BackPacking
We hope to inspire adventure and promote wilderness conservation through in-depth gear reviews, skill-based tutorials, and comprehensive trip guides.
Tents
10 Best Backpacking Tents of 2023
10 Best Backpacking Tents of 2023
We put the most promising backpacking tents on the market through the wringer to find the ones with the best balance of weight, space, and weather resistance for the price.
10 Best Ultralight Tents of 2023
10 Best Ultralight Tents of 2023
A tent will be one of the heaviest items you carry on your backcountry adventures. If you’re looking to cut weight…
7 Best Budget Backpacking Tents of 2023
7 Best Budget Backpacking Tents of 2023
A backpacking tent is not a good place to cut corners when it comes to quality. On trips into remote wilderness, a shelter…
10 Best Tent Stakes of 2023
10 Best Tent Stakes of 2023
Tent stakes are some of the smallest, but most important items in your outdoor kit. Your tent stakes will secure your shelter…
Sleep
10 Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags of 2023
10 Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags of 2023
From summer summits to winter wanderings, our trail-tested list of the best backpacking sleeping bags will keep you warm and cozy in the backcountry.
10 Best Backpacking Quilts of 2023
10 Best Backpacking Quilts of 2023
After hundreds of nights of demanding backcountry testing, we’ve found the best backpacking quilts of 2023. Discover the ultimate in ultralight warmth with the most versatile and comfy quilts available.
10 Best Camping Sleeping Bags of 2023
10 Best Camping Sleeping Bags of 2023
A sleeping bag that’s properly suited to your trip conditions will prevent cold, uncomfortable nights of camping and help…
10 Best Backpacking & Camping Pillows of 2023
10 Best Backpacking & Camping Pillows of 2023
The best sleep systems for backpacking and camping include a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and a pillow that mimic…
Footwear
Best Hiking Shoes of 2023
Best Hiking Shoes of 2023
We’ve hiked thousands of miles in the best hiking shoes available to see which ones gained the most traction with our team of experts. From lightweight and comfy to protective and supportive, we have you covered.
Best Hiking Shoes for Women of 2023
Best Hiking Shoes for Women of 2023
Looking for the most comfortable, durable women’s hiking shoes around? Our team of experts tested dozens of the most promising pairs over thousands of miles to bring you this list of our favorites.
Best Hiking Boots of 2023
Best Hiking Boots of 2023
We set out to find the most comfortable, durable, and supportive hiking boots of 2023. After logging hundreds of trail miles ourselves, these top performers will have your feet feeling fresh.
Best Women’s Hiking Boots of 2023
Best Women’s Hiking Boots of 2023
After rigorous on-trail testing, we’ve narrowed down our list of the most comfortable, durable, and lightweight hiking boots to keep you moving on your next adventure.
Best Hiking Sandals of 2023
Best Hiking Sandals of 2023
Sometimes you just have to let the tootsies wiggle free, we get that. Hiking sandals are a great alternative to traditional…
Best Women’s Hiking Sandals of 2023
Best Women’s Hiking Sandals of 2023
Sometimes you just have to let the tootsies wiggle free, we get that. Hiking sandals are a great alternative to traditional hiking…
Equipment
10 Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2023
10 Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2023
Our team of seasoned backcountry experts hiked thousands of miles using the best backpacking packs on the market to narrow down this list of top picks for multi-day adventures.
10 Best Backpacking Stoves of 2023
10 Best Backpacking Stoves of 2023
A steamy cup of java on a crisp, quiet morning is just about the perfect start to any day in the wilderness. A warm meal at the end of a long…
Best Backpacking Cookware of 2023
Best Backpacking Cookware of 2023
If you’re in the market for new backpacking cookware, you’ve come to the right place. Our team of outdoor experts has…
Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2023
Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2023
Clean drinking water is an incredibly important consideration for any trip into the backcountry. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of…
7 Best Trekking Poles of 2023
7 Best Trekking Poles of 2023
We’ve rigorously tested dozens of trekking poles over thousands of miles to find the sturdiest and most lightweight options out there. Get more stability on tough terrain with the top-performing models of 2023.
10 Best Backpacking Hammocks of 2023
10 Best Backpacking Hammocks of 2023
We’ve been kicking back in the backcountry to bring you our trail-tested top picks for hammock camping in comfort. Put your feet up and chill out with our guide to the best hammocks out there.
