Backpacks, Shelters, & Sleep Systems

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Elegear Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad Review

When it comes to backpacking, typical sleeping pads are usually of the “air mattress” variety. Think Therm-a-rest’s NeoAir series, or the Tensor from Nemo. These … Read more.

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Sea to Summit Ember Down Quilt Review

The Ember from Sea to Summit is a high quality, ultralight down quilt offered in various sizes and temperature ratings. Constructed with a 10D nylon shell and … Read more.

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Ampex Codazzi 2 Person Tent Review

The Ampex Codazzi 2 Person Tent is a budget friendly freestanding tent weighing 4.01lbs, or approximately 64.2 ounces. This weight includes the tent body, rainfly, poles, footprint … Read more.

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UGQ Bandit Review – The Best Quilt?

Outdoor (UGQ) is a custom gear company based in Michigan whose claim to fame is the Bandit Quilt, a customizable, ultralight quilt offered in various configurations of your choosing. In 2019, I … Read more.

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Ultralight 2 Person Tents – The best of the best

Are you in the market for a new backpacking tent for you and your partner? Or are you a solo hiker wanting more space than your 1-person tent affords … Read more.

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Small 2-person Tents: Here are the smallest

Small, 2 person tents are the most common tents you will see when backpacking. They are convenient for couples and solo hikers who want extra space. Being small … Read more.

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Everything to know about a tent footprint

A tent footprint, sometimes referred to as a groundsheet, is a piece of material that lays underneath the floor of a tent and protects it from abrasion and tears. It also … Read more.

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What size backpack do I need for backpacking?

Intrigued by backpacking but aren’t quite sure what size backpack you need? The answer is very subjective and based on numerous factors, but this guide will … Read more.

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How much should you spend on a hiking backpack?

If you are looking to get into hiking or backpacking but need a backpack, the first thing you will look for is the price. After all, you know what you can … Read more.

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The Best Hiking Backpack under $100 – 5 Contenders

If you are looking for a new hiking backpack on a tight budget of, say, $100, you will not find many options at REI, yet you might be overwhelmed with the … Read more.

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How to pick a hiking backpack

Looking to get into hiking and backpacking? If so, then one of the first things needed is a backpack. There are a lot to choose from with capacities, sizes, features, and prices! It can be overwhelming trying … Read more.

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Do you need a rain cover for a backpack?

Not only do we want to keep our bodies dry when hiking, we also want to keep our gear dry. A rain cover for your backpack is one of the most effective ways to do …Read more.

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6 Sleeping Pads for Side Sleepers that Really Work

For side sleepers, not just any sleeping pad will do on our backpacking or camping trips. We need a sleeping pad that is thick enough to keep our hips and … Read more.

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Do you need a sleeping pad for camping?

Whether you are an experienced camper, a novice, or completely new to the activity, there are probably a few things that come to mind first when you think about …Read more.

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Granite Gear Crown2 vs Osprey Exos

There’s no doubt that the Osprey Exos hiking backpack is one of the most commonly used backpacks, especially for long-distance hikers. However, the Granite Gear … Read more.

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Backpacking vs Camping Tents

If you are looking to get starting backpacking or camping, you likely found yourself looking for a tent, and you might have been faced with the option of choosing between a … Read More

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Sleeping Bags and Quilts: What’s the difference?

A sleeping bag is synonymous with camping, but there is a growing trend of people opting to use quilts in place of their tried and true sleeping bags. So, what is the difference between a sleeping bag and a quilt and how do you choose one … Read more.