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
Mystery Ranch Glacier Review
Mystery Ranch Glacier review: Take extended trips through the wilderness and carry excessively heavy and bulky items with ease.
Ombraz Dolomite Armless Sunglasses Review
Ombraz Dolomite Armless Sunglasses review: Ample sun protection with premium materials, wide coverage, and striking style. Oh, and no sidearms.
Sunski Headlands Review
Sunski Headlands Review: Simple, effective, and polarized, an affordable, do-it-all solution to active sunglasses. Get them for the ease of use, keep going back for the Lifetime Warranty.
NEMO Fillo Elite Review
NEMO Fillo Elite review: micro-adjustments, a bit of insulation, and under 3 oz. You’ll sleep so well you should set an alarm to hit the trail.
BioLite PowerLight Mini Review
BioLite PowerLight Mini review: the Swiss Army Knife of camp lanterns. A versatile, practical light that is ideal for use in a variety of applications.
Patagonia Quandary Shorts Review
Patagonia Quandary Shorts review: stretchy, durable adventure shorts that have ample pockets and breathe with the best of them.
Kelty Coyote 85 Review 2020
Kelty Coyote 85 review: Comfortable carry, ample storage, and a wallet-friendly price make the Coyote 85 a strong contender for the cash-strapped backpacker.
Patagonia Baggies Review
The Patagonia Baggies thrive in the “chill” department. They are no-fuss, good-looking, surprisingly quick-drying shorts that you can wear for days on end.
Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow Review 2020
The Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow is a foam backpacking pillow that packs up like a burrito. It’ll last forever, and gives you enough support to sleep through the night.
Columbia Sandy River Shorts Review
Columbia Sandy River Shorts Review: Simple, comfortable and functional, these are multi-use shorts for days spent outside, inside and everywhere in-between.
Wilderness Backpacker Outdoor Guides
The Best Outdoor Holiday Gifts for 2020
We showcase the best outdoor holiday gifts for 2020. Packed with stocking stuffers and showstopping gear for the outdoor adventurers on your shopping list.
The Best Sleeping Pads for Backpacking of 2020
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 Backpacking Backpacks of 2020
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 Hiking Boots of 2020
We highlight the best hiking boots after researching and testing. Find the perfect lightweight, midweight, or heavyweight hiking boot for you!
The Summer Backpacking Checklist
We assembled the ultimate summer backpacking checklist for all your warm-weather treks into the wild.
The Best Backpacking Pillows of 2020
Want to find the best backpacking pillow for you? We researched, tested, and recommend pillows for all styles of backcountry adventure.
How to Repair Holes in Your Camping Gear
Taking gear outside means a few rips will occur. We explain how to repair camping gear, whether it’s holes a tent, sleeping bag, clothing, or sleeping pad.
Backpacking Tips for Side Sleepers: How to Sleep Well in the Backcountry
Side sleepers can’t hang with mummy bags. Here’s clear backpacking tips for getting a full night’s rest in the backcountry.
The Best Camping Mattresses of 2020
The best camping mattresses are essential to a fun and relaxing outdoor vacation. Find the right sleep system for your excursions here!
REI Wedding Registry: How to Create One, Find One, and Add Gifts to One
The REI Wedding Registry is the most popular option for outdoor couples. See how to create one, how REI returns work, and what gifts you should include.