Jackets
10 Best Rain Jackets of 2023
10 Best Rain Jackets of 2023
If you’re looking for the best rain jacket to fit your needs, you’ve come to the right place. Our team of seasoned backpackers…
10 Best Down Jackets of 2023
10 Best Down Jackets of 2023
All mountain adventures have one thing in common: cold. Whether you’re summiting snow-covered peaks in the…
10 Best Fleece Jackets of 2023
10 Best Fleece Jackets of 2023
We took to the mountains to find the best fleece jackets for taking off the chill. Explore our top picks for staying comfortable and toasty warm when temps start to dip.
Best Windbreaker Jackets of 2023
Best Windbreaker Jackets of 2023
When the wind is howling and the air is chilly, a lightweight windbreaker will make a huge difference in your comfort.
How to Wash a Down Jacket
How to Wash a Down Jacket
A lightweight down jacket should be at the center of any good backpacking list.
How To Wash A Rain Jacket and Pants
How To Wash A Rain Jacket and Pants
If you’ve ever been caught in a backcountry downpour, you know how important it is to have high-quality rain gear…
Apparel
10 Best Hiking Pants of 2023
10 Best Hiking Pants of 2023
Try on our trail-tested picks for the best men’s hiking pants so you can take on the outdoors with the stretch, breathability, and durability you need in the backcountry.
10 Best Hiking Pants for Women 2023
10 Best Hiking Pants for Women 2023
We took to the trails to test the most promising hiking pants for women. We looked for the most comfortable, lightweight, and durable options so you’ll feel great in your new ‘fit.
10 Best Rain Pants of 2023
10 Best Rain Pants of 2023
A trusty pair of rain pants should be in every outdoor adventurer’s gear arsenal. Not only will they keep you dry when the skies…
10 Best Hiking Shorts of 2023
10 Best Hiking Shorts of 2023
Discover your new favorite trail-ready hiking shorts from Patagonia, PrAna, REI, and more. Our experts bring you tailored suggestions for the best in comfort, durability, and style from trail to town.
10 Best Hiking Shorts for Women 2023
10 Best Hiking Shorts for Women 2023
We’ve put in the miles to find the best women’s hiking shorts out there. From ultralight to baggies, only the most comfortable, stylish, and high-quality models made our list of top picks.
10 Best Hiking Socks of 2023
10 Best Hiking Socks of 2023
Keep blisters at bay with just the right pair of well-cushioned hiking socks. Check out our top picks to pamper your feet on your next backpacking adventure.
10 Best Hiking Leggings of 2023
10 Best Hiking Leggings of 2023
We’ve tested the best hiking leggings and tights to keep you moving effortlessly through any terrain. Our hand-picked selection of legwear has just the right combo of mobility, breathability, (and pockets!) for your next adventure.
7 Best Sun Shirts of 2023
7 Best Sun Shirts of 2023
It’s no secret that too much sun exposure is bad for your skin, but no one likes lathering up in greasy sunscreen before…
Accessories
10 Best Headlamps of 2023
10 Best Headlamps of 2023
Everyone should own a headlamp. Whether you’re going on a backpacking trip, walking the dog in the evening, or…
Best Power Banks for Hiking OF 2023
Best Power Banks for Hiking OF 2023
Supercharge your backcountry adventures with our guide to the most portable, dependable, and lightweight power banks out there so your batteries will have juice for when you need them most.
10 Best Backpacking Chairs of 2023
10 Best Backpacking Chairs of 2023
Tired of sitting in the dirt? Elevate your next backpacking trip with a minimalist seat that makes break time and chilling in camp…
10 Best Stuff Sacks of 2023
10 Best Stuff Sacks of 2023
Toiletries, electronics, extra clothes, food – all the little bits and bobs in your backpack can become a mess if you don’t have a way…
10 Best Fanny Packs for Hiking of 2023
10 Best Fanny Packs for Hiking of 2023
Fanny packs may have been considered a fashion faux-pas at one point, but nowadays it seems like we don’t make it a mile…
Best Camping & Backpacking Coffee Makers of 2023
Best Camping & Backpacking Coffee Makers of 2023
Spending time in the woods doesn’t mean you have to ditch your daily brew. We’ve tested the top coffee makers of 2023 so you can embrace your morning coffee ritual wherever you are.
Food
Best Backpacking Food
Best Backpacking Food
Trail-tested recommendations on the best freeze-dried meals, camp kitchen essentials, and tips for impressing your friends with your culinary prowess.
