My Favorite Backpacking Gear for 2025
One of the most common questions I get after sharing one of my backpacking trips is: “What …… do you use?”
Over the years, I’ve experimented with a lot of different setups, swapping out tents, trying new stoves, testing ultralight gadgets, and figuring out what really works for me on the trail. The list below is what I’ve come to trust and rely on for all of my trips this past season.
A quick note: This isn’t a one-size-fits-all gear list. The items I share here are the pieces that have been in my backpack for just about every trip, give or take a few things depending on the hike itself, the season, or the terrain. Every item has been trail-tested by me ( not sponsored ), and I feel confident recommending it to others looking for reliable gear!
The Big 4
Shelter: NEMO Dagger OSMO (2P)
Over the years I’ve tried a handful of different tents, but the NEMO Dagger OSMO 2P has become my go-to shelter. I love how lightweight it is and how easily it stuffs down into my pack — which makes a big difference when you’re counting ounces and space.
By far, it’s one of the easiest tents to set up, even at the end of a long day on the trail when all you want to do is crawl inside and rest. I really appreciate that it doesn’t take much effort or time to pitch, yet it’s proven itself to be reliable in everything from heavy rain to high winds.
Sleeping Pad: Big Agnes Boundary Deluxe
When it comes to getting a good night’s sleep on the trail, I’ve learned that comfort is worth every extra ounce. I’ve been using the Big Agnes Boundary Deluxe Insulated Sleeping Pad for about 10 years now, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
While it’s not the lightest option out there and I know some ultralight hikers might cringe. I’m willing to sacrifice a bit of weight for the comfort it provides. As someone with a tricky back, having a solid sleep system is one of the most important things to me on the trail.
The Boundary Deluxe has just the right depth and cushioning to keep me comfortable through the night, even after long, grueling days of hiking. For me, that extra comfort translates into better sleep and more energy for the next day’s miles.
Sleeping Bag: NEMO Disco Women’s Endless Promise
A good night’s sleep can make or break a backpacking trip, and over the years I’ve found a sleeping bag I truly trust. I use the NEMO Disco Women’s Endless Promise Down Sleeping Bag, and it has quickly become my go-to.
This bag is super cozy and warm! I’ve NEVER been cold using it and it also has excellent ventilation for warmer nights. While it’s not the lightest ultralight option out there, I love that I don’t need multiple bags for different trips. For me, it’s the perfect middle ground between warmth, comfort, and versatility, making it a reliable choice for all my backpacking adventures.
Backpack: Osprey
Over the years, I’ve used a few different Osprey backpacking packs depending on the distance and type of trip, but the Osprey Aura AG 65 has been the one I reach for most often. It strikes the perfect balance between comfort, weight, and carrying capacity.
This pack weighs 4 lb 11 oz (2.1 kg) and has a 65-liter capacity, making it roomy enough for multi-day trips while still feeling manageable on the trail. The Anti-Gravity suspension system is a game-changer, it molds to your back and hips, distributing weight evenly and keeping the load comfortable even on long, steep days.
I love how adjustable it is and how it fits my body. Whether I’m carrying a full load for a longer trek or a lighter setup for a shorter weekend hike, this pack has consistently been my go-to for comfort and reliability.
Clothing
After the “Big 4” (shelter, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and backpack), clothing and food are usually the next heaviest part of your base weight. One of the easiest ways to save weight is to avoid packing extras you don’t really need. On every hiking trip, I stick to one set of hiking clothes and one set of sleep clothes. I rarely add more layers for longer trips the only exceptions are extra socks and underwear ( because I’m one of those that’s packs 10 underwear’s for a 3 day trip, because what if I poop my pants multiple times a day??! LOL). Honestly thought, extra clothes are a luxury, not a necessity.
For three-season backpacking, a simple layering system is all you need:
Base layer for moisture-wicking
Mid layers such as a fleece or insulated jacket
Shell layer for wind and rain protection
If you tend to get cold, it’s better to swap for warmer layers rather than packing more layers. For example, I might trade a sun hoodie for a merino wool base layer and a heavier fleece or down jacket. That’s my approach for winter trips, you want warmth, not unnecessary bulk.
SOCKS
Darn Tough Vermont Socks - A great pair of socks can make or break a hike. I stick with Darn Tough for their lifetime guarantee and performance in all weather.
