Latest news with #BigAgnes
CNN
26-06-2025
- CNN
The best backpacking gear to keep you alive in the woods, according to experts
Backpacking gear quick picks Backpacking backpack: Osprey Men's Exos 58 / Women's Eja 58 Backpacking tent: Big Agnes Copper Spur UL1 Tent Water filter: Sawyer Squeeze Water Filtration System with Cnoc Premium 2-Liter Bladder Backpacking stove: MSR PocketRocket Deluxe StoveHiking and camping with the best backpacking gear is one of the most awe-inspiring ways to adventure in the great outdoors. You can walk deep into the woods, mountains or desert with everything you need to survive on your back. But since you can only rely on the things you bring, packing everything you need can seem daunting. To help you figure out what to stuff in your pack — and assure you that backpacking is actually fun, not scary — I talked to expert backpackers and combed through the gear I've used for years on backcountry trips to make this list of the best backpacking gear out there. Osprey Men's Exos 58 "These are great packs, they're affordable and durable and have plenty of room," said Cris Hazzard, a professional hiking guide and the founder of HikingGuy. "[What] I particularly appreciate [about] these is the frame they have on the back. It makes carrying heavier loads easier and also keeps the pack off your back so that it doesn't get sweaty. If I had to recommend one backpack for everyone, it would probably be this." Osprey Women's Eja 58 Not only are these packs Hazzard's first choice, but they also feature Osprey's legendary All Mighty Guarantee, where the brand will repair or replace your damaged pack no matter when you got it. REI Co-op Men's Flash 55 Pack If you're looking to save money on a beginner backpack, you can't go wrong with the REI Co-op Flash 55. It's surprisingly lightweight, weighing 2 pounds 13 ounces for a men's medium, but it still has the essentials you need to carry all your gear for your first backpacking trip. REI Co-op Women's Flash 55 Pack Featuring a roll-top opening, a large front mesh pocket, a removable brain, hipbelt pockets, an adjustable torso and tons of other backpacking-specific amenities, this pack can keep all your gear organized and accessible. Osprey Men's Aether 55 This was the first backpacking pack I bought for myself, and it's still going strong over five years later. It has tons of pockets, it's comfortable, it features a removable brain and the current version comes with a rain cover. If I had one complaint, it's that I bought a size too big. I have the 65-liter version, and as a beginner, that extra room just made it easier to overpack. Osprey Women's Ariel 55 The women's version has all the same features as the men's but with a different silhouette to better fit women's bodies. Plus, both versions are incredibly adjustable to fit everyone. Weighing around 4 pounds 13 ounces, these packs have more structure and features to help you carry heavier loads. Gregory Women's Deva 60 This full-featured pack from Gregory is also equipped with all the bells and whistles you'd want in a pack that'll last you for years to come. With an adjustable torso and shoulder straps that rotate to help you keep your balance, this pack doesn't skimp on amenities. Gregory Men's Baltoro 65 While these packs are heavier than others on this list, the features — such as a ventilated back panel, quick-access zippers, dynamic hipbelt and more — could be worth it for you. Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 Backpack This is my new favorite backpacking pack, and while it's not perfect, it's still my go-to. Weighing around 2 pounds, depending on the size, this pack is incredibly lightweight and extremely comfortable. On my first backpacking trip wearing it, I loved how it distributed the weight on my hips, and the newly improved load lifters were great for fine-tuning the perfect fit. I do wish the top opening was bigger so it was easier to pack and unpack, but it's a great option for people who want to start cutting down weight in their kit. Big Agnes Copper Spur UL1 Tent "I've used all the light tents, including the Nemo Hornet and Tiger Wall," Hazzard said. "I think the Copper Spur is the best bet for a few reasons. It's totally free-standing, so [it] will work 100% without any stakes (unlike those others). The Copper Spur seems roomier for roughly the same size and weight. So for me, it's the best overall choice. I also still love my Zpacks Plex Solo, but if you just want one tent overall that you can fly with (no trekking poles needed), the Copper Spur is the move." Nemo Hornet Osmo Ultralight 1-Person Backpacking Tent Nemo is one of my favorite camping brands, and its best backpacking tent is probably the Hornet. It comes in one-, two- and three-person sizes, and weighs as little as 1 pound 13 ounces. REI Co-op Flash Air 2 Tent This tent can be pitched with its included poles, or you could use your trekking poles to save a little weight. Weighing 2 pounds 6.5 ounces, it's surprisingly lightweight for a slightly lower price than its competitors. Nemo Equipment Dagger Osmo 2-Person Tent Even though the Hornet is probably Nemo's purest backpacking tent, the Dagger is my favorite. It's heavier, weighing in at 3 pounds 5 ounces for the two-person compared to 2 pounds 1 ounce for the Hornet in the same size. However, you get a ton more room. The two-person Dagger comfortably fits two people and even has enough room for my partner and me to sleep with our dog and some gear inside. Backpacking is a constant balancing act of weight and comfort, but the Dagger is one piece where I'm happy to carry the extra pound. Featherstone Outdoor UL Granite 2-Person Backpacking Tent If I wanted to save money building my first backpacking kit, this freestanding Featherstone tent is what I'd get. It's heavier than other backpacking tents, coming in at 4 pounds 3 ounces, but it's simple to set up, spacious and cheaper than most other options. After testing it out on a recent backpacking trip, I was impressed by its roominess. It probably won't last for years and years, but it's the perfect starter tent. MSR Hubba Hubba LT 2-Person Backpacking Tent Similar to the Nemo Dagger, the Hubba Hubba is a tent that excels at being lightweight without sacrificing comfort. It has all the features you want, including a roomy interior and spacious vestibules for a minimum trail weight of 3 pounds. My friend has a one-person version of the Hubba Hubba and adores it. Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20-Degree Quilt "OK, I am starting with an expensive ultralight item... but it's so worth the investment," said Sunny Stroeer, co-owner of Dreamland Safari Tours and founder of AWExpeditions. "Weighing in at just over a pound and crazy comfortable and warm, if you invest in this quilt, you know you'll be sleeping well, while saving tons of weight and volume in your pack." Nemo Men's Forte 35 Endless Promise Synthetic Sleeping Bag My partner is allergic to down, so this has been my go-to sleeping bag for car camping and backpacking. It's a little on the heavy side for the backcountry, but it's one of, if not the most comfortable, sleeping bags I've ever used. Its spoon shape allows for tossing and turning, and its draft collar is a true game-changer. Nemo Women's Forte 35 Endless Promise Sleeping Bag While the Nemo Forte is a supremely comfortable bag, what's even more impressive is its sustainability story. As part of Nemo's Endless Promise line, these bags can be recycled at the end of their life. These bags also come in a 20-degree version for colder nights. Nemo Women's Disco 30 Endless Promise Down Sleeping Bag Synthetic bags are cheaper than down bags, but they don't pack as small and tend to weigh more. If you're okay with spending a bit of cash on a bag to get a lighter, warmer experience, splurging on down is the way to go. Nemo Men's Disco 30 Endless Promise Men's Down Sleeping Bag The Disco is the down-filled sibling of the Nemo Forte, and it has all the same features that I love. The thermoregulating "gills" are another fun innovation, as they can adjust the breathability and warmth of your bag depending on the temperature. REI Co-op Magma 30 Sleeping Bag REI Co-op's top-tier down sleeping bag is the Magma, which comes in three different lengths and three different widths to accommodate various body types. Filled with 850-fill-power goose down and weighing under 2 pounds, this bag can match up with some of the best on the market. Sea to Summit Men's Hamelin Synthetic Sleeping Bag This synthetic sleeping bag is lighter than the Nemo Forte, weighing as little as 2 pounds 8 ounces on the scale. It is a 30-degree bag compared to Nemo's 20-degree rating, but the Hamelin also has nifty zippers that let you easily poke your feet or arms out in the middle of the night. Sea to Summit Women's Hamelin Synthetic Sleeping Bag The women's version is bigger and heavier than the men's, even at the same temperature rating. However, both versions have a contoured shape to help you sleep comfortably through the whole night. Kelty Men's Cosmic Down 20 This budget sleeping bag is probably what most first-time backpackers should buy. It uses down insulation, so it packs down small while being warm, weighs 2 pounds 3 ounces (for a men's regular) and is a screaming deal. Kelty Women's Cosmic Down 20 The Cosmic Down uses a trapezoidal shape to help retain heat and has an expanded footbox to help you stay comfortable and warm when sleeping in the backcountry. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite NXT This is one of the most popular sleeping pads on the market for a reason. It's lightweight and warm, weighing 13 ounces for a regular size with an R-value of 4.5. The NeoAir's biggest downside was always the noise it made, and while the new model isn't silent, it's much quieter than before. Nemo Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad "Nemo's sleeping pads are incredible, and a cut above the competition (I have tried, and broken, them all over the years)," Stroeer said. "This one is warm, quiet and crazy comfortable without being bulky. It's insulated enough for shoulder seasons and packs down smaller than a water bottle." Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated Air Sleeping Pad I'm a big fan of Sea to Summit's lightweight sleeping pad. It comes in several sizes and shapes, weighs as little as 15.7 ounces and has an R-value of 4.1, which means it can keep you warm in the shoulder seasons. Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft Sleeping Pad If you haven't figured it out yet, I'm a big fan of comfort backpacking. I'm willing to carry a little bit more weight if it means I can relax and recover at camp. The NeoLoft is my new favorite piece of comfort backpacking gear. It's 4.6 inches thick and weighs 1 pound 8.9 ounces for the regular size. The baffling, material and thickness combine to create the most comfortable sleeping experience I've had on an air pad. Featherstone Outdoor EL Cordion Ultralight Closed-Cell Foam Sleeping Pad Some folks don't like carrying an air pad because they require more setup and are at risk of popping (even though I've never had one pop, nor have I talked to anyone who's had one pop). Closed-cell foam pads are typically cheaper and lighter, but aren't nearly as comfortable as their inflatable counterparts. This pad from budget-friendly brand Featherstone Outdoor is a good first option if you want to try closed-cell pads, since it's lightweight, cheap and decently comfortable. If you'd rather use a yoga mat as a pad, please buy this instead. Nemo Switchback Sleeping Pad Tim Beissinger, one half of Thruhikers along with Renee Miller and co-author of "Thruhikers: A Guide to Life on the Trail" (also with Miller), lists this foam pad as the duo's favorite for backpacking. You can check out all of Beissinger and Miller's favorite pieces of gear on their website here. Exped Mega Pillow As a side sleeper, I like having a big pillow so I don't wake up with a sore neck. That's why I love the Exped Mega. It's 4.7 inches thick when fully inflated, and it's so long that you can even deflate it and fold it in half if you need extra loft. Outdoor Vitals Ultralight Non-Slip Stretch Pillow If you don't want to waste weight or pack space on a pillow, this Outdoor Vitals option is for you. It packs down small, inflates in about three breaths and provides more support than your balled-up jacket. Nemo Fillo Elite Ultralight Pillow It isn't as plush as the Exped, and it's not as light as the Outdoor Vitals, but the Nemo Fillo Elite is a fantastic middle ground in the world of pillows. It's inflatable but still has a bit of filling for a more traditional feel, all while packing down to a super-small package and weighing only 2.9 ounces. Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight Pillow This is another great pillow that I love to use on backpacking trips. It's super small, lightweight and made with just enough loft to keep me comfortable all night long. MSR PocketRocket Deluxe Stove This is my favorite backpacking stove. It's super lightweight and packable, easy to use and made with a slightly larger burner than some other stoves, which helps distribute heat around the entire base of your pot. It also features an auto igniter, but it doesn't always work — especially in windy conditions — so be sure to pack a backup lighter. Jetboil MiniMo Cooking System Folks who love Jetboil, love Jetboil, and I get it. This kit comes with a stove and an insulated pot, which makes boiling water for dehydrated meals fast and easy. I don't think the extra weight of the system is worth the slightly faster boiling time when backpacking, but it is a very efficient system that makes camp cooking easy. BRS 3000T Titanium Ultralight Backpacking Stove If you don't want to spend on a fancy cooking kit, you can save a lot of money on a budget stove. This is a favorite in the backpacking community thanks to its lightweight design and budget-friendly price tag. Toaks Titanium 750-Milliliter Pot You'll need a pot to boil water, and this titanium one from Toaks is super light and efficient. Weighing 3.6 ounces, it's the perfect size to rehydrate meals after a long day of hiking. Sea to Summit Frontier Ultralight Two Pot Cook Set It's heavier than other options on this list, but this cook set comes with everything you need to make an impressive meal for two people. You can expand your palate beyond dehydrated meals since it comes with both a 2-liter and a 3-liter pot. LifeStraw Peak Series Collapsible Squeeze 1L Bottle Not only is this one of the best filtered water bottles we tested, but it's also the filter I use on backpacking trips. I bring it because it's lightweight and easy to use. I've had mine for several years now and it's probably time to replace the filter, and after intense use, a small hole appeared in the pouch, but it was an easy fix with a Noso patch. Read our review Sawyer Squeeze Water Filtration System With Cnoc Premium 2-Liter Bladder Sawyer has been the go-to brand for backcountry water filtration for years, but the included bags have been a nuisance to use. That's why this new bundle that features a 2-liter bladder from Cnoc is what every Sawyer user has been waiting for. The Squeeze is also Beissinger and Miller's runner-up pick for the best water filter. They said they like the Platypus QuickDraw slightly more. Grayl 24-Ounce GeoPress Water Filter and Purifier Bottle Hollow fiber filters are great for most instances, but if you know you need to filter out heavy metals or viruses, you'll want to pack along the Grayl GeoPress. It has a more robust filter, but it weighs more than straw filters like the Sawyer Squeeze. Read our review Nalgene 48-Ounce Wide Mouth Ultralite Bottle I nearly always use a water bladder while hiking because I find sipping from a hose easier than stopping to drink out of a bottle. However, when I'm backpacking, I tend to use bottles. I do this because they're a lot easier to fill when filtering water, and you can more easily monitor how much water you have left. I like the tall 48-ounce Nalgene bottles because they're easier to pull out of the side pocket of your backpack. I'd also recommend grabbing these attachments so you can drink while walking. REI Co-op Traverse Modular Bear Canister BearVault has been the dominant name in the world of bear canisters for years, but I think REI Co-op's new modular can is better. It's heavier, yes, but cheaper than most BearVaults and has a removable section so you can use it for short and long trips. Ursack Major Bear Sack If you don't want to deal with the weight and bulkiness of a bear canister, consider these bear bags from Ursack. They're expensive, but they're lighter than canisters and easier to use too. Beissinger and Miller said this is their favorite bear-resistant bag too. Coulee Coffee Doc's Blend EcoPour Box "This is my latest addition to my standard kit and I'm stoked on it," Stroeer said. "Good coffee in the backcountry, in the form of eco-friendly single-serve pour-overs that actually work without making a mess. If you're a coffee snob like me, Coulee is an easy win." Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat This is my new favorite summer hat, and it saved my neck from getting scorched on a recent backpacking trip in the Rocky Mountains. It features a wide brim, a secure cord to keep it attached to your head in windy weather and a 6-inch neck cape. Alpacas of Montana Alpaca Ultralight Hoodie "This hoodie is a game-changer (as are all things alpaca wool — alpaca is a backpacker's hidden superpower!)," Stroeer said. "It's naturally odor-resistant, temperature-regulating and ultra-soft. I wear it for days on end and it doesn't get funky, plus the hood and thumbholes are perfect for added sun and wind protection." Mountain Hardwear Men's Sunshield Hoody A sun hoodie is a fantastic layer to wear while backpacking because it keeps you protected from the sun without requiring you to reapply sunscreen every few hours. My favorite right now is this top from Mountain Hardwear. It's super lightweight, dries quickly and is more durable than other thin hoodies I've worn in the past. Mountain Hardwear Women's Sunshield Hoody The Sunshield Hoody is equipped with broad-spectrum protection and has a UPF 50+ rating. Its hood can help keep your neck out of the sun, and it even has thumb holes to protect your hands a little bit too. REI Co-op Sahara Shade Men's Hoodie Beissinger and Miller both note this as their favorite sunshirt for backcountry hiking. It's packed with a UPF 50+ rating, sweat-wicking abilities and perfect stretch. REI Co-op Women's Sahara Shade Hoodie Not only do these hoodies have a protective hood and thumb holes for ultimate coverage, but they also come in a wide variety of sizes and colors so you can find the perfect one for you. Rab Men's Force Hoody I've heard many people wax poetic about the Rab Force Hoody, especially as a layer for backpacking. It's odor-resistant and dries fast, and while I couldn't find a UPF rating for it, it can still help protect your skin from sun exposure. Rab Women's Force Hoody The hoodie has a close-fitting form so you can stay streamlined on the trail, but it has a solid amount of stretch so you won't feel restricted when moving around. Mountain Hardwear Men's Ghost Whisperer Hoody For colder nights and evenings sitting around the fire, a packable jacket is a must. This one from Mountain Hardwear has been a favorite of backpackers for years, thanks to its approximate weight of 10.7 ounces and surprising warmth. Mountain Hardwear Women's Ghost Whisperer Hoody Insulated with 800-fill-power down, this jacket will keep you warm when the temperatures dip. If you want an even lighter and warmer jacket, check out the 1,000-fill-power, 6-ounce UL version. That lighter version is Beissinger and Miller's runner-up pick for their favorite jacket to bring backpacking. Outdoor Research Men's Helium Rain Ultralight Jacket This has been my go-to backpacking and travel rain jacket for years, just because it packs down so small. Weighing just 7 ounces, it's an extremely lightweight piece of rain gear that can keep you dry in the backcountry. It's Beissinger and Miller's favorite, too. If you know it's going to rain a lot, you might want to consider a pair of rain pants, too. Outdoor Research Women's Helium Rain Ultralight Jacket The women's version is $10 more (Outdoor Research — why?), but still has the same packability and waterproofness. If you don't want to spend a lot on a rain shell, consider a rain poncho instead. Outdoor Research Men's Ferrosi Pants Our pick for the best men's hiking pants is prime for backpacking too. They're super lightweight, comfortable and stretchy, meaning they can move with you no matter the terrain. I do wish they had one more thigh pocket, since you can never have too many pockets when backpacking. Read our review Outdoor Research Women's Ferrosi Pants What makes these pants stand out is the amount of stretch they have. Whether you're hiking, backpacking or climbing, you'll never feel restricted thanks to the Ferrosi's super-soft and flexible fabric. Fjällräven Men's Keb Trousers If you want a pair of sturdy pants with several pockets and features, the Keb Trousers from Fjällräven are the pair for you. They're pricey and heavy, but they'll last for years and hundreds of miles. Fjällräven Women's Keb Trousers I wore the Keb Trousers on a three-day backpacking trip, and while they felt a bit too hot and heavy in the middle of summer, I was super thankful for all the pockets and durability. If you want a pair that's a little lighter, check out the Keb Agile Trousers. Patagonia Men's Outdoor Everyday Shorts When I'm looking for shorts for backpacking, I want a pair with the maximum amount of pockets, an adjustable waist and quick-drying materials so I can jump in every lake and river I see. This pair from Patagonia checks all those boxes. Patagonia Women's Outdoor Everyday Shorts The women's version offers a different cut, but is still made with post-consumer recycled nylon made from recycled fishing nets, and comes with Patagonia's Ironclad Guarantee. Darn Tough Men's Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks These are the only socks I backpack in, since they're extremely durable, comfortable and supportive. The extra cushion helps my feet feel fresh even when I'm pounding out miles all day long. Beissinger and Miller said these socks are tied with the Smartwool Performance Hike Light Cushion Crew as their favorites. Read our review Darn Tough Hiker Women's Micro Crew Cushion Socks Not only are these socks comfortable, but they're also ridiculously durable. I've had a pair for over seven years and they still look as good as new. And if they do ever wear down, Darn Tough will replace them. Read our review Paka Crew Socks The only other pair of socks I'll bring on a backpacking trip are these from Paka. They aren't as durable or cushioned as the Darn Tough ones, but they're astonishingly comfortable, supportive and stink-resistant. Paka Men's Alpaca Underwear It might sound