Outdoor Gear

Whether you’re looking for a new backpacking tent, the best hiking boots, or a lightweight sleeping bag, our outdoor gear guides will walk you through everything you need to know. From best outdoor gear roundups to how to choose the best gear for you to cleaning and maintenance guides you’ll find all our outdoor gear blog posts here.

6 Best Women’s Sleeping Bags for Backpacking in 2024

Looking for a warm and lightweight sleeping bag? Here are my favorites that have been tested by myself and the BFT Team.

REI Magma 15-Degree Unisex Sleeping Bag Review

I tested the new unisex REI Magma Sleeping Bag on a 3-night backpacking trip and loved how warm and comfortable it was. Get the full details on this awesome sleeping bag in this review.

7 Best Camp Tables for Every Outdoor Adventure

Looking for the best camp tables? We’ve rounded up our top picks that will serve all your camp cooking, eating, and game playing needs.

35 Best Outdoor Gear Deals During REI’s Labor Day Sale

Save up to 40% on the best outdoor gear and apparel for camping, hiking, backpacking, van life, and more during the REI Labor Day Sale!

How to Pack a Backpacking Pack for a Multi-Day Hiking Trip

Learn how to pack a backpacking pack for maximum comfort and organization with these tips for fitting your gear and balancing the load.

Zpacks Duplex Ultralight Tent Review

Read our full review of the Zpacks Duplex, an ultralight backpacking tent that offers comfort, durability, and remarkable space for its weight.

Best Backpacking Stoves of 2024

Check out the best lightweight backpacking stoves and learn the pros and cons of canister, liquid fuel, and alternative fuel options.

11 Best Camping Chairs of 2024

Here are the best camping chairs including the top lightweight, comfortable options for camping & backpacking to keep your back and tush happy.

2023 REI Anniversary Sale: 35 Amazing Outdoor Gear Deals

Explore the best deals during REI’s Anniversary Sale including our favorite hiking, camping, backpacking and van life gear and apparel.

Backpacking on a Budget: Best Cheap Backpacking Gear of 2024

Looking for budget outdoor gear that won’t break the bank? Here is the best cheap backpacking gear plus top tips for buying quality, inexpensive gear.

8 Best Backpacking Tents in 2024

Get recommendations for some of the best tents for backpacking and learn the most important factors to consider when shopping for a new tent.

3-Day Backpacking Checklist (with Printable Packing List)

This complete backpacking checklist includes all the lightweight gear you’ll need when packing for an overnight trip in the backcountry.

9 Best Sleeping Pads for Backpacking in 2024

Check out the best lightweight sleeping pads for backpacking that are warm, comfortable, and durable enough for a multi-day trek.

Best Headlamps for Hiking & Camping in 2024

Find the best headlamp for your next camping and hiking adventure, including key factors to consider when choosing a headlamp.

Day Hiking Essentials: What to Bring on a Hike

Whether you are an experienced hiker or are just starting out, here are the ten day hiking essentials you should bring with you on every hike.

7 Best Trekking Poles for Hiking & Backpacking in 2024

Adjustability, grip type & pole material. Learn the benefits of hiking with trekking poles & how to choose the best trekking poles for your next adventure.

5 Reasons to Buy Used Outdoor Gear from REI Co-op

Save money and keep stuff out of landfills! Here is a list of the best reasons why you should buy used outdoor gear from REI Co-op’s used gear site.

12 Best Women’s Hiking Hats of 2024

From wide-brimmed sun hats to lightweight caps, stay protected & stylish on your next outdoor adventure with the best women’s hiking hats.

Best Van Life Gear at REI

Want to live in a van? Discover my favorite van life gear available at REI that are must-haves for camping and life on the road.

YETI Trailhead® Camp Chair Review

See our in-depth review of the YETI Trailhead® Camp Chair with details on comfort, packability, durability, and more.

Oboz Sawtooth X Hiking Boot Review (& Giveaway!)

Get our in-depth review of the Oboz Sawtooth X hiking shoes with details on comfort, traction, waterproofing, fit, durability, and more.

Geyser Systems Portable Shower With Heater Review

Read our review of the Geyser Systems Portable Shower with Heater – it’s great for car campers & van lifers looking for a simple camp shower.

NEMO Roamer Double Sleeping Pad Review

The NEMO Roamer Double Sleeping Pad is essential for sleeping comfortably on car camping trips and we break down everything you need to know.

4 Best Hiking Binoculars & How to Choose The Right Pair

See wildlife up close with these best hiking binoculars and learn tips on how to use them!

Best Double Sleeping Bags & Quilts For Camping & Backpacking

Get cozy with the best double sleeping bags – warm, comfortable 2-person options ideal for car camping and backpacking.

Best Heated Socks For Men & Women in 2024

Find the best electric heated socks for men and women to keep your feet warm during winter activities like skiing and hiking.

How to Build a Hiking First Aid Kit: A Complete Checklist

Learn how to put together a hiking first aid kit to keep you safe and comfortable on the trail!

Best Heated Gloves for Men & Women in 2024

Find the best electric heated gloves for men and women to keep your hands warm during winter activities like skiing and hiking.

Outdoor Gear Maintenance & Repair: How to Make Your Stuff Last Longer

Check out our tips, tricks, and favorite products for outdoor gear maintenance and repair to make your gear and apparel last longer.

15 Fun Camping Games to Bring on the Road

These fun camping games can be played in your tent, car, or around the fire.

Do You Need Waterproof or Non-Waterproof Hiking Boots?

Should your hiking boots be waterproof? Learn the difference between waterproof vs non-waterproof hiking boots and which ones you need.

Camp Cooking Kitchen Essentials for Camping & Van Life

Looking to upgrade your camp cooking gear for car camping or van life? Here is our checklist for the best outdoor camp kitchen essentials.

17 Places to Buy Discounted Outdoor Gear

Looking to score a deal on cheap camping gear? Here are 10 places to buy discounted outdoor gear – both new and used.

9 Best Backpacking Backpacks for Women in 2024

This roundup of the best backpacking packs includes our favorites plus the most important factors to consider when choosing a pack for your multi-day adventures.

AeroPress Go: The Best Way to Make Coffee on the Road

Say goodbye to instant coffee. Get step-by-step instructions for making the best (and easiest) camp coffee of your life using an Aeropress.

How to Choose Skis: Tips for Finding the Right Pair

Learn how to choose the best pair of skis so that you can have the most fun on the slopes!

Best Stanley Camp Cookware for Camping & Van Life

Durable, practical items for campers, van lifers, and road trippers that will last a lifetime of adventures.

Best Backpacking Water Filters and Purifiers of 2024

Check out the best backpacking water filters and learn what factors to consider when choosing one for your next adventure.

Best Hiking Daypacks for Women in 2024

Learn how to choose the best daypack for hiking and get our favorite pack recommendations with tips for finding the right fit, capacity and technical features.