Sun Hoodies
Breathable, lightweight, and sun-protective layers are key for long days on the trail. I rotate between the two hooded sun shirts below, and both are fantastic, they keep me cool, comfortable, and protected from the sun without ever feeling heavy or restrictive.
REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie - Women's
REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie - Men's
Tops
I love these Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily shirts, they’re lightweight, breathable, and comfortable enough to wear in any weather. They wick moisture on hot days, layer easily when it’s cool, and are soft enough to double as cozy sleepwear after a long day on the trail.
Additional tops
I don’t have a men’s alternative for these, but they’re two of my favorite options to wear either on their own during hot days or layered under a sun shirt. I especially love tops with a built-in bra for comfort and simplicity on the trail.
Base Layers
I love these REI Co-op Midweight Long-Sleeve Base Layer Tops for chilly nights they’re warm, soft, and perfect as a base layer or simply as a cozy sleep shirt after a long day outside.
Shorts
I’m a big fan of Vuori shorts they’re incredibly comfortable, breathable, and perfect for hiking, lounging around camp, or layering over leggings. Both the Clementine 2.0 and Birch styles are lightweight favorites I reach for on every trip.
Long Pants
I always pack a pair of leggings since they work great for hiking or as a warm base layer on cold nights. That said, I usually wear more durable pants like the prAna Stretch Zions on the trail — they’re tough, flexible, and comfortable. Lately, I’ve been leaning toward wider-leg hiking pants for their breathability and freedom of movement.
CRZ Yoga Leggings / Lululemon Align Leggings
Jackets
I LOVEEE this puffer jacket, it’s incredibly warm, lightweight, and packs down easily. On warmer nights when I don’t need to wear it, I even double it as my pillow for a little extra comfort in the tent.
Midlayer Jacket
For certain hikes and times of year when I don’t need a heavy puffer, I grab this thinner insulated jacket instead. It’s lightweight, comfortable, or on the flipside works perfectly as an extra layer on colder trips when I want a bit more warmth without the bulk.
Rain Jacket
The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L is my go-to rain jacket, it’s durable, fully waterproof, and reliably keeps me dry through heavy downpours and windy ridgelines. It also packs down small, making it easy to stash in my pack for any hike where the weather might turn.
Shoes
I gave up hiking boots years ago and haven’t looked back. I’m all about trail runners now. The Altra Lone Peak 9s are my go-to for their comfort and wide toe box, which gives my feet plenty of room to breathe and move naturally on long hikes.
Electronics
I always bring a few key gadgets that make life on the trail safer and more comfortable without adding unnecessary weight.
Anker Portable Charger, 325 Power Bank (PowerCore Essential 20K) – This compact charger keeps my phone and other electronics powered for multiple days.
FLEXTAILGEAR Zero Pump Air Pump for Inflatables, 1.2 oz Ultra-Mini Electric air Pump – This tiny pump inflates sleeping pads, pillows, and other inflatables in seconds. It’s ultra-light and super convenient, making setup at camp a so much faster.
Garmin inReach Messenger – My ultimate safety tool. It lets me send messages, share my location, and call for help from anywhere without cell service. Essential for remote trails.
Nitecore NU21 360 Lumen Ultra Lightweight Outdoor Headlamp – This headlamp is bright, compact, and incredibly lightweight. Perfect for early mornings, late-night navigation, or any task at camp when you need hands-free light.
Camp Luxuries
Even on lightweight backpacking trips, I like to bring a “few” small comforts that make downtime at camp much more enjoyable.
REI Co-op Flexlite Camp Chair – Lightweight, compact, and surprisingly comfortable, this chair lets me relax around the campfire without sitting on the ground.
NEMO Chipper Reclaimed Closed-Cell Foam Seat Pad – Perfect for taking a break on damp or uneven surfaces, this foam pad is durable, ultra-light, and adds a little extra comfort to any sit spot. I’ll opt for this on less rocky trails or to save some weight if I’ve overpacked elsewhere.
Kindle Paperwhite – For those quiet evenings or rainy afternoons, I love having my Kindle along. It’s lightweight, easy to pack, and lets me unwind with a good book after a long day on the trail.
