Sarah Nelson

Sarah Nelson

Title: Writer & Gear Tester

Location: Reno, NV

Expertise & Background

  • Topics of Expertise: Climbing, trail running, backpacking, hiking, camping, downhill skiing
  • Education: Bachelor of Science in Journalism, Northwestern University
  • Years of Writing: 8+
  • Years of Gear Testing: 6+
  • Certifications: Wilderness First Responder, CPR, AIARE Level 1
  • Club or Association Memberships: Access Fund, American Alpine Club
  • Previous Publications: Backpacker Magazine


Why I Chose This Career

As a writer and editor for Switchback Travel, I’ve been able to merge my journalism background with my love for the outdoors—a perfect convergence of my expertise and personal passions.


How I Began My Career

My first professional writing experience was with Backpacker Magazine in 2016, where I interned during a semester in college. During my time there, I fell in love with the Rocky Mountains and committed to pursuing a career in the outdoor industry.

Recent Articles

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Do You Need Waterproof Hiking Shoes?

Last Updated: July 22, 2024

We get this question a lot: Do your hiking shoes or boots need to be waterproof, or can you do without? Hikers and backpackers fall on both ends of the spectrum—some prefer the unparalleled breathability of non-waterproof footwear, while others...

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Best Camping Lanterns of 2025

Last Updated: May 29, 2025

Camping lanterns have come a long way since their inception. Nowadays, the market is flush with modern options that combine impressive brightness alongside fun features like multicolor lighting modes, USB ports for powering your electronics, and even...

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Best Hiking Socks of 2025

Last Updated: February 20, 2025

You can’t overvalue a great pair of hiking socks: They keep your feet comfortable and dry while helping to prevent blisters and hotspots. We've tested the full array of styles in varied conditions, and below are our picks for the best hiking socks of...

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Camping Checklist

Last Updated: June 27, 2025

Whether it’s your first time car camping or you’ve been at it for years, it never hurts to have a good checklist. To help you get out of the house with all of the essentials in tow, we’ve outlined everything you need including campsite and sleeping...