For many hikers, there's nothing more freeing than being out on the trail or backcountry, surrounded by nothing but wildnerness and the sounds of nature. But this is also what can make hiking so hazardous. While the exact number of hikers who get lost every year is unknown, it is estimated to be at least 2,000. Getting lost in even well-traveled national parks or wilderness areas is considered extremely dangerous, and in many cases it leads to serious injuries or even death. Fortunately, bringing a good GPS device on the hike can prevent all this. Currently, three of the best GPS devices available today are the Garmin Oregon 700, the Garmin inReach Explorer+, and the Garmin eTrex 32x. Read on to find out how these GPS devices can help individuals stay safe in the wilderness.

The Garmin Oregon 700 is about as state-of-the-art as personal handheld GPS devices can get these days without being overcome by a bunch of unnecessary features. Its touchscreen is fairly large and gives users the full scope of their surroundings, while still coming small enough to easily stuff into a pack or deep pants pocket. Coveniently for users who engage in a wide range of activities, the screen can be programmed with different profiles for various outdoor sports (hiking, paddling, cycling, etc.) It also comes with 16 hours of battery life and a slot for SD cards to extend the 3.4g memory. The Garmin Oregon 700 typically retails for around $400 both online and at stores like REI (which is impressive compared to other high-tech models). 

For those who prefer the comfort of being connected to the outside world (especially in the event of an emergency), the Garmin inReach Explorer+ is a great way to go. Boasting a straightforward design that resembles a modern walkie-talkie, this GPS offers satellite messaging and SOS alert. While this GPS doesn't have all the capabilities of more advanced models (such as a slot for SD cards or ability to upload all types of maps), many users will enjoy its ease of use, ergonomic grip, durable design, and of course the satellite connectivity. For those worried about getting into dangerous spots out in the woods (or anywhere in the wild), this little gadget is a reliable choice that can get them out of trouble. It retails for $450, though REI members who purchase it through the store are eligible for $45 back. 

Last but certainly not least, the Garmin eTrex 32x stems from a time-tested modern classic and serves as a great choice for any hiker. The 32x is the latest model, with an upgraded high-res view screen and bigger memory storage (8g). Instead of the touchscreens seen on a lot of newer GPS models, this one comes with side buttons and a joystick, which makes it the ideal choice for use in all kinds of weather conditions. It also comes with a pre-installed TopoActive map, wireless sharing, barometric altimeter (for measuring inclines) and tri-axial compass.The eTrex 32x typically retails for about $330, but REI has it on sale for $300.

The right choice in GPS will depend on the hiker's individual preferences and budget, including what kind of weather they hike in and where (and for how long). All in all, however, all of the GPS devices listed here are solid choices with easy-to-use designs and features that could actually save a hiker's life. It's important to not venture out into the wilderness unprepared and unequipped!

The type of luggage you need ideally depends on how you prefer to travel. Although your natural instinct is to maximize comfort and security during transit, there are also some practicalities that you can consider to make your overall traveling experience luxurious. Many carry-on bags now come equipped with USB ports and power banks that conveniently charge your devices while also keeping them secure. Light armored bags offer extra space for packing without exceeding limits for size and dimensions. Maneuvering power and expandability are also two important specifications that make travel bags efficient.

A smart carry-on bag offers the convenience of moving around at airports without having to carry a bulky power bank in your hand. Your smartphones are heavily reliant on a frequent power supply; hence, there is always a chance youll run out of battery. The opportunity to charge your phone in a mobile fashion helps you stay in control of your things and keep yourself from being stationed in one place. The maximum allowed range for power banks, on board, is 27,000mAh and depending on your usage, it can last you well through a 20-hour long journey.

Besides complying with weight allowance, traveling with light bags ensures you do not exhaust yourself unnecessarily. This doesnt mean you have to cut down on the things you would like to pack but rather that you can choose a full-size bag that weighs between 1.5 to 2.5 kg when empty. These light armor bags are designed to help you save money from paying overweight penalties without compromising on the number of things you would like to take with you.

Maneuvering a highly flexible wheelset requires very little effort at your end. The best wheeling system is said to be the spinner wheels that rotate 360 degrees and prevent jamming. They also enable smooth and easy movement along any pavement. A good moving suitcase is also time efficient as it saves time and moves as quickly as you would like. Many travel bags have an expandable panel that unzips, adding extra packing space.

Christmas trees have been popular for centuries. Originally, the custom of decorating evergreen varieties of trees began with ancient pagan customs often related to a yule log. Actual Christmas trees as we know them today started first with wealthy families. The custom of bringing a holiday tree indoors is linked to old German customs.

