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
COROS APEX 2 GPS Outdoor Watch Review
The COROS APEX 2 GPS Outdoor Watch is a well-rounded sports watch that punches above its weight with class-leading battery life and top-tier GPS connectivity.
Gear Report: Purple Rain Adventure Skirt
We’ve tested out the Purple Rain Adventure Skirt. This hiking skirt was created by thru-hikers for hikers who want more comfortable bottoms.
Gear Report: ENO SkyLite Hammock
The ENO SkyLite Hammock is a reliable and comfortable tent-inspired bridge hammock. See first impressions in this gear review.
Gear Test: REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent
We’re out there in the thick of it with the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent, putting this tent to the test.
Gear Test: REI Co-op TSL Snowshoes Move Carbon/Alu 2 Swing Snowshoe Poles
We’re out there on snowy trails with the REI Co-op TSL Snowshoes Move Carbon/Alu 2 Swing Snowshoe Poles, putting these snowshoe poles to the test.
Gear Report: Outdoor Vitals Nebo Windbreaker
The Outdoor Vitals Nebo Windbreaker is a versatile layer. It’s no-frills wind jacket that does its job well.
Gear Test: Mission Workshop D21 – Recycled Down Jacket
We’re out there in the snow-covered backcountry with the Mission Workshop D21 – Recycled Down Jacket, putting this down jacket to the test.
Gear Test: Honey Stinger Waffles and Energy Gels
We’re out there on the trail with the Honey Stinger Waffles and Energy Gels, putting these energy snacks to the test.
Gear Test: REI Co-op Women’s Atlas Montane Snowshoes
We’re out there in the snow-covered backcountry with the REI Co-op Women’s Atlas Montane Snowshoes, putting these snowshoes to the test.
Gear Test: Kahtoola EXOspikes Footwear Traction
We’re out there on the icy trails with the Kahtoola EXOspikes Footwear Traction, putting this footwear traction to the test.
Wilderness Backpacker Outdoor Guides
The Best Hiking Shorts of 2023
Hiking shorts are the underrated all-stars of gear. The best hiking shorts kick sweat and chafe to the curb, and keep you trekking mile after mile.
The 2023 Summer Backpacking Checklist
We assembled the ultimate summer backpacking checklist for all your warm-weather treks into the wild.
The Best Fleece Jackets of 2023
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 Sandals of 2023
We highlight the best hiking sandals of 2022 after researching and testing. Open toe, closed toe, or finger-style? Find the perfect hiking sandal for you!
The 8 Best Backpacking Chairs of 2023
The best backpacking chairs will make camp way more comfortable. Lean back, get comfy, and prepare to find the right backpacking chair for you!
The Best 9 Rain Ponchos of 2023
Rain ponchos are the preferred rain protection of many outdoorsy folks. Why? Cause they’re versatile. Here are the best Rain Ponchos of 2021.
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 comfort and wellbeing. Here’s the best dog gear.
The Best Hiking Boots of 2023
We highlight the best hiking boots after researching and testing. Find the perfect lightweight, midweight, or heavyweight hiking boot for you!
The Best Down Jackets of 2023
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 Ultimate Guide to Father’s Day Outdoor Gift Guides 2022
All of the best Father’s Day outdoor gift guides and deals featuring many of your favorite outdoor retailers and brands.