What are /r/CampingGear's favorite Products & Services?

From 3.5 billion Reddit comments

/r/flashlight regular here. Please don't buy either of these.

Those are both overpriced headlamps with poor build quality. The batteries they come with are super sketchy too, probably a fire hazard. Not only are they crap, they're potentially unsafe crap.

I strongly suggest a Wowtac A2. This is a quality headlamp from a good manufacturer that comes with a rechargeable battery that won't burn your house down.

Klymit double V insulated 2 person pad $83.45 Amazon

Klymit Insulated Double V Sleeping Pad, 2 Person, Double Wide (47 inches), Lightweight Comfort for Car Camping, Two Person Tents, Travel, and Backpacking https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N28PUYX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_l.NHDb9FBHY56

Bought the double bag from Costco for me and my gf, that arrives Tuesday. It’s easier to convince her to camp when we are sleeping together. Bag - $129

https://www.costco.com/Klymit-2-person-Synthetic-Fill-Sleeping-Bag.product.100487976.html

If you are serious you need to buy a carbon steel skillet.

edit: https://www.amazon.com/Lodge-CRS10-Skillet-Pre-Seasoned-10-inch/dp/B005U93RYC

I guess they are only about 33% lighter, so maybe a lightweight nonstick like others recommended is better but I still like the carbon steel.

A cot. It is SO nice being off the ground and not worrying if rain is seeping under your tent. Something like this. You’re probably thinking it’s a little pricey but it’s only $16 a night if you only use it those 3 nights and you’ll probably use it lots more or you can sell it after. I seriously love my cot.

The sunscreen is a consumable, as is the lip balm, soap, and toothpaste. You should look into getting a sunscreen like this. It's small, lightweight (0.96 oz), and doesn't smear. Plus no chance of it blowing up on you. See ya out there, I'm leaving in a week and a half: )

I can’t speak for those two but I recently went backpacking with my brother and he had a Black Diamond Spot Headlamp and I was really impressed with it. It is a little more expensive than what you’re looking at but it’s a well known brand, well built, and the power for its small size is impressive.

My husband recently went through the same phase after watching a bunch of YouTube survival guys. I got him this Fiskars ax (as well as a Mora 4” knife) and it works great. Not fancy or tactical or lightweight, but it was a cheap way to try learning a new skill.

We went backpacking shortly after and he used it and a small saw to source all our firewood for the weekend. Having the ax also really enhanced our fires at regular campgrounds, because now he can split and re-split the firewood we buy and get the sizes just how he likes it.

+1 to bag liners too if you sleep colder than most for the same reason it traps heat. I've slept in 0C climate with a 4C bag using a liner and pad, no problems... except when the zipper broke.

Neither are bent. All of the knockoffs are severely blunted at the end. It's a representative sample. Some are worse than this one. The aluminum is much softer.

This is the knockoff: https://www.amazon.com/All-one-tech-Aluminum-Outdoors/dp/B07CKTGSLH

The issue is they're saying it's 7075 but it's clearly not. I'd be fine paying less than $1 for "cheap aluminum tent stakes" if that's what I was buying.

They'll likely work fine for some time for car camping on prepared tent pads and soft-ish ground, but these won't be seeing any backcountry.

LANGRIA Mummy Sleeping Bag, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QQX5WLB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_gLC1DbVXVQH95

Hiking Backpack 50L Travel Daypack Waterproof with Rain Cover https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06X3QLR3V/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_NNC1Db1X4VCKS

There are a few if you filter by the sports and outdoors department

• 30% off Yeti coolers
• 30% off life straw
• 2 pack exofficio give and go boxers for $25.
• a ton of marmot stuff for 30% off
• some deals on Coleman stuff as well

Reliance Products Flow Pro Pressurized Portable Showever, 2 Gallon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MY6CZ6J/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_adc8CbN6FXWR7

This thing is awesome for car camping.

• Shower

• Put out your fire

• Rinse your sweaty/dirty clothes

• Wash the mud off your dog

You can effectively make your own out of a weed sprayer but the materials will cost you about the same and you won’t have the tote bag/pocket.

I use what is probably the most basic thing imaginable. Not fancy, but weighs nothing and is cheap...

I recommend this tent a lot. It's relatively light compared to others in that price point, and I personally use it, so I can vouch for quality and ease of set-up. It's $116 on Amazon but I find it pretty regularly under $100 on other sites if you really want to stay under that mark.

Kelty Salida 2

Baby wipes, and No Rinse bathing wipes.

