Village in the Grand Canyon. In order to reach this village, one has to hike for about 8 miles but the hardwork totally pays off as the swimming hole that you reach is incredible. If you do not wish to hike, you can also take a helicopter ride to the place provided the weather permits.

6. San Solomon Springs, Texas
This is another superb looking swimming hole in the US which is basically a collection of artesian springs located in Reeves County in Texas. San Solomon is known to pump out 28 million gallons of water on a daily basis and is a popular tourist spot, given the accessible nature of the hole.

7. Ohiopyle Falls, Pennsylvania
These falls are surely one of the most visited areas or places in the Ohiopyle State park and offer many viewing spots which are perfect for getting to soak in the beauty of the swimming hole into which the falls plunge. The area is known for its amenities and facilities like a parking lot.

8. Six Finger Falls, Arkansas
The six finger falls located in the Ozark national forest in Arkansas is one of the many waterfalls along the Falling water creek road. The falls plunge into the wonderful swimming hole which is a view in itself. The waterfall is 100 ft wide and comprises of 6 different falls altogether.

9. Bridal Veil Falls, Utah
This is a double cataract fall which drops from a height of 607 feet and into the Provo River, forming a swimming hole. This swimming hole is again one of the best in the US.

10. Sliding Rock, North Carolina
The Sliding Rock swimming hole is located in a Pisagh forest area in North Carolina and is one of the natural mountain waterfalls in the country. Visitors are welcome to slide down a 60 foot smooth rock waterfall into an 8 foot deep pool of icy water.

Now, twenty years after that time, I imagine that my parents’ generation fantasized about similar ways of communicating with loved ones, but to them it was only thanks to some crazy idea that might have seen on The Jetsons or in Star Trek movies. Present day young adults are bombarded with amazing technological advancements, that they can’t fathom we once lived in a world where everyone you know doesn’t know what you’re doing at all times or can’t see your face through a conversation via Skype or Facetime, even if you’re on separate continents. The last few years have seen a surge in the way we conduct normal business, thanks to business giants like Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Samsung, and many more. However, major new, innovative, and forward thinking marks are to made in 2015 with some cutting edge, never before seen products.

Here are some of the best new items to keep a look out for that you once thought could only be the figment of your imagination:

The Apple Watch

Let’s just begin with the item that everyone is thinking about. Apple recently announced that they would be unleashing their first ever-wearable beta-piece that works as a watch, Smartphone, Internet device, GPS, activity tracker and more. Anything your iPhone can do, the Apple Watch can do better, faster, and in a more compact, easily accessible location. This is truly the CIA-type item that Inspector Gadget or some secret service movie that takes place in the future would unleash. The good news is, the future has arrived and thanks to Apple we will communicate like never before. While the starting price of $350 for the most basic version may be a little steep for some shoppers, other companies are working hard to step up to the bar that Apple has set so high. There will be other Smartphone “wearables” being unleashed this year as well, closer to the $150-$300 range, so keep a look out for these great products.

The Cobra Tag

When Smartphones first came out, I couldn’t be happier that I had something to constantly remind me to make an appointment or mark something off my “to-do” list. The only problem is, what happens when it’s my Smartphone that goes missing and my life becomes a disaster because everything I need to know is kept in that little rectangle of knowledge? Thanks to the Cobra Tag, we can hang this tiny little concoction on our keychain and it will always let us know where our phone, purse, computer, or any other item we might dislocate is located. A sensor is embedded on each item you deem of importance, and then it is connected to the “tag” that hangs on your chain. A sensor goes off anytime you leave one of these items behind or it goes missing, making one more thing for those of us who are often forgetful or on the run to have an easier time with thanks to technology.

The HTC Re Vive for Virtual Reality Gaming

Gamers around the world unite, you’re playing has just been amped up to new levels of awesomeness thanks to the first product that really delivers on its virtual reality promises. Putting on the headset will make you look like you’re straight out of a Total Recall movie, but once you put it on; the pixilated framework will allow you to see the game as though all the action is standing directly in front of you. You can freely move within a 15X15 foot room, and the motions will detect your movements and integrate them into your game play. If you thought you loved Xbox, wait until your gaming puts you up close and personal with your opponents in countless gaming adventures.

These are only a few of what 2015 has to offer. Keep your eyes peeled for how innovators are looking to make every aspect of our lives easier, more convenient, and more exciting with great technological gadgets for everyday use and to use for our favorite hobbies.

In terms of graphics, looks, memory smartness quotient, apple has come several steps forward from its counterparts. The most amazing feature that attracts at the very first glance is its retinal display. Retinal display technology can only be found in Apple products exclusively. This technology gives enhanced graphics quality when per inch number of pixels is low. This feature has worked magically for apple watch. Users will get amazing picture quality that will put a smile in their face whenever they will turn the wrist.

