Picture this: the sun is rising, casting a warm glow over a breathtaking mountain vista. You take a deep breath of fresh, crisp air, feeling the excitement of the adventure ahead. Having the right gear can make all the difference, transforming a good trip into an unforgettable one.
This isn’t just a dream; it can be your reality! We’ll dive deep into the most popular outdoor gear of 2024, providing you with expert reviews and recommendations to elevate your outdoor experiences.
Backpacks: Your Trusty Adventure Companion
A reliable backpack is non-negotiable for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or backpacking, your pack is your lifeline, carrying everything you need to thrive in the wild.
Top Picks for 2024
- Osprey Atmos AG 65: Known for its Anti-Gravity suspension system, this pack offers unparalleled comfort and ventilation, even on long hauls.
- Gregory Maven 65L: Designed specifically for women, the Maven prioritizes a woman’s body mechanics for an exceptional fit.
- Mystery Ranch Glacier 70L: Built for rugged durability, the Glacier is the go-to choice for off-trail adventures and heavy loads.
Osprey Atmos AG 65 Backpack
Tents: Your Home Away from Home
Your tent is your sanctuary in the wild, providing shelter and protection from the elements.
Shelter in Style
- NEMO Dragonfly 2P: Lightweight and spacious, the Dragonfly is a favorite among backpackers and those prioritizing pack weight.
- MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2: A classic choice known for its reliability, the Hubba Hubba offers excellent weather protection and livability.
- REI Co-op Skyward 6 Tent: Ideal for car camping with family or friends, the Skyward provides ample space and comfort.
Sleeping Bags: Embrace the Night
A good night’s sleep is essential for maximizing your outdoor adventures. Your sleeping bag is your key to staying warm, comfortable, and rested.
Sweet Dreams Guaranteed
- Sea to Summit Spark SP II: Ultra-lightweight and packable, the Spark is perfect for warm-weather adventures or when minimizing weight is crucial.
- NEMO Disco 15: A versatile and comfortable bag, the Disco offers a great balance of warmth, weight, and packability.
- Mountain Hardwear Phantom 0: Designed for extreme cold, the Phantom utilizes high-quality down insulation to keep you warm even in sub-zero temperatures.
Hiking Boots: Conquer Any Terrain
Your feet are your foundation, and having the right hiking boots can make or break your trip.
Step Up Your Hiking Game
- Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX: For those seeking a lightweight and nimble shoe, the X Ultra offers excellent traction and stability on technical terrain.
- La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX: A durable and supportive boot, the Nucleo High is ideal for backpacking and off-trail adventures.
- Hoka Speedgoat 5: Known for its exceptional cushioning, the Speedgoat is a favorite among trail runners and hikers who prioritize comfort on long distances.
Headlamps: Illuminate the Night
A reliable headlamp is indispensable for navigating camp at night, early morning hikes, and any situation where you need a hands-free light source.
Light Up Your Adventures
- BioLite HeadLamp 750: Boasting an impressive 750 lumens, the BioLite provides ample light for even the darkest trails.
- Petzl Actik Core: A compact and lightweight option, the Actik Core offers a balance of brightness, battery life, and affordability.
- Black Diamond Storm 500: Designed for rugged use, the Storm is waterproof, dustproof, and built to withstand the elements.
Hiker With Headlamp
Water Filtration: Safe Hydration on the Go
Access to clean drinking water is paramount in the outdoors. Modern water filtration systems make it easy to stay hydrated without the bulk of carrying gallons of water.
Hydration Without Hesitation
- Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter: Lightweight and effective, the Sawyer Squeeze is a popular choice for backpackers and hikers.
- MSR Guardian Purifier: For those venturing into areas with questionable water quality, the Guardian removes viruses, bacteria, and protozoa.
- Grayl Geopress Purifier: Ideal for international travel or emergency preparedness, the Geopress purifies water in seconds with its innovative press-to-purify design.
