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Backpacking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

UGREEN 145W Power Bank Review
A hiker has their back to the camera while taking a photo. The phone is hooked up to the UGREEN charger in the back pocket of the pack. There are trees and a mountain lake in the background.

UGREEN 145W Power Bank Review

Published: November 27, 2024
A literal powerhouse designed for large electronics, with a 140W output and 25,000 mAh capacity. Its digital display and pass-through charging add convenience, but the trade-offs include added weight, bulk, and expense.
BioLite Charge 80 PD Power Bank Review
Close up of the BioLite power bank charging a phone and the Garmin Inreach while sitting on some pine needles.

BioLite Charge 80 PD Power Bank Review

Published: November 27, 2024
Designed for backcountry conditions, this power bank stands out for its durability. Its bulkier size and weight might be a drawback for those prioritizing portability.
Miady AS-TPB21 Power Bank Review
The Miady and a phone sit in front of a tent in the woods.

Miady AS-TPB21 Power Bank Review

Published: November 27, 2024
A great pick for budget-conscious hikers, this power bank handles cold weather well and is surprisingly durable. It’s not the lightest or fastest to recharge, but it gets the job done without straining your wallet.
Goal Zero Flip 24 Power Bank Review
Close up of the Goal Zero power bank charging a phone while sitting on some pine needles.

Goal Zero Flip 24 Power Bank Review

Published: November 27, 2024
A pocket-sized power bank for your next adventure. Lightweight, durable, and easy to carry, this power bank is great for short trips, though its recharge speed and capacity might leave you wanting more for longer outings.
Zendure Super Mini 10000 Power Bank Review
Close up of a backpack side pocket with one hand placing the Zendure and a cell phone into the pocket and the other holding the zipper. There are trees in the background.

Zendure Super Mini 10000 Power Bank Review

Published: November 27, 2024
This lightweight, ultra-portable power bank delivers solid performance and durability, though its features and efficiency are better suited for shorter trips.
Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 Power bank Review
The Anker and a phone sit in front of a tent in the woods.

Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 Power bank Review

Published: November 25, 2024
A straightforward, durable design that lives up to its reputation as a dependable option for budget-conscious users. While it lacks pass-through charging and takes longer to recharge, its sturdy build and reliability make it a trustworthy power bank for hikers needing a compact 10,000 mAh power bank.
NEMO Switchback Sleeping Pad Review
A man holds an orange mat in a grassy area in the woods.

NEMO Switchback Sleeping Pad Review

Last Updated: November 21, 2024
A closed-cell pad can’t be any lighters, simpler and faster for softening the ground you sleep upon. Use for warm seasons, or pair with an air pad for winter camping.
Klymit Static V2 Sleeping Pad Review
A woman relaxes inside a tent, sitting on a green inflatable sleeping pad. Trees are visible through the tent.

Klymit Static V2 Sleeping Pad Review

Published: November 21, 2024
This air pad is your affortable ticket into “oh sleeping on the ground isn’t that bad!” Perfect for new backpackers looking for a light sleeping pad on summer trips.
REI Helix Insulated Air Sleeping Pad Review
A woman is lying on an inflatable mattress on the grass on a sunny day.

REI Helix Insulated Air Sleeping Pad Review

Published: November 20, 2024
This air pad a great option for backpackers who sleep on their backs and tend to camp in colder temps. Plus the price won’t make you lose any sleep at night.
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir UberLite Sleeping Pad Review

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir UberLite Sleeping Pad Review

Last Updated: November 18, 2024
We absolutely love how light, compact, quiet, and comfortable the Therm-a-Rest UberLite is. This is the pad you’ll find in our packs for all our summer outings. The main question to ask yourself with this pad is: how often do you backpack in sub-freezing temps? If the answer is rarely, this might be the perfect pad for you.
Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad Review
a sea to summit ultralight insulated sleeping pad inflated in a backpacking tent with an ultralight pack and pod beside it.

Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad Review

Published: November 15, 2024
It’s nice when a pad doesn’t break your bank or your back. This version’s simple and clever design features provide you with a reliable and cushioned sleep.
NEMO Tensor Trail Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad Review
A man stands next to a lake gripping a large yellow inflatable camping pad.

NEMO Tensor Trail Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad Review

Last Updated: November 12, 2024
Thick, cushy, quiet, and very comfortable (even for side-sleepers), this ultralight pad is a perfect companion for summer backpacking trips that stay above freezing temps at night.
CleverHiker Gear Guide

CleverHiker Gear Guide

Last Updated: November 11, 2024
Trail-tested recommendations on the best hiking, backpacking, and camping gear for maximizing comfort, minimizing weight, and increasing smiles.
15 Winter Camping Tips
A hiker situating a sleeping bag in a 4-season tent on a winter camping trip

15 Winter Camping Tips

Last Updated: November 7, 2024
The magic of winter camping, where snowfall transforms familiar trails into pristine wilderness adventures. Experience the profound satisfaction of wandering through untouched powder on snowshoes and digging your own sanctuary for a cozy camp.
Winter Camping Checklist
two tents pitched in the snow with mt hood in the distance

Winter Camping Checklist

Last Updated: November 7, 2024
When you go into the backcountry during the harshest season of the year, it pays to have the right equipment to keep…
Zpacks Duplex Zip Tent Review
A hiker adjusting the Zpacks Duplex Zip in a plateau with mountains in the background.

Zpacks Duplex Zip Tent Review

Last Updated: November 1, 2024
We put 500 miles on the Zpacks Duplex Zip to see how it stacks up against the best ultralight tents on the market.
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