Backpacking is an incredibly unique way to explore an area. There is something so enticing about walking away from civilization and being completely self sufficient for a period of time. Going backpacking can be as simple as walking a mile into the woods to pitch a tent to sleep in for the night OR hiking MANY miles into the abyss where you pitch a tent and wake up to do it again!
No matter how far you go, you want to make sure that you are fully prepared for your trip by bringing quality gear with you into the backcountry. If you’re just looking for the basics, check out what to pack for a day hike. If you feel ready to deep dive into the backpacking gear world, then stay with me because I’ve got a ton of good information to share!
I am a huge believer in buying QUALITY gear and will gladly spend a little extra money on gear that will last me forever! Below, I have put together my top rated gear recommendations, including links on where to purchase them.
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Backpacking Gear
Backpack
A good backpack is NON-NEGOTIABLE! This is the the venue you will use to carry your gear on your back. Your pack can make or break your entire backpacking experience, therefore it’s super important to pick the right one. There are certain aspects to look for when purchasing your back including: fit, comfort, capacity, and features. When on the hunt for the best backpacking pack, we took into account all of these points and ended up with the packs below. We LOVE them and couldn’t recommend them more!
Tent
Your tent is your home, therefore you can understand the importance of putting some thought into which one to buy. This is the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2. It is a high performance 2 door tent that provides a lot of space for it’s light-weight design. We would choose this tent over and over again!
Sleeping Bag
We have recently upgraded our sleep system and have taken it on a few trip and we are SO STOKED on it! We used to use one double sleeping bag for the both of us, but we quickly realized that it’s super bulky to pack and takes up so much space in one of our bags.
We have since upgraded to the system below! We each have a single sleeping bag that can be zipped together down the middle to create a double bag! Not only does it pack better, but it’s also nice to have separate bags in case we take trips without the other person.
Sleeping Pad
If you are looking for a light-weight sleeping pad that doesn’t compromise comfort or insulation then this is the one for you! We love it so much we have it in the double and single versions. We wouldn’t even thing about using anything else.
Stove
There are hundreds of stove set-ups to choose from, and the jetboil seems to be a controversial choice. It is definitely not the most lightweight option, but we still choose it for many reasons. For one, many of our hot backcountry meals consist of “just add hot water” to make them. The jetboil will boil hot water INSTANTLY, while using minimal fuel. When you’ve had a long day on the trail, it is a pain in the ass to wait for your water to boil (on a regular stove) in order to eat.
The quicker I can eat food, makes for a better experience for everyone.
Cookware/Dinnerware
We pretty much only bring the sea to summit alpha 1.9L pot when it comes to Cookware. Its lightweight, super versatile, and has a strainer on the lid. For the dinnerware, we have a very basic set of collapsable cups & bowls and then a lightweight long spoon each. Simple, easy, and gets the job done!
Headlamp
There’s a thousand headlamp options out there. This one is awesome.
Water Bladder/Filter
Osprey bladders are the best! There is NO risk of leaking, with the lid system. It also has a detachable hose, which comes in handy when refilling the bladder.
It’s so important to choose a good water filtration system. The Sawyer squeeze has been our go-to for YEARS! It’s tiny and has been 100% reliable.
Trekking Poles
We use Leki poles. They make a stellar pole for a good price! We have a pair of their carbon Z poles as well as these Makalu light corks.
SOS Device/Portable Charger
The Garmin inreach is the “community standard” for satellite SOS devices. We have the larger version, but would recommend the mini (below), it does all of the same things for half the price.
For our external battery charge source, we have gone through many different options before settling on this Anker powerhouse! It is definitely on the heavier side but it will keep us charged for weeks (depending on the amount we use it)!
Camp Shoes
We originally bought these as a joke… but now we would NEVER camp without them. While not the most fashionable camp shoe choice, these North Face down filled slippers are comfy, warm, and feel like pillows. The perfect combo you want when arriving at camp for the night. They are also super light weight, which is a big plus!
Backpacking Clothing (Women)
Hiking Boots
10/10 for these Saloman Hiking Boots! No break in period, comfy, durable, water resistant- these are great boots!
Base Layers
Kari Tara is my FAVORITE base layer brand. They make super comfy long johns that wick moisture and DON’T HOLD ODOR! These are a staple in my backcountry wardrobe.
Mid Layers
This REI fleece was a random buy that I wasn’t sure about at first, but after rotating it in to my hiking line-up I can say with clarity that I am a HUGE FAN! It’s the perfect mid layer that fits over a base but under a puffy.
These hiking pants are a staple. I like a straight cut leg and a mid rise waist and these provide just that. ++ they’re stretchy in all the right places. 10/10!
Insulating Layer
The Patagonia Down puffy should be a staple in EVERYONE’S closet. Comfortable, warm, light weight; it’s so versatile and still kinda stylish?
Rain/Wind Layers
Gore tex is probably one of the most expensive materials out there.. but the quality is absolutely UNMATCHED when it comes to rain gear. If there’s rain or wind in the forecast, you can rest easy knowing these are in your pack.
Gloves/Socks
Don’t skimp on your gloves and socks, as they can make or break how you hold onto body heat! These are what I personally love and use.
Backpacking Clothing (Men)
Hiking Boots
Sturdy, supportive and water resistant. These have seen many miles on trail and are still in service. They are a great boot.
Base Layers
These pass the stink test! Sentry will wear these multiple days in a row and somehow does not smell. They are soft and comfortable and a staple.
Mid Layers
Sentry will not go anywhere without this R1 jacket! It is super versatile, holding in heat when cold, yet able to air out easily via the long chest zipper when warm.
Insulating Layer
The Patagonia Down puffy should be a staple in EVERYONE’S closet. Comfortable, warm, light weight; it’s so versatile and still kinda stylish?
Rain/Wind Layers
Gore tex is probably one of the most expensive materials out there.. but the quality is absolutely UNMATCHED when it comes to rain gear. If there’s rain or wind in the forecast, you can rest easy knowing these are in your pack.
Gloves/Socks
Happy Backpacking!
