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Because the great outdoors can seem a lot less great when you don't have the right gear.

Getting ready for your first backpacking trip involves a whole lot of planning. If you've already nailed down your destination but you're overwhelmed by what to pack, we're here to help. From foolproof tents, fire starters, and first aid kits to moisture-wicking wool socks, camping chairs, and lightweight packs, here's where to start. 

A trusty, lightweight pack with 53–57 liters of space (depending on the size you pick) and the ability to carry up to 35 pounds of gear. The design features an adjustable torso, 3D contoured hipbelt, ventilated back panel, roll-top lid, generous water bottle pockets (it can fit a Nalgene!), and a daisy chain with attachment points so you can tack on whatever doesn't fit inside. 

Promising review: "She's come with me on short overnights, taken beatings being dropped down on the rocks of the PA section of the AT, and survived freezing temperatures on a 30-mile three-day weekend in Shenandoah. As an occasional overpacker for short trips, she handles the extra gear beautifully and easily accommodates a bear cannister when required. After many miles, and not always the gentlest handling, there's no damage other than cosmetic. I love how many attachment points there are on this bag, and the generous front pocket. Extremely comfortable, even after many days with double-digit temperatures. Would definitely recommend this bag to anyone getting into backpacking!' —phillyhiker

Get it from REI for $229 (available in sizes XS–M and in two colors).

A wallet-friendly lightweight tent with an intuitive design — including Kelty's signature "Quick Corners," pre-attached guylines, and just two aluminum poles — that makes setup a breeze... Like such a breeze, that reviewers say it takes them less than 10 minutes. 

Promising review: "I just finished a 4-day backpacking trip in Joshua Tree. The temps were between 18–37 degrees. The wind was 10–15 mph with gusts of 50+ mph. It rained, poured, snowed, and on one morning, my tent was completely frosted. With weather like this, there were times when my tent would literally fold in on me. This lasted for hours, and we had several days of it, but my poles never broke, the material did not tear, and my tent stayed relatively dry. I can’t say so much for the more expensive brands that were with my companions. I knew the weather was going to be a challenge, and I’ve been backpacking many times, but never expected what we experienced. I am so grateful I had a tent that was able to protect me." —Rick

Get it from Amazon for $119.95+ (available in three sizes).

Some durable Merrell hiking shoes, because if you don't have the right footwear, you're in for a world of hurt! These bbs feature supportive insoles, cushioned midsoles, and grippy Vibram outsoles — a combination that delivers stability, shock absorption, traction, and rigidity when tough terrain calls for it. Reviewers agree they're lightweight, quick-drying, and don't cause rubbing, irritation, or blisters. 🙏

Promising review: "This is an excellent quality shoe, very supportive and sturdy. I initially thought I would need to go a half-size down, but decided not to because of the thickness of the socks I use for fall/winter hikes, so there is plenty of toe room. This is undoubtedly a multipurpose shoe that I use on rugged terrain, but I also plan to wear it to my kids' sporting events, walking trails, etc. I hiked a hard 12-miler and felt no discomfort whatsoever. The traction felt solid, too, and I didn't feel like I would slip when going over different-sized rocks. I've recommended this shoe to all my friends already!" —gmk826

Get them from REI for $140 (available in women's sizes 5–11 standard and wide and in seven colors).

A 7-in-1 safety whistle that also functions as a compass, thermometer, LED signal light, magnifying glass, reflector, and sealed receptacle (so you can store personal information that would help in a rescue situation). PS: The whistle can reach volumes of 135 dB, which, for comparison, is the same as a jackhammer, military jet takeoff, or loud siren.

Promising review: "LOUD! Great size, but lightweight. The color is bold. Easy to use. This is a great value for the price." —Barbra

Get it from Amazon for $11.99+ (available in nine colors and packs of one or two).

A collapsible solar lantern (it folds down to the size of a hockey puck) with different light modes and up to 10 hours of battery life, so when you have to pee in the middle of the night, you don't have to waste your phone battery finding a safe spot to pop a squat. It's rechargeable both by solar energy and via USB, and it has a handle so you can hang it in your tent or on a tree near your campsite. 

Promising review: "I’ve had this one lantern for five years. We’ve taken it car camping, and it’s a crucial part of our backpacking kit. It’s never lost its charge, continues to work after many hours of use, and is still very bright. We use it at full size and in a collapsed state. It’s very handy." —3_cats

A six-piece mess kit, because, last time I checked, DoorDash doesn't deliver to the middle of the woods. :/ This kit includes two aluminum non-stick pots, a camping stove, a spork, a cleaning cloth, and a carry bag so you have everything (sans a small can of gas) you need to cook up a hearty, post-hike dish. 

