NowVertakking Gear List

fitz roy
Gear can make the difference between a comfortable, yet challenging hike, and a miserable one. (Argentina)

Below is some of our favorite outdoor/hiking and camping gear that we have been using over the years across many ecosystems, and multiple uses. Please take a look and see what fits in your outdoor goals! 

REMEMBER: its not about having the fanciest gear: its about having good enough* gear that you can actually GO somewhere!

Just so you know, some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means that if you decide to make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only link to products that we believe will help you get outside and experience the beauty of nature—whether it’s through outdoor gear, tools, or even books that inspire adventure.

Of course, we want you to buy only what you truly need and will use. Our goal is to share things that will enhance your outdoor experiences, not push unnecessary purchases. If these items can help you get out and enjoy the great outdoors, we think they’re worth checking out. But ultimately, we want you to make the best choice for your own adventures!

Most Important Camping Gear:

If it keeps you off of the ground, invest in it!

Sleeping bag: https://amzn.to/43IVeOV

  • I am sure there are other options, but if you want the toughest, most robust and able to be beaten up and stored for long periods of time, this is a tried and true one that I use quite often.

Sleeping bag liner:https://amzn.to/4ckUeCO

  • A great addition for warmth and cleanliness, this liner is lightweight and compact, ensuring your sleeping bag stays dry and fresh, no matter the conditions; We have used it many times in hostels or hotels and even once on a train for a clean, warm enough bag that is small and packable.

Static V Insulated Sleeping Pad: https://amzn.to/4co4o5O

  • Ideal for comfort and insulation, this pad provides great warmth without the bulk, perfect for keeping off of the ground even in the warm summer I use it solo for comfort and lightweight bedding.

Backpacking style tent: https://amzn.to/3XPlVOl

  • This one we have used all around the world and it has lasted over 10 years with just a little bit of light re-waterproofing on the bottom. I would pair this with the poncho for an ultralight ground pad to keep the floor of the tent from puncturing.

Hiking backpack:https://amzn.to/4j9r3Ft

  • We have used a now-defunct brand from Aldi called AdventureRidge as our internal-frame backpacking pack. Just dont break the bank and get a relatively comfy and affordable option like the one above. I like the internal waterproof cover and the simple design.

Collapsible Backpacks:https://amzn.to/3R4n2WB

  • When we lived out of one backpack in South America for 3 months, we used these as ideal day hike bags, and they are great to even put in your pocket when you dont have your pack on in case you want to take something back with you on an excursion.

Wearable Gear

Mens Merino Wool Socks: https://amzn.to/42hqAK3

  • Soft, breathable, and odor-resistant, these socks will keep your feet cozy on any adventure. I have worn them unwashed for over a week in rough conditions and they didnt smell (too bad) and kept my feet dry and blister free.

Womens Merino Wool Socks: https://amzn.to/43IKRL6

  • Durable and moisture-wicking, these socks are perfect for long hikes or chilly nights in the wild. Always get a minimum of two so that you can swap them out every other day for increased comfort.

Folding knife (this is one that I enjoy for how heavy and strong the blade is): https://amzn.to/4cjIzUS

  • Strong, sharp blade that’s perfect for all outdoor tasks.

Leatherman Multi-Tool: https://amzn.to/4iUjmTq

  • Versatile and tough, this multi-tool is a great all-in-one solution for any outdoor activity.

Shemagh: https://amzn.to/3Gaddnw

  • Shemagh is perfect for shielding against the sun, wind, or dust while hiking. Once of our most used pieces of gear.

Fixed Blade Knife; https://amzn.to/43DlXfQ

  • Reliable, robust, and cheap enough to have several for when you misplace it, this knife is perfect for heavy-duty tasks that require a bit more strength. Not a full tang knife like a Ka-Bar,(my other go-to fixed blade) but more affordable and almost as tough as long as you arent batoning wood.

Camo Poncho with grommets: https://amzn.to/3XPl00l

  • This camo poncho doubles as a shelter and rain gear, offering ultimate protection from the elements, and triples as a ground sheet for your tent.

Boonie Hat:https://amzn.to/3GcgMtp

  • Its my second favorite piece of gear other than my shemagh for keeping the sun off of ears, neck and face. You probably wont see a picture of us somewhere cool without the boonie on.

