On a 1,000-Mile Trek Through Alaska, I Learned What Gear I Really Needed
Self-described Luddite Michael Engelhard preferred to ditch the gadgets and improvise what he required instead. Would a super-size adventure change how he packed?
Packing
The art of packing for a night, weekend or week-long backpacking trip is one of the most important skills in a backpacker’s arsenal. Luckily our editors and gear testers have spent hundreds of nights under the stars—and have made hundreds of packing mistakes—to bring you the best advice for loading your backpack with the essentials…and occasionally a few non-essentials.
Cut Pounds Off Your Pack Weight With These 3 Easy Steps
Don't let the gram-counting around ultralight gear intimidate you. Slimming down your pack's weight is easier than many beginners think.
Latest in Packing
How to Salvage Your Hiking Trip When You’ve Forgotten Gear
If you’ve never forgotten an important piece of gear, you will someday. Here’s how to make do without your tent poles, sleeping pad, and more—and how to decide when it’s time to give up and go home.
How Beginners Can Cut Pack Weight, Not Comfort
The best way to ruin your first backpacking trip? A pack that’s too heavy. Lighten your load with these tips.
Going on Your First Hike? Here’s What to Pack.
The trail is calling. Pack these essential items and go.
What’s In My Pack: Speed Hiker Joe McConaughy
Want to go really, really light? Take a hint from a guy who finished the Long Trail in less than 5 days.
The Ultimate Continental Divide Trail Packing List
Gear up for the United States' toughest long path with these expert picks.
Pack Like a Pro: Backcountry Skiing
Venturing beyond the lift line? Here's what to bring, courtesy of professional skier Jess McMillan.
How to Pack Your Backpack
BACKPACKER's Deputy Editor Casey Lyons explains best practices for packing your backpack.
6 Myths About Women Hikers No One Should Believe
Let’s set the record straight on some of the hiking world’s worst myths about women. First one: It’s not just men who believe these things.
5 Military Rucking Rules Every Backpacker Should Know
The military has spent years studying the best way to move under a load (aka “rucking”). Here are 5 military rucking rules that translate well to hikers.
#TBT: Gear Advice from 1977
Jump into the way-back machine and check out this packing advice from November 1977.
Go _____ Packing
Choose your adventure - pack animal style.
First Night Out: Packing and Planning
Tips on packing and planning for your first night under the stars.
How To Pack For A Weeklong Trip
When your normal menu consists of overnight adventures, it's easy to forget key items that can derail your plans. These hints can help.
How to Fit a Week's Gear into a Weekend Pack
Don't own a massive pack for your big annual adventure? Here's how to make it all fit.
Beginner Basics: Fitting A Backpack
Even the best backpack isn't comfortable if you don't fit and adjust it correctly. To start: Pick a pack that's the proper gender and general size for you. For example: women's small or men's medium.
Swamp Gear Packing Checklist
Ready to get wet and wild? This packing list will prepare you for any swamp trek.