Backpacking Archives

Alpen Outdoors Women’s Ridge Pant Review: The Most Versatile, No-Compromise Outdoor Pant

I’ve tested 30+ pairs of outdoor pants for GearJunkie. And these Ridge Pants have worked for every discipline, in every scenario I’ve put them in.

Written by Mary Murphy September 22, 2023

The Best Vegan Backpacking Meals of 2023, Ranked

When I go backpacking, I’m picky because I want something high-quality that tastes great after hiking. And it needs to be vegan.

Written by Mary Murphy September 22, 2023

Two Fishing Rods in One: Tenkara Rod Company Teton Zoom Review

Just 2 feet collapsed and 3.5 ounces, the Teton Zoom Tenkara Rod is simple yet versatile thanks to its adjustable length. But will it replace…

Written by Steve Larese September 21, 2023

REI Makes Major Updates to Iconic Tent: Half Dome ‘Super Light’ 3+ Review

The REI Half Dome 2 Plus has been my favorite camping tent for years. I upgraded to the new Half Dome SL3+ to compare it…

Written by Nathan Lemin September 19, 2023

The Best Backpacking Chairs of 2023

Planning to hit the trails but don’t want to sacrifice comfort at camp? Invest in a backpacking chair.

Written by Miya Tsudome and Mary Murphy September 16, 2023

Colorado Trail FKT: Nina Bridges Laughed Off the Pain, Enjoyed Every Step

Nina Bridges set a new FKT for the Colorado Trail in just over 8 days and 14 hours. We asked her about her trek and…

Written by Will Brendza September 15, 2023

Most Comfortable Ultralight Pack at a Low Price: Granite Gear Virga3 Undyed Review

Granite Gear’s undyed Virga3 brings inclusive, adaptable sizing to an ultralight package. It’s smartly designed and well-priced — with a few growing pains.

Written by Ian Graber-Stiehl September 15, 2023

The Best Places to Camp on Mount Hood

Mt. Hood National Forest is home to over 2,000 beautiful campsites — here are a few favorites and the info you’ll need to find and…

Written by Ariel Frager September 15, 2023

No More Noseburn: Onus Optics Nose-Shielding Sunglasses Review

Sunglasses are great, but they have a fatal design flaw: they leave your nose totally exposed to direct solar radiation — Onus Optics has designed…

Written by Will Brendza September 11, 2023

Mystery Ranch Goes ‘Light’: Radix Backpacking Pack First Look Review

The Mystery Ranch Radix Backpack is a lightweight and highly customizable backpacking pack from the Montana brand known for building super-burly tactical and medical products.

Written by Cameron Martindell September 08, 2023

A Third the Weight and Half the Price: Grayl x Pathfinder Titanium Camp Stove Review

The tiny 0.9-ounce Grayl x Pathfinder Ti Camp Stove boils water as fast as some of the best-known backpacking stoves out there — but that…

Written by Steven John September 07, 2023

The Best Hiking Socks of 2023

Get ready to hit the trail with the best hiking socks of 2023. From epic thru-hikes to quick day hikes, we have you covered.

Written by Mary Murphy and Andrew Potter September 06, 2023

Backpacking Tips: 7 Hacks From Thru-Hiking the 567-Mile Colorado Trail

Before you pack up and hit the trail, here are some useful backpacking tips, tricks, and hacks that can save you time, energy, and headaches…

Written by David Young September 05, 2023

The Fastest Backpack You’ve Never Heard Of: Outdoor Vitals Skyline Fastpack Review

If you’re a speed backpacker or mountain runner looking to move farther and faster in the backcountry, the Outdoor Vitals Skyline Fastpack is made for…

Written by Bergen Tjossem August 30, 2023

How to Start a Fire: Build the Perfect Campfire With These Pro Tips

Sitting around a campfire and roasting marshmallows is about as good as it gets. But first, you have to get one started. We can help.

Written by Ilana Newman August 29, 2023

Die-Hard Campers Will Love This ‘Coors Banquet’ A-Frame Tent: Here’s Why

The Coors Banquet Free Range A-frame Tent from Seager is a collaboration shelter that surprised me with its durability, waterproofing, functionality and “true grit” —…

Written by Nick LeFort August 25, 2023