Boots!

  • There are more opinions on boots than there are stars in the sky but a few that I have liked over the years for thier durability are Lowa high tops for men, and Moab lower cut boots for women. I prefer high tops for coverage of the ankles in rough terrain, wheras the medium cut style of boot is better for ankle support and more mobility.

Camelbak Water Bladder: https://amzn.to/424wDTB

  • This is one of our most loved pieces of gear because it can be both worn, or shoved in a backpack or even clipped on the side of a larger pack. The color doesnt matter, but the bladder is replaceable and the outside holder pouch is versatile.

GoreTex Shell: https://amzn.to/43KaD1E

  • Ours are camouflage, but a simple black outer shell you can throw over a coat, or just a T-Shirt will make all the difference when it starts to rain/snow/sleet. I always bring layers because the gore-tex alone can serve as warmth, or it can be put overtop of another layer of jacket so that you can keep from sweating (which is extremely dangerous when you are far out there)

Small Personal Gear and misc. survival gear

We use our water filter on all of our trips, giving a peace of mind that anywhere we are we can survive. (Italy)

Small Ferro Rods:https://amzn.to/4cn5jTO

  • Compact and durable, these ferro rods are essential for starting fires in any condition.

Large Ferro Rods: https://amzn.to/3YguP7p

  • Longer-lasting than the small ones, and perfect for tougher conditions, these ferro rods are a fire starterI like for my bigger hands too.

Ferro Strikers: https://amzn.to/4lih3uW

  • for sparking your ferro rods with ease, these strikers are compact and more efficient than the back of your knife.

Stakes: https://amzn.to/4igBnKM

  • Strong and lightweight, will hold your tent in place, even in harsh weather.

Affordable Lensatic Compass: https://amzn.to/43KDyCy

  • The more expensive lensatic compass is a bit better and heavier and tougher but this is a reliable and budget-friendly compass, which is essential for navigation.

Mini Water Filter: https://amzn.to/4iZcEeV

  • Portable and effective, this water filter ensures you have clean drinking water, no matter where you are.

Larger Water Filter: https://amzn.to/42ux3BM

  • Ideal for filtering larger amounts of water, this filter is perfect for longer trips or group use. I put this one in my pack and keep the smaller ones on each person as backup.

Hiking Poles: https://amzn.to/4jgoukA

  • Lightweight and sturdy, these poles offer great stability and support on uneven terrain, your knees will thank you, as this is one of my most cherished items on any trip that involves up or down.

Trowel for digging cat holes (very lightweight for backpacking): https://amzn.to/3R9sKqe

  • Keeps the weight down and is tough enough for most areas where cat-holes are needed.

Entrenching tool (military style and a little heavier): https://amzn.to/421Kh9X

  • A military-grade tool that’s a bit heavier but provides serious digging power when needed, I keep one in my vehicle but dont bring it on backpacking trips.

Binoculars: https://amzn.to/42BQTvO

  • We do a LOT of birdwatching, and these have been amazing for low-light conditions and a warranty that lets us actually beat them up a bit.
In this particular hike, those poles saved me from falling off of a 100ft cliff in the middle of the jungle. You can also see the water bladder and tent strapped in. (Bolivia)

Medical Specific

Fairly Robust “BooBoo” and Emergency/Trauma Kit: https://amzn.to/4krUJ1L

  • Compact but comprehensive, this kit ensures you’re ready for any minor or major injury.

Tourniquet: https://amzn.to/42mRMHt

  • Always ensure that it is genuine and not expired or knock-off!

Wilderness Books

I read these before a trip for inspiration!

Sand County Almanac:https://amzn.to/42mDV3M

  • A timeless collection of essays on nature and conservation, this book is a must-read for any wilderness enthusiast.

Wilderness Essays by John Muir:https://amzn.to/43OLdQt

  • A collection of insightful essays on the natural world, offering perspective and inspiration for outdoor lovers

Car Camping gear

Camp rocking chair: https://amzn.to/4213Wqz

  • Larger, but ideal for sitting long periods of time without your legs falling asleep.

Solar Charger: https://amzn.to/423lFO9

  • Used many times to charge phones, drones, and more on our Vanlife travels.
On the left is the charger, and our solar shower