Backpacking

We’re big fans of backpacking here at Terradrift. You probably know this. We’re especially big fans of ultralight backpacking. Especially me. That’s partially due to necessity (I’m a tiny human person so the weight of my pack can get out of hand quickly) and partially due to the fact that we like to tackle longer distances in less time with less pain. Ultralight gear makes that more feasible. So we’ve taken to testing out some ultralight backpacks recently (maybe you saw our review of the Gossamer Gear Gorilla?). Our most recent: the MILE 28 backpack from cottage brand Waymark Gear Co. Learn all about this 16 oz pack right here, right now.

Planning your first backpacking trip? I bet you’re stoked. You should be. Backpacking is the best. But chances are, you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the gear lists and packing tips and you may be worried about forgetting something… But don’t worry. That’s what we’re here for: To help you prep and pack a backpack for your first backpacking trip like a pro. From what to bring to what NOT to bring, what to put where and how to carry it all more comfortably, this post will have you feeling more confident and ready to hit the trail in no time!

Backpacking in Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers a unique wilderness experience in the desert peaks of West Texas. You should go. Here’s how and what to expect.

Ultralighters rejoice, ‘cause have we got a tent for you: The One from Gossamer Gear. And it. Is. Lit. So read (or watch) to find out all about this ultralight tent from an Austin-based small business.

Looking for a baller winter backpacking tent for all manner of cold-weather camping and backpacking adventures? We’ve got you covered with the Mountain Hardwear Outpost 2 tent, a rugged and spacious 4-season tent designed specifically for snowy adventures, but just as suitable for milder seasons. Don’t believe one tent can do it all? Read on to learn more.

Like to backpack? Prefer to pack light? Then allow us to introduce you to the Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 liter backpack, a pack for all you ultralighters out there. But …

Looking for a backpack for extended trips in the backcountry that can handle loads of just about any weight AND keep all your gear organized? The Deuter Futura Air Trek 50+10 liter backpack is for you. Read (or watch) to see all the bells and whistles, how it performed, and what we thought of this very handy load-hauler.

Hiking boots don’t get much more comfortable or sustainable than the On Cloudrock Edge Raw. So we tested a pair out to see if something so sustainable required any sacrifice in performance. Spoilers: it doesn’t. So read or watch to learn more about these boots and how they performed on the trail.

The perfect headlamp is a thing of beauty: It should be bright, comfortable, not too heavy, and small enough to stash in your pocket or backpack for a quick trip. So we rounded up the best of the best. Here are our favorite ultralight headlamps; the 6 best headlamps for backpacking, climbing, late-night kayaking, you name it, all under 3 ounces.

Winter is coming (cue Game of Thrones theme). And winter means it’s time for fair-weather campers and backpackers to put away their gear for the winter. But why? Winter camping offers months of quality outdoor time during a season when far fewer people are clogging trails and booking campsites. It’s the perfect time to get outside! But most folks are reticent for the sole reason that they’re afraid they’re going to turn into a popsicle while they’re trying to sleep (yours truly not excepted). Fortunately, there’s a solution: insulated sleeping pads (together with an appropriately cozy sleeping bag). And lucky you, we recently reviewed four insulated inflatable sleep pads for backpacking that will keep you cozy all night long, no matter what the mercury says. Read (or watch) to find the one that’s right for you.