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

The REI Magma 850 Down Hoodie Jacket provides an excellent balance between warmth, features, cost, and durability. Insulated with highly compressible premium goose down, it’s an ideal insulation layer for cold-weather camping and hiking when you need a warm jacket to enjoy summit views, star-gazing or for extra insulation inside your sleeping bag or backpacking quilt. It’s also quite affordable …

The Paria Outdoors Thermodown 30 Quilt ($160) is an affordable down camping and backpacking quilt insulated with 700 fill power goose down that costs 50% less than the premium ultralight quilts sold by companies like Enlightened Equipment or Katabatic Gear. Featuring a 1/4 length zipper, ventable foot box, and pad attachment straps, the Thermodown 30 is a low-cost way to …

Suspended-mesh backpacks (also called Ventilated backpacks) have a large gap behind the mesh that encourages airflow to help your shirt dry faster if you perspire. They’re much more comfortable than conventional backpacks when you’re hiking in hot and humid weather or when you’re carrying a heavy load. First invented by Deuter Packs, they’re one of the most sought-after backpack features …

What should you look for in a rain jacket for hiking and backpacking? While having a waterproof/breathable jacket can be a plus, it’s pretty easy to overwhelm their ability to vent moisture in the rain when you’re perspiring with a backpack strapped to your back. You’re really better off buying a more affordable jacket that has features that hikers need …