Comfort is Paying for What You Don’t Feel

I'm a big fan of movies and all the behind-the-scenes stuff that goes into making them. There's a popular saying in the world of sound design that goes; “you don't notice good sound design, only bad sound design.” I've found that the same is true in backpacking. the more expensive your backpack, the more invisible it becomes. That’s what you’re really paying for. With cheap backpacks vs expensive backpacks, the difference isn’t how many zippers or compartments you get — it’s how much (or how little) you notice the pack when you’re hiking.

My old $15 Temu pack? I remember exactly how it felt digging into my hips and making my back a sweaty mess. My current Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60L is so comfortable I barely notice it’s there, and that’s the point. The same can be said for my Mystery Ranch. You’re paying for comfort and design that lets you focus on your surroundings, not your shoulder pain.

This ISN'T to say that you positively need the expensive stuff. If you are fine with your current setup, I say let it ride.

You Don’t Need to “Level Up” to Be Legit

One of the biggest myths about cheap backpacks vs expensive backpacks is that expensive automatically means “better hiker.” That’s just not true.

I know people with serious money who still hike with the same old pack they’ve had for years, because it works for them. And I’ve met adventurers saving every penny to buy their dream pack, and that’s valid too. What matters most is your comfort, your priorities, and your experience on the trail.

My Take on the Whole Cheap vs. Expensive Backpack Debate

At the end of the day, expensive gear exists to give you options — not to rank you in some imaginary outdoor hierarchy. If you can afford the upgrade and want to feel that “invisible” comfort, go for it. If you’re rocking a cheap backpack that gets the job done, that’s great too.

So whether you’re saving up for your dream pack or sticking with the one that’s seen a hundred miles already, just remember: it’s not about the price tag — it’s about getting outside and enjoying the adventure.

Read some of my recent backpack reviews of the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60L and the Loris 25L.

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Hiking Gear Must-Have: Satellite Communicator or Locator Beacon

One of the most crucial pieces of hiking gear is a satellite communicator or personal locator beacon (PLB). In areas with no cell service, these devices connect you to satellites so you can send out messages, or in emergencies, activate an SOS alert. Mike highlighted the Zoleo satellite communicator, which pairs with your phone to let you stay connected even in the most remote backcountry.

While a PLB is more limited, functioning only as an SOS signal and it doesn’t require ongoing subscription fees. A communicator like Zoleo, on the other hand, may cost about $20 per month for a basic plan. Both options provide peace of mind, and either can be a literal lifesaver when venturing far from civilization.

Gear Essential: Portable Water Filter

Even if you think you’ve packed enough water, things can change quickly in the wilderness. That’s why a portable water filter is one of the smartest additions to your hiking gear. Unlike larger filtration systems that can be bulky, compact filters, like the Platypus model Mike recommends, are lightweight, simple to use, and small enough to forget they’re even in your bag.

In an emergency, you can scoop up water from a creek or river, attach the filter, and safely drink. For an item that takes up so little space, it offers huge benefits in terms of safety and peace of mind.

Reliable Headlamp: Hiking Gear You Shouldn’t Skip

The third must-have item is a dependable headlamp. While rechargeable models are environmentally friendly, they can leave you stranded if you forget to recharge before a trip. That’s why Mike suggests carrying a hybrid headlamp that works with both rechargeable packs and replaceable AAA batteries.

Being able to swap batteries on the trail ensures you’re never stuck in the dark. A reliable light source should live in your pack at all times, even for short day hikes—you never know when plans will change or emergencies will arise.

Safety Starts in Your Pack

Every outdoor adventure comes with unknowns, but carrying the right hiking gear can make all the difference. A satellite communicator or PLB, a portable water filter, and a hybrid headlamp are three compact, lightweight, and potentially life-saving tools worth keeping in your pack year-round.

As Mike emphasizes, it’s not about the length or difficulty of your hike, things happen. Having the right gear ensures you’re ready when they do.

To ensure you’ve got all the essentials and room to carry them, check out this quick guide on choosing the right backpack size for your adventures.

