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: Pau Hana Solo Backcountry Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
We’re out there this summer with the Pau Hana Solo Backcountry Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board, putting this paddle board to the test.
Gear Test: MEC Zephyr 65L Backpack
We’re out in Idaho backcountry with the Mountain Equipment Company (MEC) Zephyr 65L Backpack, putting this backpack to the test.
Gear Test: Parks Project Yellowstone Geysers Trail High Pile Fleece
We’re out there on the trail with the Parks Project Yellowstone Geysers Trail High Pile Fleece, putting this fleece to the test.
Gear Test: Kelty Cosmic Down 20
We’re out there in the thick of it with the Kelty Cosmic Down 20, putting this sleeping bag to the test.
Gear Test: Nocs Provisions Standard Issue 8 x 25 Waterproof Binoculars
We’re out there this summer with the Nocs Provisions Standard Issue 8 x 25 Waterproof Binoculars, putting these binoculars to the test.
Gear Test: Free Fly Apparel Women’s Breeze Cropped Pant
We’re out there this summer with the Free Fly Apparel Women’s Breeze Cropped Pant, putting these casual camp pants to the test.
Gear Test: KÜHL Renegade Pant
We’re out there on the trail with the KUHL Renegade Pant, putting these hiking pants to the test.
Gear Report: Midland ER40 Emergency Crank Radio
We tested the Midland ER40 Emergency Crank Radio. See how it performed by reading our gear report!
Gear Report: Mission Mountain A4 Ultralight Cot
Mission Mountain’s A4 Ultralight & Versatile Cot makes sleeping under the stars more comfortable.
Gear Test: lululemon Cargo Super High-Rise Hiking Tights
We’re out there in the wilds with the lululemon Cargo Super High-Rise Hiking Tights, putting these hiking tights to the test.
Wilderness Backpacker Outdoor Guides
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 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 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 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!
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.
The 2023 Summer Backpacking Checklist
We assembled the ultimate summer backpacking checklist for all your warm-weather treks into the wild.
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 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 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!