The Art of "Staying Janky."

My definition of “staying janky” is living in the present while being outdoors. The places we go and the activities we do make such an impact on our lives. We are our jankiest selves can embrace the experience. I would much rather be outdoors, where the dirtier you are, the more fun you have had. Worn gear represents all the places you’ve been. We all know that those wonderful feelings you get when camping or backpacking fade when you return from a trip. The thrill of kayaking or catching a fish drift away when we are back to the daily grind. The rush of skiing or snowboarding dwindles and all that remains are your windburned cheeks and chapped lips. For me, living in the present is very different at home in my day to day, than it is when I am in the outdoors. So, let’s all try to “stay janky” every day.

Here are the top 10 ways to “Stay Janky.”

  1. Treat everyday as if you are camping and don’t brush your hair.
  2. Pretend you are camp cooking. Only use 1 bowl/plate and just lick it clean between uses.
  3. Make hot dogs a weekly meal.
  4. Your clothes smell like campfire? Don’t wash them. It’s like perfume or cologne.
  5. Wool socks and Chaco sandals…yes, please!
  6. Patch your favorite outerwear with electrical tape. It adds a subtle flare to your look.
  7. Sleep in a sleeping bag on top of your bed at home. Wah-la. You don’t have to make your bed in the morning.
  8. Put your phone on airplane mode and pretend you are on a hike, out of cell range.
  9. Carry a pack with a Nalgene water bottle, Cliff Bars, and a flint fire starter wherever you go. Just in case.
  10. Always be on the lookout for used outdoor gear. Keep well-loved gear in the wild.

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