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I’ll be the first to admit, I’ve been guilty of neglecting trekking poles in the past. But there’s one hike that really changed my perspective: Cape Enniberg in the Faroe Islands. It’s the tallest sea cliff in the world, and when we were filming an episode of Epic Trails there, I quickly realized how much I wished I had brought my trekking poles.

The trail is insanely steep—basically a goat path clinging to the side of a cliff. Going up was tough but manageable. Coming down? That was a whole different story. Every step felt like I was about to bomb straight off the mountain. That experience drove home the value of trekking poles in a way that no gear review or gear shop ever could.

Why Trekking Poles Matter

Trekking poles add stability on tricky terrain, reduce strain on your knees during descents, and help distribute weight more evenly when you’re carrying a heavy pack. They can also make long climbs more efficient by engaging your upper body. And honestly, they can save you from embarrassing (or painful) slips and falls.

But here’s the thing—trekking poles come in a huge range of prices. You can find a set for $20, or you can drop more than $200. So, what’s the difference?

Budget vs. High-End Poles

• Budget Poles ($20–$50): Usually heavier, sometimes less durable. Great for casual day hikes or if you just want a little extra stability on rocky trails.
• Mid-Range Poles ($75–$120): The sweet spot for most hikers. You’ll get durability, reliability, and decent weight without breaking the bank.
• High-End Poles ($150+): Ultralight, compact, and designed for weight-conscious backpackers. If you’re counting every ounce for a thru-hike or multi-day adventure, these might be worth it. Check out these three piece carbon trekking poles by Gossamer Gear.

Just remember—expensive doesn’t always mean better for you. If you’re heading out for a casual afternoon hike, you probably don’t need to spend top dollar. But if you’re hauling a pack for days on end, shaving off weight can make a big difference.

Trekking Poles for Hiking and Backpacking

I’m no trekking pole expert, and I don’t even use them as much as I probably should. But my general rule for outdoor gear applies here: aim for the middle ground. Avoid the cheapest poles that might break right when you need them most, and don’t overspend on ultralight features you won’t really benefit from.

At the end of the day, trekking poles are one of those pieces of gear that you might not think you need—until you’re on a steep, sketchy trail wishing you had them. They can make your hikes safer, easier, and more enjoyable.

So, do you use trekking poles? Did you go budget, mid-range, or all-in on ultralight? I’d love to hear what works for you. Drop a comment, share your experiences, and let me know what gear topics you’d like me to cover next.

Read my review of the ZenBivy.

The post Trekking Poles for Hiking: Why They’re Worth Carrying appeared first on Hazeadventure.

A Lightweight Powerhouse for Day Hikes

Gossamer Gear’s been killing it lately. You might’ve seen my review of the Mariposa 60, a backpack more geared towards long distance backpacking. But the Gossamer Gear Ultralight Loris 25 Daypack, its much smaller cousin, is going to be your little buddy on shorter day hikes.

Features That Actually Matter

The standout feature on Gossamer Gear packs tends to be it's tough, stretchy, mesh outer-pouch that holds your gear in tight while making access quick and easy. It's great for storing sunscreen, snacks, or anything you want without having to dig into your pack for it.

There's a removable sit pad up against your back for additional cushioning (classic GG move), dual bottle holders, strap pockets, and outward-facing zipper pouch that's just the right size for your phone/wallet/more snacks. The main compartment has two buckles and a cinch, and there’s even a zippered access down the middle, which allows you to get access to your things from a different angle.

All of these are nice touches, considering ultralight bags tend to be pretty bare-bones in most cases.

Inside the Gossamer Gear Ultralight Loris 25 Daypack, you’ll find a laptop-style sleeve (don’t actually put your laptop in it) and a zippered pouch that feels a little like a pencil-pouch.

Potential Drawbacks

The one sticking point I see here is going to be a common one in regards to ultralight packs, and that's durability. Ultralight bags tend to be a little thinner and less durable than their tankier counterparts. This bag built for fast, comfortable hiking—not bushwhacking through a war zone.

That said, the Loris 25 Daypack is stupidly light, surprisingly comfortable, and priced reasonably well for an ultralight option. You’re not going to find a heavy-duty suspension system here—but that’s kind of the point.

Could Gossamer Gear Loris 25 be your next go-to daypack?

