Freelance Writer

Erica Zozo

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Hey, there – I'm a Chicago-based freelance outdoor + travel writer 👋

I regularly contribute to national publications (CNN Underscored, Backpacker Magazine, Popular Mechanics, Trails Magazine, and more) and brand blogs (Osprey, Pure Michigan, Eddie Bauer, Oboz, and more) writing about everything from gear reviews to the best hiking trails to exploring urban nature.

My words help inspire people to get outside, support destinations and brands in building stronger connections with folks who love the outdoors and love to travel, and spread the word about how/where to adventure – especially in urban places and people ignored by the outdoor industry 🏳️‍🌈✊🏽✊🏿🏳️‍⚧️

You can find my words in Backpacker Magazine, Outside Magazine, Popular Mechanics, GearJunkie, SKI Magazine, Chicago Tribune, Group Tour Magazine, CNN Underscored, the Osprey Blog, the Pure Michigan blog and more.

Hey, there – I'm a Chicago-based freelance outdoor + travel writer 👋

I regularly contribute to national publications (CNN Underscored, Backpacker Magazine, Popular Mechanics, Trails Magazine, and more) and brand blogs (Osprey, Pure Michigan, Eddie Bauer, Oboz, and more) writing about everything from gear reviews to the best hiking trails to exploring urban nature.

My words help inspire people to get outside, support destinations and brands in building stronger connections with folks who love the outdoors and love to travel, and spread the word about how/where to adventure – especially in urban places and people ignored by the outdoor industry 🏳️‍🌈✊🏽✊🏿🏳️‍⚧️

You can find my words in Backpacker Magazine, Outside Magazine, Popular Mechanics, GearJunkie, SKI Magazine, Chicago Tribune, Group Tour Magazine, CNN Underscored, the Osprey Blog, the Pure Michigan blog and more.

Stories by the Author

Backpacker: 17 New Year’s Resolutions Every Backpacker and Thru-Hiker Should Consider

From dropping egos to taking a first-ever overnight trip, experienced hikers share their hopes and dreams for the new year ahead.

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January 8, 2025

REI: The Perfect Kit for Birding

Want to try bird-watching? Here’s everything you need to get started, including binoculars, a guidebook and more birder basics.

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March 22, 2024

Backpacker: 17 New Year’s Resolutions Every Backpacker and Thru-Hiker Should Consider

From dropping egos to taking a first-ever overnight trip, experienced hikers share their hopes and dreams for the new year ahead.

REI: The Perfect Kit for Birding

Want to try bird-watching? Here’s everything you need to get started, including binoculars, a guidebook and more birder basics.

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