Expert gear tips and ultralight setups for hikers and backpackers. Weight-tested reviews of tents, sleeping bags, packs and essential trail equipment.
The best sleeping bag liners add 2–7°C of warmth for as little as 75 g — far less weight than buying a warmer sleeping bag.
Read articleRegular care for hiking gear — boots, tents, rain jackets, sleeping bags — prevents early failure and saves hundreds of pounds in replacement costs.
Read articleThe best fleece for hiking in 2026 is the Patagonia R1 Air (295 g, £175) or Rab Nexus Pull-On (350 g, £110). Compared by weight and warmth.
Read articleSustainable hiking gear in 2026 uses recycled fabrics and bio-based materials without sacrificing performance. Here's the best eco-friendly kit.
Read articleMatch your backpack volume to trip length: 20–30L for overnights, 35–50L for 3–5 day trips, 55–65L for week-long expeditions. Full breakdown inside.
Read articleThe best new backpacking gear releases of 2026 include packs built with Aluula fabric under 550 g and sleeping pads with R-6.5 at a lighter weight.
Read articleThe lightest hiking rain pants in 2026 weigh just 100 g. This guide compares 2.5-layer and 3-layer options for every budget and conditions.
Read articleA dry bag is the cheapest insurance against wet gear. This 2026 guide compares ultralight options by weight, material and price.
Read articleThe best backpacking hammocks of 2026 weigh 280–570 g and set up in two minutes. ENO DoubleNest, Kammock Roo DL and Dutchware Chameleon compared in full.
Read articleStop getting cold on trail — learn how EN/ISO 23537 Comfort vs Lower Limit ratings work and which temperature rating suits your hiking trips in 2026.
Read articleThe best hiking sunglasses of 2026 are the Oakley Clifden (polarized, wrap-around frame) and Julbo Explorer 2.0 (Reactiv photochromic lens) — both offer Category 4 protection for snow and glacier.
Read articleFor most day hikes, a 1 L soft bottle with a water filter beats a hydration bladder — it's lighter, easier to refill and simpler to clean. Bladders win for fast-paced trails where you can't stop to drink.
Read articleToaks, Snow Peak and MSR titanium cookware compared by weight, capacity and price. Find the right backpacking pot for your kit in 2026.
Read articleBest wilderness first aid kits for backpacking 2026 by weight and use case, plus what to add for multi-day trips and what to leave home.
Read articlePack your heaviest items against your spine at shoulder-blade height to transfer 70–80% of pack weight onto your hips. The four-zone system that eliminates back pain.
Read articleDWR coating fails after 20–30 hours of use, not the membrane. Wash with a technical cleaner, apply fresh DWR and restore full waterproofing in 30 minutes.
Read articleBackpacking quilts weigh up to 40% less than equivalent sleeping bags. Six ultralight quilts tested and ranked for weight, warmth and value in 2026.
Read articleBlisters are the top reason hikers cut trips short. This complete 2026 foot care guide covers blister prevention, taping, sock choice and trail treatment.
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