Look, if you’re in the market for a slick, well-designed daypack that feels invisible on your back, the Gossamer Gear Ultralight Loris 25 Daypack is absolutely worth checking out. It’s ideal for day hikes, and honestly, if you’re a little nuts and want to go multi-day with it, I won’t stop you.

Until next time, Happy trails!

Mike

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Budget Hiking Gear #1: Arcade Adventure Belt

A happy accident brought me to the Arcade Belt. I was heading off to do some Grand Canyon Winter Backpacking when I realized that I forgot my standard belt. There was nothing particularly special about it, I just needed something to keep my trousers in place. So I bolted into a gear shop en route and picked up this stretchy, elastic webbing replacement for $32. Aside from being lightweight and malleable, the main reason I love Arcade's belts is because they don't create pain points when pushed on by a heavy backpack. A non-hiking belt, especially a chunky leather one, digs into the hips under the weight and pressure of a fully-loaded bag. 

Budget Hiking Gear #2: A Compact Scraper

The cheapest item on this entire list ($5.95), is a Scraper from GSI. If you're committed to Cooking Delicious Backpacking Meals then you're going to have to deal with dishes around the campsite. This is a worthwhile trade off to not just eating dehydrated food all the time, and a reusable scraper makes cleaning up a lot easier. All you need to do is add a bit of water to your soiled pots and pans and scrape off all the plaque. Unpacking dirty dishes the following day is precisely zero fun, so add this tiny tool to your kit for a more enjoyable, hygienic experience. 

Budget Hiking Gear #3: Lifestraw Squeeze Water Bottle/Filter

A personal favorite water filter of mine is the Lifestraw Peak Series Squeeze Water Filter. I have the 650ml and the 1L versions. Both ring in at under $50 (i.e. $38 and $44 respectively). There are other collapsible water filters on the market, but the biggest reason I prefer this over the Katadyn BeFree or the Sawyer Squeeze is the water bottle (or rather, water bag) itself. It's thicker, and therefore more durable. Thinner might mean a hair lighter, but that also brings vulnerability to pinprick holes and general wear and tear.

Some YouTube commenters have pointed out that one of the Lifestraw's weaknesses is that the water has to funnel through an extended piece of plastic (rather than just go through the filter directly), but I haven't found that to be a problem at all. By folding the half empty bottle, the water flows into the extended filter shaft and you can get pretty much every ounce out with every batch. At 3.2 and 3.9 ounces, you cannot go wrong with the LifeStraw Peak Series Squeeze Filters. 

Budget Hiking Gear #4: BioLite HeadLamp325

All backpackers should have a headlamp on them, even if you're just doing a day trip (you never know what can happen). The trick is to balance weight, cost, and effectiveness. Well, the Biolite 325 Lumen Headlamp checks all these boxes. It weighs a feathery 1.75 ounces (50g) and kicks off 325 lumens, all for only $49.95. This headlamp is also USB rechargeable. It has a 3-hour capacity, but that's for full output. It can run longer at a reduced brightness. Unless you're navigating or doing some technical hiking at night, you definitely don't need to have this headlamp, or any one, for that matter, running at full strength all the time. Dim that sucker around camp and it will greatly increase its lifespan. 

Budget Hiking Gear #5: Matador FlatPak Soap Bar Case

Matador is a cool backpacking/travel accessory company. Their Flatpack Pro Soap Case from Matador is one of those little things that solves a silly but nagging problem. I'm not a fan of bringing deodorant, colognes, or any of that superficial stuff into the backcountry. If I just have a source of running water and a bit of biodegradable soap, then I'm a happy camper. The problem is, bottles of soap can leak, and if left in a ziplock bag, those little bars become super gunky. Matador's soap case allows moisture to actually vent out, while also remaining leak-proof. So consider this gizmo as a way to transport your lightweight, eco-friendly soaps. 

Budget Hiking Gear #6: UCO Collapsible Camp Cup

I've been using the older, lidless version of UCO Collapsible Camp Cup and have really been digging it. So a lid can only make it better. And if it doesn't…well, ditch the lid and you'll still be super satisfied with this packable beauty. Don't discount the power of a hot cup of coffee in the morning and/or herbal tea in the evening. These things can be a big morale boost in the cooler temperatures at the bookends of the day, especially on either side of a taxing hike. Uco's eco cup is a luxury item, yes. But it's much more packable than those aluminum/tin camp cups (and it doesn't get nearly as hot to the touch, while still keeping your drink well insulated). 

