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Must haves for beginner backpackers
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items There is so much gear out there, here are some recommendations based on use and research to get you started! I have given a “spend more” and “spend less” option for some items.
Osprey backpacks are tried and true - I would recommend at least 50L for overnight trips. This would be the first brand I would go to in the US/Canada - they have maintained their quality.
Osprey Backpacks - spend more
At a higher pricepoint, I am partial to MSR tents. The Hubba is a backpacking focused design.
MSR Tent - spend more
This is my recommendation in Canada. If you are int he US or Europe, there would be a matching (REI?) brand of this equivalent. Whilst some budget items from these stores may not be ideal, the backpacks seem to be quite reliable, albeit sometimes a b...
MEC (Canada) - spend less
I have a Cloud tent from Naturehike. Whilst there are some budget items (the tent pegs I had to replace at one point), it is surprisingly sturdy, has withstood very strong desert winds and I still sometimes use it. If you are on a budget - this could...
Naturehike Tent - spend less
This is a must! They are so handy. I would even get 2 if you have the budget for it.
PocketRocket® 2 Canister Fuel Backpacking Stove
Marmot makes good sleeping bags, I find they go on sale and are reliable. If you are hiking in a wetter climate you may want to consider synthetic, which is cheaper - but it is also heavier to hike with. Down is difficult to get dry - but great for m...
Sleeping Bags for Camping & All-Weather Adventure
Owned by the same conglomorate as MSR, I am a supporter of Thermarest. I would opt for spending a little bit more - I have used a cheap mattress before and it truly makes a world of difference. However, if you are really struggling financially, you c...
Therm-a-Rest - Spend more
Canadian tire camping mats - spend less - although a backpacking designed mat is vital, if you really can't spend more but need to get out on the trails, then they can offer some decent ones for now. Maybe you can sell it off later and get a better o...
Camping Mats - spend less
Get yourself a Lifestraw - you may invest in a more complex system later, but for overnight backpacking introductions, even multi-day, this is beneficial to have.
Water Filters & Water Purifiers | LifeStraw – LifeStraw Water ...
Also get some of these - beneficial for alpine hikes.
Water Purification Tablets
Get yourself some cookware - doesn't have to be fancy, but you'll be thankful that you did.
Camping Cookware
Get yourself a compact first aid kit - essential!
First Aid Kits
Swiss army knife - need I say more?
Original Swiss Army Knives from Swissarmy.com
Hiking socks - always bring an extra pair!
Hiking Socks
Check out an article like this to decide on hiking boots - I've added some of my own recommendations but it really depends - do you need ankle support? Would you prefer leather or synthetic material?
Best Hiking Boots of 2023
I like my Vasque boots - they were a good price range but gave the sturdy backpacking feel that I desired.
Vasque | Performance Hiking Boots and Hiking Shoes for Men ...
Columbia - spend less - these are a great brand! They appear to be more budget but I've truly gotten some great finds from them.
Columbia - spend less on boots
Base layers - I love icebreaker! All fits and sizes. No matter what climate (unless maybe the tropics) you are hiking in, it is beneficial to have a pair of these for the potential of a cold night. It allows you to be more versatile of where you are ...
Men's Base Layers | Men's Thermals
Camelbak - get one that can fit in your backpack, it is a great and almost crucial reservoir for water!
CamelBak: Buy Water Bottles, Tumblers & Hydration Packs
Order yourself some of these! They are super easy to travel with and only require water.
Backpacker's Pantry: Freeze Dried Food for Backpacking ...
Black diamond headlamps are my go-to - they are a good price point and work very well. Sometimes nice colours too :)
Headlamps For Running, Hiking, Camping & More