- BRITA WATER FILTER BOTTLE: One 26 oz. BPA-free Brita Hard-Sided Plastic Premium Filtering Water Bottle with one filter that reduces chlorine taste and odor in water as you drink
- CUTS OUT IMPURITIES: Activated carbon block filter cuts the taste and odor of chlorine and also reduces particulates in drinking water; not a water purifier bottle
- FILTERED WATER DISPENSER: One 20 oz. BPA-free Brita Stainless Steel Water Bottle with one filter, a double-wall insulated bottle that stays cold for a full 24 hours
- CUTS OUT IMPURITIES: Activated carbon block filter cuts the taste and odor of chlorine and also reduces particulates in drinking water; not a water purifier bottle
- The BPA-free Brita Premium Filtering Bottle holds 26 oz of water, and is designed with a Brita filter that fits in the straw and makes water taste great
- Get great tasting water without the waste; by switching to Brita, you can save money and replace 1,800 single-use plastic water bottles a year
- This stainless steel bottle holds 32oz of water, and is designed with a Brita filter that fits in the straw that makes water taste great and keeps water cold for 24 hours
- Two Stages of Filtration: Stage 1: Hollow Fiber Membrane Removes 99.999999% of bacteria (E. Coli, etc.) Removes 99.999% of protozoa (Giardia Cryptosporidium, etc.) Removes 99.999% of microplastics Filters 4,000 liters (1,000 gallons) Stage 2: Ion Exchange Filter Reduces chlorine and lead Removes bad odor and taste Removes organic chemical matter Filters 100 liters (25 gallons)
- Flip, Bite, Sip: Drink through straw
- Brita’s Premium Filtering stainless steel bottle holds 20 oz of water, and is designed with a Brita filter that fits in the straw that makes water taste great and keeps water cold for 24 hours
- Get great tasting water without the waste; by switching to Brita, you can save money and replace 1,800 single-use plastic water bottles* a year
- Filter Duration: One carbon filter lasts 40 gallons - approximately 2 months
- Included: One carbon filter, a filter casing that attaches to the filter and one non-filtered straw
- LifeStraw Go Series is the ULTIMATE SIDEKICK. The stainless steel BPA-Free bottle filters out nasties so you can fill up from airport bathrooms, a tap in Mexico, or a gas station while road-tripping.
- IMPROVES TASTE: the Carbon filter reduces chlorine, odors + organic chemical matter
- LifeStraw Go Series is the ULTIMATE SIDEKICK. The BPA-Free bottle filters out nasties so you can fill up from airport bathrooms, a tap in Mexico, or a gas station while road-tripping
- IMPROVES TASTE: the Carbon filter reduces chlorine, odors + organic chemical matter
- WATER FILTER: Three Brita Water Bottle Filters that let you enjoy great-tasting drinking water no matter where you fill your personal water filter bottle
- CUTS OUT IMPURITIES: BPA-free filter removes class VI particulates and chlorine taste and odor in water while preserving certain healthy minerals and electrolytes
Cooking Systems: Gourmet Meals in the Wild
Gone are the days of bland camp food. Modern camping stoves and cookware allow you to enjoy delicious meals, no matter where your adventures take you.
Elevate Your Camp Kitchen
- Jetboil Flash Cooking System: For solo adventurers or minimalist backpacking, the Jetboil Flash boils water in under two minutes.
- MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove: Compact and lightweight, the PocketRocket 2 is a reliable stove for boiling water and cooking simple meals.
- Snow Peak Trek 900 Titanium Cookset: Durable and lightweight, this titanium cookset is ideal for solo backpacking or small groups.
Navigation: Find Your Way
Whether you prefer traditional maps and compass or rely on GPS technology, proper navigation skills are essential for exploring the outdoors safely.
Navigate Like a Pro
- Garmin inReach Mini 2: This satellite communicator provides two-way messaging, SOS capabilities, and location tracking, offering peace of mind in remote areas.
- Suunto MC-2 Compass: A durable and accurate compass for traditional navigation.
- Gaia GPS App: A powerful navigation app with offline maps, route planning, and real-time tracking.
First Aid: Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Accidents can happen, no matter how prepared you are. A well-stocked first aid kit is crucial for handling minor injuries and emergencies.
Safety First
- Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7 Medical Kit: Compact and waterproof, this kit includes essential supplies for treating minor injuries in the field.
- NOLS Wilderness First Aid Pocket Guide: A valuable resource for identifying and treating a range of wilderness injuries and illnesses.
Conclusion
Having the right gear can enhance your enjoyment and safety in the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just starting your outdoor journey, we encourage you to invest in quality gear that meets your specific needs and adventure aspirations.
What are your favorite pieces of outdoor gear? Share your recommendations in the comments below!
