FREEBIES

FIRST AID CHEAT SHEET FOR OUTDOOR EXPLORERS

If you’re setting off for a weekend in the woods, or road-tripping to a remote campsite, being prepared for injuries and unexpected medical issues is essential. This First Aid Cheat Sheet is your quick guide to handling common outdoor mishaps—

TRAVEL SAFETY: AVOID SCAMS IN BAJA CALIFORNIA

Although I have not personally fallen victim to most of these scams, it’s always a good idea to be prepared and know what to look out for, especially if it’s your first time visiting Baja California. Don’t let a scam ruin your trip—stay informed and stay safe!

LEAVE NO TRACE: 7 PRINCIPLES CHEAT SHEET

f you’ve ever stepped into a peaceful forest, stood on a silent mountain ridge, or watched the stars from a remote campsite, you know how powerful untouched nature can be. But as more of us head outdoors in search of that magic, we also carry the ...

HEALTHY HIKING (OR CAMPING/ROADTRIP) SNACK IDEAS

Whether you're hitting the trail, relaxing at camp, or cruising down the highway on your next adventure, the right snacks can make all the difference. I've put together a list of healthy, energizing snack ideas that ...

PASTA ALFREDO WITH SHRIMP

There’s something about cooking under an open sky that makes food taste much better. If you’re tired of the same old hot dogs and hamburgers, my favorite recipes will take your camping cuisine to the next level. They’re super easy, hearty, and ...

GRILLED CARNE ASADA TACOS RECIPE

There’s something about cooking under an open sky that makes food taste much better. If you’re tired of the same old hot dogs and hamburgers, my favorite recipes will take your camping cuisine to the next level. They’re super easy, hearty, and ...

GUIA ESENCIAL – VIAJE POR CARRETERA EN BAJA

Explorar Baja California, especialmente off-road, es una de las aventuras más gratificantes que puedes vivir. Pero también conlleva algunos desafíos logísticos. El paisaje remoto de Baja California es hermoso, pero los servicios son escasos.

BAJA ROADTRIP ESSENTIALS: PACKING AND PREP GUIDE

Exploring Baja California by road is one of the most rewarding adventures you can have. But it also comes with a few logistical challenges, especially when you’re off-grid for long stretches. You’ll want to pack like you’re going off the grid … because you are!

Free Outdoor Resources for Road Trippers, Vanlifers, and Adventure Seekers

Welcome to the Miles and Hikes Freebies page—your go-to destination for FREE practical, downloadable tools made especially for outdoor lovers, road trip planners, vanlifers, and modern-day explorers. If you’re gearing up for a camping trip, prepping for a long drive through Baja, Mexico, or looking for ways to make your time outdoors easier, safer, and more delicious, you’re in the right place.

I created this page with one goal in mind: to share useful, free outdoor resources with the community that has supported Miles and Hikes from day one. Every item here is designed from real-life experience on the road, in the wilderness, and behind the scenes of my camping and hiking adventures. These aren’t generic PDFs or recycled checklists—they’re field-tested tools shaped by thousands of miles, countless campsites, and a lot of trial and error.

Here’s a quick look at what you’ll find on this page:

Road Trip Planning Guides: Regardless if you’re new to vanlife or a seasoned weekend wanderer, planning is key. These guides help map out your route, estimate fuel costs, find free campsites, and avoid common pitfalls. They’re perfect for anyone heading into unfamiliar territory who wants to stay spontaneous without getting stuck.

Packing Checklists: From essential camping gear to what you need for a backcountry hike or a car-camping weekend, these checklists will save you time and stress. No more arriving at camp only to realize you forgot your sleeping pad or trail snacks. These lists are broken down by category, so you can customize them to your travel style.

Outdoor Cooking Tips and Recipes: Love cooking outdoors? So do I. These downloadable sheets include my favorite camp-friendly recipes, easy one-pan meals, spice blends, and smart tips for cooking with limited space and minimal gear. Whether you’re grilling carne asada under the stars or making pasta alfredo in the back of your van, these guides will make mealtime part of the adventure.

Recommended Places and Hidden Gems: I also share printable lists of some of my favorite campgrounds, or boondocling spots—especially in the Southwest U.S., and Baja, Mexico. Think of these as my personal notes from the road: places I’ve visited, vetted, and would recommend to fellow travelers.

Everything on this page is completely free to download. You don’t need to sign up, log in, or jump through hoops. Just click, download, and go. My goal is to make outdoor travel more accessible for everyone—whether you’re prepping for your first solo trip or planning your tenth cross-country drive.

Thanks for stopping by—and happy adventuring!

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