Travel Experience Inspire

Exploring the world with our dog Merci. 

Learning as we go, and sharing our knowledge with you.

How We Got Our Names

Gator

Gator

While thru-hiking on the Pacific Crest Trail I was telling a story about having a pet alligator when I was a kid. A fellow hiker from France thought it was the most redneck thing he had ever heard. He would say ‘see you later Gator’ and the name stuck.

Nuthin

Nuthin

I had hiked 444 miles on the Pacific Crest Trail, and still had no trail name. We were with another hiker who hiked the Appalachian Trail, trying to decide on a trail name. He asked me if I had any funny stories happen. I said, “No, nothing!” Then he declared me Nuthin.

Merci

Merci

Mercedes is my real name, but my friends call me Merci. When I am on a trail, I go by the name “Shady.” I like to run ahead and wait for my mom and dad in the shade. My dark fur attracts the sun, so it makes sense to rest in the shade!

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Most Popular Articles

Flying with Your Dog in Cargo: Essential Items You Need

Flying with Your Dog in Cargo: Essential Items You Need

This post contains affiliate links.Merci in her travel kennelMerci is an avid world traveler. She has flown with us many times domestically and internationally, most of which has been in the cargo hold. The thought of flying with your dog in cargo can be scary. With...

Unlocking Adventure: Our Essential Backpacking Gear Guide

Unlocking Adventure: Our Essential Backpacking Gear Guide

This post contains affiliate links.Gator and Nuthin in Switzerland on the Haute RouteThe beauty of backpacking lies in its freedom and adaptability. There's no one-size-fits-all approach – what works for one adventurer might not be ideal for the next. That's the...

Camping Made Easy: Gear Recommendations for Car Camping

Camping Made Easy: Gear Recommendations for Car Camping

This post contains affiliate links.Car camping at the Rio Grande Gorge in New Mexico from our Chevy EquinoxEver dreamt of exploring the outdoors but felt intimidated by traditional camping? Car camping offers a great solution! With your car as your basecamp, you can...

The 7 Best Dog Leashes for Hiking and Backpacking

The 7 Best Dog Leashes for Hiking and Backpacking

This post contains affiliate links.Merci overlooking La Rumorosa in MexicoOne of our favorite things to do in the world is to hit the trails with our dog Merci. She is four years old and has over 2,000 trail miles under her collar. She has hiked everywhere from the...

The Ultimate Guide to Flying With a Dog

The Ultimate Guide to Flying With a Dog

This post contains affiliate links.Tori and Penny in their travel kennels being loaded onto the airplane Photo by: @lifeoftheinstagrahams If you're planning on traveling with your dog, it's important to prepare them for the experience of flying. Flying with a dog can...

The 5 Best Tents for Backpacking with a Dog

The 5 Best Tents for Backpacking with a Dog

This post contains affiliate links.Gator and Merci backpacking in Colorado on the Continental Divide TrailWhen it comes to planning a backpacking trip with your furry friend, choosing the right tent is essential. Whether you're embarking on a multi-day hike or setting...

How to Choose the Best Dog Food for Backpacking

How to Choose the Best Dog Food for Backpacking

This post contains affiliate links.Nuthin and Merci on a sunrise hike in Oaxaca, MexicoFeeding your dog a high-quality food is important for its everyday health. Backpacking puts enormous stress on our bodies, so it is crucial to consider the impact it has on your dog...

Backpacking with Your Dog: Packing List

Backpacking with Your Dog: Packing List

This post contains affiliate links.Merci's backpacking gearGator and I enjoy being outdoors, so taking our dog Merci along is a no brainer. She was always meant to be a trail dog; backpacking is one of Merci’s favorite things to do. We have taken her backpacking all...

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