Staying hydrated when backpacking and thru-hiking is crucial and the right water filter or purifier can make all the difference. In this post, I break down the best options—Sawyer Squeeze/Micro Squeeze, Katadyn BeFree, and Aquamira—sharing when I use each and why they’re my go-to choices for backpacking and thru-hiking.

Learn about the ultralight backpacking gear I used on my 2024 Wonderland Trail thru-hike in this detailed gear and packing list. The Wonderland Trail (WT) is a 93-mile loop around Mount Rainier, also known by its original name, Tahoma, given by the native Puyallup Tribe.

In this backpacking quilt guide, discover what quilts are, learn about quilts vs. traditional sleeping bags, and explore the advantages of quilts for backpacking and thru-hiking. I go over technical aspects like footboxes and fill power, and also provide my top recommendations for backpacking quilts.

In this blog post, I'll explore the various options for ultralight backpacking gear available at REI Co-op. REI has a wide selection of quality gear, customer-friendly return policies, and knowledgeable staff. This guide will help you navigate the essentials for a more enjoyable and efficient hiking experience.