Additional Essential Gear
These are the small but important items that keep me safe, clean, and comfortable on the trail.
Natrapel Lemon Eucalyptus Pump Spray Insect Repellent - Lightweight and effective, this DEET-free repellent keeps bugs at bay so I can enjoy my time outdoors without constant bites.
PACT Outdoors Shovel | REI Co-op – A must for practicing Leave No Trace, this compact shovel makes it easy to responsibly manage waste and maintain camp.
REI Co-op Multi Towel Mini – Quick-drying, compact, and versatile, this towels is perfect for washing up, wiping down gear, or even drying dishes.
REI Co-op Multi Towel Lite - another essential in my pack, I keep this attached to my shoulder strap for easy access to wipe my face or nose!
Komperdell Carbon Cross Stick Trekking Poles - Pair - While these are my personal favorite trekking poles, any pair will do you fine. I highly recommend bringing poles on any long distance hike. Your knees will thank you later.
Cooking/Food
Jetboil Flash 1.0 L Fast Boil System – Compact and efficient, this stove boils water in minutes, perfect for hot meals or drinks after a long day of hiking.
TOAKS Titanium Long Handle Spork with Polished Bowl – Lightweight and durable, this spork handles everything from oatmeal to pasta without adding extra weight to my pack.
Katadyn BeFree AC 1.0 L Water Filter Bottle– An easy-to-use water filter that lets me drink safely from streams and lakes without carrying heavy water bottles.
Honey Stinger Oat & Honey Bar – Sweet, filling, and packed with energy for quick fuel on long hikes.
Honey Stinger Waffle – A favorite snack that’s easy to eat on the move and provides a nice boost of carbs.
Peak Refuel Meals – Lightweight, tasty, and easy to prepare — perfect for satisfying dinners at camp when I don’t want to carry heavy ingredients.
Gregory 3D Hydro Hydration Reservoir - 3 Liters – This hydration bladder fits comfortably in my pack and makes staying hydrated effortless on long hikes. With easy access while on the move, it ensures I can drink frequently without stopping or unpacking.
Swig Rig Hardside Hyrdration Ultralight - On some recent trips i’ve opted for this vs a bladder for easier access to fill up my water.
Storage
BearVault BV500 Journey Bear Canister - Essential for keeping all wildlife (not just bears) out of my food and gear. I use it to store all my scented items, which keeps me both organized and safe on the trail. It’s durable, easy to pack, and gives me peace of mind knowing everything’s secure when I’m deep in the backcountry.
Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Bag Set, Ultralight Waterproof Stuff Sack (3L, 5L, and 8L) - To make sure my clothes and valuables stay dry I keep them in a waterproof stuff sack if necessary. I like that is helps me keep my clothing organized and easy to grab when i’m already tired at camp!
Accessories
The North Face Horizon Hat - My all-time favorite hat for comfort. Lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying, it’s perfect for long days on the trail or just everyday wear. The fit is effortless, and it keeps its shape no matter how many adventures it’s been through. Simple, reliable, and incredibly comfortable — this hat never lets me down.
Buffs - I always pack a Buff, whether it’s a cold or hot hike. In the heat, it keeps the sun and sweat off my neck; in the cold, it adds the perfect bit of warmth and wind protection. Lightweight, versatile, and easy to stash anywhere — it’s one of those small essentials I never hit the trail without.
Matador Speed Stash Pocket – Handy for storing snacks, utensils, or small food items, keeping them accessible and organized while on the trail.
Peak Design Capture 3.0 Camera Clip - One of my favorite pieces of gear for carrying my camera on the trail. It keeps my camera secure, easily accessible, and out of the way when I’m hiking or scrambling. The design is solid and lightweight, and it makes grabbing a quick shot feel effortless — no digging through my pack or worrying about missing the moment.
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III Digital Camera - My favorite point and shoot camera for on the move hiking pictures!
Case for Canon Powershot G7X Mark III Digital Camera - Love this silicon case to protect my camera from dirt and rocks!
Final Note: This list covers the main gear I rely on for most of my backpacking trips. Depending on the destination, weather, or trip length, I may swap out a few items — like clothing layers or a smaller pack — but overall, this setup has been my tried-and-true go-to for years. It’s kept me comfortable, prepared, and never wishing I’d packed differently.