Curious about my hikes, gear, and content? Here are the answers to some of the questions I get asked most often.
From how I got started to the gear I use (and what Einstein carries in her pack), here are some of the questions I get asked most often — with links to pages like About, My Story, and Gear Guide if you’d like to dive deeper.
1. How did you get into hiking?
I started hiking during a rough patch in my life, when I was practicing mindfulness and meditation. The mountains became a natural extension of that — a place where I could slow down, notice the little details around me, and just breathe. What started as solo walks grew into shared adventures with friends, then my partner, and eventually with our dog Einstein leading the way. If you’d like the full story, I’ve shared it over on my About and My Story pages.
2. What’s your go-to piece of gear?
Honestly, my camera. I was given my first one for my 21st birthday, and it’s been glued to my hand ever since. Sure, I carry all the hiking essentials too — but the camera is the one thing that always makes me pause, take notice, and really appreciate where I am.
3. Does Einstein really carry her own backpack?
She does! Einstein carries her own sleeping bag, mattress, food, and water on longer hikes. She doesn’t mind wearing the pack at all — in fact, she trots along quite happily with it. The only problem is she hasn’t quite figured out that it makes her wider than usual, so she regularly whacks it off trees and rocks without a second thought. Classic Einstein.
4. How do you make your videos?
I use a mix of cameras — from my Nikon to action cams, and sometimes a drone if the weather behaves itself. I usually carry way too much gear, but I love capturing things from different angles. Later, I edit everything in Premiere Pro and turn it into a story. If you’re curious about the exact kit I carry, I’ve put together a full breakdown on my Gear Guide page.
5. Do you create content full-time?
Not yet! Right now, I balance a 9–5 job with freelancing as a photographer and content creator. Aoife Outdoors started as a passion project and has been growing steadily ever since. My dream is to one day make it my full-time focus. If you’re interested in the brand work and creative projects I do, I’ve shared more about that on my Collaborations page.
6. Do you ever camp on your hikes?
Yes! Hiking naturally led me to camping, because I always wanted more time outdoors. Ireland’s weather isn’t always kind, but I love the challenge. I’m also a bit of a gearhead, so I’ve had a lot of fun testing out different tents, sleeping bags, and stoves. Some of my favourite memories are cooking over a fire, with Einstein curled up nearby and the mountains quiet around us. If you’d like to see what I pack, check out the Gear Guide.