In words of apple, it allows you to view time in million ways. Apple watch is a medium that helps you managing your schedule more efficiently. With a single tap, it becomes a chronograph watch and shows time accuracy of 50 milliseconds with the global watch standard. In terms of looks and comfort it is an avalanche for Swiss watch makers. Its slick design and variety of straps make it appealing to customers of different taste and liking. Like other smart watches available in the market, it also needs an Apple phone paired with it, preferably an Apple IPhone 6. But this watch is ahead of its league for several reasons.

Apple Watch Features & Specifications

Though, apple watch is an individual smart addition to the tech-savvy society but it does not work independently, as user must have an iPhone in order to make it work. This smart watch actually a wearable add-on facility for the users, who are having iPhone 5c, iPhone 5s, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.

Apple has launched three types of this watch-

• Apple Watch Sport
• Apple Watch Edition
• Apple Watch

You do not even have to worry about its look, as the company knows, bulky look may kill your appearance and that is why apple watch looks just like other regular wrist watches in appearance.

Apple watch is smarter from the point of touch sensitivity. It is so smart that it identifies the difference between simple touch and press and this feature enables you to browse the contents effortlessly. The Digital crown, situated on the right side of the watch lets you loiter over the entire interface. The fun is lying under the smart introduction of this ‘digital crown’ as it is really a fun to zoom pictures or maps using this particular.

Awesome inclusion of ‘Glance’ elaborates the features of your iPhone. To control most of the application software on your iPhone direct from your wrist watch is not a fantasy anymore.

Apple Watch comes with the built in ‘Tapic Engine’, which is combined with a waterproof speaker. This incredible attribute alerts you about the incoming notifications or schedules. The complex analytical program lets you keep in touch with the senders more easily through your watch display.

The in build speaker and microphone are there to make calls direct from the watch. Necessary applications always make the advantage to take the communication devices to another level. Apple watch is not exceptional. The quality applications give it the demanding charm and therefore the developers are working to launch various amazing applications.

Search the latest application compatible to your Apple Watch using the application store, located in your iPhone –‘Apple Watch App Store’.

If you have your Apple Watch on your wrist, then you should not worry about your health anymore because the fitness tracking capability monitors the heart-rate and it portrays your regular activity. It is really an interesting feature, which lets you map your fitness.

Apple Company claims that the battery life stays for long 18 hours in normal use. The reality shows that battery can run up to 4 hours of active screen on use and lasts for 3 days in stand-by mode.

Just like the other Apple devices, people were waiting for the launch of this apple watch. And the apple watch selection do not disappoint them regarding looks and smart applications. Apple watch arguably deserves the supreme position in term of appearance among the available smart watches.

• Scrapbook: Believe me, this works for every occasion. If you haven’t gifted one to your partner, then Valentine’s Day can actually be the perfect occasion to do so. If you find it too difficult then you can make your task easier by creating scrapbooks online. However, adding some personal touch to your present will simply make it more romantic. You just have to get some photo prints and colored sheets. Add some love letters and hand-made pop up cards as well to your scrapbook. YouTube is flooded with tutorials for scrapbooks or smash books, mini versions of scrapbooks.

• Spa: You can possibly take your partner for a rejuvenating spa. In fact, going for a spa together and getting it done alongside is indeed a very good idea. You can pick a good holiday resort and opt for such packages and spend the day. It will not only give you and your partner a much needed break from the hectic schedule but also some cozy and calm moments together.

• Personalized Presents: There are a lot of websites nowadays which can deliver personalized mugs, t-shirts, key chains, digital frames and a lot of other innovative stuff. You can pick something which you feel is out of the box. Though, it has become quite common but you can keep it as a safer option if you have ran out of all options and time. Moreover, you can compose something for your partner such as a poem and adjust it in the personalized present as well.

• Sexy Lingerie: Well, men have this amazing option to gift their partner sexy lingerie! You simply need to hop online and you will get plenty of choices. Go for corsets; these are personal favorites of almost all the ladies. While ladies can don them and show off their erotic side while relaxing at home. A chocolate massage coupled with this would be a deadly idea altogether!

• Gadgets: Who doesn’t love gadgets? Valentine’s day doesn’t mean that you have to be mushy-mushy and shower your partner with flowers or heart-shaped gifts. Gadgets and gizmos will work for almost anyone and trust me, male or female, everybody goes crazy the moment someone gifts them a gadget. A nice watch, an iPod, a kindle, a DSLR…Gadgets are everywhere and you have pretty much to choose from. Whether you are looking cheaper products or you can shell some extra bucks; gadgets can be the best option.

