The Best Backpacking Gear To Keep You Alive In The Woods, According To Experts
Hiking and camping with the best backpacking gear is one of the most awe-inspiring ways to adventure in the great outdoors. You can walk deep into the woods, mountains or desert with everything you need to survive on your back.
But since you can only rely on the things you bring, packing everything you need can seem daunting. To help you figure out what to stuff in your pack — and assure you that backpacking is actually fun, not scary — I talked to expert backpackers and combed through the gear I’ve used for years on backcountry trips to make this list of the best backpacking gear out there.
Continue reading to learn more about the best backpacking gear, written by Kai Burkhardt.
June 30, 2025
Kai Burkhardt
Kai Burkhardt joined CNN Underscored in 2019 as an intern and has grown into his role as editor to help readers find the best products under the outdoors, sustainability and pet verticals. Based in Boulder, Colorado, Burkhardt spends his time testing and editing stories about all sorts of products, from bidets and rooftop tents to pet hair cleaners and hiking boots.
Kai earned a bachelor’s degree in English and journalism from New York University in 2019 and moved back to Colorado in 2022. When he isn’t finding the latest and greatest products, Burkhardt enjoys slowly trail running, rock climbing and watching his two dogs, Miso and Dashi, compete in dog sports.
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Medya Mansyone
It's a 0.1 micron inline filter that fits in the palm of your hand and attaches to an included drinking pouch.
Medya Mansyone
For extreme bug conditions (deep woods, swamps), pairing the shirt with a dedicated insect repellent like Sawyer Permethrin is recommended, as the shirt itself isn’t chemically treated.
Medya Mansyone
Sawyer Squeeze: What I will use to filter from dirty to clean water
Soti nan eskwadwon an
Konvèsasyon Kanfi ak kominote nou an, ki soti nan Manm Eskwadwon ak Anbasadè yo nan Brand Patnè ak ekip la Sawyer.