gross, but when backpacking, you probably won't want to carry extra underwear. That's why I always wear this pair, which is made from a blend that uses alpaca wool. I've worn these for multiple days in a row while hiking and they've never smelled bad. Paka Women's Essential Mid-Rise Brief Made with the same blend of alpaca, spandex, cotton and Tencel, these briefs will help you stay feeling fresh even after days on the trail. Smartwool Women's Classic All-Season Merino Base Layer Long-Sleeve Top I always like to bring separate base layers to sleep in, since they keep me warmer and give my normal clothes time to air out overnight. Smartwool has always been my go-to for base layers, since they feel soft and help keep me toasty warm at night. Smartwool Men's Classic All-Season Merino Base Layer Smartwool has both tops and bottoms, and thicker base layers if you want to camp during the shoulder seasons, too. Altra Men's Timp 5 BOA These are my number-one shoes for backpacking right now for several reasons. First, I love how Altra's shoes feel on my feet. The zero-drop design and wide toe box create a comfortable, interactive hiking experience that I love. The Timp 5 are my favorite for backpacking over the more popular Lone Peaks because they have cushion. I typically don't mind minimal cushioning, but when I'm hiking for several days in a row, the extra foam helps keep my feet comfortable. Altra Women's Timp 5 BOA Not only do the Timp 5 have more cushioning, but this version also uses a BOA closure system, which I love for backpacking. BOA makes loosening and tightening your shoes effortless, so you can easily slip your shoes on and off once you're at camp. Hoka Women's Mafate Speed 4 These lightweight shoes are Beissinger and Miller's favorites. "These are lightweight, breathable, quick-drying, and durable. We love them," they say on their website. Hoka Men's Mafate Speed 4 Trail Running Shoes Built for technical trail running, these shoes have the traction, comfort and durability to handle long hikes, even when you're carrying a heavy backpack. Danner Men's Mountain 600 Evo If you want more support or you need waterproof boots, Danner's Mountain Evo 600 are my pick. The leather construction is durable and stable, and they feature Gore-Tex to ensure your feet stay dry. Danner Women's Mountain 600 Evo These Danners also feature a Vibram outsole, which I've found to be incredibly sticky during my hikes wearing these boots. Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots Merrell's Moab line has included fan-favorite budget hiking boots for years. They're comfortable, supportive and have a great grip. They often go on sale, but even at full price, they're cheaper than many other high-performing hiking boots. Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots The Merrell Moabs come in mid and low cuts, so you can choose which style you prefer. Mid-cut boots offer more protection and support, while low-cut ones are lighter. Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles You don't need to splurge on a fancy set of trekking poles for your first few backpacking trips, but I would recommend getting at least a basic pair. Since you're carrying a lot of extra weight, poles do a lot to help avoid falls and can turn hiking into a full-body activity. Black Diamond Distance Z Trekking Poles If you want to upgrade your poles, check out these from Black Diamond, which are Beissinger and Miller's pick. Nite Ize Radiant RH1 PowerSwitch Rechargeable Headlamp "I've been using Nite Ize headlamps for years, and love their dual-power flexibility (USB rechargeable or AAA backup)," Stroeer said. "They're also really bright and comfortable without breaking the bank." Nitecore NU21 Running Headlamp This slim headlamp is the light source Beissinger and Miller reach for, as it's easily rechargeable and incredibly lightweight. Helinox Chair Zero A chair is a non-negotiable for me when backpacking, and this one from Helinox is easy to set up and surprisingly light. Weighing just 1 pound 2 ounces, it's barely noticeable in my pack, but it's my favorite piece of gear once I get to the campsite. Kula Cloth Reusable Antimicrobial Pee Cloth For anyone who squats while they pee, the Kula Cloth is a must. It might sound weird, but every single person I've talked to who has used a Kula Cloth is absolutely in love with it. Read our review Coghlan's Trowel I have a fancy, ultralight trowel built specifically for backpacking, but if I'm being honest, I hate it. It's not that great at digging catholes and it hurts my hand. That's why I'd recommend just getting a cheap plastic one. You'll save a lot of money, and this one still only weighs 2 ounces. Cleanwaste The Original Wag Bag Toilet Kit, 12-Pack While digging catholes is the norm while backpacking, there are some areas where you can't even do that. In that case, you'll need to pack a Wag Bag. I like these because they're easy to use and lightweight. I just wish they came with more toilet paper, so I like to pack extra. Nite Ize Gear Tie Assorted Sizes, 12-Pack "Lightweight, reusable, and endlessly useful," Stroeer said. "I use them to fix everything from broken pack straps to trekking poles. Way more versatile than duct tape or zip ties." PackTowl Personal Microfiber Towel If I'm camping near a body of water, I'm going to jump in it. That's why I always pack a lightweight towel like this one. If you only need a towel for small messes and cleanups, you can get a mini version, but since I use it to dry off after swimming, I use the normal size. NoSo Patches Lumberjack Patch "These always come with me in my repair kit," Stroeer said. "NoSo's peel-and-stick patches work [on] everything: sleeping bags, tents, jackets, etc. They're durable, weatherproof and way more fun than duct tape." I even used a NoSo patch to cover a hole in my water filter. The best backpacking gear for you depends on so many things. How long will your trip be? Will you be camping in cold weather? Will the hike be hard? Do you want to prioritize comfort or a low pack weight? All of these questions and more will have to be considered for every single piece of gear you pack. 'When you go backpacking … You are now in the realm of multi-day backcountry hikes — where every extra ounce slows you down, and every missing piece can spell disaster,' Stroeer said. 'It's much more important to be strategic when packing for backpacking than it is for day hiking.' That might sound intimidating, but you don't have to get it all right on your very first trip. 'Beginners often carry too much stuff,' Beissinger said. 'The weight of every item you put on your back makes the trip just a little bit less fun, so it's a good idea to really think through whether or not the weight of every item will be canceled out by the enjoyment you'll get from it.' As you test out more gear and go on more trips, you'll learn what you need to take and what you should leave at home. 'First-time backpackers typically bring too many clothes,' Stroeer said. 'All you need is one of each layer; duplicate items for any given layer, like, say, multiple T-shirts or multiple pairs of pants or socks, are unnecessary and nothing but extra weight.' 'Also, beginners sometimes underestimate weather variability — just because it's warm and sunny when you start a trip doesn't mean it will stay warm and sunny the whole time,' Beissinger said. 'Being unprepared for inclement weather can make a trip unpleasant or even dangerous.' When creating your gear list, try to use what you have at home before buying new pieces of gear, because prices add up quickly. 'You don't have to spend a lot, but there generally is a rough correlation between price and quality, at least to a point,' Hazzard said. 'You don't want to skimp and then have something fail when you're out in the middle of nowhere. A good clue for figuring out what works well is to see what outfitters are renting. If an outfitter is renting a certain type of tent or sleeping bag to multiple people over a few years, it's probably gonna work for you too.' Stroeer also suggests waiting for sales or looking to buy from secondhand places like REI Outlet, garage sales and gear swaps. 'Especially when you're getting started, it's smarter to test the waters with reasonably priced gear before dropping hundreds of dollars on ultralight or premium items,' she said. 'As long as your gear keeps you warm, dry and fed, it doesn't need to be fancy.' The following FAQs were answered by Sunny Stroeer, Tim Beissinger and Cris Hazzard. How to pack a backpacking pack? How to pack a backpacking pack? 'Thoughtfully! Packing (and fitting) a backpack correctly makes all the difference between enjoyment and drudgery,' Stroeer said. 'Keep heavy items like food and your tent close to your back and centered, ideally just above your hips. Sleeping bags and lighter gear go toward the bottom, while essentials like snacks, maps and rain gear should be easily accessible in outside pockets or the brain of your pack. Keep small items organized in stuff sacks to make unpacking at camp easier. And before heading out, do a shake-down hike; you'll be surprised what you decide to leave behind.' What size backpacking pack do I need? What size backpacking pack do I need? 'That's dependent on the duration of a trip and people's packing styles,' Stroeer said. 'The longer you're out there, the more food you'll have to carry (which, by the way, typically weighs in around 2 pounds per person per day). To start with, I would recommend a 50- to 60-liter pack, which can accommodate most weekend to five-day trips, especially if you're still dialing in your gear and packing efficiency. Ultralight folks can get by with 40L, but that's usually after lots of trial and error. Try gear on before buying to make sure it fits your torso and hips properly; comfort is key.' How much should a backpacking tent weigh? How much should a backpacking tent weigh? 'Tents in the 2- to 3-pound range generally offer a good balance of lightweight, room and durability these days,' Hazzard said. 'A tent should weigh as little as possible while remaining within your budget,' Beissinger said. 'High-end two-person tents can weigh less than 1 pound, and there are mid-range models that weigh several pounds. All else being equal, less weight is better, but choosing your ideal tent is a matter of balancing several variables — weight, durability, form-factor (free-standing versus not) and price, just to name a few.' For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Tim Beissinger, one half of Thruhikers and co-author of 'Thruhikers: A Guide to Life on the Trail' Cris Hazzard, a professional hiking guide and the founder of HikingGuy Renee Miller, one half of Thruhikers and co-author of 'Thruhikers: A Guide to Life on the Trail' Sunny Stroeer, co-owner of Dreamland Safari Tours and founder of AWExpeditions CNN Underscored editors thoroughly test most of the products we cover and provide full transparency about how we test them. We have an experienced team of writers and editors with many years of testing experience who ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when it makes sense to ensure we are testing each product accurately and speaking about the pros and cons of each item. For this article, we spoke to professional hiking guides to get their insights and favorite pieces of gear. This story's author, Kai Burkhardt, is CNN Underscored's outdoors editor and loves going backpacking, especially in his home state of Colorado. He went on multiple trips to test out gear for this story.
