Rachel Howatson
Digital Writer
Rachel Howatson is a digital writer for Countryfile.com. With a love of hiking and campervanning, she is most at home in the great outdoors, where you’ll find her reviewing the latest outdoor kit for Countryfile’s gear section. Waterproofs, camping stoves, and even the best tea bags for a morning brew — all put through rigorous testing. Growing up on the east coast of Scotland, Rachel loves nothing more than a dog walk along one of the area’s many beautiful beaches. A two year stint tackling New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Milford Track and the Abel Tasman Coast being her personal favourites, fuelled a passion for multi-day walks. Next up? All 870 miles of the Wales Coastal Path.. Rachel is a BJTC-trained journalist with bylines in Gardens Illustrated, BBC Science Focus Magazine and Gathered. An experienced consumer writer, you can trust she’s finding the best deals and latest products to help you enjoy the countryside all the more.
Recent articles by Rachel Howatson
Salomon Techamphibian 5 Water Shoe review: a versatile, top-quality choice for summer adventures
Could Salomon's Techamphibian 5 water shoe, a versatile design for adventures on both land and water, suit your love of hiking, wild swimming and beach exploration?
Best outdoor deals for 2024: huge savings on Patagonia, Rab, Merrell and more in this year's summer sales
It's time to embrace the summertime savings! Browse our selection of the best outdoor deals, and upgrade your walking wardrobe, camping kit and holiday essentials on a budget.
The best camping lanterns and lights reviewed in 2024: enjoy the outdoors for longer
Looking to read in your tent, or cook under the stars? Browse BBC Countryfile Magazine's review of the best camping lanterns available to buy.
Best daypacks reviewed for 2024 - these durable designs have got your back this summer
Make sure you're adventure-ready with the help of a decent daypack. We put leading brands, including Fjällräven, Patagonia and Cotopaxi, to the test.
Fancy taking your camping adventures to the next level? Here's where to buy the best roof tents for 2024
We've gathered a list of the best roof tent brands, including TentBox, Quechua and Oex, for a hassle-free, adventure-fuelled camping trip
Best fleeces tested for 2024: our ultimate guide to the cosy, must-have midlayer
Looking to beat the chill, or in need of a new midlayer? We review the best fleeces on the market.
Fjällräven Skule Top 26 Daypack Review: this well-built pack oozes quality
Fjällräven is a big player in the backpack world. Does the Skule Top Daypack live up to the brand's stellar reputation? Paul McGuinness finds out.
Horizn Studios Air review: this sustainably-made suitcase seriously pulls its weight
We test Horizn Studios' new Air suitcase, and it turns out, it's pretty hard to fault
The best glamping accessories: bell tents, lanterns, bunting and more
Treat yourself to a more lavish camping experience with our list of the best glamping accessories
Father's Day gift guide: it's time to treat your outdoorsy, nature-loving dad
Find present inspiration with our Father's Day gift guide, filled with outdoor wear, camping gadgets, pizza ovens, model train sets and more
Your festival checklist for 2024: camp, dance and sleep in comfort this summer
Heading to your first family festival, or perhaps you're returning to a beloved field with friends this summer? Pack with confidence with our festival checklist.
Best dog-friendly hotels for 2024: here's where to holiday with your hound
Fancy treating your four-legged pal to a well-deserved break? Get inspired with our selection of the best dog-friendly hotels in the UK
Cotopaxi Luzon 24L daypack review
Find out how the Cotopaxi Luzon 24L backpack, a sustainably-made, colourful daypack, fares on review.
The best walking socks reviewed in 2024 for all hiking conditions
Our team reviews a selection of the best walking socks including anti-blister, bamboo and wool choices. Get ready to stride in comfort.
The best hedgehog houses for your garden in 2024
Provide a safe and sheltered spot for your spiky visitors this year with a charming hedgehog house.
Perfect pitch - we've tested the best tents for families, backpackers and festival goers in 2024
Packing light for a multi-day hike, or perhaps you're setting up base for a week of family adventures? Here's our guide to the best tents on the market, reviewed by our team.
Get ready for camping season: up to 60% off Berghaus, Rab, Patagonia and more in this year's spring sales
Heading off on a camping trip for the Easter break? Check out these outdoor kit deals, and make some savings as you tick off the family camping checklist.
The best and most unusual Easter eggs: surprising spring treats for 2024
Our roundup of the best unusual Easter eggs is sure to delight chocolate, cheese and craft fans.
Mother's Day gifts reviewed and loved by our team: here's how to spoil your outdoorsy mum
Looking to treat an outdoorsy mum this Mother's Day? Our list of reviewed gift ideas, including socks, flasks and books, is here to help.
Best umbrellas tried and tested in 2024: brilliant brollies for rainy strolls
Be drizzle and downpour ready with our review of the best umbrellas on the market. Fulton, Totes, Barbour and Mountain Warehouse are put to the test.
The best portable coffee makers in 2024 for a brew with a view
To help power your outdoor adventures, we review the best portable coffee makers from MSR, AeroPress, Wacaco and more.
Best hiking water bottles tested in 2024: hydrate in the hills
BBC Countryfile Magazine's guide to the best water bottles for hiking and backpacking. We review Nalgene, Hydro Flask, Yeti and more.
Best waterproof trousers reviewed in 2024 for rainy hikes
On wet winter walks, waterproof trousers are essential to keep you dry and warm.
Best walking trousers reviewed in 2024 for strolls, rambles and multi-day hikes
We reviewed and tested the best men's and women's walking trousers, looking at whether they are lightweight and breathable, how comfortable they are and whether they're good value for money.