Thomas Churchill

BA in International Relations, Stanford University

Thomas Churchill graduated from Stanford in 2018 with a BA in International Relations. Thomas directs the Notable Co-Author Project, an effort to recruit and connect professional expertise with wikiHow articles and the platform’s greater community. Thomas is passionate about empowering people of all backgrounds to learn about any topic, and he works to create the best advice possible for users around the world.

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Q&A Comments (3)

How should I lace my hiking boots?

Your laces should fit snugly and pass through every loop and binding on the boot. For a snug fit, cross your laces over one another several times as you approach your ankle and calf, creating multiple X shapes. Then, use the metal rungs to pull the laces tight at the top of the boot. This will help you avoid blisters while you're hiking.

Why should I tie my boots tightly to my backpack?

If your boots are swinging around, they'll create extra air resistance when you're walking, and they'll be more of a nuisance.

How should I pack for a backpacking trip?

Try to bring light clothing—avoid packing jeans or other heavy items. Always keep your heaviest items toward the center of your pack, as that will help the weight be distributed evenly. Also, try to stuff items down into your pack to get rid of any air pockets. Finally, traveling in groups will allow you to distribute group gear more efficiently, which will make your packs collectively lighter.

Co-authored Articles (3)

How to

Tie Footwear to Hiking Backpack

Hiking is a great activity for getting some exercise and seeing the true beauty of nature. Going on a hike may require you to bring extra supplies, such as an extra pair of boots or shoes. In this article, you will learn...

How to

Climb a Mountain

You haven’t lived until you’ve seen the sun from the top of a mountain! The feeling of accomplishment you get once you reach the summit is incredible. If you’re brand new to mountain climbing, no problem. It’s a ...

Hiking for Beginners: 14 Helpful Tips

Everything you need to know to have an enjoyable hikeThere are very few things more pleasant than hiking through the great outdoors. The sun warming your shoulders, nature all around you, and an incredible view before yo...