Backpacking Archives

Stay Dry in Any Alpine Storm: Mountain Hardwear Dawnlight Outerwear Review

Over 2.5 days on the Grand Teton, the Dawnlight jacket and pants combo from Mountain Hardwear effectively shielded me from every kind of precipitation in…

Written by Austin Beck-Doss April 19, 2023

The Best Hiking Shoes of 2023

We tested and ranked the best hiking shoes for men and women for 2022, including top picks from Salomon, Lems, Merrell, SCARPA, and more.

Written by Mallory Paige, Austin Beck-Doss and Chris Carter April 18, 2023

The Best Ultralight Backpacks of 2023

What’s the best ultralight backpack? We interviewed thru-hikers and put several models to the test to find some of the top lightweight hiking backpacks.

Written by Sean McCoy and Chris Carter April 18, 2023

The Best Satellite Messengers of 2023

Satellite messengers started with the need for reliable emergency contact, but have expanded beyond emergency needs into full-blown two-way communication devices. While every satellite messenger…

Written by Tim Newcomb and Nick Belcaster April 18, 2023

Cut Trail Weight, Not Comfort: EXPED Ultra Sleeping Mat Review

EXPED Ultra’s sleeping mats are made for hikers and backpackers who consider pack size and weight their top priority when hitting the trail.

Written by David Young April 14, 2023

The Best Headlamps of 2023

We tested the best headlamps of 2023 with options for every budget. Top picks include BioLite, Black Diamond, and more!

Written by Sean McCoy and Nicole Qualtieri April 11, 2023

An Ammo Can That Grills for 2: Ignik FireCan Deluxe Review

Ignik now makes a FireCan Deluxe that doubles as a grill on top of being a fire pit — and it cooks faster than you…

Written by Nick LeFort April 10, 2023

Pocket-Size 3-in-1 Camping Gear Aims to Inflate, Deflate, and Illuminate

Consider the FLEXTAIL TINY PUMP 2X a multitool designed for inflation and deflation, with a side gig as a lantern.

Written by Sponsored Post April 06, 2023

Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail: The Gear I Used and Why

It was easy for me to decide to hike the Pacific Crest Trail. But a gigantic hurdle before me was the gear I needed.

Written by Sean Jansen April 06, 2023

Thru-Hiker’s 2,600-Mile PCT Journey Condensed Into 18 Minutes

What’s special about this journey on the Pacific Crest Trail? Moving self-reflections and a profound sense of vulnerability.

Written by Andrew McLemore April 04, 2023

‘Ultimate Infinity Loop’ Gear List: Setting an FKT on North America’s Highest Volcano

Jason Hardrath just completed a 43-mile Infinity Loop FKT of the tallest volcano in North America in less than 24 hours. Here’s the gear that…

Written by Will Brendza March 30, 2023

No Matches? No Problem. Here’s How to Build a Bow Drill in the Backcountry

A bow drill fire is a method of firestarting that requires no matches, lighters, flint or steel — all you need are a few pieces…

Written by Will Brendza March 30, 2023

Never Miss Another Photo Op Again: Peak Design Capture Clip Review

The Peak Design Capture Clip means you don’t have to choose between hanging your camera on your neck or keeping it tucked away.

Written by Aubrey Byron March 29, 2023

Wilderness Concierge: RightOnTrek Launches Gear Rental, Trip Planning to Ease Adventure Hassles

RightOnTrek is building a platform where people can easily plan a backpacking trip, rent the gear they need, and buy a backcountry meal plan that’s…

Written by Will Brendza March 28, 2023

The Best Backpacking Tents of 2023

Whether you’re looking to spend 100 nights on the trail or stick to a tight budget, we’ve found the best backpacking tents of 2023.

Written by Sean McCoy and Chris Carter March 28, 2023

The Best Trekking Poles of 2023

We tested the best trekking poles of 2022 with options for every adventure and budget. Top picks include Black Diamond, REI, and more!

Written by Mallory Paige and Chris Carter March 27, 2023

So You Want to Thru-Hike the Colorado Trail? Here’s Your Backpacking Checklist

This summer I’m thru-hiking the Colorado Trail, and now’s the time to get prepared. Here’s a checklist of what I’m bringing and how I’m planning…

Written by David Young March 27, 2023

The Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2023

Head into the backcountry with the best backpacking backpacks of 2022. From budget-friendly options to ultra-comfortable picks, we’ve got you covered.

Written by Austin Beck-Doss and Chris Carter March 24, 2023

A Rare Condition Nearly Turned a Friendly Hike Fatal

While backpacking into the Grand Canyon, Dan Becker developed an extremely serious condition called rhabdo — and his friends scrambled to execute an emergency evac.

Written by Eric Hanson March 22, 2023

The Best Camping Cots of 2023

A camping cot can keep you warm, elevated, and comfortable outdoors. Here are the best camping cots currently on the market.

Written by Billy Brown and Justin La Vigne March 17, 2023

The Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags of 2023

A sleeping bag is one of your most important pieces of camping gear. We’ve found the best backpacking sleeping bags for every use and budget.

Written by Adam Ruggiero, Ryan Baker, & Chris Carter March 16, 2023

The Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads of 2023

We tested and review the best sleeping pads for backpacking in 2022. Whether you need an ultralight mat or more insulation, we’ve got it.

Written by Mallory Paige, Austin Beck-Doss, & Chris Carter March 13, 2023

Win a Bear Canister and $500: BearVault Announces Adventure Brand Ambassador Program

Now’s your chance to join the BearVault team, and show off how you use a bear canister in bear country.

Written by Mary Murphy March 07, 2023

The Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2023

We tested the best backpacking water filters and purifiers for your next trip into the great outdoors.

Written by Mary Murphy and Chris Carter March 01, 2023

Appalachian Trail Thru-Hike, 2nd Attempt: Upgrading My Thrifted And Gifted Gear to Try Again

In March 2018, I set off on my first attempt to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail — but I didn’t make it. Now I’m heading back…

Written by Xiaoling Keller March 01, 2023

Primus Offers Free Stove Repair Parts in Push for Longevity, Sustainability

Do you know what’s cooler than a 4-ounce backpacking stove? A 4-ounce backpacking stove that will last forever.

Written by Mary Murphy February 16, 2023

Ultralight Backpacking Gear Built in the Bronx? Meet allmansright

They craft design-forward backpacking gear from a studio in the Bronx. The goal? Make the outdoors comfortable and accessible for everybody.

Written by Andrew Marshall February 09, 2023

The Best Dog Backpacks of 2023

Get your furry friend ready to hit the trail with the best dog backpacks. From big gear haulers to sleek saddlebags, there’s something for every…

Written by Billy Brown February 07, 2023

The Best Camping Pillows of 2023

A camping pillow is both a luxury and an easy, lightweight addition to your pack. Here are the best camping pillows currently on the market.

Written by Billy Brown February 07, 2023

Big Agnes Battle Mountain 3 Tent Review: Passing Alpine Blizzard Tests With Flying Colors

The Big Agnes Battle Mountain 3 is a burly four-season tent that’s heavier than some, but balances strength, durability, and weight better than most.

Written by Bergen Tjossem February 03, 2023

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