Wilderness Backpacker

If hauling everything you need on your back into the wild expanses of this world is what you dream about, the Wilderness Backpacker is for you.

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: 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.

Read the Gear Review

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.

Read the Gear Review

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.

Read the Gear Review

Gear Test: Free Fly Apparel Gridback Fleece Jacket

Outdoor Gear Type: Fleece Jackets

We’re out there on the trail with the Free Fly Apparel Gridback Fleece Jacket, putting this fleece jacket to the test.

Read the Gear Review

Gear Test: REI Co-op First Chair Gtx ePE Jacket

Outdoor Gear Type: Snow Gear

We’re out there on the slopes with the REI Co-op First Chair Gtx ePE Jacket, putting this ski jacket to the test.

Read the Gear Review

Gear Test: MSR Access 3 Tent

Outdoor Gear Type: Tents

We’re out there in the field with the MSR Access 3 Tent, putting this 4-season tent to the test.

Read the Gear Review

Gear Test: Coalatree Trailhead Pants

Outdoor Gear Type: Pants

We’re out there on the trail with the Coalatree Trailhead Pants, putting these trailhead pants to the test.

Read the Gear Review

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.

Read the Gear Review

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.

Read the Gear Review

Gear Test: Tenkara Rod Co. Beartooth

Outdoor Gear Type: Fishing

We’re out there finishing in alpine lakes with the Tenkara Rod Co. Beartooth, putting this tenkara fishing pole to the test.

Read the Gear Review

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.

Read the Outdoor Guide

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.

Read the Outdoor Guide

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.

Read the Outdoor Guide

Dog Lovers Guide to Hiking, Camping, and Backpacking with Your Pooch

Outdoor Gear Type: Pets

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.

Read the Outdoor Guide

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.

Read the Outdoor Guide

The Best Camping Mattresses of 2023

Outdoor Gear Type: Sleeping Pads

The best camping mattresses are essential to a fun and relaxing outdoor vacation. Find the right sleep system for your excursions here!

Read the Outdoor Guide

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!

Read the Outdoor Guide

The Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2023

Outdoor Gear Type: Backpacks
Recommended For: Wilderness Backpacker

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.

Read the Outdoor Guide

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!

Read the Outdoor Guide

The Best Backpacking Pillows of 2023

Outdoor Gear Type: Pillows

Want to find the best backpacking pillow for you? We researched, tested, and recommend pillows for all styles of backcountry adventure.

Read the Outdoor Guide