Kristen Bor

Salt Lake City

Founder and Blogger at Freelance

Kristen Bor // Founder of https://t.co/dDH7LGgkcX - a comprehensive resource for everyday explorers with info on destinations, gear, van life & outdoor skills

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Articles

My Minimalist Van Life Clothing Packing Checklist (after 9 years on the road)

2 weeks ago | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

After nine years of van life, including my first messy attempt at packing back in 2016, I’ve learned exactly what clothes and gear you actually need for van life. I now live full-time in my 100 square foot truck camper with my partner and young son, and my wardrobe is streamlined, functional, and clutter-free. In this guide, I’ll help you downsize your closet with confidence so you can feel prepared, comfortable, and ready for adventure — without overflowing cabinets and clutter everywhere.
15 Jaw Dropping Outdoor Aventures In Kauai

2 months ago | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

After three trips to Kauai, I’ve experienced the island in just about every way: I’ve stayed in hotels and Airbnbs, and I’ve even camped under the stars. No matter how you do it, this island is a dream if you love being outside. Each time I visit, I discover a new trail, beach, or hidden gem—and I’m constantly blown away by how wild and beautiful this place is. If you’re planning a trip and wondering how to soak up as much of Kauai’s outdoors as possible, I’ve got you.
Rossmonster Baja Trail LX Adventure Truck Review

Mar 24, 2025 | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

I started van life in 2016 and have since lived in three different Sprinter Vans, logging thousands of days on the road. But after attempting full-time travel with my newborn and two dogs, it quickly became clear that we needed more space to make this lifestyle feel sustainable. When searching for the perfect adventure vehicle, I wanted something that would give our family of three more functional living space without sacrificing off-road capability or driveability.
Rossmonster Baja Trail LX Adventure Truck Review

Mar 24, 2025 | flipboard.com | Kristen Bor

1 day agoSAN DIEGO — A woman suspected of fatally stabbing her wife, a Cal Fire captain, at their Southern California home has been taken into custody by authorities in Mexico, officials said Saturday. Yolanda Marodi, also known as Yolanda Olejniczak, was arrested on Saturday at a hotel in the Mexican state …
170" Sprinter Camper Van Tour - Awesome Floorplan for 2 People

Feb 20, 2025 | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

I started van life in 2016 and since then, I’ve owned three different Sprinter Vans. My second Sprinter Van was converted by Portland-based Outside Van, a well-known industry expert, and out of all my vans, this one – designed for 2 adults -had my favorite floorplan. Built on a 170″ chassis, this 4×4 Sprinter easily handled everything I threw at it – whether that be rough 14,000-foot mountain passes in Colorado, icy roads while chasing powder, or driving across the country for the fall colors.
How to Get a Havasu Falls Permit: My Step-by-Step Guide

Nov 19, 2024 | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

I’ve been to Havasu Falls (formally known as Havasupai Falls) twice now, so I know how difficult it can be to get a Havasu Falls permit. While it may not be as tough as Taylor Swift tickets, Havasu Falls permits sell out immediately for the entire year, so you need to do your research on how to get a permit ahead of time. That way when they go on sale, you’re ready to go and will have the best chance of success.
Havasu Falls Hike: Your Complete Trail Guide (with map!)

Nov 19, 2024 | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

I’ve been lucky enough to hike to Havasu Falls twice, and each trip was an unforgettable adventure. The waterfalls are absolutely magical and worth every ounce of effort it takes to get there. This iconic Havasu Falls hike, located on Havasupai tribal land, is a bucket list destination for many outdoor lovers. The trail is 10 miles each way, departing from Hualapai Hilltop in Arizona where you descend into a steep canyon and travel through a dry sandy wash all the way to paradise.
2024 REI Winter Sale: These are the 15 Best Deals!

Nov 14, 2024 | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

Every November, the REI has a huge winter sale that I think is one of their best sales of the year. This year’s sale is taking place November 15-25, and it’s a great time to stock up on winter gear, holiday gifts, or outdoor products that you want for next summer. In this post, I’ve scoured the REI website and handpicked the best REI Winter Sale deals with discounts up to 40% off. Everything I recommend here I’ve personally tried.
How Live in a Van as a Couple: Tips for Maintaining Harmony

Nov 5, 2024 | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

When my partner Ryan and I first moved into a van together, we quickly learned that living in a tiny space together — just the two of us and our stuff (plus a dog)— brought new challenges to our relationship. Privacy became a rare luxury, and at times the van, though cozy, felt very cramped. Navigating van life with a significant other is both beautiful and challenging. There are amazing moments—like watching sunsets from bed and laughing over quirky van life mishaps—but it also takes effort.
20 Ultralight Gifts for Hikers and Backpackers

Oct 31, 2024 | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

Are you looking for an awesome gift for your favorite hiker or backpacker? I’ve been hiking and backpacking for the last two decades, and in this hiker and backpacker gift guide, I share my most used gear of 2024. Whether it’s a new ultralight tent, a water filter, or important safety gear, the gifts featured here are lightweight, practical, and well-made so they will last many seasons of adventuring. This post may contain affiliate links.