Promising review: "I’m a beginner and couldn’t have asked for a better first-time setup! The larger pot has measurements that worked perfectly for my meals. The stove has an igniter, which even my seasoned backpacking brother envied. Everything fits so nicely compact inside, including my propane can. I love that it’s one contained unit with everything I need for food prep. I was afraid at first that I would have balance issues with the pot on top of the stove, but I didn’t have any problems. The handles on the pots seem a little flimsy, but I’m careful with my gear and don’t see that being an issue. Definitely worth what I paid, and it was my favorite piece of gear on the trail! I couldn’t wait for any excuse to use it!" —Kimberlee

An all-season mummy sleeping bag — made from ripstop nylon and plush duck down — that both offers excellent heat retention and weighs less than its polyester counterparts, thus keeping your pack weight down. If you're traveling with a partner or friend, the sleeping bags can also be zipped together!

Promising reviews: "This is the ideal sleeping bag for backpacking. When I backpack in the summer, I’m usually at elevations of 10,000–12,000 feet, and it gets cold at night. This bag doesn’t take up very much room in my pack, and its weight isn’t a burden either. A few nights it got down to mid-30s and I was comfortable in it. It’s also worked well for spring and fall camping." —Spencer Smith

"This sleeping bag is exactly the kind of gear that makes cold-weather camping enjoyable instead of miserable. It’s well insulated, compresses down small enough to fit easily in a backpack, and actually keeps you warm down to 0 degrees F, as it claims. The down fill feels lofty and distributes evenly — no weird cold spots or clumps — and the outer fabric is durable enough to handle rough ground without tearing. Zippers are smooth and the hood cinches snugly to trap heat where it matters. For the price, it’s an absolute steal compared to the high-end 'premium' bags that often cost twice as much and don’t feel noticeably warmer in real use. Qezer delivers a practical, no-nonsense sleeping bag that just works. If you want reliable warmth and lightweight packability without spending a fortune, this is a 5-star choice." —Brian

Get it from Amazon for $92.99+ (available in three colors and eight down fill weights).

And a quick-inflate sleeping pad so you don't wake up with aches and pains from sleeping on a bed of acorns and rocks. This dude even has a built-in foot pump that inflates the pad in under a minute, so you don't have to carry any extra tools. 

Promising review: "This has truly exceeded my expectations. This inflatable portable air mattress is a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts. Its ultralight design makes it incredibly easy to carry, perfect for backpacking where every ounce matters. The folding feature adds an extra layer of convenience, allowing it to fit seamlessly into my backpack without taking up much space. Inflation is a breeze, and the mattress provides a comfortable and supportive sleeping surface. I appreciate the durability of the materials, which have proven resilient to the rough and varied terrains of my outdoor adventures. This is a reliable companion for any backpacking or hiking trip, and its affordable price makes it an excellent value for the quality it offers. I highly recommend this product to fellow outdoor enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, compact, and comfortable sleeping solution. Five stars all the way!" —Wesley Latch

A lightweight Nalgene water bottle so you can get to chugging, because hydration is super important, and when you're exerting yourself by hiking 8–12 miles a day, you've gotta be on top of that H20 intake! 

Promising review: "I like that Nalgene made a lighter bottle for hiking. As everyone is aware, water is heavy! Probably one of the significant reasons why your backpack is heavy! This bottle is about half the weight of a regular Nalgene bottle, so it cuts a few ounces from your pack. Every little bit helps!" —Peter

A compact fire starter tool with a six-function striker that works as a fire starter, tinder scraper, map scale, ruler, hex wrench, and bottle opener. Man, do we love a multitasker! It works whether wet or dry, and no matter the altitude, and it provides up to 15,000 strikes. 

Promising review: "As a backpacker, I always have at least two methods of fire starting in my kit. This is a very nice and well-made ferro rod and striker that consistently throws a heavy shower of sparks. Weighs less than 2 ounces, so that's a big plus for my ultralight backpacking endeavors!" —J. Helms

An ultralight folding chair, because after hiking for 10 hours, sitting in a legit chair vs. on a log or boulder sounds a HECK of a lot better. This smart design weighs just 2.7 pounds and features rip-stop ballistic nylon and a high-strength aluminum alloy construction, suitable for up to 330 pounds. It also folds down into a 14.2 x 4.7 pack you can pop in your backpack or hang it from your pack with a carabiner. 

