Ben Dawson, Author at CleverHiker

Ben Dawson

Gear Analyst

Ben is a full-time traveler, father, and adventure journalist/photographer based in the western United States. He has a passion for conservation and utilizes his writing to help make the outdoors a more accessible space for all types of people.

He began his career in the outdoor industry by running the day-to-day operations of a popular hunting and fishing network but slowly transitioned out of the office and into the field. Ben has over ten years of experience working in the outdoor industry. He has written for numerous outdoor publications, helped film and produce a video gear review series, and has rigorously tested all kinds of outdoor gear.

He has authored three guidebooks for Falcon Guides covering a range of topics from how to build your own van and live nomadically to hiking with kids in Glacier National Park.

Articles by Ben Dawson

REI Base Camp 6 Tent Review

Side view of the Base Camp 6 tent's vestibule fully deployed with the rainfly extended over the front entry.

REI Base Camp 6 Tent Review

Author

Durable and weather-ready, this robust family camping tent has exceptional storage, dual vestibules, and premium materials built to last.

REI Westward 6 Tent Review

The REI Westward 6 tent pitched at camp with the rainfly and front vestibule fully set up.

REI Westward 6 Tent Review

Author

Tall enough to stand in, roomy enough for the whole family, and ventilated enough to stay comfortable on hot summer nights, this REI tent is worth your attention.

Coleman Skydome 4 Tent Review

A person stepping out of the Coleman Skydome 4 tent through the front vestibule, showing the low ceiling height and covered entry area.

Coleman Skydome 4 Tent Review

Author

This is an entry-level tent that nails the basics. Integrated poles make setup nearly foolproof, and the mostly mesh body delivers better airflow than most tents at this price..

LuvdBaby Toddler Carrier Backpack Review

Tester wearing the Luvdbaby Premium child carrier while walking through a snowy pine forest with a child seated in the pack.

LuvdBaby Toddler Carrier Backpack Review

Author

A framed carrier that punches above its weight on the accessories list, with a sunshade, rain cover, insulated pocket, and diaper pad all included at a budget price.

Osprey Poco Soft Child Carrier Review

Tester hiking in snowy conditions with a child riding in the Osprey Poco Soft, showing the carrier’s back panel and compact shape.

Osprey Poco Soft Child Carrier Review

Author

A soft carrier designed with hikers in mind: ripstop nylon construction, a structured hipbelt that actually moves weight to your hips, three carry positions, and a deployable sunshade.

Coast FL97R Headlamp Review

Close-up of the Coast FL95R Headlamp front lens and reflector, resting in dry pine needles.

Coast FL97R Headlamp Review

Author

This is a feature-rich headlamp with serious brightness, intuitive beam control, and a warm area light that works as propped up in a tent as it does on your head.

Petzl SWIFT LT Headlamp Review

Close-up of the Petzl Swift headlamp worn around the neck like a necklace, shining light onto a jacket.

Petzl SWIFT LT Headlamp Review

Author

This is an ultralight headlamp that earns its place in fast-and-light kits, with a stable fit that stays put at a dead sprint and enough brightness for most trail use.

BioLite Range 500 Headlamp Review

Author

This headlamp is light enough for trail runs, tough enough for downpours, and back to fully charged before you finish packing up camp.

Best Baby Backpack Carriers for Hiking of 2026

10 baby backpack carriers lineup up in front of a wood pile with pine trees in the background.

Best Baby Backpack Carriers for Hiking of 2026

Author

Explore the top baby backpack carriers ideal for hiking and outdoor adventures. We have evaluated the leading models based on comfort, durability, features, and value to identify the best options tailored to each unique requirement.

Mountain Hardwear Mineral King All-Season Tent Review

A person sitting at the open doorway of the tent in snowy conditions, pulling a large backpack into the vestibule while wearing winter boots and a warm jacket.

Mountain Hardwear Mineral King All-Season Tent Review

Author

This is a winter-ready tent with burly fabrics and a proven layout, creating an approachable, high-value option for winter and shoulder-season adventures.

The North Face Mountain 25 Four-Season Tent Review

The North Face Mountain 25 with its vestibule door open, revealing the yellow inner tent and a snow-covered campsite around it.

The North Face Mountain 25 Four-Season Tent Review

Author

A rugged, expedition-ready 4-season tent built for harsh alpine conditions, offering outstanding strength, improved ventilation, and long-term durability for serious winter use, though its heavy weight limits versatility.

Mountain Hardwear Trango 2 Four-Season Tent Review

The Mountain Hardwear Trango2 4-season tent covered in snow on a winter camping trip

Mountain Hardwear Trango 2 Four-Season Tent Review

Author

A rugged, storm-ready shelter built for harsh winter conditions, this tent delivers excellent durability and dependable weather protection. Ideal for demanding adventures where strength and security matter most.

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