The Coachella kids like to take Electrolyte Concentrate with them. You can add it to any liquid. It has a salty lemon flavor to it. It works well with Mio or other water flavor concentrate that you like.

https://www.amazon.com/BRS-Outdoor-Camping-Portable-Ultralight/dp/B00NNMF70U?crid=1HL2NJ160PIGH&keywords=brs+stove&qid=1529433939&sprefix=brs+&sr=8-3&ref=mp_s_a_1_3 You might be able to find it cheaper elsewhere.. but this is where I bought mine from. Fantastic and so tiny!

If I'm hiking especially, instant is the way to go. And if you need cream and sugar, get one that has it pre-packed. I like Cafe Bustelo for this.

Car camping with friends? Yeah, we can do the full coffee ritual.

Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife with Carbon Steel Blade, 4.1-Inch, Military Green https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EAL14B4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_A1X3PW8W0Q7XEKM8NXNW?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

i have the serrated version for cutting rope or possible splice, skin etc

great companion

Lifestraw for $9.99

I've been wearing these Coldpruf long johns in the oilfield for years. They're really warm, really cheap, and they hold up to a ton of washings. I usually get a couple winters of heavy use out of each pair.

Please do not use anything that burns fuel inside a car.

Something like this might work, but why not just pull over? Pouring boiling water inside a car seems like an unnecessary risk.

https://www.amazon.com/Electric-Stainless-Automobile-Cigarette-Portable/dp/B07PJKFZMX

I have a foldable bucket...placed on a highish branch, it's easy to tip/shower by pushing the bottom of the bucket up.

Lightweight, and excellent for TONS of camp chores.

If car camping, fill it up, and put it on the end of the picnic table... very beneficial to keeping sanitary. again, pushing the bottom of the bucket up, allows you to dump water, without spoiling the clean water inside.

You could always prefilter your water with coffee filters or something equivalent that is more durable. Steripen makes a 40 micron one that you could use to fill a container pretty inexpensively. https://www.amazon.com/SteriPen-Water-Bottle-Pre-Filter/dp/B002IAMETK

Get a compression bag for the sleeping bag. Not only does it condense the size it puts the weight lower in the back pack. I would suggest just walking into REI with your sleeping bag and test fitting them. If I had not done this I would have gotten one a size too small.

You can also get a small cook pot from Amazon for like $13 That fits my jet boil canister, screw on single burner, and sea to summit collapsible cup all in the same bag.

That being said as long at it all fits in the back just go. Go right now. Go on a day hike with that, stop at a picnic area and set up camp tent and all, make a meal. Then break it all down. You will quickly learn if there is anything about the set up you "need" to change. And you will get experience with your gear. Also when you are day hiking everything can go to shit and you can still just walk to your car.

Your gear is better than 99.99% of any human who had to hike threw the woods.

As with what everyone else is saying, don't use soap in lakewater. However! As someone who likes feeling clean at the end of a long day of work, I find that scrubbing down with some a pair of exfoliating gloves makes me feel pretty clean. They're dirt cheap, so it might be worth trying out!

My local Costco has these poles for $30 right now, and they are also inexpensive on Amazon.

I am using my Colemen Carlsbad 6-person dark room tent this weekend. I will report back later today after I get it setup. They do make a 4-person model. Target has the one without the screened in area for $85 (Coleman 4-Person Dark Room Tent) and Amazon has a 4-person model with the screened room for $188 (Amazon 4-person Dark Room Tent with Screened in Room).

I will try and post some pictures of the inside of the tent today. It's going to be hot and sunny so it should give you a good idea how much sunlight it blocks.

I do. I bring a little Rite in the Rain notebook like this one and a Fisher Bullet pen pretty much everywhere I go, including camping.

Anker PowerCore 10000, $32, 6.4oz

https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-Ultra-Compact-High-Speed-Technology/dp/B0194WDVHI

I use a nylofume plastic bag as a pack liner. Others use a trash compactor bag.

Place bag in pack. Stuff quilt or sleeping bag in the bottom along with other items which I won’t need until camp or which I definitely want to stay dry.

Then gather the opening of the bag up and compress. Squeeze a bunch of air out. When it’s compact enough, twist the top of the bag to seal it up and stuff the “elephant trunk” down the front of the pack.

This and many other great tips can be found in Mike Clelland’s book, Ultralight Backpackin’ Tips. It’s definitely worth checking out.

Ultralight Backpackin' Tips: 153 Amazing & Inexpensive Tips For Extremely Lightweight Camping https://www.amazon.com/dp/0762763841/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_XRN-CbZC01PJ1

MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0 - Inflatable Solar Light, Clear Finish, Adjustable Strap https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IIV1OC0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_gPs8AbD9J3SQ9

This is the one I use. Not the same product but same concept.