Budget Hiking Gear #7: Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow 

I've become wierdly passionate about backpacking pillows. I used to just rough it out there – shoving dirty clothes into my sleeping bag case as a makeshift headrest. But the more miles I log, the more I embrace the necessity of sleep. The Aeros ultralight pillow from Sea to Summit, weighs next to nothing (since it's inflatable), packs down tight, and makes a world of difference in regards to my sleep quality. They also make a down version, for a little extra comfort/warmth, but the standard one has worked wonderfully for me, and costs only $44. 

Budget Hiking Gear #8: Grip6 Hiking Socks

A great pair of hiking socks is worth 10 times its weight in gold. I've recently come across the Utah-based company, Grip6. Their merino wool crew sock is only $19, which is cheaper than a lot of the competitors out there. I hike hard, and have a tendency to wear holes in most of my socks. But my Grip6 ones have stood the test of time. If you read my list of Day Hiking Essentials for Beginner Hikers, then you know how important technical hiking socks are. Cotton will leave you treating blisters and hotspots until the cows come home. Make the switch to something synthetic, or better yet, wool. 

Budget Hiking Gear #9: Hillsound PackStack Pro Storage Cubes

These $35 packing cubes are contoured to fit perfectly in a backpack, and are waterproof for extra protection on the trail. I've sung the praises of Packsack Pro from Hillsound before, but when talking about simple, high-value backpacking items, this one has to get some more limelight. It helps me keep my clothes organized, and I'm able to stash my camera equipment in there too. The clothes provide the cushioning, and the waterproof cover provides that extra peace of mind. Sure, it's not quite as seam-sealed as a full-on dry bag, but the PackStack Pro will certainly keep most water out, especially when buried deep in your backpack. 

That's my highlight reel of low-cost, high-utility hiking gear. These nine items are light and packable, and with price tags under $50, total no-brainers to add into the mix. If you're looking for even more fun stuff to enrich your next backpacking adventure, Don't Overlook This Backpacking Gear. 

As always, head on over to BackpackingTV for more gear reviews, how-to rundowns, and epic trail documentaries. 

Thanks to Our Sponsor, Mystery Ranch

If you've been following along with BackpackingTV and Hazeadventure.com, then you've seen me rave about my various Mystery Ranch backpacks. They make industry-leading bags for day-hiking, multi-day treks, heavy-duty expeditions, hunting, military operations, and more. Whatever category you fall into, if you're looking for durability, comfort, and performance, then Mystery Ranch has you covered. Head on over to MysteryRanch.com for more information. 

Gear Reviewed: 
– Arcade Belt
– Scraper from GSI
– Lifestraw Peak Series Squeeze Water Filter
– Biolite 325 Lumen Headlamp
– Flatpack Pro Soap Case from Matador
– UCO Collapsible Camp Cup
– Aeros ultralight pillow from Sea to Summit
– Packsack Pro from Hillsound

The post Budget Hiking Gear for Under $50! appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Last month, I and my good friend/fellow YouTube Backpacking Guru embarked on a 5-day, 50-mile, winter trudge across the Grand Canyon. Now, it would be an understatement to say this Grand Canyon winter backpacking trip did not go as planned. In fact, it turned out to be an epic hike that nearly killed Dan Becker.

But despite the challenges and the eventual rescue operation on the north side of the canyon, I dusted myself off, and returned on foot (and snowshoes) from whence I came. The comment section on the videos we both put out were flooded with questions and kind words regarding the incident, but I did also see some curiosity about the Rim to Rim to Rim trek itself.

The Right Gear for Grand Canyon Winter Camping

This is a bucket-list endurance challenge that many athletes take on each year. It usually just ends in a mix of plain old exhaustion and elation (not rhabdomyolysis). Success, apparently, requires a bit of luck. Also the tried and true act of preparation matters (something that is at least within the backpacker's realm of control).

