Since I started backpacking a few years ago I've dropped some pieces of gear I didn't like (looking at you Sawyer filter that was always clogged up) and I've upgraded some pieces to reduce my overall weight. After my real world experience and reading tons of reviews, this is all of the gear I'd choose from Day 1 if I was starting from scratch.
This list isn't the best for everyone! I only go backpacking during the summer/early fall so if you're looking for gear that will get you through the winter, this isn't it.
Best Ultralight Backpacking Gear List for 2019
Tents
- Best budget tent: Eureka Spitfire 1
- Best all around tent: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 2
- Best ultralight tent: Zpacks Duplex
Backpacks
- Best budget backpack: REI Flash 65L
- Best all around backpack: Osprey Atmos 65L
- Best ultralight backpack: HMG 2400
Disclaimer: Backpacks are highly subjective and there's no "1 size fits all" backpack. I'd recommend finding a local store and trying them on in person. I bought my first pack from REI and quickly changed to an Osprey pack after trying several on in person.
Sleeping Bags
- Best budget sleeping bag: Kelty Cosmic 20 Degree Down Sleeping Bag
- Best quilt: Enlightened Equipment 30 Degree Quilt
- Best ultralight sleeping bag: Western Mountaineering Ultralite 20 Degree Bag
Sleeping Pads
- Best budget sleeping pad: Klymit Static V2
- Best all around sleeping pad: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite
- Most comfortable sleeping pad: Big Agnes Q-Core Deluxe Sleeping Pad
Water Treatment
- Best squeeze filtration system: Sawyer Squeeze (make sure you get the Squeeze, NOT the Mini)
- Best gravity filtration system: Platypus Gravity Works 4L
- Best pump system: MSR Guardian Purifier
Cooking/Eating
- Best stove: MSR Pocket Rocket
- Best cookware: Generic aluminum pot/pan set
- Best silverware: TOAKS Titanium Spork
- Best cup: IMUSA Aluminum Mug
- Food storage bag: Any dry bag
Clothing
- Best men's underwear: ExOfficio Underwear
- Best shorts: Nike Dri-Fit Shorts
- Best shirt: Nike Dri-Fit Shirt
- Best socks: Merino Wool Hiking Socks
- Best baselayer: Nike Dri-Fit Tights and Long Sleeve Shirt
- Best rain jacket: Marmot Precip
- Best rain skirt/pants: AliExpress Rain Skirt
Accessories
- Best backpacking pillow: Thermarest Compressible pillow [Full review here]
- Best GPS Phone App: Gaia GPS
- Best first aid kit: Ultralight first aid kit
- Best camera: Sony RX100
- Best tripod: Flexible tripod
- Best reader: Kindle Paperwhite
- Best cathole trowel: Deuce of Spades