The Gear We Use: Backpacking

The gear we have come to know and love, and some we didn't.

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Hiking Gear

The stuff we carry that keeps us dry(ish), warm and cozy while we hike.

Lightweight Thru-hiking Gear

Here's the slimmed down list that contains only the gear we use on our long distance hikes. We're not ultralight, but we're definitely lightweight. Depending on the expected trail conditions, the only tweak I usually make to my system is swapping a rain shell for a wind shell if we're going to be in the desert. And I'll expand or reduce my total water carrying capacity and switch filters as well. I expect my base weight to fall somewhere between 11 and 13 pounds.

Travel Gear

What we use to see the world. minimalist, comfortable and stylish? or maybe not...

  • Travel Backpack- Cotopaxi Allpa 42L del Dia addition,

  • Organizational Aids- Amazon Basics Travel Packing Cubes These simple zippered packing cubes make backpack or suit case organization a sinch. Keep your clothes, socks and undergarments in their own cubes, no more suitcase explosions.

  • Travel Backpack- Cotopaxi Allpa 42L del Dia- We bought these so we had a dedicated carry-on ready travel pack to keep the wear and tear off of our backpacking packs. The Allpa packs offer many features that where only reserved for suitcases before. They open and lay flat for easy packing and clothing organization, no more "sack full of clothes." There are several internal mesh pockets, dividers, and a dedicated shoe compartment to keep your clothes clean. Our particular del Dia models are made with scraps from larger production runs and stop these materials from ending up in a landfill, leaving each pack as a one of a kind "Dora the Explorer" showpiece. They also make more traditional styled packs as well, we'll link to both here. Packsafe Daypacks- Keep your valueables secure with one of Pacsafe's daypacks. With tons of security features like embeded metal mesh to prevent slashing, cut resistant wire or Dyneema reinforced straps, tapper resistant zippers, RFID shielding internal pockets and more we've trusted these bags with our money, wallets, passports and electronics since 2021. Pacsafe has a number of models, styles, and sizes. We'll link to some of our favorites here.

  • Skin Care Essentials- Murad City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50, Murad Intense Recovery Cream, Murad's Retinol Youth Renewal eye serum, serum and night lotion, Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser, Reedle Shot 300