CNN
26-06-2025
- CNN
The best backpacking gear to keep you alive in the woods, according to experts
Backpacking gear quick picks Backpacking backpack: Osprey Men's Exos 58 / Women's Eja 58 Backpacking tent: Big Agnes Copper Spur UL1 Tent Water filter: Sawyer Squeeze Water Filtration System with Cnoc Premium 2-Liter Bladder Backpacking stove: MSR PocketRocket Deluxe StoveHiking and camping with the best backpacking gear is one of the most awe-inspiring ways to adventure in the great outdoors. You can walk deep into the woods, mountains or desert with everything you need to survive on your back. But since you can only rely on the things you bring, packing everything you need can seem daunting. To help you figure out what to stuff in your pack — and assure you that backpacking is actually fun, not scary — I talked to expert backpackers and combed through the gear I've used for years on backcountry trips to make this list of the best backpacking gear out there. Osprey Men's Exos 58 "These are great packs, they're affordable and durable and have plenty of room," said Cris Hazzard, a professional hiking guide and the founder of HikingGuy. "[What] I particularly appreciate [about] these is the frame they have on the back. It makes carrying heavier loads easier and also keeps the pack off your back so that it doesn't get sweaty. If I had to recommend one backpack for everyone, it would probably be this." Osprey Women's Eja 58 Not only are these packs Hazzard's first choice, but they also feature Osprey's legendary All Mighty Guarantee, where the brand will repair or replace your damaged pack no matter when you got it. REI Co-op Men's Flash 55 Pack If you're looking to save money on a beginner backpack, you can't go wrong with the REI Co-op Flash 55. It's surprisingly lightweight, weighing 2 pounds 13 ounces for a men's medium, but it still has the essentials you need to carry all your gear for your first backpacking trip. REI Co-op Women's Flash 55 Pack Featuring a roll-top opening, a large front mesh pocket, a removable brain, hipbelt pockets, an adjustable torso and tons of other backpacking-specific amenities, this pack can keep all your gear organized and accessible. Osprey Men's Aether 55 This was the first backpacking pack I bought for myself, and it's still going strong over five years later. It has tons of pockets, it's comfortable, it features a removable brain and the current version comes with a rain cover. If I had one complaint, it's that I bought a size too big. I have the 65-liter version, and as a beginner, that extra room just made it easier to overpack. Osprey Women's Ariel 55 The women's version has all the same features as the men's but with a different silhouette to better fit women's bodies. Plus, both versions are incredibly adjustable to fit everyone. Weighing around 4 pounds 13 ounces, these packs have more structure and features to help you carry heavier loads. Gregory Women's Deva 60 This full-featured pack from Gregory is also equipped with all the bells and whistles you'd want in a pack that'll last you for years to come. With an adjustable torso and shoulder straps that rotate to help you keep your balance, this pack doesn't skimp on amenities. Gregory Men's Baltoro 65 While these packs are heavier than others on this list, the features — such as a ventilated back panel, quick-access zippers, dynamic hipbelt and more — could be worth it for you. Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 Backpack This is my new favorite backpacking pack, and while it's not perfect, it's still my go-to. Weighing around 2 pounds, depending on the size, this pack is incredibly lightweight and extremely comfortable. On my first backpacking trip wearing it, I loved how it distributed the weight on my hips, and the newly improved load lifters were great for fine-tuning the perfect fit. I do wish the top opening was bigger so it was easier to pack and unpack, but it's a great option for people who want to start cutting down weight in their kit. Big Agnes Copper Spur UL1 Tent "I've used all the light tents, including the Nemo Hornet and Tiger Wall," Hazzard said. "I think the Copper Spur is the best bet for a few reasons. It's totally free-standing, so [it] will work 100% without any stakes (unlike those others). The Copper Spur seems roomier for roughly the same size and weight. So for me, it's the best overall choice. I also still love my Zpacks Plex Solo, but if you just want one tent overall that you can fly with (no trekking poles needed), the Copper Spur is the move." Nemo Hornet Osmo Ultralight 1-Person Backpacking Tent Nemo is one of my favorite camping brands, and its best backpacking tent is probably the Hornet. It comes in one-, two- and three-person sizes, and weighs as little as 1 pound 13 ounces. REI Co-op Flash Air 2 Tent This tent can be pitched with its included poles, or you could use your trekking poles to save a little weight. Weighing 2 pounds 6.5 ounces, it's surprisingly lightweight for a slightly lower price than its competitors. Nemo Equipment Dagger Osmo 2-Person Tent Even though the Hornet is probably Nemo's purest backpacking tent, the Dagger is my favorite. It's heavier, weighing in at 3 pounds 5 ounces for the two-person compared to 2 pounds 1 ounce for the Hornet in the same size. However, you get a ton more room. The two-person Dagger comfortably fits two people and even has enough room for my partner and me to sleep with our dog and some gear inside. Backpacking is a constant balancing act of weight and comfort, but the Dagger is one piece where I'm happy to carry the extra pound. Featherstone Outdoor UL Granite 2-Person Backpacking Tent If I wanted to save money building my first backpacking kit, this freestanding Featherstone tent is what I'd get. It's heavier than other backpacking tents, coming in at 4 pounds 3 ounces, but it's simple to set up, spacious and cheaper than most other options. After testing it out on a recent backpacking trip, I was impressed by its roominess. It probably won't last for years and years, but it's the perfect starter tent. MSR Hubba Hubba LT 2-Person Backpacking Tent Similar to the Nemo Dagger, the Hubba Hubba is a tent that excels at being lightweight without sacrificing comfort. It has all the features you want, including a roomy interior and spacious vestibules for a minimum trail weight of 3 pounds. My friend has a one-person version of the Hubba Hubba and adores it. Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20-Degree Quilt "OK, I am starting with an expensive ultralight item... but it's so worth the investment," said Sunny Stroeer, co-owner of Dreamland Safari Tours and founder of AWExpeditions. "Weighing in at just over a pound and crazy comfortable and warm, if you invest in this quilt, you know you'll be sleeping well, while saving tons of weight and volume in your pack." Nemo Men's Forte 35 Endless Promise Synthetic Sleeping Bag My partner is allergic to down, so this has been my go-to sleeping bag for car camping and backpacking. It's a little on the heavy side for the backcountry, but it's one of, if not the most comfortable, sleeping bags I've ever used. Its spoon shape allows for tossing and turning, and its draft collar is a true game-changer. Nemo Women's Forte 35 Endless Promise Sleeping Bag While the Nemo Forte is a supremely comfortable bag, what's even more impressive is its sustainability story. As part of Nemo's Endless Promise line, these bags can be recycled at the end of their life. These bags also come in a 20-degree version for colder nights. Nemo Women's Disco 30 Endless Promise Down Sleeping Bag Synthetic bags are cheaper than down bags, but they don't pack as small and tend to weigh more. If you're okay with spending a bit of cash on a bag to get a lighter, warmer experience, splurging on down is the way to go. Nemo Men's Disco 30 Endless Promise Men's Down Sleeping Bag The Disco is the down-filled sibling of the Nemo Forte, and it has all the same features that I love. The thermoregulating "gills" are another fun innovation, as they can adjust the breathability and warmth of your bag depending on the temperature. REI Co-op Magma 30 Sleeping Bag REI Co-op's top-tier down sleeping bag is the Magma, which comes in three different lengths and three different widths to accommodate various body types. Filled with 850-fill-power goose down and weighing under 2 pounds, this bag can match up with some of the best on the market. Sea to Summit Men's Hamelin Synthetic Sleeping Bag This synthetic sleeping bag is lighter than the Nemo Forte, weighing as little as 2 pounds 8 ounces on the scale. It is a 30-degree bag compared to Nemo's 20-degree rating, but the Hamelin also has nifty zippers that let you easily poke your feet or arms out in the middle of the night. Sea to Summit Women's Hamelin Synthetic Sleeping Bag The women's version is bigger and heavier than the men's, even at the same temperature rating. However, both versions have a contoured shape to help you sleep comfortably through the whole night. Kelty Men's Cosmic Down 20 This budget sleeping bag is probably what most first-time backpackers should buy. It uses down insulation, so it packs down small while being warm, weighs 2 pounds 3 ounces (for a men's regular) and is a screaming deal. Kelty Women's Cosmic Down 20 The Cosmic Down uses a trapezoidal shape to help retain heat and has an expanded footbox to help you stay comfortable and warm when sleeping in the backcountry. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite NXT This is one of the most popular sleeping pads on the market for a reason. It's lightweight and warm, weighing 13 ounces for a regular size with an R-value of 4.5. The NeoAir's biggest downside was always the noise it made, and while the new model isn't silent, it's much quieter than before. Nemo Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad "Nemo's sleeping pads are incredible, and a cut above the competition (I have tried, and broken, them all over the years)," Stroeer said. "This one is warm, quiet and crazy comfortable without being bulky. It's insulated enough for shoulder seasons and packs down smaller than a water bottle." Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated Air Sleeping Pad I'm a big fan of Sea to Summit's lightweight sleeping pad. It comes in several sizes and shapes, weighs as little as 15.7 ounces and has an R-value of 4.1, which means it can keep you warm in the shoulder seasons. Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft Sleeping Pad If you haven't figured it out yet, I'm a big fan of comfort backpacking. I'm willing to carry a little bit more weight if it means I can relax and recover at camp. The NeoLoft is my new favorite piece of comfort backpacking gear. It's 4.6 inches thick and weighs 1 pound 8.9 ounces for the regular size. The baffling, material and thickness combine to create the most comfortable sleeping experience I've had on an air pad. Featherstone Outdoor EL Cordion Ultralight Closed-Cell Foam Sleeping Pad Some folks don't like carrying an air pad because they require more setup and are at risk of popping (even though I've never had one pop, nor have I talked to anyone who's had one pop). Closed-cell foam pads are typically cheaper and lighter, but aren't nearly as comfortable as their inflatable counterparts. This pad from budget-friendly brand Featherstone Outdoor is a good first option if you want to try closed-cell pads, since it's lightweight, cheap and decently comfortable. If you'd rather use a yoga mat as a pad, please buy this instead. Nemo Switchback Sleeping Pad Tim Beissinger, one half of Thruhikers along with Renee Miller and co-author of "Thruhikers: A Guide to Life on the Trail" (also with Miller), lists this foam pad as the duo's favorite for backpacking. You can check out all of Beissinger and Miller's favorite pieces of gear on their website here. Exped Mega Pillow As a side sleeper, I like having a big pillow so I don't wake up with a sore neck. That's why I love the Exped Mega. It's 4.7 inches thick when fully inflated, and it's so long that you can even deflate it and fold it in half if you need extra loft. Outdoor Vitals Ultralight Non-Slip Stretch Pillow If you don't want to waste weight or pack space on a pillow, this Outdoor Vitals option is for you. It packs down small, inflates in about three breaths and provides more support than your balled-up jacket. Nemo Fillo Elite Ultralight Pillow It isn't as plush as the Exped, and it's not as light as the Outdoor Vitals, but the Nemo Fillo Elite is a fantastic middle ground in the world of pillows. It's inflatable but still has a bit of filling for a more traditional feel, all while packing down to a super-small package and weighing only 2.9 ounces. Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight Pillow This is another great pillow that I love to use on backpacking trips. It's super small, lightweight and made with just enough loft to keep me comfortable all night long. MSR PocketRocket Deluxe Stove This is my favorite backpacking stove. It's super lightweight and packable, easy to use and made with a slightly larger burner than some other stoves, which helps distribute heat around the entire base of your pot. It also features an auto igniter, but it doesn't always work — especially in windy conditions — so be sure to pack a backup lighter. Jetboil MiniMo Cooking System Folks who love Jetboil, love Jetboil, and I get it. This kit comes with a stove and an insulated pot, which makes boiling water for dehydrated meals fast and easy. I don't think the extra weight of the system is worth the slightly faster boiling time when backpacking, but it is a very efficient system that makes camp cooking easy. BRS 3000T Titanium Ultralight Backpacking Stove If you don't want to spend on a fancy cooking kit, you can save a lot of money on a budget stove. This is a favorite in the backpacking community thanks to its lightweight design and budget-friendly price tag. Toaks Titanium 750-Milliliter Pot You'll need a pot to boil water, and this titanium one from Toaks is super light and efficient. Weighing 3.6 ounces, it's the perfect size to rehydrate meals after a long day of hiking. Sea to Summit Frontier Ultralight Two Pot Cook Set It's heavier than other options on this list, but this cook set comes with everything you need to make an impressive meal for two people. You can expand your palate beyond dehydrated meals since it comes with both a 2-liter and a 3-liter pot. LifeStraw Peak Series Collapsible Squeeze 1L Bottle Not only is this one of the best filtered water bottles we tested, but it's also the filter I use on backpacking trips. I bring it because it's lightweight and easy to use. I've had mine for several years now and it's probably time to replace the filter, and after intense use, a small hole appeared in the pouch, but it was an easy fix with a Noso patch. Read our review Sawyer Squeeze Water Filtration System With Cnoc Premium 2-Liter Bladder Sawyer has been the go-to brand for backcountry water filtration for years, but the included bags have been a nuisance to use. That's why this new bundle that features a 2-liter bladder from Cnoc is what every Sawyer user has been waiting for. The Squeeze is also Beissinger and Miller's runner-up pick for the best water filter. They said they like the Platypus QuickDraw slightly more. Grayl 24-Ounce GeoPress Water Filter and Purifier Bottle Hollow fiber filters are great for most instances, but if you know you need to filter out heavy metals or viruses, you'll want to pack along the Grayl GeoPress. It has a more robust filter, but it weighs more than straw filters like the Sawyer Squeeze. Read our review Nalgene 48-Ounce Wide Mouth Ultralite Bottle I nearly always use a water bladder while hiking because I find sipping from a hose easier than stopping to drink out of a bottle. However, when I'm backpacking, I tend to use bottles. I do this because they're a lot easier to fill when filtering water, and you can more easily monitor how much water you have left. I like the tall 48-ounce Nalgene bottles because they're easier to pull out of the side pocket of your backpack. I'd also recommend grabbing these attachments so you can drink while walking. REI Co-op Traverse Modular Bear Canister BearVault has been the dominant name in the world of bear canisters for years, but I think REI Co-op's new modular can is better. It's heavier, yes, but cheaper than most BearVaults and has a removable section so you can use it for short and long trips. Ursack Major Bear Sack If you don't want to deal with the weight and bulkiness of a bear canister, consider these bear bags from Ursack. They're expensive, but they're lighter than canisters and easier to use too. Beissinger and Miller said this is their favorite bear-resistant bag too. Coulee Coffee Doc's Blend EcoPour Box "This is my latest addition to my standard kit and I'm stoked on it," Stroeer said. "Good coffee in the backcountry, in the form of eco-friendly single-serve pour-overs that actually work without making a mess. If you're a coffee snob like me, Coulee is an easy win." Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat This is my new favorite summer hat, and it saved my neck from getting scorched on a recent backpacking trip in the Rocky Mountains. It features a wide brim, a secure cord to keep it attached to your head in windy weather and a 6-inch neck cape. Alpacas of Montana Alpaca Ultralight Hoodie "This hoodie is a game-changer (as are all things alpaca wool — alpaca is a backpacker's hidden superpower!)," Stroeer said. "It's naturally odor-resistant, temperature-regulating and ultra-soft. I wear it for days on end and it doesn't get funky, plus the hood and thumbholes are perfect for added sun and wind protection." Mountain Hardwear Men's Sunshield Hoody A sun hoodie is a fantastic layer to wear while backpacking because it keeps you protected from the sun without requiring you to reapply sunscreen every few hours. My favorite right now is this top from Mountain Hardwear. It's super lightweight, dries quickly and is more durable than other thin hoodies I've worn in the past. Mountain Hardwear Women's Sunshield Hoody The Sunshield Hoody is equipped with broad-spectrum protection and has a UPF 50+ rating. Its hood can help keep your neck out of the sun, and it even has thumb holes to protect your hands a little bit too. REI Co-op Sahara Shade Men's Hoodie Beissinger and Miller both note this as their favorite sunshirt for backcountry hiking. It's packed with a UPF 50+ rating, sweat-wicking abilities and perfect stretch. REI Co-op Women's Sahara Shade Hoodie Not only do these hoodies have a protective hood and thumb holes for ultimate coverage, but they also come in a wide variety of sizes and colors so you can find the perfect one for you. Rab Men's Force Hoody I've heard many people wax poetic about the Rab Force Hoody, especially as a layer for backpacking. It's odor-resistant and dries fast, and while I couldn't find a UPF rating for it, it can still help protect your skin from sun exposure. Rab Women's Force Hoody The hoodie has a close-fitting form so you can stay streamlined on the trail, but it has a solid amount of stretch so you won't feel restricted when moving around. Mountain Hardwear Men's Ghost Whisperer Hoody For colder nights and evenings sitting around the fire, a packable jacket is a must. This one from Mountain Hardwear has been a favorite of backpackers for years, thanks to its approximate weight of 10.7 ounces and surprising warmth. Mountain Hardwear Women's Ghost Whisperer Hoody Insulated with 800-fill-power down, this jacket will keep you warm when the temperatures dip. If you want an even lighter and warmer jacket, check out the 1,000-fill-power, 6-ounce UL version. That lighter version is Beissinger and Miller's runner-up pick for their favorite jacket to bring backpacking. Outdoor Research Men's Helium Rain Ultralight Jacket This has been my go-to backpacking and travel rain jacket for years, just because it packs down so small. Weighing just 7 ounces, it's an extremely lightweight piece of rain gear that can keep you dry in the backcountry. It's Beissinger and Miller's favorite, too. If you know it's going to rain a lot, you might want to consider a pair of rain pants, too. Outdoor Research Women's Helium Rain Ultralight Jacket The women's version is $10 more (Outdoor Research — why?), but still has the same packability and waterproofness. If you don't want to spend a lot on a rain shell, consider a rain poncho instead. Outdoor Research Men's Ferrosi Pants Our pick for the best men's hiking pants is prime for backpacking too. They're super lightweight, comfortable and stretchy, meaning they can move with you no matter the terrain. I do wish they had one more thigh pocket, since you can never have too many pockets when backpacking. Read our review Outdoor Research Women's Ferrosi Pants What makes these pants stand out is the amount of stretch they have. Whether you're hiking, backpacking or climbing, you'll never feel restricted thanks to the Ferrosi's super-soft and flexible fabric. Fjällräven Men's Keb Trousers If you want a pair of sturdy pants with several pockets and features, the Keb Trousers from Fjällräven are the pair for you. They're pricey and heavy, but they'll last for years and hundreds of miles. Fjällräven Women's Keb Trousers I wore the Keb Trousers on a three-day backpacking trip, and while they felt a bit too hot and heavy in the middle of summer, I was super thankful for all the pockets and durability. If you want a pair that's a little lighter, check out the Keb Agile Trousers. Patagonia Men's Outdoor Everyday Shorts When I'm looking for shorts for backpacking, I want a pair with the maximum amount of pockets, an adjustable waist and quick-drying materials so I can jump in every lake and river I see. This pair from Patagonia checks all those boxes. Patagonia Women's Outdoor Everyday Shorts The women's version offers a different cut, but is still made with post-consumer recycled nylon made from recycled fishing nets, and comes with Patagonia's Ironclad Guarantee. Darn Tough Men's Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks These are the only socks I backpack in, since they're extremely durable, comfortable and supportive. The extra cushion helps my feet feel fresh even when I'm pounding out miles all day long. Beissinger and Miller said these socks are tied with the Smartwool Performance Hike Light Cushion Crew as their favorites. Read our review Darn Tough Hiker Women's Micro Crew Cushion Socks Not only are these socks comfortable, but they're also ridiculously durable. I've had a pair for over seven years and they still look as good as new. And if they do ever wear down, Darn Tough will replace them. Read our review Paka Crew Socks The only other pair of socks I'll bring on a backpacking trip are these from Paka. They aren't as durable or cushioned as the Darn Tough ones, but they're astonishingly comfortable, supportive and stink-resistant. Paka Men's Alpaca Underwear It might sound gross, but when backpacking, you probably won't want to carry extra underwear. That's why I always wear this pair, which is made from a blend that uses alpaca wool. I've worn these for multiple days in a row while hiking and they've never smelled bad. Paka Women's Essential Mid-Rise Brief Made with the same blend of alpaca, spandex, cotton and Tencel, these briefs will help you stay feeling fresh even after days on the trail. Smartwool Women's Classic All-Season Merino Base Layer Long-Sleeve Top I always like to bring separate base layers to sleep in, since they keep me warmer and give my normal clothes time to air out overnight. Smartwool has always been my go-to for base layers, since they feel soft and help keep me toasty warm at night. Smartwool Men's Classic All-Season Merino Base Layer Smartwool has both tops and bottoms, and thicker base layers if you want to camp during the shoulder seasons, too. Altra Men's Timp 5 BOA These are my number-one shoes for backpacking right now for several reasons. First, I love how Altra's shoes feel on my feet. The zero-drop design and wide toe box create a comfortable, interactive hiking experience that I love. The Timp 5 are my favorite for backpacking over the more popular Lone Peaks because they have cushion. I typically don't mind minimal cushioning, but when I'm hiking for several days in a row, the extra foam helps keep my feet comfortable. Altra Women's Timp 5 BOA Not only do the Timp 5 have more cushioning, but this version also uses a BOA closure system, which I love for backpacking. BOA makes loosening and tightening your shoes effortless, so you can easily slip your shoes on and off once you're at camp. Hoka Women's Mafate Speed 4 These lightweight shoes are Beissinger and Miller's favorites. "These are lightweight, breathable, quick-drying, and durable. We love them," they say on their website. Hoka Men's Mafate Speed 4 Trail Running Shoes Built for technical trail running, these shoes have the traction, comfort and durability to handle long hikes, even when you're carrying a heavy backpack. Danner Men's Mountain 600 Evo If you want more support or you need waterproof boots, Danner's Mountain Evo 600 are my pick. The leather construction is durable and stable, and they feature Gore-Tex to ensure your feet stay dry. Danner Women's Mountain 600 Evo These Danners also feature a Vibram outsole, which I've found to be incredibly sticky during my hikes wearing these boots. Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots Merrell's Moab line has included fan-favorite budget hiking boots for years. They're comfortable, supportive and have a great grip. They often go on sale, but even at full price, they're cheaper than many other high-performing hiking boots. Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots The Merrell Moabs come in mid and low cuts, so you can choose which style you prefer. Mid-cut boots offer more protection and support, while low-cut ones are lighter. Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles You don't need to splurge on a fancy set of trekking poles for your first few backpacking trips, but I would recommend getting at least a basic pair. Since you're carrying a lot of extra weight, poles do a lot to help avoid falls and can turn hiking into a full-body activity. Black Diamond Distance Z Trekking Poles If you want to upgrade your poles, check out these from Black Diamond, which are Beissinger and Miller's pick. Nite Ize Radiant RH1 PowerSwitch Rechargeable Headlamp "I've been using Nite Ize headlamps for years, and love their dual-power flexibility (USB rechargeable or AAA backup)," Stroeer said. "They're also really bright and comfortable without breaking the bank." Nitecore NU21 Running Headlamp This slim headlamp is the light source Beissinger and Miller reach for, as it's easily rechargeable and incredibly lightweight. Helinox Chair Zero A chair is a non-negotiable for me when backpacking, and this one from Helinox is easy to set up and surprisingly light. Weighing just 1 pound 2 ounces, it's barely noticeable in my pack, but it's my favorite piece of gear once I get to the campsite. Kula Cloth Reusable Antimicrobial Pee Cloth For anyone who squats while they pee, the Kula Cloth is a must. It might sound weird, but every single person I've talked to who has used a Kula Cloth is absolutely in love with it. Read our review Coghlan's Trowel I have a fancy, ultralight trowel built specifically for backpacking, but if I'm being honest, I hate it. It's not that great at digging catholes and it hurts my hand. That's why I'd recommend just getting a cheap plastic one. You'll save a lot of money, and this one still only weighs 2 ounces. Cleanwaste The Original Wag Bag Toilet Kit, 12-Pack While digging catholes is the norm while backpacking, there are some areas where you can't even do that. In that case, you'll need to pack a Wag Bag. I like these because they're easy to use and lightweight. I just wish they came with more toilet paper, so I like to pack extra. Nite Ize Gear Tie Assorted Sizes, 12-Pack "Lightweight, reusable, and endlessly useful," Stroeer said. "I use them to fix everything from broken pack straps to trekking poles. Way more versatile than duct tape or zip ties." PackTowl Personal Microfiber Towel If I'm camping near a body of water, I'm going to jump in it. That's why I always pack a lightweight towel like this one. If you only need a towel for small messes and cleanups, you can get a mini version, but since I use it to dry off after swimming, I use the normal size. NoSo Patches Lumberjack Patch "These always come with me in my repair kit," Stroeer said. "NoSo's peel-and-stick patches work [on] everything: sleeping bags, tents, jackets, etc. They're durable, weatherproof and way more fun than duct tape." I even used a NoSo patch to cover a hole in my water filter. The best backpacking gear for you depends on so many things. How long will your trip be? Will you be camping in cold weather? Will the hike be hard? Do you want to prioritize comfort or a low pack weight? All of these questions and more will have to be considered for every single piece of gear you pack. 'When you go backpacking … You are now in the realm of multi-day backcountry hikes — where every extra ounce slows you down, and every missing piece can spell disaster,' Stroeer said. 'It's much more important to be strategic when packing for backpacking than it is for day hiking.' That might sound intimidating, but you don't have to get it all right on your very first trip. 'Beginners often carry too much stuff,' Beissinger said. 'The weight of every item you put on your back makes the trip just a little bit less fun, so it's a good idea to really think through whether or not the weight of every item will be canceled out by the enjoyment you'll get from it.' As you test out more gear and go on more trips, you'll learn what you need to take and what you should leave at home. 'First-time backpackers typically bring too many clothes,' Stroeer said. 'All you need is one of each layer; duplicate items for any given layer, like, say, multiple T-shirts or multiple pairs of pants or socks, are unnecessary and nothing but extra weight.' 'Also, beginners sometimes underestimate weather variability — just because it's warm and sunny when you start a trip doesn't mean it will stay warm and sunny the whole time,' Beissinger said. 'Being unprepared for inclement weather can make a trip unpleasant or even dangerous.' When creating your gear list, try to use what you have at home before buying new pieces of gear, because prices add up quickly. 'You don't have to spend a lot, but there generally is a rough correlation between price and quality, at least to a point,' Hazzard said. 'You don't want to skimp and then have something fail when you're out in the middle of nowhere. A good clue for figuring out what works well is to see what outfitters are renting. If an outfitter is renting a certain type of tent or sleeping bag to multiple people over a few years, it's probably gonna work for you too.' Stroeer also suggests waiting for sales or looking to buy from secondhand places like REI Outlet, garage sales and gear swaps. 'Especially when you're getting started, it's smarter to test the waters with reasonably priced gear before dropping hundreds of dollars on ultralight or premium items,' she said. 'As long as your gear keeps you warm, dry and fed, it doesn't need to be fancy.' The following FAQs were answered by Sunny Stroeer, Tim Beissinger and Cris Hazzard. How to pack a backpacking pack? How to pack a backpacking pack? 'Thoughtfully! Packing (and fitting) a backpack correctly makes all the difference between enjoyment and drudgery,' Stroeer said. 'Keep heavy items like food and your tent close to your back and centered, ideally just above your hips. Sleeping bags and lighter gear go toward the bottom, while essentials like snacks, maps and rain gear should be easily accessible in outside pockets or the brain of your pack. Keep small items organized in stuff sacks to make unpacking at camp easier. And before heading out, do a shake-down hike; you'll be surprised what you decide to leave behind.' What size backpacking pack do I need? What size backpacking pack do I need? 'That's dependent on the duration of a trip and people's packing styles,' Stroeer said. 'The longer you're out there, the more food you'll have to carry (which, by the way, typically weighs in around 2 pounds per person per day). To start with, I would recommend a 50- to 60-liter pack, which can accommodate most weekend to five-day trips, especially if you're still dialing in your gear and packing efficiency. Ultralight folks can get by with 40L, but that's usually after lots of trial and error. Try gear on before buying to make sure it fits your torso and hips properly; comfort is key.' How much should a backpacking tent weigh? How much should a backpacking tent weigh? 'Tents in the 2- to 3-pound range generally offer a good balance of lightweight, room and durability these days,' Hazzard said. 'A tent should weigh as little as possible while remaining within your budget,' Beissinger said. 'High-end two-person tents can weigh less than 1 pound, and there are mid-range models that weigh several pounds. All else being equal, less weight is better, but choosing your ideal tent is a matter of balancing several variables — weight, durability, form-factor (free-standing versus not) and price, just to name a few.' For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Tim Beissinger, one half of Thruhikers and co-author of 'Thruhikers: A Guide to Life on the Trail' Cris Hazzard, a professional hiking guide and the founder of HikingGuy Renee Miller, one half of Thruhikers and co-author of 'Thruhikers: A Guide to Life on the Trail' Sunny Stroeer, co-owner of Dreamland Safari Tours and founder of AWExpeditions CNN Underscored editors thoroughly test most of the products we cover and provide full transparency about how we test them. We have an experienced team of writers and editors with many years of testing experience who ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when it makes sense to ensure we are testing each product accurately and speaking about the pros and cons of each item. For this article, we spoke to professional hiking guides to get their insights and favorite pieces of gear. This story's author, Kai Burkhardt, is CNN Underscored's outdoors editor and loves going backpacking, especially in his home state of Colorado. He went on multiple trips to test out gear for this story.
The Guardian
23-05-2025
- The Guardian
The best camping mattresses and sleeping mats for every type of adventure, tested
Whether you love sleeping under the stars or only do so under duress, a decent camping mattress will at least help ensure you are well-rested and better equipped to handle the wider thrills and spills of outdoor living. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more. The days when your only choice was between a foam roll mat or a leaky airbed and foot pump are long gone. From self-inflating mattresses to lightweight sleeping pads and insulated airbeds, the comfort and portability of sleeping mats have dramatically improved. But with so many types of camping mattresses available, costing from tens to hundreds of pounds, it can be difficult to know where to start. To save you the sleepless night of an ill-informed choice, I tested 26 and shortlisted the best camping mattresses for various scenarios. Best camping mattress overall: Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft£212.50 at Outdoor Action Best budget camping mattress: Simond inflatable trekking mattress MT500 Air Insulating L£64.99 at Decathlon Best double mattress: Big Agnes Rapide SL insulated tent floor pad£244.95 at Wildbounds Best self-inflating mattress for luxury camping: Coleman Supercomfort self-inflating sleeping mat double£195 at AE Leisure Best sleeping mat for expeditions: Alpkit Radiant£99.99 at Alpkit As a keen camper and festival goer, not to mention the parent of two adventurous teens, I've done my fair share of backpacking and car-based camping trips, and had the bruised hips and backache to prove it. Particularly memorable was the night my self-inflating mat punctured while wild camping on Mont Lozère in the south of France, as well as the time we ignored the yellow weather warning at Port Eliot festival in Cornwall, and spent the night reinforcing our collapsing tent as the sleeping area gradually filled with water. I am also a science journalist and the author of a book on circadian rhythms and sleep, so I recognise the importance of a good night's sleep for physical recovery, brain function and wellbeing. I assessed each mattress on comfort, durability, packability, and how easy they were to inflate and deflate. Comfort was assessed by placing each mattress on a hard wooden floor on top of several sharp stones, lying on it inside a sleeping bag on my back and side, and rolling between positions for 20 minutes. As a wriggly side sleeper, I was particularly vigilant for any pressure points around my hips or shoulders, or mattresses that were overly narrow or slippery. Points were deducted if I could feel the stones, couldn't comfortably stretch out and for shiny surfaces that caused me to slither off the mattress. I assessed durability by lightly jumping on each mattress five times (against manufacturers' instructions) in bare feet, and falling on to it from standing – as might happen if you were to stumble into your tent in the middle of the night without a torch. I also gently stabbed and scratched at the surface of each mattress with a pointy stone, and sprayed the underside with water, to see how easily it soaked through. Mattresses were left overnight with two 20kg boxes on them to check for any signs of deflation. Further points were deducted for mattresses that were excessively difficult to pack away after use or needed a large storage space. I've also included the R value, or thermal resistance, of each mattress. This measures how well it resists heat transfer from your body to the cold ground. A lower R value means less insulation, which is better in warmer weather, but less good for winter camping (see more below, in the What you need to know section). I tested 26 mattresses in total, and rated them for different camping scenarios, including family camping holidays, summer or winter backpacking expeditions, glamping, festivals and weekends away for two. I also enlisted my back-sleeping husband – a keen winter mountaineer – and comfort-seeking kids, aged 12 and 14, for their perspectives. Below are the best 10 from my experiments. Mattresses were either returned to the manufacturer or donated to Kitsquad, a scheme that helps low-income people get out into the great outdoors, or the People's Republic of Stokes Croft, which supports people rough sleeping in Bristol. £212.50 at Outdoor Action£249.95 at Amazon If you crave the comfort of an air bed but need something compact and lightweight enough to carry in your backpack, Therm-a-Rest's NeoLoft regular wide camping mat could be the answer. With a packed size not much larger than a 1L water bottle, chambers that rise to form subtle side rails when the pad is inflated, and internal insulation, this pad isn't cheap, but it should dramatically boost your chances of a good night's sleep. Why we love it This mattress merges comfort with packability, making it a practical option for family camping holidays and backpacking alike. It feels soft and warm to lie on; it's wide enough for back or side sleepers; and the side rails gently cradle you while you sleep. We tested the regular wide single mat, which was fine for sleepers up to 5ft 10, but taller people may prefer the large version, which is 198cm long. We've taken this mattress on several camping trips, and it was so comfortable that my children fought over who got to sleep on it. Lumpy ground is imperceptible through its 11.7cm loft, even when sleeping on your side, and while softly springy, this mattress thankfully lacks the trampoline-like bounce of a conventional airbed. It's a shame that … while the surface of the mattress is super-soft, it does generate some static if you roll around too much. Weight: 850gDimensions (packed): 29 x 15cmDimensions (inflated): 185 x 66 x 12cm (LWH)R value: 4.7Self-inflating? NoPump included? Yes, pump sack (a bag that fills with air and connects to the mattress valve