Lightweight gear, curated for the backcountry — from overnight trips to multi-week expeditions.
Choosing gear can be a tedious and overwhelming process, especially for those venturing into the backcountry for the first time. This guide simplifies the process with a checklist of essentials and recommendations that have helped us cover serious distance and elevation while staying comfortable.
Yes, lightweight gear is pricier than the heavier alternatives. But your back and body will thank you — and you'll actually want to go out again.
REI is a great starting point as they carry a wide range of outdoor equipment in-store. We highly recommend trying on different backpacks and shoes to find what fits you best before buying.
The single most important decision. Every gram adds up over miles and elevation. Buy once, buy light.
Break in your boots, sleep in your bag, cook with your stove — before your first night out.
Base layer, mid layer, shell. The 3-layer system handles most mountain weather if you choose right.
On trail nutrition Gear handles the mechanics — food handles everything else. The hardest thing to get right in a backcountry kit is nutritionally balanced snacks that actually taste good on day four. Mysnapfuel is what we reach for — built specifically for endurance and backcountry use, not just calorie density. Worth sorting before your trip as much as the gear itself.
We've curated complete shopping lists on REI and Amazon with every item we personally use and recommend. No affiliate links — just the actual gear.
From the Enchantments to Patagonia — guides for every level.
