Backpacking Archives

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 & 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

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 Nicole Qualtieri & Sean McCoy January 11, 2023

Swift Industries Zeitgeist Pack Review: Bigger on the Inside, Keeps Water Out

The Swift Industries Zeitgeist Pack was the missing piece of my bikepacking setup to safely carry the extras I would’ve left behind.

Written by Aubrey Byron January 09, 2023

Überleben Stöker Flatpack Stove Review: Slow Down With Natural Fuel

Überleben Stöker Flatpack Stove is a wood-fire camping stove that packs flat and won’t break down, or run out of fuel.

Written by Nick LeFort January 05, 2023

‘Free Outside’ Documentary Chronicles Grueling Realities of Colorado Trail FKT

Jeff Garmire holds the Colorado Trail’s unsupported Fastest Known Time — and now you can come along for the ride.

Written by Claire Barber December 22, 2022

Osprey’s Extended Fit: Making the Outdoors Accessible for Every Body

Osprey is taking an important step toward making outdoor sports more accessible with the launch of its Extended Fit Program.

Written by Gabriela Daugherty December 15, 2022

A Guide to Visiting Glacier National Park: Dreamy Mountains, Lakes, and Landscapes Galore

Glacier National Park, located in northern Montana, is known for some of the most scenic backcountry in the world.

Written by Xiaoling Keller December 13, 2022

Komperdell Semiautomatic Carbon Trekking Pole Review: Tough to Break, Free to Repair

The Komperdell Carbon Cloud Vario trekking poles employ a spring-loaded cable to automatically unfold and are covered by a free repair program.

Written by Sam Schild December 12, 2022

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 December 08, 2022

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 & Andrew Potter December 07, 2022

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, & Chris Carter November 30, 2022

Going Backpacking in a National Park? Here Are Our 5 Favorite Routes, With Itineraries

Nothing beats backpacking in a National Park, but it requires a lot of planning and permits. Here’s a short list of our favorite backpacking itineraries,…

Written by Xiaoling Keller November 30, 2022

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 2022.

Written by Sean McCoy & Chris Carter November 25, 2022

Visiting the Deepest Lake in America: A Guide to Crater Lake National Park

As the deepest lake in America and the third deepest lake in the world at 1,943 ft. deep, Crater Lake is quite a pure blue…

Written by Xiaoling Keller November 22, 2022

Free Gear Fridays: Win a Water Filtration System and Titanium Dining Set From GRAYL

This week, two lucky winners will each receive a Titanium Water Purifier + Filter Bottle and Titanium Dining Set from GRAYL.

Written by Sponsored Post November 18, 2022

Applications Are Open! Help Grounds Keepers Make Public Lands Trash-Free in 2023

The Granite Gear Grounds Keepers removed over 10,335 pounds of trash from public lands last year. Applications to become an official part of the team…

Written by Will Brendza November 17, 2022