I'm going to walk you through the contents of my 52-pound pack. In order to give you an idea of what this unique hike entails. Though I pushed on for the return journey. Hiking from one end to the other and then shuttling back is still one heck of an impressive trip. Whatever you're more drawn to, know that the gear situation will be very similar. Save for the extra food needed, for the additional days planned. 

For Grand Canyon winter backpacking, having the right gear is key.

Mystery Ranch Bridger 55

All the gear I'll be mentioning today fit into my rockin' new Mystery Ranch Bridger 55-Liter backpack. Its perfect for Grand Canyon winter backpacking. They have been a welcomed patron here at BackpackingTV/Hazeadventure.com for a long time. Mystery Ranch makes amazing backpacks that are not only wicked durable, but the most drop-dead comfortable packs on the market.

Carrying 52 pounds of gear for 50 steep winter miles was asking a lot from my pack. I'm so happy to report that I never had sore shoulders, or back pain. Or any of those things you might expect from hauling long days on a trek like the Rim to Rim to Rim. So if you are looking for a great day-hiking backpack, or something to check off those multi-day adventures with, head over to mysteryranch.com to check out the Bridger 55 or 65. 

My Sleep System for the Rim to Rim

I recently did a Fresh Gear Friday: Lightweight Backpacking Tent & New Gear of the Durston X-Mid Pro 1. I loved it after a basic overnight test, and I love it even more now after bringing it into and out of the Grand Canyon for 5 days. On top of being surprisingly effective in cold and windy conditions, this tent is super lightweight (16 ounces, or 17 if you include the MSR Blizzard Snow Stakes I packed), which saved my shoulders a lot of extra grief.

Lightweight Tent

Some people critique the “1-pound tent” claim by pointing out that trekking poles are required to set it up, but those are something I needed to bring along anyway. When logging huge ascents and descents, especially in the Grand Canyon when they come at you in massive doses of one or the other (variation can help spare the knees), then trekking poles are a huge asset.

If you add in significant levels of snow, then they become practically mandatory. So as far as I was concerned, there's no way I could have done any better than the Durston X-Mid Pro 1 in terms of the weight/functionality balance. 

Sleeping Bags, Pads at 14 Degrees

For my insulated sleeping pad, I opted to go with the Nemo Tensor (4.2 R-Value). This is another insanely packable piece of gear (you shall notice a trend emerge here pretty quickly!) – probably the lightest I would have felt comfortable going with, given the fact that I knew I would be sleeping on top of snow for a few nights. For me, it got the job done. But unfortunately for cameraman-extraordinaire, Jake, though he had the exact same air mattress, it failed in a way that was not repairable in the field.

To cap it all off, I cozied up in my Therm-a-Rest Parsec 0-degree sleeping bag. The coldest it got on this trip was maybe 14 or so degrees (Fahrenheit), and so I was well-protected. Always remember that the advertised tolerance does not necessarily reflect a reasonable comfort range. So a 0-degree bag on a 14-degree night, combined with a sleeping pad with a substantial R-Value, was exactly what I needed to keep my body recharging night after night. 

Grand Canyon Rim to Rim Winter Hike

There will be additional equipment requirements to a winter hike. When I went in February, there was a lot of snow and ice throughout the trail (especially in the shade or near dripping water on the North side). So having traction spikes or crampons is an absolute must. I would not have felt comfortable without the added grip.

Personally, I went with the Hillsound Trail Crampon and was very pleased with their performance. And because the snow could get quite thick in some areas, I also packed a pair of Hillsound Gaiters, which are my favorite gaiters I've ever used.

I like how they zip up, they're easy to connect, and they keep my shins dry. What else could the heart of a man desire? Maybe a lighter set up – this pair or pairs added at least a pound and a half (and every ounce counts) – but this was a demanding winter trip, so some concessions simply had to be made. 

Low Cut vs High Cut Boots

In terms of footwear, I went with a slightly unorthodox combo, or trifecta, actually. Dan and I elected to bring snowshoes, which we had to carry for 18 miles before they came into play (note: we went from South to North), but we were glad to have had them when push finally came to shove.

