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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Vasque Breeze Hiking Boot Review

Last Updated: March 3, 2023

Originally released in 2004, the Breeze is Vasque’s flagship hiking boot and recently got a modest revamp. Notable changes include the use of sustainable materials, a new in-house waterproof membrane, and a revamped outsole. After testing the women’s...

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Best Camping Tents of 2025

Last Updated: April 15, 2025

Spacious, user-friendly, and feature-rich camping tents are made to facilitate a relatively luxurious experience in the outdoors. Many of these behemoths offer enough room to set up cots or even chairs and a table for card games on a rainy day. For car...

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Sea to Summit Telos TR2 Tent Review

Last Updated: October 7, 2021

Sea to Summit is best known for their quality sleeping pads and backpacking accessories, but their recent foray into the tent market has put them in the crosshairs of long-time players like Nemo and MSR. They introduced two models for this year: the...

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2024 Backcountry Gift Guide: Editors’ Picks

Last Updated: November 1, 2024

Backcountry.com is a one-stop shop for all sorts of outdoor gear, and we regularly turn to them for great deals and helpful product advice. With the holidays quickly approaching, we’ve hand-picked our favorite options from the brand’s extensive online...