Promising review: "I bought these chairs for a backpacking camping trip. They were very light to carry and folded up very compactly, so they didn't take up much space. Once at the campsite, they set up very easily, even though it was getting dark. Much more comfortable than sitting on a cold log or the ground. I plan to use them this spring for a concert I have lawn seats at. I'm sure there will be some jealousy when I set these up." —Dave

Get it from Amazon for $36.99+ (available in five colors and in packs of one or two).

A super-bright headlamp, so when there's a bump in the night, you can poke your head out of your tent and make sure everything looks kosher. Of course, it's also great as a hands-free lighting source when you're prepping dinner, setting up your tent, or navigating to your makeshift loo. 

Promising review: "I recently purchased a rechargeable headlamp for camping and outdoor activities, and I couldn't be happier with my purchase. The headlamp is comfortable to wear and provides a bright, adjustable light that is perfect for nighttime hikes and setting up camp. The rechargeable battery is convenient and long-lasting, and I appreciate not having to constantly buy and replace batteries. The overall build quality is impressive, and the headlamp feels sturdy and well-made. I would highly recommend this rechargeable headlamp to anyone in need of reliable hands-free lighting for their outdoor adventures." —Laurel

Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in three colors).

A must-have first aid kit, because it's always better to be overprepared. This set has everything you need to tend to backpacking booboos, from blisters and scrapes to bugbites and splinters. 

What's included: 1 pair of gloves, shears, tweezers, 22 bandages, dressing, 3 wipes, an elastic bandage, 5 safety pins, 3 gauze packages, 2 splinter removers, 10 cotton swabs, surgical tape, and 1 CPR mask. 

Promising review: "This first aid kit is one of the most reliable and well-designed emergency kits I’ve purchased. The quality of every item stands out, and the durable case protects everything inside, even when stored in the car or taken on outdoor trips. For the amount of supplies included, the price is excellent, offering real value without sacrificing quality. It’s thoughtfully organized, easy to carry, and practical for travel, home, or camping. Every piece has its place, making it quick to find what you need in an emergency. Overall, this kit delivers durability, usefulness, and high quality in one compact package. Highly recommended." —Lesly Pimienta

Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in four sizes).

A stainless steel folding knife — a versatile tool that'll come in clutch when preparing food, cutting cordage, prepping a fire, repairing gear... You name it. 

Promising reviews: "In my opinion, it’s the perfect knife for camping or backpacking. Very light, sharp right out of the package. Highly recommend." —fred hess

"Perfect little knife — there's a reason they've been making them for so long! The grip feels nice, the locking mechanism is brilliant, and the leather sheath is a great addition, too. Very light and affordable, but without suffering from poor quality like many other knives. I'd definitely recommend it and plan to buy more!" —Max

A water filtration system, because if I've learned anything from Naked and Afraid (and I've watched more than 10 seasons), it's that just because water *looks* clean, that doesn't mean it is! This comes with a screw-on water filter, two 32-ounce collapsible pouches, one replaceable pop-up drinking spout, and a syringe filter cleaner. It removes bacteria such as Salmonella, cholera, and E. coli, as well as protozoa such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium, so you can avoid GI distress at all costs. 

Note: if you’re immunocompromised, be sure to read all the package instructions to make sure it’s safe for you!

Here's what BuzzFeed contributor Rachel Dunkel has to say:

"I adore this water filter for its ease of use, adaptability, small size, and zero wait time. Just fill the bag, screw on the filter, and roll the bag to squeeze the filtered water into your bottle. You don't need to wait for it to be done like with water treatment pills or gravity systems, and there's no funky taste — just fresh, clean, crisp water. If even the bag-filling situation sounds like it would take too much time, you can also screw the filter DIRECTLY ONTO A WATER BOTTLE and drink straight from it. Game-changing. Either way, it's a quick, lightweight system that I completely recommend."

Promising review: "Excellent product and a must-have while going hiking or camping where there's no clean water available. Because you can squeeze water through the filter, it takes no time for you to get drinkable water. Back flushing helps extend the filter's lifespan and comes with a syringe for back flushing." —Harlie

A multipurpose buff that'll not only make you feel like you've been dropped in Fiji for the latest season of Survivor, but offer UPF 50 sun protection. It can also be worn 12 different ways — so you can get creative with it, like alums Bob Crowley (buff bowtie!) and Kenzie Petty (buff hair bow!). 

Promising review: "This was very useful for backpacking. Makes a good balaclava, neck warmer, and I am bald, so it has enough material that I can put it on just my scalp, twist it twice, and double down for total coverage as a beanie with no gap at the twist. Also can be wetted and draped over the neck for cooling. HIGHLY recommend. This is true excellence." —Drumdogma

Get it from Amazon for $18.70+ (available in three colors). 

