Meg Carney Archives | Field & Stream

Author of the Outdoor Minimalist and host of the Outdoor Minimalist podcast, Meg Carney, has been an outdoor and environmental writer for over six years. After studying communication arts and literature in Duluth, Minnesota, she pursued various outdoor-industry jobs that eventually led her to her current career in freelance writing.

Highlights

Covershiking,backpacking, and watersports gear

Education

Carney received a Bachelor of Applied Arts Degree in Communication Arts and Literature from the University of Minnesota, Duluth. During college, she spent most of her free time rock climbing, guiding, and exploring the Northwoods of Minnesota.

Experience

Carney began freelance writing as a side gig just over six years ago, and as her client base grew, she made it into her full-time job. With an extensive background in multiple facets of the outdoor industry, she pursued writing and editing work covering activities she loves doing, including rock climbing, backpacking, trail running, and more.

With a passion for environmental advocacy, Carney saw herself integrating conservation and sustainability aspects into all of her writing. This crossover eventually led to the publication of her first book, Outdoor Minimalist: Waste Less Hiking, Camping, and Backpacking. Her main mission for both the book and the podcast is to raise awareness that leads to tangible action in the outdoor industry for both consumers and producers.

Carney now translates this direct advocacy in her gear writing to help consumers sift through outdoor gear options, read through greenwashing, and help brands assess their gear’s life cycle and impact. Her work can also be seen in publications such as Eat Clean, Run Dirty Magazine, American Essence Magazine, and on digital platforms like Gear Junkie.

F&S Lightning Round

Favorite Place to Hike: Glacier Peak Wilderness in Washington,Favorite Outdoor Activity: Gravel biking or bikepacking,Most Prized Piece of Gear: Raleigh Tamland 2 Gravel Bike,Bucket List Adventure: Bikepacking Iceland,Outdoor Companions: Ash the GSP mix along with her Husky/Malamute Leo