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: 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.
Gear Test: Tenkara Rod Co. Beartooth
We’re out there finishing in alpine lakes with the Tenkara Rod Co. Beartooth, putting this tenkara fishing pole to the test.
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.
Wilderness Backpacker Outdoor Guides
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.
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 7 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.