Those Sawyer squeeze bags suck I highly recommend Cnoc Outdoors 2019 Vecto 2L Water Container, 28mm Thread, Orange https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QBQ894L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_CdMtDbZE0Q56Z or something similar

I saw the Light My Fire Mess Kit 2.0 goes on sale at 825 Eastern

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00DJ21NOI/ref=gbps_tit_m-3_781d_c60329f7?pf_rd_p=124f0934-56fc-4b04-9aeb-f713b1d9781d&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-3&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_i=14611812011&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=Q9G0BY45P0KZJJZECXM2

I got one for my oldest son, and he liked it for a weeks use at Boy Scout Summer camp. (No Mess Hall, they were cooking by patrol, so it got a lot of use)

I figure after a decade as a scout leader, I can finally upgrade from dollar store tupperware and buy a real mess kit for myself. :)

https://www.amazon.ca/Anker-PowerCore-Ultra-Compact-High-speed-Technology/dp/B0194WDVHI

Don't bother with anything else, this is what most hikers are using. Lightest power to weight ratio for a contained battery like this. They have different models, but this one is the best if you need it go to in a pack

Sorry, meant to add the deets. It’s a “chuckit!” travel dog bed from amazon. So far, she likes it. Rolls up like a small sleeping bag and includes a stuff sack, has a fair amount of cushion. They only had 1 size but it’s large enough for my 65lb boxer.

I mainly bought this for our hikes or when we go fishing. Bean is 11 years old and has some hip issues. It’s a nice little cushion to bring along on day hikes or camping trips for diva dogs that like to relax in style.

Chuckit! Travel Dog Bed https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00027466A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ey7xFb3WHJ25G

Sanitize your links, my dude! delete everything after the product code (starting with /ref= ) so the company can't track who is sharing links with whom.

For anyone else who wants the same link without the tracking data, use this one:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0871V4TV9

Yeah I just don't see the point of any camping chair without back support personally. There are a few Chinese companies that make this model, and it's the best camp chair I've ever owned https://www.amazon.com/G4Free-Lightweight-Portable-Outdoor-Backpacking/dp/B073W2YJ93

Personally, I'd go with a portable charger instead of solar. I use the Anker Powercore 10000 on long trips and it's rock solid. 6.5 oz weight ding but as I use a rechargeable headlamp it's more than worth the weight. Only 24 bucks marked down from 50 on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-Ultra-Compact-High-speed-Technology/dp/B0194WDVHI

Get the toaks titanium off Amazon. Half the weight, just as good or better. I swear by the Toaks titanium pots.

https://www.amazon.com/Toaks-Outdoor-Titanium-Backpacking-Burning/dp/B01I4FMPQY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1536876110&sr=8-2&keywords=toaks+stove

For the money, nothing beats Eureka: https://www.amazon.com/Winterial-Lightweight-Camping-Backpacking-Compact/dp/B01I0BJQEG

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I spent years giving Eureka tents to Youth Groups for backpacking and camping trips. They are tough, cost effective and last a long time.

If you guys haven't heard of Keepa, Imma suggest that you check it out.

It's a service that allows you to track the pricing of products on Amazon. It's free and it offers browser extensions that place a little box under the main product listing to show you the pricing history for the last year. You can then choose the price that you'd like to pay for the product, and Keepa will send you an email when it hits that price. It's a pretty incredible service that's helped me get some damn good deals.

OK, I've looked into this a lot.

First, buy a USB power pack. There is always some deal going on slick deals for one. Some have a little LED light built in, some do not. You'll have to decide your size. Their capacity will be measured in milliamp-hours (mAh). An iphone 6/6S battery is around 1,800 mAh. So, if you got a 10,000 mAh battery pack, you could recharge your phone around 4-5 times theoretically. I got a 20,000 mAh one with an LED light built in for $28 last year. I've used it on camping trips and recharged everyone's phone and a bluetooth speaker and it still had half a charge left. That being said, it is a big bastard and weighs quite a lot.

Here is a great deal running now. $13.99 for 10,400 mAh. http://slickdeals.net/f/8960155-unifun-10400mah-usb-external-travel-battery-rugged-water-dirt-shockproof-with-flashlight-13-99-ac-fsss-amazon?src=SiteSearchV2_SearchBarV2Algo1

Second, find a USB powered fan. Tons to choose from. I have this one and like it a lot and it's very lightweight. https://www.amazon.com/ARCTIC-USB-Powered-Portable-Solution-Gooseneck/dp/B003XN24GY/ref=zg_bs_3015416011_5

So, now you have a battery pack that can charge your phone, run a fan, maybe light up, and charge a bluetooth speaker. Isn't technology great :)

With shipping taken into account (amazon has free shipping for this item, massdrop doesn't), these are within a dollar or so of being the same price as amazon. When the mass drop gathers 30 people, the price will drop and it will indeed be cheaper than amazon by around $10. For me, the $10 isn't worth waiting for the massdrop shipment. I've been researching sleeping bags and have decided on purchasing the cosmic 20 long. Just posting my price findings for anyone interested :) https://www.amazon.com/Kelty-Cosmic-Degree-Sleeping-Bag/dp/B014JQA9VU?th=1

I have been using an Alps Mountaineering liner ($21.60 on Amazon) for the past 5 years and attest to its durability even after being machine washed.

