Backpacking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

Women’s Altra Olympus 6 Review

Last Updated: April 14, 2026

This shoe offers reliable protection, durability, and comfort over long distances – surpassing the popular Lone Peaks in these metrics.

Best Rain Jackets of 2026

A man smiles while wearing a rain jacket in the alpine.

Best Rain Jackets of 2026

Last Updated: April 10, 2026

From drizzles to downpours, we’ve got your back. Our team of seasoned hikers weathered the storm to find the best rain jackets for performance and protection.

Best Baby Backpack Carriers for Hiking of 2026

10 baby backpack carriers lineup up in front of a wood pile with pine trees in the background.

Best Baby Backpack Carriers for Hiking of 2026

Last Updated: April 10, 2026

Explore the top baby backpack carriers ideal for hiking and outdoor adventures. We have evaluated the leading models based on comfort, durability, features, and value to identify the best options tailored to each unique requirement.

Nitecore NB Air Power Bank Review

Closeup of the NB Air sitting on a rock charging a Nitecore headlamp. There is a pinion-juniper forest in the background.

Nitecore NB Air Power Bank Review

Published: April 10, 2026

This compact, ultralight power bank is ideal for overnight trips, delivering fast recharging, excellent portability, and just enough power for quick top-offs on the trail.

Nitecore NB10000 Gen4 Power Bank Review

Closeup of the Nitecore NB10000 sitting on leaves on the ground.

Nitecore NB10000 Gen4 Power Bank Review

Published: April 10, 2026

Ultralight and highly efficient, this compact power bank delivers fast charging, excellent portability, and thoughtful features, making it a favorite for backpackers who want dependable power at minimal weight.

Norrona Trollveggen GORE-TEX Pro Light Review

A rear view of a hiking reclining on a mountain ridge at 12,000 feet in the Norrona trollveggen waterproof jacket

Norrona Trollveggen GORE-TEX Pro Light Review

Published: April 10, 2026

If you’re a guide or beast-mode hiker needing the most rugged, PFAS-free, GORE-TEX shell for high-altitude adventures, the Norrona trollveggen Pro Light may be the best investment.

FLEXTAIL Zero Power 10000 Power Bank Review

Close up of a hand holding the Flextail up to the camera. There is a pinion-juniper forest and canyon in the background.

FLEXTAIL Zero Power 10000 Power Bank Review

Published: April 9, 2026

Lightweight, compact, and impressively efficient, this ultralight power bank delivers reliable charging without adding much weight or bulk to your pack.

Nestout 15000 Power Bank Review

Close up of the Nestout sitting on a rock with a red rock canyon in the background.

Nestout 15000 Power Bank Review

Published: April 9, 2026

Built for harsh conditions, this rugged power bank offers waterproof and dustproof protection, excellent cold-weather performance, and dependable charging for demanding outdoor adventures.

Best Trekking Poles of 2026

A female backpacker hiking up to the top of a red, rocky mountain pass in Glacier National Park using the REI Flash Carbon trekking poles

Best Trekking Poles of 2026

Last Updated: April 7, 2026

We’ve rigorously tested these trekking poles over thousands of miles to find the sturdiest and most lightweight options. Get more stability on tough terrain…

LEKI Legacy Lite Trekking Poles Review

A person using the Legacy poles and wearing a pack is walking up a trail towards the camera with pinion and juniper trees and a mesa in the background.

LEKI Legacy Lite Trekking Poles Review

Published: April 7, 2026

Affordable trekking poles with comfortable cork grips and ventilated handles that help keep hands cool. A dependable no-frills option for beginners and hikers seeking simple trail support.

Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber Quick Lock Review

A person wearing a backpack and using the cascade poles is walking up a trail towards the camera. There are trees juniper trees in the background.

Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber Quick Lock Review

Published: April 7, 2026

Durable carbon fiber trekking poles with excellent value, versatile accessories, and comfortable cork grips. A great choice for hikers seeking strong performance without paying premium prices.

Petzl ACTIK CORE Headlamp Review

Side close-up of a person wearing a Petzl headlamp over a beanie while adjusting the light with one hand.

Petzl ACTIK CORE Headlamp Review

Last Updated: April 6, 2026

This headlamp is a longtime favorite with bright and reliable performance, simple controls, and a recent upgrade to USB-C charging.

Coast FL97R Headlamp Review

Close-up of the Coast FL95R Headlamp front lens and reflector, resting in dry pine needles.

Coast FL97R Headlamp Review

Published: April 6, 2026

This is a feature-rich headlamp with serious brightness, intuitive beam control, and a warm area light that works as propped up in a tent as it does on your head.

Petzl SWIFT LT Headlamp Review

Close-up of the Petzl Swift headlamp worn around the neck like a necklace, shining light onto a jacket.

Petzl SWIFT LT Headlamp Review

Published: April 6, 2026

This is an ultralight headlamp that earns its place in fast-and-light kits, with a stable fit that stays put at a dead sprint and enough brightness for most trail use.

BioLite Range 500 Headlamp Review

Published: April 6, 2026

This headlamp is light enough for trail runs, tough enough for downpours, and back to fully charged before you finish packing up camp.

Best Hiking Pants for Women 2026

A person is standing on a rock and holding the Distance Carbon trekking poles. The area is rocky with some trees surrounding the wash. There are some rocky, desert peaks in the distance.

Best Hiking Pants for Women 2026

Last Updated: April 2, 2026

From comfort to durability, we tested a variety of hiking pants to find the best options for every adventure. Discover which pants offer the perfect balance of value, mobility, and performance.