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

The REI Flash Stretch Rain Jacket is a reasonably priced (on sale for 50% off) 2.5 layer waterproof/breathable raincoat loaded with features that hikers will appreciate, particularly for autumn and winter hiking. It has a two-way adjustable hood with a front bill, pit zips, zippered mesh-lined hand warmer pockets, a zippered chest pocket, a high neck with a chin guard, …

If you hike in the mountains or above the treeline, you’ll find frequent mention of the term “diurnal heating” in mountain weather forecasts, often accompanied by thunderstorms, hail, and high wind. What is diurnal heating, and why should you be cautious when it’s in the forecast? Where do Thunderstorms Come From? Thunderstorms need three ingredients to form: Moisture Unstable air …

Sleeping outdoors on camping and backpacking trips is a skill just like navigating, camping, packing, layering, trip planning, and all the other skills that backpackers need to learn to enjoy backcountry trips. While sleeping outdoors is not a skill that’s taught in outdoor programs or even recognized as such, it’s something you want to master so you are alert and …

Fastpacking is a hybrid form of backcountry travel—think of it like a combination between trail running and backpacking—which means there’s no simple, satisfying answer to this question. Fastpacking means the athlete can cover big miles in the backcountry with a combination of jogging, hiking, and power hiking. If you’ve been around the backpacking world long enough, terms like “ultralight”, “thru-hiker”, …