Alternatively, If you're handy with a sewing machine you could convert an old bed sheet into a liner which would only really cost you your time.

Geesh, I really don't get all of the comments about the pistol. If that makes him comfortable, while alone on a hike, so be it. Being out in the middle of nowhere, miles from civilization and a cell tower can be a little unnerving. Granted, I too would recommend at least a .45 for it to have any effect on a animal. But just the noise at a marginal distance would be enough to scare many things off. Which eliminates the need for bear spray or actually shooting an animal.

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I waiver on this too. If I'm back woods hiking alone in the Shenandoah, then I don't carry. But if in really unfamiliar, less traveled places, then I carry. As the biggest thing is weight. My .45 with a 10 round mag is over 3 pounds, compared to less than a pound for Bear Spray.

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Edit: And I agree with meatandcheez - you need a flask or just fill an empty water bottle with bourbon.

​

Edit 2: Here's a link for a holster which clips on to the back pack strap

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https://www.amazon.com/Alien-Gear-holsters-ShapeShift-Expansion/dp/B0787J8GJ4/

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Something like this.

I'll give you the long answer. Lol. Normally people use the Coleman propane single burner, which is about 8 inches in diameter and has 10,000 BTU. The cooking surface area isn't much, so I wanted a bigger area.

So I choose a 10 inch diameter propane burner, which happens to have a significantly amount of BTU so for my cooking, safety & peace of mind, I wanted to make sure I have full control of the pressure gauge.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009JXYTG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_X3FMTX7TQKGEEM8SR9SE

My vote for a single blade of any kind is a morakniv, every time, it's easy AF to sharpen, stays sharp, can be stropped in the field, it's just so darn nice in the hand for such a darn cheap knife. I think fixed blades are safer than folders too, but that's an opinion and everyone has opinions and they all...blah blah....

I'd stay skip anything smaller than a mini swiss army knife, other than a mini swiss army knife. They are great and see a ton of daily use on keychains every single workday around the country....a tiny edge is very useful when your fingernails don't cut it...literally.

It's a tool, and the questions of "will I need to pry something I can't pry with my fingernails?" or cut or whatever...Idk it's worth it. I carry a Gerber 2.2oz "dime" and it's amazing. I use it literally every few days at work. More often than that outside of work. It lives on my keychain or in my hand. Seriously a solid tool for $18 and 2.2oz. I highly recommend them and I have an ancient Leatherman PST-II from when I was in middle school (I'm 30 now) that's hugemongous and I don't bring backpacking. It's always in my toolbox and has literally helped me save lives before. The gerber dime has a small chip in it and I'm a therapist now and not an EMT anymore. I carry my Dime everywhere and never want for much more except more screwdrivers or more comfortable handles in the real world, it'd do me fine on a longer backpacking trip.

https://www.amazon.com/Gerber-Dime-Multi-Tool-Black-30-000469/dp/B006M9NIDO

I'd guess it was originally a Bed Tray Table. Plenty of teak and bamboo ones on Amazon. I'd never thought of this either but that is a pretty nifty idea if you don't feel like shelling out for a fully camping table.

I really like GPS Logger on Android. It's really simple, highly configurable, and open source. Plus, it's not like I'm using my phone anyway. Setting it at 10-30 second intervals in airplane mode will last me a couple days. I haven't found a watch that won't break the bank that can do that.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mendhak.gpslogger

It's just GPS points though. If you want to see them on map, you'll have to open it in a map program. I use GPX Viewer, but I don't think it's anything extra special. I also upload them automatically when I get internet again to Google Drive and Dropbox.

I pretty much have used my phone for everything since smart phones have been a thing. They are the ultimate multipurpose devices. I've never really felt the need or been able to justify things like smart watches, E-Readers, Cameras (once smartphones hit 5mp or so).

While it goes down to around this price every now and then, it's not the usual price. You can track prices for any Amazon product using camelcamelcamel.com, BTW. Here's the price history for this product.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019N9W7WC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_XPB79SSJRGG9HHAS12AA

Can't go wrong with a cheap Coleman tent. I wouldn't trust tents on Amazon with like 13 reviews. Most of those are likely fake.

