The REI Flash 55 backpack is a budget friendly backpack that’s also lightweight and feature-rich. Redesigned in 2023, the Flash 55 now has more sizing options and an adjustable torso length.
I’ve been looking for warmer base layers to wear on cold weather camping and backpacking trips and these heavy and midweight merino wool items from Woolx fit that bill.
Choosing a backpacking tent can be overwhelming due to the cost and number of options available. These are my recommendations for the best options based on comfort, weight and budget.
The REI Flash Air 2 is an ultralight backpacking tent with plenty of room for two people at a lower price than similar options.
The Six Moon Designs Pack Pods make it easy to grab your gear for a last minute trip, help to balance the load in your backpack, and keep your tent organized.
The Tarptent Aeon Li tent is an ultralight single-wall one-person tent that utilizes trekking poles and stakes for setup. This is my go-to tent for most backpacking trips due to the low weight – just 1 pound.
The Hydroblu Versa Flow is a squeeze-type water filter that is lightweight, inexpensive and easy to use. After using the Versa Flow on over 15 days of backpacking, it’s now my preferred filter.
If you are looking for a lighter weight alternative to a sleeping bag, or you want an option that allows for more freedom of movement, the Stormloft backpacking quilt is a high quality option with a low price tag.
The Tarptent Moment DW is a lightweight one-person double-wall tent. This is the pre-2019 version that I purchased at the end of 2016 and have used on over 20 backpacking and camping trips.