to inflate it) £64.99 at Decathlon Decathlon is a trusted source of affordable outdoor equipment, and its own-brand Simond sleeping pad doesn't disappoint. Its vertical air-filled chambers easily absorbed large stones and provided a comfortable sleeping surface, and its tiny pack size makes it suitable for campers without a car. It also comes in an XL version for taller and wider sleepers. Why we love itThis is a comfortable and versatile mattress suitable for most camping scenarios, apart from winter trips, which might require a better-insulated sleeping surface. As a side sleeper, prone to waking up and rolling over multiple times each night, I also appreciated the silicone patches on the mattress' surface, which helped stop my sleeping bag from sliding off. Though considerably thinner than the Therm-a-Rest, this mattress absorbed lumps and bumps well, and I was unable to feel stones when lying on my side – even when placed directly underneath my hips. This is a lightweight and easily packable mat, which could fit inside a rucksack during expeditions. It's a shame that … my younger family members disliked being able to feel the vertical grooves when lying on the mattress without a sleeping bag – although these were far less noticeable once wrapped inside one. Weight: 670gDimensions (packed): 33 x 12cmDimensions (inflated): 180 x 52 x 5cm (LWH)R value: 3.3Self-inflating? NoPump included? Yes, pump sack £244.95 at Wildbounds A night under canvas with your partner might sound romantic, but sharing the wrong mattress can make for an uncomfortable experience, with one partner being bounced awake when the other turns over, or slumped on to the hard rocky floor when their partner goes out to pee (yes, I speak from experience). This inflatable sleeping pad is extremely comfortable, tapered to fit in most two-man tents, insulated enough to see you into the colder months, and packing down small enough to fit into a backpack. Why we love it I've spent years grumbling about sharing a two-man tent with my husband, because we couldn't find two compatible, comfortable mattresses that would fit. This is the solution. It fitted into the two-man expedition tent that my husband is illogically attached to, despite my grumbles about the lack of storage space, but it also worked well in our family tent, where recently I enjoyed one of my best camping sleeps ever, with no hip or backache the following morning. Like our other top mattress picks, stones and rough ground were imperceptible through its surface, and I wasn't bounced awake at any point, even when my husband crawled out to make breakfast, while I dozed on. It's a shame that … it is relatively narrow for a double mattress. This is deliberate, as it's designed to fit inside the average two-person tent, and my husband and I are both relatively slim, so it wasn't a problem for us. However, larger couples, or those looking for more space, may find it a bit cramped. It was also relatively difficult to get the deflated mattress back inside its stuff sack. Weight: 1.22kgDimensions (packed): 29 x 14cmDimensions (inflated): 198 x 127 x 9cm (LWH) 102cm wide at tapered endR value: 4.8Self-inflating? NoPump included? Yes, pump sack £195 at AE Leisure This 12cm-thick self-inflating mattress gradually fills with air when the valves are twisted open. It comes in single and double sizes and is filled with polyester foam. All this makes for a more bed-like feel than the inflatable 'air pads' we tested, and helps to insulate it from the cold ground. Although the mattress is self-inflating, its travel bag doubles as a pump sack to add further inflation and create a firmer sleeping surface, if preferred. Why we love itIt's very wide and comfortable, and there's minimal motion transfer when two sleepers lie side by side. We tried the double, and I barely noticed when my husband deliberately rolled around and climbed off the mattress. Any lumps and bumps are absorbed with ease, and stones were imperceptible when placed under it. Weighing 6kg, this mattress is suitable only for car-based camping trips or camper vans, but we would certainly consider packing it for a week-long camping holiday. Its high thermal resistance (R value) would make it usable in winter conditions. It's a shame that … this mattress is too big for backpacking, and the double mattress takes a bit of effort to pack away: you need to fold it in half lengthways, and lie on its surface to squeeze out enough air to begin the process of rolling it up. Weight: 6kgDimensions (packed): 65 x 32cmDimensions (inflated): 200 x 128 x 12cm (LWH)R value: 12.9Self-inflating? Yes Pump included? Yes, pump-sack £99.99 at Alpkit This is a lightweight and compact sleeping pad with excellent insulation, making it suitable for all sorts of outdoor adventures – including winter expeditions. Why we love itWhile there are wider and marginally more comfortable lightweight mats, Alpkit's Radiant provides superb cushioning on rocky ground, and wins extra points for its relatively low price, high thermal resistance, 100% recycled outer fabric and water-resistant surface, which I tested by spraying it with a water bottle and leaving it for 30 minutes to soak in (it didn't). Its high R value means it should keep you warm in all weather conditions. Weighing only 600g – less than two tins of baked beans – it will easily fit inside a rucksack, making it suitable for summer and winter expeditions alike. It's a shame that … the surface of the mat is a little shiny and slippery. Weight: 600gDimensions (packed): 25 x 11cmDimensions (inflated): 194 x 62 x 9cm (LWH)R value: 7.2Self-inflating? NoPump included? Yes, pump sack Sign up to The Filter Get the best shopping advice from the Filter team straight to your inbox. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. after newsletter promotion £220 at Valley and Peak Best for: expeditions This is an excellent lightweight inflatable sleeping mat, particularly when used in combination with Sea to Summit's Aeros pillow (see below), which attaches to its surface using adhesive hook and loop patches. Measuring 64cm across and 10cm thick, the Ether Light XR is wider and slightly more comfortable than the smaller size available (larger sizes are also available). My husband also had no grumbles about warmth when he used it to sleep in a Scottish bothy in March. It didn't make the final cut because … although this was a worthy contender for best expedition mattress, it was narrowly pipped to the post by Alpkit's Radiant on the grounds of price, eco-credentials and insulation (though it still has a four-season rating). Weight: 665gDimensions (packed): 24 x 12cmDimensions (inflated): 183 x 64 x 10cm (LWH)R value: 4.1Self-inflating? NoPump included? Yes, pump sack £214.95 at Wildbounds£224.95 at Valley and Peak Best for: winter camping Another great option for winter camping – especially if comfort is a priority. This inflatable sleeping mat is 11cm thick and 63.5cm wide, with slightly raised edges to prevent you rolling off in the night. With tough 70 denier ripstop fabric on the underside, this feels like a robust mat that's built to last. A larger 76 x 198cm version is also available. It didn't make the final cut because … insulation is similar to Alpkit's Radiant, but with a weight of 907g, it's more than 300g heavier. Although this is unlikely to bother the average camper, serious mountaineers may prefer a lighter, smaller mat. Weight: 907gDimensions (packed): 20 x 14cmDimensions (inflated): 183 x 64 x 11cmR value: 7Self-inflating? NoPump included? Yes, pump sack £35.99 at Easy Camp Best for: family camping on a budget and festivals This 3.8cm self-inflating mat isn't the most comfortable we tested, and measuring 51cm across, it is quite narrow. Even so, rocks were barely perceptible through its surface, and my back-sleeping husband reported feeling very comfortable on it. A 5cm-thick version is also available, which should provide side sleepers with a little more cushioning. This mat is also considerably cheaper than many of our other top picks, making it a great budget option, particularly for festivals and for kids or smaller adults. It didn't make the final cut because … adults may find it too narrow for comfort, and side sleepers a little too thin. Weight: 945g Dimensions (packed): 28 x 16cmDimensions (inflated): 182 x 51 x 4cm (LWH)R value: 3Self-inflating? YesPump included? No, but this is unnecessary £209.99 at Decathlon£209.99 at Mountain Warehouse Best for: luxury glamping This behemoth of a self-inflating mat is 20cm thick and more comfortable than many regular mattresses, let alone camping ones. But this luxury comes at a cost: bulk. Taking up more storage space than our family tent, and weighing 5.6kg, the Shangri-La II would only be suitable for those with large cars or camper vans, and even they may need to sacrifice other equipment to fit it in. But for campers who prize soft, squishy comfort above all else, this mattress is hard to beat. It didn't make the final cut because … it is too bulky for most camping scenarios. Weight: 5.6kg Dimensions (packed): 80 x 32cm Dimensions (inflated): 200 x 76 x 20cm (LWH)R value: 14Self-inflating? YesPump included? No, but this is unnecessary £119.99 at Outwell Best for: family camping If you like the bouncy loft of an airbed but find them unpleasantly cold and clammy to sleep on, this insulated version is a great alternative. Although the Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft is lighter and considerably more portable, the Dreamscape is cheaper and would be fine for car-based camping trips from spring to autumn. It does require a foot-pump or a large pair of lungs to inflate it, though. It didn't make the final cut because … it isn't as portable as some of our top picks. Weight: 1.7kgDimensions (packed): 39 x 17cmDimensions (inflated): 205 x 77 x 12cm (LWH)R value: 3.8Self-inflating? NoPump included? No While many people sling their regular pillow into the car as a token luxury on camping trips, this doesn't work if you're backpacking, when a lumpy pile of clothes is the make-do option. The necessity of packing pillows is also a frequent flashpoint for arguments when packing for family camping trips (believe me, I know). Thankfully, there are now inflatable pillows that are small enough to fit in your pocket, and compressible foam or microfibre pillows that take up far less space than a regular pillow. I tested eight camping pillows and would highly recommend Sea to Summit's Aeros Ultralight pillow (£25 at Decathlon) for a super-packable inflatable pillow or Vango's Deep Sleep Memory Pillow (£31.99 at Amazon) for a supremely comfortable alternative, provided you have more space. From glamping to Alpine mountaineering, there are different types of camping trip, and different mattresses will suit some better than others. Airbeds are large, inflatable mattresses, often high and bouncy, inflated with a foot- or electric-powered pump (some even have one built in). Although they're very comfy, they're poorly insulated, can feel cold and clammy to lie on, and tend to be susceptible to punctures. They're also relatively heavy and bulky, making them unsuitable for backpacking, while those sharing a double airbed may be bounced awake by restless partners. Sleeping pads are ultralight inflatable mattresses designed for backpacking and mountaineering. Although they're thinner and less bouncy than air beds, they're extremely comfortable and often incorporate insulating materials, making them suitable for camping in colder conditions, including winter when it comes to high-spec versions. Most also come with air sacks to aid inflation (see below) and puncture repair kits. Closed-cell foam roll mats aren't particularly comfortable, but virtually indestructible. They're designed to provide a basic layer of padding, waterproofing and insulation between you and the ground. Being made from foam, they also tend to retain body heat well. Because of these properties, some backpackers choose to combine them with a basic air pad. They are usually secured to the outside of a backpack with elasticated straps. Self-inflating mattresses consist of an open-cell foam core inside an air-tight fabric shell, with a valve that allows in air to inflate the mattress when it's opened – although they often require a top-up of air from your lungs to make them firmer. Comfort ranges from moderate to high, depending on the thickness of the mattress, and the foam core tends to provide good insulation. However, they're heavier and bulkier than air pads, and still susceptible to punctures. They're deflated by opening back up the valve, and squeezing out the air, rolling as you go, and then closing the valve. The lifespan of a camping mattress depends on its type, quality and how well it's cared for, but closed-cell foam mattresses tend to be the most durable, and air beds the least so. Both self-inflating mats and air pads can also suffer from punctures and valve or seam failures, but self-inflating mattresses are often constructed from thicker fabrics and are less likely to fully deflate if punctured. To extend the life of your camping mattress, you could consider using a groundsheet to reduce the risk of punctures from sharp rocks, sticks and rough terrain, and avoid leaving inflatable mattresses in the sun. Care should also be taken not to over-inflate air mattresses, while foam or self-inflating mats should ideally be stored unrolled, with inflation valves left open to maintain the loft and integrity of the foam. It depends on the mattress, but air beds tend to require a foot- or electric pump, while air pads are inflated by mouth, or using a 'pump-sack' – a lightweight, air-filled bag, that helps to keep moisture out of the pad (also important for longevity) and is more efficient than inflating by mouth. The R value of a camping mattress measures how well it resists heat transfer from your body to the cold ground. A lower R value means less insulation, which is better in warmer weather, but less good for winter camping. Foam-based mattresses tend to have the highest R values, but some air pads incorporate other insulating materials, making them suitable for winter camping expeditions. As a general rule of thumb, R values of 1 to 2 tend to be sufficient for summer camping; R values of 2 to 4.5 are suitable for spring through to autumn, while for winter camping or other cold climates, you'll need an R value of 4 to 5 or higher. Linda Geddes is a former Guardian science correspondent, known for inserting herself into her own mini-science experiments (like the time she spent a week with a clown, a comic and some toddlers). This extends to product testing, where she delights in devising rigorous ways to distinguish high-performance stuff from marketing puff. Outside work, she can frequently be found swimming in rivers, dangling from cliffs and trudging the dawn walk to the campsite Portaloo
