FAQs

Frequently Asked Question?

How did you come up with the items included in the YAK?

We consulted leading backpacking resources and reviewed relevant packing list across the different scouting and backpacking communities.  We reviewed gear recommendations for different merit badges and pulled on our experience outfitting our own scouts and from the recommendations we have given over the years to scouts in our dens.

What happens if something breaks?

We stand behind everything we sell. If you are not satisfied with your HMWOutdoors purchase, you can return it for a replacement or refund within one year of purchase.

If your item has a manufacturing defect in its materials or workmanship, you can return it at any time.

The HMWOutdoor’s guarantee doesn't cover ordinary wear and tear or damage caused by improper use or accidents. (For that you want our soon to be released YAK Insure.)

Does my student/scout need everything in the bag?

YES, YES, YES, no I’m kidding, for a camporee, your scout will not need the the beach towel, and maybe they aren’t ready for the pocket knife.  The point is as they mature in the program they will need different items for different trips.  What we include is a platform to cover you with what your student needs to get started.

Why do you include a pocket knife?

For the YAK, a pocket knife is a tool. It can be used for making camp gadgets, preparing tender or kindling for a fire, preparing meals, making marshmallow sticks, carving a walking stick, you get where I’m going.  The point it, the included pocket knife isn’t a weapon but a tool.  That said, is your student ready for a pocket knife, that is up to you.  

Is my pack waterproof?

Our pack is coated with a treatment that is highly water resistant. If you are planning a trip that will encounter severe wet weather, or you are concerned about keeping your gear absolutely dry, we recommend using the included rain cover.

What if the backpack doesn't fit?

We would be shocked, shocked I tell you, I’m kidding.  Our backpack is unique and designed by HMWOutdoors, it’s torso (from shoulder to hip) adjust between 14” - 21” and supporting waist to size 40. That means as the grow up and out we have you covered, this is the last backpack your student/scout will ever need (small type unless they out grow to more than 6’ and a waist larger the a size 40).  That means when you buy a pack for your 5th or 6th grader, you don’t need to buy a new pack for your 9th grader. It’s completely adjustable. We don’t talk much about it, however I use our pack as an adult leader, it’s just that adjustable.  This pack is will adjust as they grow. Think of it as that car seat you only purchase once.  With all that said (can you say wordy) if it still doesn’t fit let us know, we will send you a mailing label and refund you a portion of your purchase. 

I don't want the whole kit do you offer other options?

Funny you should ask, Felicia and I went back and forth about this and of course she won.  We now offer:

• The Youth Adventure Kit Sleeper (YAK Sleeper) which includes
• York 70
• Celeste 1000 Sleep System
• The Youth Adventure Kit Essential (YAK Essential) which includes
• York 70
• Celeste 1000 Sleep System
• The Essentials (you have to add food)

Aren’t knives dangerous?

Yes, but so are pointy pencils. :-)  We like to use the analogy when our kids were young,  I mean really young.  Did we give them nice pointy pencils and fountain pens?  Of course not, they started out with crayon bars of wax, then we moved them to big fat crayons, after awhile we gave them big fat pencils with rounded points, later we introduced them to pencil sized crayons, then to normal pencils with pointy ends.  My point is I would not give my kids a pocket knife without going through the development steps with them.  All scout programs include a knife component. All that said you know your student/scout if they aren’t ready then that pocket knife belongs to you until they are.

Why are there so many towels?

We have heard that a lot,  there are three sizes of towels for for different occasions they find themselves in. They are not going to need a beach towel at a camporee or weekend overnighter, but if there’s a pool or lake nearby that’s another story. You can wet the bath towel and wear around the neck to cool down during warm weather.  For a weeklong camp they should get near the shower at least once. You understand our point.

How much does it all weigh?

The Youth Adventure Kit comes in 13.8 lbs.  We worked hard to keep the overall weight down.  They're not going to take everything on every trip so actually travel weight will vary.

I have a large group, do you have any volume pricing?

Of course we do, reach out to us through our contact us page. 

I run an outdoor camp/education program, do you have a reseller program?

Yes, please reach out to us through our contact us page.

I like the idea, but my group wants to customize what's included or excluded?

Reach out to us through our contact us page, so we can discuss what you have in mind. 

Do you have tents and stoves?

Yes, they are coming, sign up for our mailing list to be first to know.

Do you have a grant program?

Yes, we are passionate about getting you outdoors.  Especially if you're going some place cool, getting kids outdoors, or are really going to put some miles on our gear. Use the contact us page and let us know what you have in mind.  Because we receive many request grants are limited and are generally in the form of our group/volume pricing.

Do you have a field testing program?

Absolutely, we are always looking for people passionate about getting outdoors and discovering our natural world.  To BECOME A FIELD TESTER Tag us at #hmwoutdoors and we will find you, reach out through our contact us page, let us know you are out there.  Tell us, why you want to be a field tester and how where you will take your YAK.

Backpack and Zipper Care and Cleaning

Backpack Care & Cleaning

• Brush off loose dirt with a dry brush
• As needed, wipe out the inside with a damp sponge and mild soap
• Rinse only, if possible. Use cold water and a sponge or rinse in a tub without soap
• Rinse thoroughly to eliminate soap residue.
• DO NOT use washing machine
• DO NOT use detergents
• DO NOT soak in soapy water, as it may cause delimitation
• Place pack on frame to air dry—air dry only
• Always store in a cool, dry area

Zipper Care

• Keep loose threads trimmed.
• Keep free from dirt.
• Spray periodically with a non-greasy, non-staining silicone spray designed for fabrics.
• To prevent salt water corrosion on zipper pulls, make sure you rinse with clear water after exposure. 

Do you still have a question?  Please use our contact page.