Andrew and Ryan talk about some of the BPL Staff’s favorite gear, our gear review philosophy, current news, and more!
2019 Staff Picks
The Backpacking Light staff offer their ultralight and other gear recommendations for lightweight backpacking, hiking, and camping.
Nemo Airpin Stake Review
NEMO Airpins are ultralight aluminum tent stakes designed with notches that function as a three-point locking system.
Sleeping Pad R-Values: Not That Useful
R-values alone are not enough for many consumers choosing new sleeping pads, and much of the current guidance is inconsistent.
REI Quarter Dome SL 2 Review (Tent)
This REI Quarter Dome SL 2 Review features a 2-person, double-wall, double-entrance, double-vestibule tent that weighs about 3 lbs.
Lightweight Backpacking Gear for Mountain Travel (Case Study)
In this video, I walk through my gear during a 9-day summer trek in the high mountains of the western US. This was a trip with friends and family – 3 other adults and four children ages 7-11. We moved camps every day but one, and spent 70% of our miles off-trail, with camps up to about 11,600 feet. Scroll down for gear notes and trip photos!
REI Quarter Dome SL 1 Review
The REI Quarter Dome SL 1 is a single person, side entry, single side vestibule, double wall, mostly mesh inner, semi-freestanding tent.
Nemo Siren Review (First Looks)
This Nemo Equipment Siren Quilt review covers a warm-weather backpacking quilt that packs a feature rich, ultralight punch.
Nemo Equipment Astro Insulated Lite 25L Sleeping Pad Review
The Nemo Equipment Astro Insulated Lite 25L sleeping pad is a plush sleeping pad that adds a touch of luxury to backcountry sleeping. Although discontinued by Nemo, this unique pad may be worth scouring remnant inventory and used gear sales – as of the publication of this review, it may offer the best luxury-comfort-to-weight ratio of any sleeping pad ever manufactured.
Nemo Equipment Blaze 2P Tent Review
This Nemo Equipment Blaze 2P Tent review features a product comparison and photo spread of the sub two pound five ounce tent dome style.