Today, Christmas trees often represent Christianity with the tree being represented as Christ's cross, or tree, and the lights and decorations representing the resurrection and joy regarding everlasting spiritual life which the Christian faith is built upon. Trees were first decorated with edible fruits, nuts, candles and other items like a hidden pickle. The custom was brought to America possibly in the later part of the 1770's and gained traction in the mid 1850's in wealthy homes.

Christmas trees are now lighted with electric light strands. Artificial holiday trees became popular in the 1960s gaining more converts in recent years. While the first artificial trees were not very realistic in looks, today's versions are much more attractive and natural appearing. These trees may be found in specialty Christmas and holiday decor shops both in physical stores and online shops making shopping a breeze.

Before purchasing your ideal artificial or real tree this holiday season, take time to consider the space limits within your home to ensure that your chosen tree will fit properly. Most live trees used for the Christmas holiday are cut down weeks before they are shipped to local tree retailers. The colder weather often keeps the trees fresher, but a live tree should not be brought indoors too early due to the pine needles drying out and falling off creating a fire risk.

Artificial Christmas trees these days come in lots of sizes, and some are even pre-lit for easy setup and storage later. It is possible to find artificial trees in almost any color and design style. Consumers are urged to begin thinking about tree shopping earlier to ensure enough time to purchase your ideal tree style.

Trees used for holiday decoration include many evergreen choices: balsam, fir, pine species like Virginia or Scotch pine, conifer, various spruces like Norway spruce or blue spruce, Arizona Cyprus and others. Real trees may have limitations on tree varieties due to weather and geographical location differences that may impact proper tree growth.

The best time of the year to buy an artificial Christmas tree is usually during the summer months. More Christmas tree retailers have their best sales during July but look for sales just ahead of the holiday season and immediately after the new year for the best clearance prices.

Other considerations before purchasing a Christmas tree include whether you have pets or small children that may be curious and could cause unwanted damage, how long you will keep your tree up if it is a live tree and budget limitations.

Investing in window installation can add value, energy-efficiency, and beauty to any home.  Home owners generally have new windows installed to replace broken window panes and mechanisms, as well as rotting sashes and frames. Companies that specialize in window installation offer a wide selection of premium products to fit the style and budget of any home. While home owners can install new windows themselves, the process can be messy, time consuming, and more expensive than simply getting them installed—which is why it’s often easier to find window installers who can do the job right. The window installation is completed by licensed, skilled, and insured professionals efficiently and quickly. The three most popular specialists in window installation include Home Depot, Lowes, and Sears. Read on to find out what these trustworthy window installers have to offer!

There are many advantages to window installation provided by Home Depot. Teams of window installation specialists use leading brands in wood, vinyl, and storm windows, including JeldWen, American Craftsman, and Andersen. Home Depot offers a range of warranties on products they install, with lifetime warranties on screens, hardware, and accidental glass breakage. Customers interested in learning about window installation prices can all and reserve a free in-home consultation at no extra charge. Home Depot often offers special deals, including 15% off installed windows and special zero percent financing. Customers can choose to replace one window, every window in the house, and anything in between. When homeowners hire a team from Home Depot to install windows, they can expect precise measurements, removal of old windows, new windows delivered directly to their homes, debris removal, clean up, and comprehensive inspections of all completed work.

Lowes begins its window installation process with a comprehensive in-home consultation with a Exterior Project Specialist. This person runs the window installation project from start to finish, finding the right windows for each home owner’s needs, managing the independent contractors who install the windows, and making sure that every detail is covered. Instead of running in-store teams, Lowe’s Exterior Project Specialists coordinate with independent licensed and insured window installers to precisely place high-quality new or replacement windows. Lowe’s also offers flexible financing options for its window installation services,  allowing consumers to choose from 36, 60, or 84 fixed monthly payments available on purchases of $2,000 or more. There are also a variety of warranties, including a minimum one-year labor warranty.

Sears window installation services help brighten up ay home, increasing value and beauty while reducing energy costs and outdoor noise. Sears installs a variety of vinyl replacement windows, including bay, casement, sliding, and double-hung. Sears provides ratings of Good, Better, and Best to help homeowners choose the windows that are right for their homes and budgets—here you’ll find some of the best affordable window replacement options. The Good windows are more affordable but still energy efficient and attractive. Better windows offer double-strength glass and heavier construction. The Best windows have insulated frames and double-strength laminated security glass. Sears Home Services provides consultations on the phone or in-person. Over the phone, customers need to provide precise window measurements in order to get a price estimate. An in-person visit involves a Sears Home Services consultant who visits, helps with measurements, tells homeowners what to expect, and provides a price estimate on the complete project.