For those interested in a cheaper alternative, here's what I've used for a few years now: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G87WJ77/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_FX18R8P618TY7CEY41E7?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

It works great, is nicely compact, and comes with lids for each section so you can adjust packing size accordingly. In mine I carry kosher salt, sea salt, black pepper, oregano, cumin, onion powder, and sugar/stevia.

This is the adapter you can use to refill them. You might want to look at some YouTube videos before you attempt to refill it. It is a safe alternative to dispose of it.

DozyAnt Universal Safest Propane Refill Adapter for Throwaway Disposable Bottle - 100% Solid Brass Regulator Valve Accessory for All 1 LB Tank Small Cylinders https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019CND6J2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_H6P1H6D4WM7MW0S07TDX

> Obviously it'll be impossible to go Ultralight

Don't underestimate ultralighters. Ultralight is a philosophy, not a prescribed gear list -- it's about accomplishing whatever your goals are with the lightest weight (and therefore most comfort) possible.

A while ago there was a thread on BPL about lightweight monoculars that had a bunch of ~1oz monoculars that were 8-10x magnification for less than $30. For astronomy you want a good FOV (to make it easier to find things) so it would probably be worth spending a bit more weight for that.

Why a monocular? It's half the weight of binoculars.

There are lots of options on Amazon at different price points and weights. For example, this one is 1.8 oz and is 7x18 for $18: https://www.amazon.com/Brunton-7X18-Echo-Pocket-Scope/dp/B004O9F2JC/ref=sr_1_73

What, you don't need 1000 of them?

There was one that was selling lots of 20... but didn't find anything anywhere selling them individually.

This one on Amazon looks pretty close, but not exactly the same. A bit smaller too.

https://www.amazon.com/SE-BG107-Portable-Folding-Barbecue/dp/B008187KA6

Not totally out of place here, I've tried a bidet for camping before. It was kinda nice.

• https://andrewskurka.com/2016/pooping-in-the-outdoors-part-4-the-backcountry-bidet/

I bought this from Amazon for backcountry bidet:

• https://www.amazon.com/Brondell-GS-70-GoSpa-Travel-Bidet/dp/B008CSDKSQ

I just bought a cheap 100L duffel off Amazon for an upcoming trip. I'm just planning on shoving my whole pack in there and checking it.

I’ve been using this cheap thing from amazon, it doesn’t come with the mug but you don’t have to worry about filters! Has worked very well so far Primula Single Serve Coffee Brew... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0087SPTLC?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

So the thing I've noticed about those types of stools is that they don't really save you any weight. For what they are, they are relatively heavy. The one you linked weighs 2 lbs. If you look at some camping chairs, you can get extremely close to 2 lbs. and have the added back support. I paid for this one and it comes in at just 6 oz heavier than the stool. I paid $40 for it, and I love it, although it is $25 more than the stool. This thread is all about what weight is worth adding to your gear. To me 6 oz for a better chair is obvious.

I don't know if youre a Costco member but this is probably muchhhh better than what youll get on AliExpress

Haven't tried a workmate but I've tried a lot of different camp tables. To date my favorite is a plain ol' boring folding table I got at Walmart.

The two obvious choices would be Rtic, and - believe it or not - Walmart's Ozark Trail line of rotomolded coolers

Find it on amazon and add the link to camelcamelcamel.com. It will give you pricing trends for the last year and alert you when the price goes down. Its the only way to shop for me. I got $80 convertible pants for $21 thus way.
Check it out http://camelcamelcamel.com/Smartwool-Reversible-Pattern-Charcoal-Heather/product/B00GMNBUE4 set an alert, be patient, and you can make out like a bandit!

The brs 3000t has been fairly well reviewed in the past. If you want something a little more traditional it's hard to beat the classic coleman stove

I use something like this. Multi use and stores compact.

Collapsible Cutting Board with Colander | Washing Basket for Camping/Picnic/BBQ | Foldable Multi-function Kitchen Plastic Silicone Dish Tub | Chopping Board | Ice Bucket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08ZJGDRDJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_2X16JE7VC1QMF18XKN6F?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I use an air pump and never have this problem.

Don't ever breath into a sleeping pad or pillow with your breath. Always use a pump sack or (even better) invest in a portable electric air pump like the FlexTail Gear Tiny or the Micronovelty Micro. A pump sack ensures that you will never have moist air go into the pad, unless you are pumping the pad during heavy dew or with heavy fog.

https://www.amazon.com/FLEXTAILGEAR-Portable-Ultra-Mini-Rechargeable-Mattress/dp/B088ZLWXBC

Another tip is to always store this inside with the valve open in a cool, dry location. This means no garages, sheds, some basements with moisture problems, back of your car outside, pool house etc.

