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!
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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!
A good tent is THE only morale booster when it rains (Bolivia)Our tent has been in the family for over a decade with minimal upkeep. (Wyoming USA)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
The shemagh, boots, and a hat can be used in a WIDE variety of climates (Chile)From the Atacama desert to a 17,000ft glacier, your gear can be adapted quite widely(Colombia)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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)