stg-sectionhikercom-buttons.kinsta.cloud Backpacking Gear Reviews and FAQs

Most people pack way too much food when they go backpacking, especially for shorter trips lasting 1 to 2 nights in duration. While the rule of thumb is 2 lbs of food per day or 4000 calories, that number is based on what the average long-distance thru-hiker needs to eat in terms of caloric intake each day to keep hiking …

Tarps are a great ultralight backpacking shelter option, provided they’re used in a climate where there’s no rain or occasional rain. To clarify, I’m talking about square or rectangular tarps with or without catenary cut ridgelines and sides, and not single wall shelters like pyramids and their numerous variants. Tarps are super lightweight and depending on their dimensions, fabric, and …

The Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie is a lightweight breathable hoodie with a UPF of 15 which provides a moderate level of sun protection. It’s intended for use in hot weather during high-exertion activities such as hiking and trail running. While it has a hood, it’s best used with a brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from …

Water purification with the Steripen Adventurer Opti ultraviolet light is an easy way to kill the bacteria, viruses, and cryptosporidium found in natural water sources when day hiking, camping, or backpacking. It’s easy to use, very reliable, and works in all temperatures, including below freezing, which will ruin most water filters made with hollow fiber filter elements. The  Adventurer Opti …