I am not sure if Nemo will warranty this out. It is very rare to have mold this early.

The problem with cooking over a fire is you'll get soot and creosote all over your pots. Also you need a fire. If you just want a quick cup of coffee before hitting the road, that's a problem.

If you have $45 for that camp grill, it would be better to spend it on a one or two burner stove.

ExOfficio Give-N-Go's are where it's at.

You'll find a lot of good reviews in the hiking community about them.

Amazon has them at $15 a pair at their lowest, might be a funky size/color. Another source - I got 2 pair on Massdrop for $40.

Amazon

Drop is not active at the moment. Request and check back later.

Massdrop

Edit: I bought the Sport Mesh, not the Give-N-Go.

You can definitely save some money on trekking poles. You can consider going for Hiking Hunger Carbon trekking poles( on sale on Amazon). Other option is to go with BD Alpine Ergo ( slightly cheaper).

https://www.amazon.com/Hiker-Hunger-Carbon-Fiber-Trekking/dp/B01C60REBO

For firestarter you can check here for some cheaper options. Light My Fire is a decent choice.

I would recommend more than a 1-man tent if you plan to live in it for an extended time.

What is your budget?
You can get a cheap tent from Amazon for $50. like this:

• https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-2000007827-Sundome-4-Person-Tent/dp/B004J2GUOU/
  

Or something from REI for $300+, like this:

• https://www.rei.com/product/862432/rei-co-op-base-camp-4-tent

I bought a nylon hammock on amazon as a prime deal, and even now, there are some great deals for these hammocks. The type of hammock that you want are the ones that don't have the wood cross-piece, but hammocks like this one that I have. I think you should be fine getting any brand, ENO is 'the' brand for hammocks so you could check that brand out. As far as hanging them indoors, I have bolts that go into the studs of the house I live in, which is a common issue for those looking into doing this. Fortunately there are hammock stands designed specifically for these types of hammocks (make sure it's not a stand made for the wooden cross-piece type). Hammock stands can be expensive, but I have seen people make their own from 2x4's.

I have far less back pain than when I had a mattress. One misconception about hammocks is that they look like they are bad for your back, but the way you lay in them is on a diagonal, creating a flat surface to lay on.

Osprey Exos 38. $127 on amazon and the extra dollars are well worth it to get Osprey's lifetime guarantee. They also make a 48 if you want the extra capacity.

There's some decent Coleman 5 day coolers on Amazon. As a note I've heard good things about the marine version.

I own this one and have been happy with it.

Coleman 50 Quart Xtreme Wheeled Cooler https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BYDG3BM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_R.eFzbD9N1DAW

$ 20 on amazon for a lighter, better backpack with larger capacity: https://www.amazon.com/G4Free-Lightweight-Resistant-Backpack-foldable/dp/B0151EFBR6/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1518600517&sr=8-4&keywords=ultralight+backpack

It doesn't have a belt, so OP's military setup doesn't either. And there are other choices as well.

fx: https://www.amazon.com/Backpack-Waterproof-Climbing-Mountaineering-Loowoko/dp/B06WRMYYG7/ref=pd_sbs_468_7?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B06WRMYYG7&pd_rd_r=PX427XZDA0PS7CGRJK8H&pd_rd_w=FGzX7&pd_rd_wg=jF0nG&refRID=PX427XZDA0PS7CGRJK8H

Kershaw Leek! Current Amazon price is $40, but I've gotten this model for around $30 before. I LOVE this knife, super slim for EDC, great edge, durable. I have a tendency to lose knives so I've bought 4 off this model to date haha... but I've never had a problem with any of them. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009VC9YA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_MdS1AbGWVHY97

I know you said solar but I can't help myself. The Anker PowerCore 10000 (195g and small) is ROCK solid and reliable. I'm sure some have had success with solar but I haven't. My friends who had panels switched to battery packs too.

Amazon UK is having a crazy sale on it right now. 68% off. £25.99. If I lived there I wouldn't hesitate.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Anker-PowerCore-Ultra-Compact-10000mAh-Portable-Black/dp/B072MH1434/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_23_tr_t_2/258-1837790-8117841?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=N79PZSJPE03BKA50CF77

Not on Amazon, but I bought this Target store brand 2-person tent on clearance a few years ago and it's still holding up pretty well, considering the price.

There is a Coleman 4-person tent going for $65.43 for Prime Day, also.

Cascade Mountain Tech carbon poles - $27.57

https://www.amazon.com/Cascade-Mountain-Tech-Carbon-Trekking/dp/B00EJP43FA

Costco pricing without having to go to Costco. Lowest price ever on Amazon according to CCC.

