How to Revive and Maintain Your Water Filter for Backpacking Season
Struggling with a slow or clogged backpacking filter? Learn field-tested methods to restore flow in Sawyer and BeFree filters before your next hike.
Gear (Discussion & Reviews)
Proper gear for thru-hiking is essential for ensuring safety, comfort, and efficiency over long distances and varied terrains. High-quality, lightweight, and functional gear—including clothing, shelter, and equipment—helps hikers manage changing weather conditions, navigate effectively, and carry necessary supplies while minimizing fatigue and risk.
Latest
Backpacking with a Quilt: Why I Ditched My Sleeping Bag Forever
Seasoned backpackers are abandoning sleeping bags for an unexpected alternative: quilts. Save 17% weight, pack smaller, and stay cooler in summer heat. Your back will thank you. The learning curve is worth it.
7 Reasons Thru-Hikers Swear by Katabatic Gear Backpacking Quilts
Ultra-light, virtually indestructible, and still warm after 13 years? Thru-hikers aren't just using Katabatic Gear quilts—they're fanatically loyal to them. Find out why elite backpackers refuse alternatives.
Outdoor Vitals Highline Thermal Leggings: My Review After a Year of Use
Comfortably warm yet incredibly light, these Outdoor Vitals leggings promise performance, but do they truly deliver after a year?
NEMO Pulse Quilt + KARO Baffling = The Warmest Night of Sleep You’ll Ever Have Outdoors
The NEMO Pulse Backpacking Quilt's revolutionary KARO Step Baffles eliminate cold spots with 45% less material. This maze-like pattern might completely transform how you sleep outdoors. Is this innovation worth your money?
Clothing
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Outdoor Vitals Skyline Trail Shorts Review: My Choice On Trail
Do 4-way stretch trail shorts actually perform, or are they another gimmick? The Outdoor Vitals Skyline puts bold claims to the test.
How to Start Building an Ultralight Backpacking Kit for Under $500
While many believe that constructing an ultralight kit comes with high expense there is a way to blend both as
Wool vs Synthetic Base Layer: Choosing the Right Foundation for Your Thru-Hike
Merino vs synthetic base layers: Which keeps you stink-free and comfy for 2,000 miles? Your thru-hike's foundation matters more than you think.
Clothing
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Fleece vs Windshirt: Which is the Better Layer for Thru-Hiking?
Fleece and windshirts battle for your thru-hiking backpack space, but smart hikers know a controversial truth: combining both lightweight layers crushes the competition. Your sweat decides the winner.
Clothing
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Ditch the Extra Clothes: Master Layering for Backpacking Success
Learn the essential principles of lightweight backpacking clothing, from quick-drying baselayers to protective shells. Build a versatile 10-piece system for any adventure and weather condition.
Good Water Loop Ultralight Gear List – 8.64 lb Base Weight
A complete ultralight backpacking gear list for the Good Water Loop, featuring an 8.64 lb base weight setup. Includes shelter, sleep system, clothing, cooking, water filtration, and electronics. Check out my Lighterpack list for detailed weights.
9+ Best Sleeping Pads for Backpacking on Long Thru-Hikes
Seeking the ultimate sleeping pad that transforms treacherous trail nights into comfort-filled sanctuaries of backcountry restoration and adventure-ready rejuvenation.