I hope OutBox helps bridge the gap between wanting to get outside and actually doing it

My love for the outdoors started early. What began as Cub Scouts grew into countless weekends outside as a Boy Scout, eventually earning my Eagle Scout rank. Campouts, hiking trips, and learning how to be comfortable outdoors weren’t occasional activities—they were just part of life. My dad played a huge role in that. He loved camping with us, and some of my strongest memories come from those trips. One that still stands out is the night a storm rolled in so hard—with lightning, wind, and rain—that our tent flooded. We stayed through it anyway. Looking back, that experience taught me resilience, adaptability, and that being outdoors isn’t always perfect—but it’s always worth it.

Spending time outside taught me how to disconnect. Camping has a way of slowing everything down. In a world that moves fast and rarely pauses, being outdoors forces you to stop, breathe, and reconnect—with yourself and with the world around you. Hence where the name “OutBox” comes from a idea that you don’t need to be tied down to your email inbox. It sounds a little meditative, but it’s true. There’s something grounding about sitting at a campsite, away from screens and noise, and just being present.

What’s always fascinated me about camping and backpacking is how the gear continues to evolve. It gets lighter, stronger, more technical, and more intuitive—making the outdoors more accessible without losing the spirit of adventure. I had a unique opportunity to experience that evolution firsthand while working for Cabela’s in Sidney, Nebraska, where I managed video production. That role gave me a front-row seat to some of the best outdoor brands in the industry. I was able to see their manufacturing processes, quality testing, and product development up close—and, more importantly, actually use the gear in real-world conditions.

That experience shaped my approach to OutBox. The gear included isn’t random—it’s made up of trusted items and companies I’ve used, tested, and continue to believe in. My goal is to take the overwhelm out of getting outside and make camping more approachable, especially for people who want the experience but don’t know where to start.

I’m excited to share my knowledge, passion, and love for the outdoors with you. I hope OutBox helps bridge the gap between wanting to get outside and actually doing it—so you can spend less time stressing over gear and more time enjoying the parks, campsites, and natural places that make these experiences unforgettable.

- Nicholas Holliday