I actually bought it on Amazon. a few of the bags didn't work so I contacted the seller, turns out they're a small family business, didn't ask me to send it back and offered to send me a new box of them free of charge. received it, unfortunately a couple of them were again not working. They followed up with me to see how I like it, I said a few were not working but it's totally fine and thanked them for sending the box. I had more than I needed. BUT THEY SENT ANOTHER BOX without even letting me know! Easily one of the best places I've bought stuff from on Amazon. Hence, without paying $300, I got about 30 of them. Here's the link if you'd like: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01960PY96/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I also have the Static V and it's been great. No deflation overnight and it's super comfortable. It performs just as well as expensive ($100-$200) sleeping pads like the Nemo Cosmo (which I borrowed from someone before I bought the Klymit).

I got mine for $44 but it's only $37 on Amazon right now!

Nope, the life span even for wipes advertised as biodegradable is horrendously long. Pack them out.

I only consider using them to wipe my ass and I currently just use a water bottle as a ghetto bidet to dramatically reduce the number I use on a trip and sanitize my hand afterwards. Planning to upgrade to this next time I put an order thru amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010OO9TTO

This backpacking stove from Amazon: BRS Only 25g BRS-3000T Ultra-Light Titanium Alloy Camping Stove Gas Stoves Outdoor Cooker Outdoor Stove Gas Stove Miniature Portable Picnic https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XNLSNFR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_dBPfCb99C0ZK6

The real protip is always in the comments.

The bags it comes with are pretty meh. I would get the Squeeze + faucet adapter (just to have) and get bags from CNOC Outdoors. No affiliation, I promise. I've seen them recommended and they look and feel (I got two) much better.

>fish line knotter

Amazon, of course.

inflatable mattress - Check out Academy or Walmart. Twins go for less than 10 bucks. I always keep one or two extra on hand in case they blow out or leak.

edit - to include links

Trekology on Amazon has really comfortable sleeping pads. The one catch is they are NOT warm. I don't think that it would be warm enough to go below about 40f. If you inflate it just enough to keep your hip from hitting the ground/cot it s a really nice nights sleep. The pillow is nice too.

https://www.amazon.com/Trekology-Camping-Mat-Sleeping-Mattress/dp/B07N4KK854?ref_=ast_sto_dp

actually, yours has referral link info in it too, so the link you really want is https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Maple-Personal-Cooking-Equipment-Ignition/dp/B078XRQSDM/.

I also use amazon Smile so my ideal link would be https://smile.amazon.com/Fire-Maple-Personal-Cooking-Equipment-Ignition/dp/B078XRQSDM/

pricey. a bit cheaper on amazon

how important is portability? are you able just to carry a small fire pit from your car?

https://www.amazon.com/YAHEETECH-Outdoor-Burning-Firepit-Backyard/dp/B08PBHDPHF

This is quite possibly the dumbest and most unnecessarily convoluted thing I have seen all day. Just bring a fire straw, section of an old aluminum tent pole, one of these, whatever, and use your lungs. All said solutions will never experience electrical issues and will never shred a tiny fragile wires, and can't run out of batteries.

I was looking for something similar. Ended up getting a Snugpak Jungle blanket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BTHREMK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_HJHUzbEDMRDWC

It's decent size but maybe 1.5 person. Not sure if it matters but it has that "sleeping bag" feel. Packs small in its (included) compression sack.

Had considered a Kelty blanket, they've got one called the Shindig, about 70$ on Amazon, but it's more for car camping.

Yes, that Kelty tent is okay. Although I would not consider it 'inexpensive' at $220.
A classic tent for car camping is the Coleman dome. Only $50 on Amazon.

• https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Sundome-4-Person-Tent-Green/dp/B004J2GUOU
  

I’m also a side sleeper and struggle to sleep well through the night. The issue for me has been that my head didn’t sit high enough, and was so tilted that whatever arm I was sleeping on would quickly fall asleep and I’d wake often through out the night. Trying to stay light, I tried a few pillow options (Cocoon, stuff sack of clothes.. hated that one!) I went cheap on several recommendations and bought the Trekology pillow on amazon and I love it! It’s under $15, super light, easy, and really comfortable! Can’t recommend it enough!

I went a step further and used kamsnaps to attach a freebie buff to my sleeping pad, which doubles as a pillowcase and keeps my pillow from shooting out from under me during the night. It works really well, although, occasionally a snap will pop during the night.. it’s an easy fix though if I wake up; just needs to be snapped back in place.

The other BIG suggestion I have is to place something under the head of your sleeping pad, whether it’s your shoes, some clothing, your sit pad. It can add a few inches of height to your head making it MUCH more comfortable. I’m pretty confident in saying, for me personally, this last hack serves as the greatest factor in my comfortable lightweight sleeping setup..

