Welcome to The Big Outside’s Hiking and Backpacking Gear Reviews page
Michael Lanza tested and reviewed gear for Backpacker magazine for 20 years. Nate Lanza has been talking and testing gear (including using and discussing much of Michael’s old gear) for over 20 years, and has reviewed gear at this blog for several years. At The Big Outside, we review only what we consider the best outdoor gear and apparel—which helps you spend your money more smartly.
Scroll down to find links to all reviews of backpacking, hiking, and other gear, organized by categories, as well as lists of our top picks. You will also find links to expert tips on how to buy the best gear for your needs.
Our policy on reviewing gear is simple: We request gear from companies when we have reason to believe it will perform well. (Michael has been doing this for 30 years.) Gear companies send us product without any promise of what we’ll write in a review and we do not accept money in exchange for a review. We put our gear through rigorous field testing and some of it doesn’t make the cut. We strive to point out strengths and weaknesses of gear in our reviews and we don’t bother reviewing gear that we wouldn’t recommend—we don’t want to waste our time or our readers’ time.
For inquiries, suggestions, or questions, please reach out to nate@thebigoutside.com.
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See the blog’s Custom Trip Planning page to learn how Michael Lanza can help you plan any trip you’ve read about at this blog, including advice on the right gear for it.
Scroll down to begin your gear journey toward your next adventure.
And thanks for reading The Big Outside.
—Michael Lanza and Nate Lanza
Want to find great deals on gear and support my blog at no cost to you? Buy gear through the links in my reviews or these affiliate links at backcountry.com or rei.com.
Best in Class Hiking and Backpacking Outdoor Gear
Don’t have time to read through multiple reviews? It’s okay, I’ve done the hard work for you. See my reviews of the best backpacking packs and tents, jackets, and other gear.
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The Best Rain Jackets for Hiking and Backpacking
25 Essential Backpacking Gear Accessories
Make your next trip better with “The Top 5 Ultralight Backpacking Tips.”
The Best Ultralight Hiking and Backpacking Jackets
The Best Base Layers for Hiking and Running
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How Much Should You Spend on Hiking and Backpacking Gear?
Many of us have to live within a budget. All of us want to get the best value. Experience has taught me when to find gear at the lowest prices and when it makes sense to spend less or spend more on gear. Read these three articles for insights that will save you money and make you happy about what you buy.
5 Things to Know Before Buying Backpacking Gear
10 Tips For Spending Less on Hiking and Backpacking Gear
Why and When to Spend More on Outdoor Gear
Plan your next great backpacking adventure using my expert e-books.
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Reviews by Hiking and Backpacking Gear Category
The numerous links below will give you menus of my reviews in each category, listed in order of the most-recently posted.
Ultralight Backpacking Gear Reviews
Down and Synthetic Insulated Jacket Reviews
Backpacking Cooking System Reviews
Air Mattress and Sleeping Pad Reviews
Trail-Running Gear and Apparel Reviews
I can help you plan the best backpacking, hiking, or family adventure of your life.
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How to Buy Hiking and Backpacking Gear
How do you choose the right pack, tent, boots, sleeping bag, and other gear for your needs? That depends on the type of hiking and backpacking you do. The stories linked below will help you make the best choices when buying gear.
A Practical Guide to Lightweight and Ultralight Backpacking
5 Smart Steps to Lighten Your Backpacking Gear
The Top 5 Tips for Better Ultralight Backpacking
5 Tips For Buying the Right Backpack
5 Tips For Buying a Backpacking Tent
How to Choose the Best Ultralight Backpacking Tent for You
Planning your next big adventure? See “America’s Top 10 Best Backpacking Trips”
and “Tent Flap With a View: 25 Favorite Backcountry Campsites.”
Pro Tips For Buying the Right Boots
5 Expert Tips For Buying a Rain Jacket for Hiking
Pro Tips: How to Choose a Sleeping Bag
An Essentials-Only Backpacking Gear Checklist