Water Filters Buying Guide What To Look For In 2026
About the Author: Ryan Caldwell — Ryan is a long-distance backpacker who has thru-hiked the AT, PCT,
Best Water Filters 2026: MSR TrailShot vs Sawyer Mini Guide
The MSR TrailShot changed the game when it launched by allowing you to attach a standard hydration b
How To Pick Trekking Poles
Packed weight is a real driver on long days; lighter poles reduce arm fatigue on descents and climbs. Carbon fiber models are typically lighter, keeping a full pair under roughly 500 g, while aluminum
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How To Pick Spring Trekking Poles
Spring miles add up fast, so packed weight matters on the back. Carbon fiber poles are typically the lightest, often around 14–18 oz per pair, which helps keep your pack nimble on long days. Aluminum
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How To Pick Mudproof Hiking Shoes
In mud and rain, a shoe that fits true to size with a secure heel lockdown keeps your foot from sliding and blistering after long hours on trail. I look for a medium-wide toe box and a confident midfo
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How To Pick Lightweight Trekking Poles
Carbon fiber poles are the lightest option, typically 6-8 oz per pole (12-16 oz per pair). Aluminum poles add heft, usually 9-12 oz per pole (18-24 oz per pair), but they’re cheaper and tougher for ro
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How To Pack Lightweight
Weight is the first filter that separates weekend warriors from long-haul hikers. In real-world tests, ultralight setups with 40–50L packs often yield a base kit around 4–6 kg, while budget configurat
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How To Choose The Right Sleeping Bags
On long miles I think in categories: backpacking bags for weight-conscious hikers, camping bags for car-camp comfort, and ultralight bags for fast, minimal-pack days. Backpacking and ultralight bags p
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How To Choose The Right Rain Jackets
Choose jackets made from high-quality fabrics — rip-stop construction is worth the premium because it resists snags and extends trail life, especially on brushy mountain approaches. Look for reinforce
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How To Choose The Right Backpackfieldtest Setup In
The Gregory Baltoro 65 and the Deuter Aircontact Lite 65 are top contenders for 2000-mile hikes. Both offer excellent weight-to-capacity ratios and comfort, though the Deuter is slightly lighter at 19
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Best Lightweight Trekking Poles For Spring Backpac
As a thru-hiker who routinely trades snow for slick trails, weight and how small the poles pack down matter more than you think. In cold spring weather, every extra ounce translates into more fatigue
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