Backpacking gear is one of those things that’s constantly evolving. What works for one person might not work for another, and honestly… I’m still tweaking my setup every season.

That said, after a lot of trial, error, upgrades, and a few “why did I bring this?” moments, I’ve landed on a system that feels really solid heading into my 2026 backpacking trips.

This is everything I’m packing right now. Not because it’s the perfect list, but because it’s what’s working for me right now.

If you’re building your own kit, take what resonates, skip what doesn’t, and know you’ll figure it out as you go.

Pack System

Your pack is your home on the trail, so comfort and fit matter more than anything. I tend to rotate between packs depending on the trip length and how much gear (and dog gear) I’m carrying.

The Atom Packs bag is my newer ultralight-leaning setup that I’m still dialing in, while the Gregory has been a reliable, comfortable go-to. If I’m carrying extra weight (hi, Shadow), I will grab tried and true Gregory.

Shelter + Sleep System

This is where I don’t mess around and I am still trying to figure it out. Good sleep on trail = everything.

Tent: Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2
Sleeping Pad: Nemo Tensor All Season
Extra Pad: Nemo Switchback Closed Cell Foam Pad (for added warmth/support + for Shadow)
Pillow: Nemo Fillo Elite

The Copper Spur has been such a sweet spot between weight and comfort. I like having a little extra space, especially when Shadow comes along. That said, I have been considering downsizing to the UL 1, just to get my weight down ever so slightly.

I recently upgraded to the Tensor All Season for better insulation, and layering it with the Switchback gives me flexibility depending on temps and it provides a little extra protection for my pad. I also just like to have it as something to sit on or use as a staging spot for items at camp. Additionally, when Shadow is along for the trip, he gets his own cozy setup.

Kitchen Setup

I keep my cook system super simple and lightweight. I’m not trying to be a backcountry chef out there (although, that would be nice…)

Stove: MSR Pocket Rocket 2
Cook Pot: Snow Peak 700 Titanium Trek
Fuel: MSR Isopro 3.9 - 8 oz.
Utensil: Sea to Summit Frontier Ultralight Spork
Mug: Sea to Summit Frontier Ultralight Collapsible Cup
Food Storage: Bear Vault BV425 (I can usually get away with this for 1-2 nights, but will go with the 450 Jaunt for anything longer)

I am all about quick boils, easy meals, coffee in the morning. But if anyone wants join me who is into making backcountry pancakes, or a steak… I won’t complain.

Water System

Hydration is one of those things I don’t compromise on, especially hiking in the Sierra or desert.

Water Bottle: Hardside Hydration Wide Mouth Swig Rig I love this because it turns my normal water bottle into a hose, so I don’t have to pull my bottle out of my pack. It’s so much more efficient, especially when I am solo.
Extra Bottle: Silo Wide-Mouth Ultralite (48 oz) or Migo - I like having something extra for electrolyes.
Filter: Squeeze Water Filtration System
Bladder: CNOC Premium 2L Bladder

This setup gives me flexibility to carry more water when needed and filter quickly at camp or along the trail.

Safety + Essentials

These are the items I always carry, no matter the trip.

Headlamp: Storm 500-R Rechargeable Headlamp
Trekking Poles: Trailmade Trekking Poles
Snow Traction: Kahtoola Microspikes (when needed)
First Aid Kit: Mountain Series Backpacker Medical Kit (I typically break this down into a smaller/lighter version and take what I need for the amount of time I’ll be out)
Trowel: The DirtSaw Deuce #3 (this goes in my poop kit with hand sanitizer and wipes)

Clothing System

I try to keep this dialed and minimal, focusing on layers that can handle changing conditions.

Sunshirt: REI Sahara Sun Shirt
Pants: Athleta Headlands Hybrid High Rise Cargo Legging or Stio Pinedale Pant
Socks: REI Merino Wool Lightweight Hiking Crew Socks (I usually bring 1 extra pair of fresh socks to sleep in)
Top/Crop: Vuori Plyo Tank
Base Layer: Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip
Beanie: Patagonia Everyday Beanie
Sleep Layers: REI Merino Wool Base Layer Pants & Top
Hat: Tillak Wallowa Camp Hat or Cotopaxi Tech 5-Panel Hat

I’m all about pieces that are comfortable enough to hike in and sleep in if needed. The Athleta leggings have been a surprise MVP lately, especially with all the pockets, and sometimes I even sleep in them.

Footwear

Footwear is probably the most personal gear category of all.

Trail Shoes: Danner Trail 2650
Camp Shoes: Classic Crocs Clog

I’ve moved more toward trail runners for most conditions. They’re lighter, dry faster, and feel way less clunky than traditional boots.

And yes… I did say Crocs. No regrets. They’re super lightweight, closed-toe so I’m not constantly worried about stubbing my toes, and I love that they’re “convertible” — I can wear them as easy slip-ons or strap them in for a more secure fit. Makes moving around camp (and the occasional scramble) way easier.

If there is one thing I’ve learned, it’s this…

There is no perfect gear list.

Backpacking gear can be expensive, and it can feel overwhelming when you’re starting out. Borrowing gear, renting, or even taking advantage of return policies (REI Co-op 👀) can be a really helpful (and less wasteful) way to figure out what works for you.

This is just where I’ve landed for now, and I’m sure a few things will change by the end of the season. That’s part of the process.

If this list helps you dial in your own setup, that’s amazing. But I’m definitely not saying you need to go out and buy all new gear. My goal is just to help you make smarter decisions early on so you can avoid wasting money and time on things that don’t work for you.

Backpacking gear isn’t cheap, and looking back, I wish I had invested in quality pieces sooner instead of cycling through cheaper options that didn’t hold up. I probably would’ve spent less in the long run, slept better, and enjoyed my time on trail a whole lot more.

Happy hiking! 🥾