A quick and dirty list of my current go-to gear and gear recommendations for backpacking, hiking, photography and more.
Backpacking gear I recommend
When researching backpacking gear a key consideration for me is finding the lightest possible gear that does not sacrifice on quality or function and will still ensure a minimal level of comfort. This is particularly important when choosing a tent, backpack, sleeping pad and sleeping bag as these four items not only tend to be the heaviest in your kit but also have the potential to greatly affect your enjoyment.
Click on the below links for more information on each product
Tents
Lightest (Can also be used on solo adventures)
Best (Comfort, weight, quality, durability)
or
The rest
Western Mountaineering 20F Sleeping bag
Thermarest - My summer go-to (rated warm enough for winter use, but as I personally feel the cold and camp mainly in the mountains where even summer temps can be unforgiving this is my preferred choice.)
Thermarest - Winter/Shoulder season sleeping pad
Bear Vault (For use in certain remote wilderness areas where other options are not available such as bear lockers, not permitted in some places. Always check the rules before heading out.)
Hiking Poles (I just wish i’d started using poles sooner, a huge gamechanger!)
Recommended Satellite devices
Somewear Labs (My current go to satellite safety device, although less known than my other recommendations this global hotspot is small, lightweight and one of the more affordable options which still has all the features you need.)
or
Featuring the MSR Hubba Hubba 2P tent, Western Mountaineering 20F Sleeping bag, glyder leggings and my go-to Danner boots for backpacking trips. In frame - Madison Elrick
Featuring the Osprey Backpack 65L, 3L Camelbak, Glyder high power leggings and my favorite hiking boots for longer day hikes and multiday backcountry trips by Danner boots. Photo in collaboration with Madison Elrick.
Day hiking
Summer faves
Inflatable paddle board - my current go to, super light basic board, great option for those looking for something affordable to start out with. This is a cheaper board but gets the job done. It’s on the narrower side but I’ve found it to be pretty stable so far.
Running
Featuring my 24L Osprey daypack, Pendleton beanie, glyder high power leggings, smartwool socks, Northface E-tip gloves and Microspikes (These are an absolute gamechanger in icy conditions). Photo in collaboration with Madison Elrick
Winter gear (Not an extensive list, just a few favorites. For more detail see my winter gear guide - coming soon!)
Hiking pants (I wear these layered with leggings or a base-layer, they’re also great for camping and rainy day hikes)
Wearing my Pendleton beanie, Glyder high power leggings layered with the Glyder pure leggings and Smartwool heavy crew sock. Photo in collaboration with Madison Elrick
A selection of my current go-to camera/tech gear including the Canon 5D Mark IV and Canon EOS R body, my Gitzo Tripod with attached Gitzo center ball head, my portable hard drives and other accessories.
Car Camping/Van life
A few of my day to day favorites
Glyder pure leggings (The softest most comfortable leggings i’ve ever owned, pretty much live in these)
Featuring the Tilley Montana hat, a favorite of mine since I first discovered the Tilley brand in 2016 while living in Montana. Photo in collaboration with Madison Elrick
Featuring my Pendleton beanie, Glyder pure leggings and Blundstone Chelsea boot in rustic brown. Photo shot using my Canon 5D Mark IV, Canon 16-35mm F/2.8 and Gitzo Tripod via self-timer
Photo in collaboration with Madison Elrick
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