Some dry-touch SPF 70 so you're protected during prolonged sun exposure. It's also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so a little sweat or a quick dip won't interfere. 

Note that the AAD recommends using at least SPF 30 and reapplying as needed for skin protection. You can read about sunscreen myths and facts from dermatologists for more information! 

Promising review: "I use this as a face sunscreen on my 'heavy outdoor' days — beach, sweaty hikes, etc. It doesn't migrate into my eyes or cause stinging, and the texture is moderate enough that I can reapply without feeling like I am spackling my face." —a music lover

An anti-blister balm, because the last thing you need is your hiking boots rubbing your feet raw on day one of your trip. 

Check out a TikTok of the anti-blister balm in action!

Promising review: "I won’t go hiking without it. Helps keep my feet comfortable all day long. Definitely helps protect against blisters. I strongly recommend this to all my travel buddies!" —Chris Eschbaugh

Get it from Amazon for $8.99 (also available in packs of two).

A Black Diamond sun hoodie with UPF 40+ so you don't burn to a crisp on your next trip. That said, it's also lightweight, so you won't sweat out more H20 than you can carry. 

BF shopping contributor Rachel Dunkel (pictured above) says: 

"I've started to take sun protection super seriously, so a long-sleeve UPF 50+ option is a must. And even as the sweatiest person alive who refuses to pack deodorant when backpacking (extra weight? No thanks), it keeps me dry no matter how many miles I trek."

Promising review: "I love these. They fit great and are lightweight. I wear them on hot summer days and never feel like I'm sweating. I have several colors and can't wait to collect more." —Kc H.

Get it from Black Diamond for $109 (available in women's sizes XS–XL and four colors).

A pair of Darn Tough socks with reinforced heels and toes and cushioned soles, so a long day on the trail doesn't have to destroy your feet. They're also made from merino wool, which wicks away moisture and helps regulate temperature. Plus, they're quick-drying, so if you step in a puddle today, you won't be SOL when it's time to dress tomorrow. 

BF shopping contributor Rachel Dunkel (pictured above) says: 

"Hot tip for my hiking friends with muscular calves: My life changed the day I started just ordering socks in men's sizes! I'm a size 8.5 and find that a men's medium in these socks sits great. Not too big on the foot while leaving ample room for my legs as I FLEX UP THAT MOUNTAIN, BABYYYYYYY!"

Promising review: "Amazingly comfy and durable! These socks are like walking on clouds in comparison to cheaper options. The price, I feel, is justified not only by how comfy they are, but also by the lifetime warranty. Just don’t lose them!" —Jake

Get them from REI for $26 (available in men's sizes S–XXL in nine colors/styles and in women's sizes S–L in eight colors). 

A waterproof backpack cover so everything you meticulously planned, weighed, and packed doesn't fall victim to showers that weren't originally part of the forecast. 

Promising reviews: "I hiked the Mist Trail at Yosemite National Park last week, and this cover was invaluable. It not only kept my pack contents dry going to the top of Vernal Falls, but also a tripod attached to the outside. Later, on the John Muir trail I had to actually walk under a small waterfall. Again, the cover kept everything dry. After leaving the wet area, it dried quickly too." —Rick

"Packs small enough that I can carry it in a small pocket in my backpack. It’s been such a lifesaver during heavy rain!" —Marco campos

Get it on Amazon for $8.99+ (available in five sizes and in 11 colors and designs).

Some biodegradable soap you can use on your dishes, clothes, hair — you name it. It'll help you maintain some basic hygiene *and* won't hurt the environment in the process. 

Promising review: "We took Wild Wash with us on our hiking camping trip and it was phenomenal. We used it to wash our camp dishes, we used it to wash our clothes, and we even used it to wash our hair to get the forest dirt and grime. This was a great purchase, highly recommend." —C Pennington

Or a pack of biodegradable cleansing wipes if you're going on a quick trip where a few wipe-downs will suffice. At least get the pits and bits, people! 

Promising review: "Tough and very good. I’ve used these a couple of times on extended backpacking trips — lightweight and cleans very well. I hate getting into my sleeping bag, dirty. Awesome." —Robb Hattem

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BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.

Chelsea Stuart is a Market Editor on the BuzzFeed Shopping team who covers a little bit of everything, including home decor, travel, fashion, skincare, and pet products. She previously worked as a Travel Writer at Jetsetter, a TripAdvisor Company, and as a Senior Commerce Editor at DotDash, focusing on brands including TripSavvy and MyDomaine. 

Reviews in this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.