Here is everything I’m currently using on the trail. I’ve noted places where I am considering an upgrade or trying something new, but generally I use my backpacking gear for as long as it works.
This is a super simple list of my go-to gear. What I bring on any given trip changes with the location, climate, difficulty and duration.
This page is purely for gear. For my favorite clothes for hiking and backpacking, click here [LINK].
Backpack
I use a 50L Osprey pack similar to the Kyte model pictured to the right. Its a lower end Osprey model that I bought for my first backpacking trip and I haven’t had any reason to replace it thus far. I like the 50L size – it is keeps me from overpacking but still has plenty of space for most adventures.
If you have the budget, I would suggest going with a higher end Osprey like the Aura. The material is stronger and they have more pockets and loops for creatively attaching things to the pack.
As I begin to consider longer trips, I am planning to test an ultralight pack like those by Hyperlite or Nashville Pack.
Shelter
I use the 2-person Nemo Aurora. I love this tent. It is quick and easy to set up solo and has survived several downpours. In most cases I am backpacking with my partner, and I haven’t taken enough solo trips to justify buying a 1-person tent. I highly recommend Nemo tents in general.
Sleep System
1-Person Sleeping Pad
I currently sleep on the Therm-a-Rest ProLite. I bought this pretty early in my backpacking journey and haven’t really tried much else. It works but I don’t feel strongly about it.
2-Person Sleeping Pad
This however, I do feel strongly about — PSA couples: you will not regret a double sleeping pad. And I recommend the Klymit Double-V. My partner and I sleep like babies on it.
Sleeping Bag
I sleep in an old REI model similar to the Magma 30. REI makes great sleeping bags. I’m beginning to do more shoulder season trips so I will likely buy something rated for lower temperatures very soon. I’m also considering sleeping quilts to cut down on weight and space.
Pillow
I use an old version of this compression sack to pack my clothes, and then I sleep on it! The shape fits really nicely into a mummy-style sleeping bag. I am super pillow picky and have tried the popular camping pillows… but I hate how they slide around and the firmness isn’t quite right for me. If the simplest and most space-efficient solution works for me, I’ll take it.
Cook system
I use the simplest Jetboil model out there. I love how fast I can have hot coffee and food ready in the backcountry.
On short trips I always bring my Aeropress because good coffee is something I won’t compromise on out there. I leave behind the extra pieces (spoon and leveler) and swap the mug it comes with for a lighter weight option, like this aluminum one by GSI.
I recommend a long titanium spork like this one.
Water Filter
I use a Sawyer water filter and Cnoc bladder. Sawyer recently made a huge upgrade by partnering with Cnoc to offer these bladders, so now you don’t have to buy it separately. For context, the previous bags had a tiny opening (like a plastic water bottle) which made collecting water a huge pain.
Electronics & Accessories
- Headlamp — I have an old version of this one by BlackDiamond; interested in checking out a rechargeable model eventually!
- SOS Device — Garmin inReach
- Power Bank — by Anker
- Sit Pad — by Thermarest; not essential but a really nice-to-have!
Questions, comments, scathing critiques? Leave ’em below!
Leave a Reply