My main kicks were a low-cut Gore Tex hiking boot (AKU's Rocket DFS GTX), which I combined with a pair of Superfeet insoles to boost the cushioning and support. I passed on the classic, rugged hiking boots in an effort to keep my feet happy and my legs charging on, day after day.

Bister Management

I did end up getting a few blisters, but I chalk that up to the exceptional weight and tough, unstable conditions. I've logged a lot of miles in these shoes lately (even in the jungles of Peru) and have had minimal issues. So overall, I gave myself a pat on the back for my entire arrangement south of the knee. 

Food Management in the Grand Canyon

I also had to make careful considerations in regards to my cook set, in order to accommodate the winter climate. For example, I chose the Jetboil Fluxring Pot and MSR fuel, which I combined with the  Jetboil Minimo (just the stove part), because I needed a big cooking pot and efficient heat transfer in order to regularly melt snow.

Water Source Management in the Grand Canyon

Snow was essentially our only source of water for half of the trek, so I needed something that gave me good bang for my buck (even though it was bulkier and heavier than I would ideally have liked). Dan had a lighter setup, but it wasn't as efficient (i.e. much longer melting time).

On the south side of the canyon, where there was more flowing water, I used the Lifestraw Peak Squeeze Water filter to nix any potential impurities. I also brought along a standard Nalgene, which doubled as a hot water bottle at night. 

Hot tip: Fill your Nalgene with boiling water before crawling in your sleeping bag and you'll not only have a warm cuddle buddy, but also perfectly good, cooled-off drinking water come morning. 

And finally, because I felt like the de facto team leader for my video crew, I carried Sea to Summit Watercell X, to make sure that there was always sufficient hydration on hand. I didn't ever fill it all the way, but between that and my Nalgene, I typically had 3 liters strapped to my back at any given time. Having the perfect water set up keeps Grand Canyon winter backpacking safe.

Cooking on a Multi-day Backpacking Trip

I wish I could say I nailed everything to do with the entire cooking/water-making business, but I ended up packing waaaaaay too much fuel. As it turned out, I ended up lugging around about twice what we actually needed. I just didn't want to skimp and leave my crew without water. You live and you learn!

Food planning for a 5-day backpacking trip

Under normal circumstances, I'm a proponent of cooking delicious backpacking meals, with some assists from your preferred dehydrated/freeze-dried preparations. However, given the demands of hiking the Grand Canyon's Rim to Rim to Rim, and the extra weight necessary for doing so in the wintertime, I reverted back to things I knew were highly packable and nutrient-dense.

Most of my cooked meals across this 5-day adventure were taken care of by Pinnacle Foods The Italian sausage pasta dish being my absolute favorite freeze-dried dinner across any brand I've ever tried (and I've dabbled far and wide over the years). BeanVivo Three Bean Chili kept things deliciously simple on what was an incredible meal at rim-top! To bridge the gap in between stove time, I ate a lot of dried mangos and apricots, almonds, bars, etc. 

To claw back some weight savings, I also went with the UCO collapsible camp cup and the highly versatile UCO Spork. 

Hiking emergency kit

Along with my Adventure Medical Kits first aid, I stuffed in some Glacier Gel to fix up my blisters (in an oh so soothing way), a general patch kit (good for managing minor gear maladies), my trustee Vosteed Nightshade pocket knife (always seems to come in handy), and my Zoleo satellite communicator (good for firing off check-in texts when times are good, and then you never know when you'll have a harrowing Rescue in the Grand Canyon!).

Headlamps With Longevity are Key

Because of our unexpectedly long days trying to grind out the winter miles, I was thankful to have a more robust headlamp than I would normally pack simply for emergencies, or for bumming around camp after dark. The Ledlenser Neo 5R Headlamp ups the game with a heftier battery pack, which extends the duration and intensity of that beautiful guiding beam. 

What do you wear to hike the Grand Canyon's rim to rim?

I'll start with the nicknacks that served me well. Wiley X, sponsor of my Epic Trails series, makes my favorite pair of sunglasses, the WX Ovation. When hiking in and around the Grand Canyon, there are unbelievably exposed sections. Doing the Rim to Rim in the winter made eye protection even more important, since those UV rays bounce off all the fresh white snow and directly into your poor eyeballs.