Have you seen the Amazon Basics hiking pack? $55 US for a 55L internal frame with an actual warranty. Only downside I can see is it's a bit heavy at 4.27lbs. And possibly those bottle holders on the side.

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Internal-Hiking-Backpack-Rainfly/dp/B06Y58B6RY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&th=1

For a flashlight, I like the Manker E02H with the Nichia 219C LED. It's UI isn't super great^(0), but it's workable, and the quality of its light is very good. It's very light, and you can easily take the light out of its headband and use it handheld if you want. Its lowest, "moonlight" mode is very nice for seeing stuff at close distances without ruining your night vision. (You can also attach it to a magnetic surface for fixed area illumination, but that's not always a relevant feature out in the woods.)

It's not available from REI, but you can get it on Amazon.

^(0)I'm often annoyed by the "long-press to turn off" UI; I still try to single-press it off, have it shift to another mode, then I grumpily hold down the button to actually turn it off. I also don't like that turbo is away in a separate mode set with the strobe modes. I have never wanted to use any of the strobe modes, but when I occasionally want turbo, I usually end up passing through strobe on my way to leaving turbo mode. Still, the utility, weight, and light quality (and price) are worth the annoying UI, IMHO.

There is no "one size fits all" in the footwear department. My feet, ankles and toes would not tolerate trail runners and yours may not either. Think about all of the terrain you will encounter as well... good ventilation lets in mud and water too! "Boot" is not synonymous with weight anymore either! My experience with other gear was that I tried to economize with a heavier pack and sleep/shelter system then promptly replaced it all for much lighter stuff after the first season. You don't have to go full-on gram weenie when first starting but do buy the lightest you can afford the first go around.

Edit: As an example on footwear weights, Amazon says your choice weighs 888 grams while my current choice in a boot are these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ZLN97N2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 at 570 grams. Yes, the Salomons are a bit more expensive but they fit my needs.

OP, I second this. Most of the mass-market headlamps (Petzl, Black Diamond, etc.) are made of plastic. Plastic is cheap to produce, but my last Black Diamond headlamp cost me $50 back in 2007 and the plastic body & lens started breaking around 2012, started having real problems (button would only work when it wanted to) around 2014 and totally kicked the bucket in 2017. Ten years might seem like a good lifespan to you, but I babied this thing and IMO, ten years for a $50 fancy flashlight is truly ridiculous. I just bought a Thrunite TH20 ($30 at amazon), which is made 100% of aluminum (sans headband), the only "plastic" like parts are the silicone button and headband mount (which are both replaceable). It weighs about the same as my now-dead Black Diamond Spot and because it is not made of plastic, I expect it will last 25+ years. Then there's the usability of the Thrunite...tint of the light (I suggest the Neutral White version), user interface, brightness (very bright to extremely low), waterproof to 6 feet, etc, just light years beyond the Black Diamond. And given that the price for the Thrunite, it is a way better value, IMO. Thrunite is considered to be one of the better brands in the specialized LED flashlight world.

EDIT: forgot to add that r/flashlight is an amazing lively community of flashlight and battery experts that helped me pick the Thrunite. u/kaybi_ is one the resident experts.

As you already have the static V you could try adding the padded cover - Amazon have them for $25 at the moment. I bought one last week and it definitely counteracts your slippery issue, as well as adding a bit of thickness/making the ridges less pronounced and the retaining pillow pocket keeping the pillow in place might help with the neck issue too.

I also have a static v luxe, which my wife prefers - it is a substantial increase in size/thickness but also weight, so I think it's more for car-camping, but YMMV.

These are in my amazon cart. Canopy Stakes Canopy Anchors Beach Tent Stakes Heavy Duty Screw Shape 25 cm 10 inch - 8 Pack Orange https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MQ4WGH3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_NJc8CbVAJGYCT

On the other hand, I will never trek without camp shoes! I’ve done two long treks now, once on the Lemosho route up Kili and once to Everest base camp. I think that having an alternate pair of shoes to switch into (along with dry socks) is invaluable. It’s just so nice to let your feet relax a bit while chilling at camp/eating dinner. Even if you are 100% spent, eat and go straight to bed, that’s easily 30-60 mins extra time in those sweaty, heavy boots. I use darn tough wool socks and insulated slippers found on amazon. Similar to these: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077X43TQT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Gf5lDbC6GXX3A So if you have any sandals you can wear with socks, I would bring those, but the shoes in the pic would definitely accomplish the same thing.

Treks with porters are some of the few times you can prioritize comfort over weight (within reason). I would never take these slippers backpacking, but for a trek, I won’t leave without em!