Under the stars, miles from civilization, everything you need to survive tucked into the pack on your back. You venture into the wild for internal peace, a slowing down, and the ability to make endless fart jokes.
You know who you are. Let’s not pretend. The trail does strange things to the mind, and the freedom to commune with nature as nature intended (peeing under a glowing vault) is akin to freedom. There is nothing like the crunch of boots, the sweat on your back, the weight of survival, and the depth of conversation reached when its you, your friends, and the wild.
Our Recommended Gear and Outdoor Guides for the Wilderness Backpacker will cater to the whole lot of you: the overnighters who pray for Saturday, haul sirloins up the hill, and enjoy the bite of whisky round the campfire; the two-to-three day trekkers loaded up with 50 pounds, have a peak in mind, and like to get dirty; the families who teach survival and resilience by throwing their kids into the real thing; the thru-hikers who have decided that the wild is a necessary place to probe, to gain insight, and to make forever trail friends. We write for all of you, and everyone in between.
Explore Recommended Gear and Outdoor Guides for Wilderness Backpacker below!
Wilderness Backpacker Gear Reviews
Gear Test: VJ Shoes Artix
We’re braving the elements with the VJ Shoes Artix hiking boots, tackling snowy trails to truly put these boots to the test.
Gear Test: Helinox Chair Zero
On our latest outdoor adventure, we’ve taken a closer look at the Helinox Chair Zero, putting this lightweight backpacking chair to the test.
Gear Test: Rumpl NanoLoft Flame Puffy Blanket
We’re getting cozy by the campfire with the Rumpl NanoLoft Flame Puffy Blanket, putting this camp blanket to the test.
Gear Test: EcoFlow RIVER 2 Portable Power Station
We’re out there in the thick of it with the EcoFlow RIVER 2 Portable Power Station, putting this power station to the test.
Gear Test: Free Fly Apparel Gridback Fleece Jacket
We’re out there on the trail with the Free Fly Apparel Gridback Fleece Jacket, putting this fleece jacket to the test.
Gear Test: REI Co-op First Chair Gtx ePE Jacket
We’re out there on the slopes with the REI Co-op First Chair Gtx ePE Jacket, putting this ski jacket to the test.
Gear Test: MSR Access 3 Tent
We’re out there in the field with the MSR Access 3 Tent, putting this 4-season tent to the test.
Gear Test: Coalatree Trailhead Pants
We’re out there on the trail with the Coalatree Trailhead Pants, putting these trailhead pants to the test.
Gear Report: KÜHL Deceptr Pants
The KÜHL Deceptr Pants are top-tier do-it-all bottoms that transitions from the office to the trail without a hitch.
Gear Test: Ruffwear Kibble Kaddie Dog Food Travel Bag
We’re out there on the trail with the Ruffwear Kibble Kaddie Dog Food Travel Bag, putting this travel bag to the test.
Wilderness Backpacker Outdoor Guides
The Best Fleece Jackets of 2024
The best fleece jackets are cozy, breathable, versatile, full of zippers and have unique features. We list the best here, and what makes them shine.
The Best Hiking Boots of 2024
We highlight the best hiking boots after researching and testing. Find the perfect lightweight, midweight, or heavyweight hiking boot for you!
The Best Sleeping Pads for Backpacking of 2023
Get a comfy night’s rest with the best sleeping pads for backpacking. We list 10 of our favorite models, and give tons of sleeping pad advice on finding the right sleep for you.
The Best 9 Rain Ponchos of 2024
Rain ponchos are the preferred rain protection of many outdoorsy folks. Why? Cause they’re versatile. Here are the best Rain Ponchos of 2024.
The Best Down Jackets of 2024
The best down jackets will keep you cozy in the wilderness, on the couch, or at the bar. We have tested many, and list the best down jackets for you, here.
The 10 Best Puffy Jackets on Amazon
Explore the best puffy jackets on Amazon for unbeatable warmth and style on your outdoor adventures this fall and winter.
The 10 Best Backpacking Chairs of 2024
The best backpacking chairs will make camp way more comfortable. Lean back, get comfy, and prepare to find the right backpacking chair for you!
Dog Lovers Guide to Hiking, Camping, and Backpacking with Your Pooch
When adventuring with your pup, you need to have the right gear for your dog to ensure their wellbeing. Here’s the best gear for dogs.
The Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2023
We test, review, and compare the best backpacking backpacks for wilderness trekking. Plus, a primer of every jargon-laden backpack term you’ve ever heard.
The Best Camping Mattresses of 2023
The best camping mattresses are essential to a fun and relaxing outdoor vacation. Find the right sleep system for your excursions here!