• Adventure Trip: This might not be the perfect way of spending the valentine day for the lovey-dovey couples but will certainly work for the couples who are fond of adventure sports. In fact, you can combine adventure with romance and take your partner for scuba-diving, parasailing or trekking. This will require a lot of planning well in advance and you will have to ensure that your partner is up for it when you surprise him/her with all the arrangements.

• Dress or Accessories: Men can hit the showrooms and get pretty dresses for their girls along with beautiful accessories to complement the outfit. Little black dresses are in vogue nowadays and we can vouch that your lady will go gaga if you gift her one. On the other hand, ladies can hunt for nice shoes or cuff links for their partners. If you don’t have many options, you can go for grooming kits too! Make them feel pampered for all the care and protection they give you.

Now that you have a lot of ideas in your kitty, you can get to work and make the most of the V-day. However, make sure that you personalize your present in some form or the other. Simply shelling out a few bucks and gifting something won’t do any magic. It really matters how you present your gift as it depicts the efforts you have put in to make your partner feel special. So invest some time and thought into the process as the little things that you do for your special someone certainly count!

You can check out a few outstanding online deals listed below to ensure that this Valentine is the most remembered one!

1. ProFlowers: Get a head start this Valentine’s Day and be ready with the perfect gift ever!
2. GiftsNIdeas: Fall in love all over again! Get gifts for him, her, flower combos, gift baskets and much.
3. Wine.com: Gift your loved ones with the most fascinating and enchanting wines and wine gifts.
4. 1-800-Flowers: Find the perfect Valentine’s gift today and enjoy savings to the fullest.
5. Things Remembered: Give Love – Personalize your love for less and make the day the most memorable one.

Chances are your heart has started its journey towards failure! Or worst – chances are it may just give up. If you walk up to a doctor with the above symptoms, the first thing recommended would be to wear your running shoes and sprint around the country or to dust your old bike or go hiking in the hills.

Exercise is not just vital for fitness but is also an elixir for endurance. It makes you feel wanted and loved; it keeps you away from lot of diseases, and increases your chances of living longer. You build a stronger immune system and you can have fun with yourself. Doctors have advised working out, for reducing risks of several diseases like heart strokes, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, etc. Apart from physical rewards, it also has healing powers for various psychological illnesses like depression and anxiety attacks.

Work outs can be really boring if we do not choose something that interests us. For a lot of us it can be monotonous if we don’t have the correct fitness accessories on us. One should look and feel good while one works out. It’s a proven fact that people who work out with their best looks on, tend to reduce weight faster.

Headbands for instance are a must-have gym accessory for women as they not only keep the tresses out of sight while working out, but bright colored headbands can go a long way in making one feel really chic about herself. In that headbands should not be a very rigid affair also as these then tend to be a disruption. What more these might even cause messy headaches. These should be stretchable & soft.

The next necessity is a good pair of Shoes. Cozy shoes can be awesome gym partners if these give thy feet, breathing space they require. These can make one feel lighter than one usually is. There is a wide variety of shoes for various forms of exercise available in the market. This includes shoes for running, trekking, skating, wrestling, dancing, so on and so forth. It is generally recommended that for working out one must buy a pair which knows one’s feet and doesn’t hurt one’s heel. These should be flexible and finely cushioned for protection. Brands these days offer several choices in terms of colors and grips.

Next can be a Hand Towel. Although one thinks not to be too choosy about this, but there is still a lot of choice available with various brands to make it look stylish and cool. This is an important accessory in my view as it dries you fresh after you have sweated yourself out with the heavy weights. This, in my recommendation should be a soft piece and should be able to dry you out almost instantly as you place it on yourself. Colors can be varied – pink, purple, orange, neon yellow, green. Avoid blacks and whites in these, as blacks tend to be too drone-looking and whites tend to spoil themselves too soon.

You would want to have a good MP3 player on you to keep you entertained throughout your work-out session. The features that one would like to look for in this would be sleek, easy to handle, good battery life and expandable memory slots.

A good insulated Water Bottle keeps one hydrated. Hydration in turn ensures better muscle recovery. Some of us like to sip on an electrolyte mix after a rigorous work out. For them they have blender bottles in the market which can convert into a mixer when required.

One carries whole lot of possessions in the gym bag and what better choice than a Duffel Bag to hold it all together firmly. Comfy leather duffel can keep your shoes, bottle, hand towel, wallet, cell phone, MP3 player and headphones compact and secure.

Next time when you work out make sure you have all your accessories in place, so that your work out session is a sheer delight.