Backpacking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides
Katadyn Micropur Water Purification Tablets Review
Katadyn Micropur Water Purification Tablets Review
Last Updated:
October 19, 2026
Micropur tablets are the easiest backup treatment to forget about until you need them: a few sealed packets take almost no pack space and require no equipment to work.
Platypus GravityWorks Water Filter Review
Platypus GravityWorks Water Filter Review
Last Updated:
October 19, 2026
The GravityWorks is the filter we’d choose for pairs or small groups who want to stop squeezing bottles all evening.
Katadyn BeFree Water Filter Review
Katadyn BeFree Water Filter Review
Last Updated:
October 19, 2026
The BeFree is a particularly appealing choice if you want to fill a soft flask and drink immediately without carrying a syringe.
Katadyn Steripen Ultra Water Purifier Review
Katadyn Steripen Ultra Water Purifier Review
Last Updated:
October 19, 2026
The Steripen Ultra makes purifying clear water convenient.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter Review
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter Review
Last Updated:
October 19, 2026
A versatile, ultralight filter with a strong flow rate and exceptional service life, provided you’re willing to backflush it and replace the included squeeze bags.
Western Mountaineering AstraLite Review
Western Mountaineering AstraLite Review
Last Updated:
October 19, 2026
Exceptionally low weight and dependable three-season warmth make this premium quilt a leading choice for ounce-conscious backpackers.
Lifestraw Peak Straw Water Filter Review
Lifestraw Peak Straw Water Filter Review
Last Updated:
October 19, 2026
The Peak Squeeze stands out because it adapts to different water-carrying systems without demanding much extra weight.
MSR Guardian Water Filter Review
MSR Guardian Water Filter Review
Last Updated:
October 19, 2026
For trips where viruses and extremely poor water sources are real concerns, the Guardian offers protection that ordinary hollow-fiber backpacking filters cannot match.
LifeStraw Peak Squeeze Water Filter Review
LifeStraw Peak Squeeze Water Filter Review
Last Updated:
October 19, 2026
The Peak Straw works especially well for trail runners who cross plentiful streams and would rather drink at the source than carry water.
Katadyn Hiker Pro Water Filter Review
Katadyn Hiker Pro Water Filter Review
Last Updated:
October 19, 2026
The Hiker Pro is a strong traditional pump option when you need to draw water from places too shallow to fill a bottle.
Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2026
Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2026
Last Updated:
October 16, 2026
Our favorite backpacking water filters and purifiers, chosen for real-world usability, source conditions, long-term performance, and weight.
Best Camping Pillows of 2026
Best Camping Pillows of 2026
Last Updated:
October 16, 2026
Our 13 favorite pillows range from tiny inflatables to plush foam cushions, with clear recommendations for different sleep styles, budgets, and pack-weight priorities.
Zpacks Vertice Rain Jacket Review
Zpacks Vertice Rain Jacket Review
Last Updated:
October 15, 2026
Extremely low weight and useful coverage appeal to long-distance backpackers, while thin fabric and missing pockets are real compromises.
Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket Review
Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket Review
Last Updated:
October 15, 2026
Minimal weight is the draw for emergency rain protection; a lack of vents limits its usefulness during strenuous wet-weather hiking.
Best Rain Jackets of 2026
Best Rain Jackets of 2026
Last Updated:
October 15, 2026
Our field-tested rain jacket picks balance rain protection, comfort, ventilation, durability, weight, and price for different trails and conditions.
REI Rainier Rain Jacket Review
REI Rainier Rain Jacket Review
Last Updated:
October 15, 2026
A budget-friendly shell offers thoughtful features for short hikes but wets out during extended heavy rain and can run large.