USA Today
16-05-2025
- Business
- USA Today
REI's biggest sale of the year is live! Save up to 30% on Gerber, Coleman, Big Agnes
REI's biggest sale of the year is live! Save up to 30% on Gerber, Coleman, Big Agnes Shop the REI Anniversary sale for epic outdoor deals, plus REI Co-op members save even more! Ready to gear up for your next adventure? The REI Anniversary sale 2025 is officially back in action with everything you need at epic prices. Shop the REI Anniversary sale 2025 The REI Anniversary sale has up to 30% off premium outdoor gear, clothing and accessories. Whether you're looking for new camping equipment, hiking boots or emergency essentials, you'll find crazy discounts across all categories. The sale is a great opportunity to stock up on essentials for your summer outings, Memorial Day weekend adventures and beyond. Below, shop the most popular REI deals on brands like Coleman, Gerber, Big Agnes and more. Shop the REI Anniversary sale When is the REI Anniversary sale? REI's biggest sale of the year is live from Friday, May 16 to Monday, May 26. Do I need to be a Co-op member to get the deals? No, anyone can shop the REI Anniversary sale, but REI Co-op members get extra savings, including 20% off one full-priced item and an additional 20% off one REI Outlet item with the coupon code ANNIV2025. Score lifetime savings: Join REI Co-op once, save forever on your outdoor gear Osprey Manta 34 Hydration Pack | Men's Jetboil MiniMo Cooking System Hate bugs? Get up to 43% off Thermacell mosquito and tick repellent for Memorial Day REI Co-op Campwell Folding Cot I go camping every year: Here are 10 essentials I suggest buying Keen Newport H2 Sandals | Men's Cotopaxi Allpa X 3L Hip Pack Coleman Cascade 3-in-1 Camp Stove More: 13 grills on sale to help you conquer backyard barbecues on a budget Patagonia Houdini Jacket | Women's Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 0 Sleeping Bag | Men's Helinox Chair One (re) Hoka Clifton 9 Road-Running Shoes | Men's More: Float into spring with a pair of new puffy Marni x Hoka sneakers ☁️ Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL4 Tent Gerber Dime Keychain Multi-Tool Danner Trail 2650 Hiking Shoes | Women's More: Merrell hiking boots, sneakers and slip-ons start at less than $80 Are you ready for an emergency? Make yourself a go-bag with these essentials Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated Sleeping Pad Score lifetime savings: Join REI Co-op once, save forever on your outdoor gear How much does an REI Co-op membership cost? The REI Co-op membership costs $30 and is a lifetime membership. Now through Monday, May 26, new members can get a $30 bonus card when they join the REI Co-op and make a purchase of $50 or more in the same order. What are the REI Co-op membership benefits? As a consumer co-op, REI Co-op members pay a one-time fee and are part of the REI community for life. Once you pay the $30 membership fee, your membership never expires. Members get access to benefits like up to 10% back annually on eligible purchases (Co-op Member Reward), free standard shipping, access to special offers and sales, member-exclusive bonus cards, early access to curated products and limited-edition gear, the ability to trade in used gear for credit and so much more. Shop REI
Forbes
13-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
REI Camping Sale: Shop These 14 Picks Now
This article was created in partnership with REI to showcase the best deals available during the REI Co-op Anniversary Sale. Save up to 30% on apparel, tents, sleeping bags and more now through May 26. If your summer plans involve hiking, camping or simply spending some extra time in nature, now is your chance to make sure you're outfitted with the proper gear. During the REI camping sale—part of the outdoor retailer's Anniversary Sale (its biggest of the year)—you can save up to 30% on a range of proprietary REI Co-op products and up to 25% on almost everything else sitewide. Save up to 30% on apparel, tents, sleeping bags and more during the REI camping sale. Prepare to brave the elements with The North Face Women's Antora Rain Hoodie (25% off) and tackle tricky terrain with the Keen Men's Hightrail Waterproof Hiking Boot (25% off). Upgrade your campsite with the REI Co-op Base Camp 4 Tent (30% off) and snooze more soundly under the stars with the Big Agnes Anthracite 20° Sleeping Bag (25% off). If you're an REI Co-op member, you can also save 20% on one full-priced item and an extra 20% on one REI Outlet item with code ANNIV2025. This REI camping sale ends May 26, so don't wait long to shop. Read on to discover some of the best deals available on apparel, tents, sleeping bags, accessories and more. REI Ideal for drizzly evenings by the campfire, breezy day hikes and waterfall adventures, this jacket features two seam-sealed waterproof and windproof layers crafted with 100% recycled fabrics. Both the three-piece hood and drop-tail hem have drawcords for adjustability, while an inner chest pouch and hand pockets offer convenient storage. Plus, the jacket's relaxed fit makes it easy to pair with your favorite leggings, joggers or hiking pants. REI This short-sleeve shirt is made with lightweight UPF 50+ jersey fabric that's stretchy, quick-drying and moisture-wicking, making it ideal for a range of outdoor activities from running to biking to hiking. Its semi-fitted design also lends a put-together look that works just as well for day-to-day life as it does for hitting the woods and trails. Get it in seven colors and standard or tall sizes. REI With a water-repellent stretch fabric, double-layered panels at the knees and kickplates at the ankles, these mid-rise pants are made for rugged excursions. The breathable nylon-spandex blend dries quickly and offers UPF 50+ sun protection, while two front pockets, two back pockets and a zip pocket provide ample room for your phone, keys and snacks. You can also use the interior drawcords at the waist and ankles to customize the pants' fit and ensure they work comfortably with your hiking boots. Choose from three colors and regular, tall or petite sizes. REI While these foot-contouring boots have a lightweight feel, they're also sturdy enough to keep your ankles supported on uneven terrain. The uppers are crafted with waterproof leather and breathable performance mesh, and the non-marking rubber outsoles with a multidirectional lug pattern allow for added traction. Foam insoles provide plenty of cushioning, plus a natural anti-odor treatment helps keep the boots smelling fresh. REI On days with a particularly high UV Index, this bucket-style UPF 50+ hat can help shield your face from sun damage. It features quick-drying polyester, a wicking mesh liner and a vent system around the band for airflow, plus the brim is lined with a foam layer to keep it afloat in water. Use the chin strap and back toggle to adjust the fit to your comfort level. REI With two front pockets, two back pockets and two side cargo pockets (including one with a zipper), these lightweight shorts provide plenty of storage for all your camping and hiking essentials. Like the Sahara Bucket Hat, they are quick-drying and offer UPF 50+ sun protection. They also feature a gusset and elastic waistband for comfort and flexibility. REI Meant for the casual camper, this machine-washable sleeping bag has a simple rectangular construction and a synthetic fill to keep you warm on chilly nights. The offset quilt design helps ensure even insulation, while the two-way zipper lets you open the bag fully or partially for ventilation. It also features a water-repellent finish, stash pocket and anti-snag strip along the zipper—and you can zip two bags together to form an extra-large sleep setup for yourself and another snoozer. REI This tent is light enough to take backpacking but roomy enough to accommodate two people, two sleeping bags and two sets of gear. It's crafted with 100% recycled poly-nylon that's water-repellent and stretch-resistant, plus sturdy aluminum poles for a quick setup. You can hang a lantern from the included ceiling strap or place a headlamp in the light-diffusing pocket to evenly light the tent, and one-handed door tiebacks allow for easy movement in and out. This tent also comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can feel secure in your purchase. REI During REI's camping sale, you can save $35 on this lightweight, mummy-style bag designed for temperatures as low as 22 degrees Fahrenheit. It's crafted with water-repellent ripstop fabric and recycled synthetic insulation to trap heat, while an insulated tube, secure collar and tight zipper help to further shield you from cold drafts. If you're a winter camper, you can use the interior loops to secure a sleeping bag liner, and the exterior loops allow for easy hang drying and storage. Other features include a contoured hood and a low-profile cord lock for one-handed uncinching. Choose between regular and long sizes. REI If you're looking for a spacious tent to accommodate multiple campers, consider this durable water-repellent model from REI Co-op. It features a 100 x 86-inch interior that can sleep four people, and two wide doors on either end for easy access. The tent also includes reflective detailing for added visibility, multiple pockets and hang loops for keeping essentials organized, adjustable vents and spacious covered front and rear storage. Plus, the color-coded poles and accompanying sleeves help ensure a hassle-free setup. REI A reliable, comfortable backpack is an essential for hauling your gear when you're setting out on a multiday journey. The Traverse 60 features a tubular aluminum frame to carry up to 45 pounds, a water-repellent finish (and rain cover) to stand up to unpredictable weather, vented back panels for airflow and a removable top lid that can convert to a smaller day pack. It also has plenty of pockets and sleeves to store essentials like sleeping bags, water bottles and trekking poles so you can prepare for a range of adventures. Plus, a padded harness, hip belt, and side and bottom compression straps help distribute weight evenly across your back and shoulders to prevent discomfort as you move. Choose from four sizes and green or teal colorways. You can also get 30% off a women's version of this backpack right now during the REI camping sale. REI Stay hydrated on the trail with this 32-ounce bottle, which is constructed to keep your water cold for up to 24 hours. It features a leakproof lid with a straw, a wide-mouth opening to easily add ice cubes before you go and a sturdy stainless steel construction for durability. It's available in nine colorways and is dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning. REI This soft-sided leakproof cooler is designed to chill drinks and food while you're relaxing at the campsite, on the beach or in the backyard (when filled with 9.6 pounds of ice, it keeps 18 beverage cans below 40 degrees Fahrenheit for 72 hours or longer). You can separate the water-repellent liner and outer case to clean the cooler or to use it as a tote. It also comes with padded removable shoulder straps, a rigid top that functions as a table, a zippered pocket, side storage and a bottle opener for added convenience. Choose from gray and green colorways. REI Give yourself some extra stability during particularly long, steep or strenuous hikes with a trekking pole set like this one from REI Co-op. Featuring adjustable sizing, the poles are designed to accommodate people from 5 foot 1 to over 6 feet tall. Oversized levers make it easy to adjust the shafts, large trail baskets help you navigate loose soil and soft nylon wrist straps ensure comfort on the trail. You can find camping equipment on sale throughout the year. REI's Member Sale usually happens in the middle of March, and the REI Co-op Anniversary Sale (the retailer's biggest savings event) takes place around Memorial Day in May. You can also find deals at REI around the Fourth of July, Labor Day and leading up to Black Friday (the retailer is famously closed on Black Friday to encourage shoppers to spend time outdoors instead).