Best Freeze Dried Food for Backpacking 2023
Best Freeze Dried Food for Backpacking 2023
Freeze dried meals aren’t just for astronauts anymore. In fact, they’re some of the most popular meal options for hikers…
20 Great Backpacking Meal Recipes & Food Dehydration Tips
20 Great Backpacking Meal Recipes & Food Dehydration Tips
Making your own backpacking meals can be fun and a great way to take control of your nutrition while saving money.
Best Vegan & Vegetarian Backpacking Meals of 2023
Best Vegan & Vegetarian Backpacking Meals of 2023
Zucchini and mushrooms and black beans, oh my! We’ve once again donned our fancy food critic pants and ate all the food…
10 Best Energy Bars of 2023
10 Best Energy Bars of 2023
The humble snack. Always there when you need it most – right before a big run, just before the final push to a summit, or…
10 Best Hydration Mixes of 2023
10 Best Hydration Mixes of 2023
We don’t need to tell you how important it is to stay hydrated, but you may be surprised to learn just how many nutrients…
Trip Guides
Backpacking Trip Guides
Backpacking Trip Guides
Backpacking trip guides We provide in-depth backpacking guides to some of the most beautiful places on our planet. Each guide includes all the pre-trip details you’ll need to plan an awesome backcountry adventure. For more popular CleverHiker resources, we recommend checking out the following: CleverHiker Gear Guide CleverHiker Skills Tutorials United States & Canada THRU-HIKES […]
A Complete Guide to Hiking the John Muir Trail
A Complete Guide to Hiking the John Muir Trail
Planning for your thru-hike of the JMT can be a daunting and overwhelming task – not to mention the difficulty in procuring one of the coveted permits. In this guide we hope to break down every detail you’ll need to begin preparing for what will surely be an adventure of a lifetime.
Teton Crest Trail Backpacking Guide
Teton Crest Trail Backpacking Guide
The Teton Crest Trail is a 40-mile high route that traverses ridges offering spectacular wide-angle views of towering granite peaks, glacier-carved canyons, crystalline lakes and wildflower-pocked meadows. It’s truly one of our nation’s most scenic and iconic trails.
Glacier National Park Backpacking Guide
Glacier National Park Backpacking Guide
With more than 700 miles of backcountry trails traversing lush alpine meadows, glacier-carved peaks, deep valleys, and moss-fringed cirques cradling stunning azure lakes, Glacier National Park is as breathtakingly beautiful as it is physically and mentally demanding.
A Short Guide to Hiking the Colorado Trail
A Short Guide to Hiking the Colorado Trail
From the flower-filled alpine meadows of the Sawatch Mountains to the dramatic craggy peaks of the San Juans, a hike on the Colorado Trail is sure to be a journey full of challenges and rewarding experiences.
A Guide to Hiking in Torres del Paine: W, O, and Q Treks
A Guide to Hiking in Torres del Paine: W, O, and Q Treks
If it’s your first time visiting Patagonia, a visit to Torres del Paine will most likely be on your itinerary, and for good reason. This spectacular Chilean region offers some of the best trekking in the world – dramatic granite spires, immense glaciers, glistening turquoise lakes – all the ingredients for an unforgettable and rugged adventure.
Backpacking in Patagonia: Gear Checklist
Backpacking in Patagonia: Gear Checklist
Whether you’re preparing for the W Trek in Torres del Paine or chasing sunrises on Fitz Roy, packing the right gear to ensure you’re safe and comfortable is essential. Our gear checklist will help you keep your weight to a minimum so you can see and do more.
Nepal Trekking Gear Checklist – What To Pack
Nepal Trekking Gear Checklist – What To Pack
Nepal is an unbelievably beautiful country with a radiant culture and some of the most fantastic scenery you’ll ever lay eyes on. Making a pilgrimage to this trekking mecca should be on every backpacker’s bucket list.
Santa Cruz Trek, Peru – A Guide to Hiking the Cordillera Blanca
Santa Cruz Trek, Peru – A Guide to Hiking the Cordillera Blanca
Nestled in the white-peaked Cordillera Blanca range in the Andes, the classic 4-day Santa Cruz backpacking trip may be one of the most beautiful treks in the world. While many people flock to the trails near Machu Picchu, this overlooked hiking mecca north of Lima has a fraction of the visitors, allowing for a relative amount of solitude for such a spectacular place.
8 Iconic Pacific Northwest Backpacking Trips
8 Iconic Pacific Northwest Backpacking Trips
The Pacific Northwest is an adventure junkie’s paradise. It’s a breathtakingly diverse playground of craggy granite peaks, high alpine lakes, meadows socked with wildflowers, rugged windswept coastline, and more shades of green than your eyeballs can handle.
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