I was also glad to have my Hestra Bike Ergo Grip Tactility Glove, for the task at hand. They cut the wind, let me get touchy-feely with the canyon walls, and they kept my hands warm. Another tiny consideration that is easy to overlook is the choice of belt. I like those stretchy ones that arcade ranger make because they move with the body and don't cause pressure points over time. 

Layering for Long Epic Grand Canyon Hikes

For layering on top, Cotopaxi had me locked and loaded. I started off with the moisture-wicking Liso Baselayer, stacked it up with the Otero Fleece full-zip hoody, and sealed in the warmth with the Fuego Hooded Down Jacket. The Fuego isn't the lightest down jacket on the market, but it is undeniably warm and competitively-priced – so that will please lots of backpackers out there.

Downstairs, I sported Fjallraven's Keb Trousers, a thick and warm, yet well-ventilated pant perfect for the tough conditions. I made due nicely with just the trousers while on the move, and then when I got into camp, I threw on some long johns. A slick wool beanie is also a must for me when hiking and/or camping in cooler conditions. 

How do you carry your camera backpacking?

I've made a habit of using the Hillsound Packstack Pro as my mock camera gear case. It's waterproof, lightweight, and once I stuff a bunch of clothes in there, there's plenty of padding to protect my baby. Getting all of the bare essentials inside of a backpack can be enough of a tetris game as is, without having to worry about additional equipment. So this is a nice two birds, one stone method for me. 

Backpacking Storage

This Packstack is all I need for storage, but for taking pictures on the fly, I've been digging the Hyperlite Mountain Gear camera pod. Keeping my camera around my neck, which this little guy is meant for, leads me to take significantly more shots than if I had to pause, take off my backpack, and rummage through some gear. Plus, by that point, interesting wildlife may have scurried off, or a cloud may have obscured that perfect but fleeting lighting.

Weight Management Lessons Learned

So that's the majority of the loadout I used for tackling the Grand Canyon's infamous Rim to Rim to Rim hike. Despite the unusual weight, I was very happy with my packing list, and how everything performed. With that said, I also learned a few valuable lessons. I definitely carried too much fuel, probably carried too much water, and even though I love my Grand Trunk Compass 360 Stool, I could have left it at home because all the Grand Canyon campsites have picnic tables. Oops. 

In Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed this article and are looking forward to hiking one of America's most iconic formations. Don't be deterred by Dan's scare. He lived to fight another day, and we both have come to realize what a freak incident that was, and how it can be avoided in the future. 

Backpack: Mystery Ranch Bridger 55
Tent: Durston X-Mid Pro 1
Sleeping Gear: Therm-a-Rest Parsec 0-degree sleeping bag, Nemo Tensor mat, Sea to Summit Aeros Down Pillow
Other Camping Gear: Sea to Summit Aeros Down Pillow, MSR Blizzard Snow Stakes, Adventure Medical Kits first aid
Top Clothing Layers: Cotopaxi Baselayer, Cotopaxi Otero midlayer, Cotopaxi Fuego Hoodie, Hestra Bike Ergo Grip Tactility Glove, Arcade Hiking Belt
Footwear: AKU's Rocket DFS GTX, Glacier Gel blister care
Camp Stool: Grand Trunk’s Compass 360 Degree Stool
Hiking Gear: Komperdell Explorer Contour trekking poles, Hillsound Trail Crampon, Hillsound Gaiters, MSR snowshoes, Superfeet Insoles
Camp Kitchen: Jetboil Fluxring Pot, Jetboil Minimo, MSR fuel, UCO collapsible camp cup, UCO Spork, Vosteed Nightshade pocket knife
Food: Pinnacle Foods backpacking meals, Beanvivo meals
Water Management: Lifestraw Peak Squeeze Water filter, Nalgene Water bottle, Sea to Summit Watercell X
Storage: Matador Flatpak drybag, Hillsound Packstack Pro, Hyperlite Mountain Gear camera pod
Electronics: Zoleo Satellite Communicator, Ledlenser Neo 5R Headlamp
Sunglasses: Wiley X

Train hard, pack smart, maybe wait for the fair-weather season, and you'll be all set! For more gear reviews and wild adventures, head on over to BackpackingTV.

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