Hiking & Camping
From hiking boots to tents, our experts test the best from Osprey, Black Diamond, REI, Salomon, Big Agnes, Kelty, and more
The XTherm was one of the best sleeping pads we tested again! It is light enough to allow for the addition of the Z Lite without too much struggle. Not only does the Z Lite create a pop-free barrier between inflatables and the ground, it adds a significant insulation layer between your body and warmth sucking granite.
Credit: Brian Martin
Whether you love hiking, backpacking, or camping, our team of backcountry experts has been testing products side-by-side for over 12 years. Our process: we purchase the top 10-20 products in each category (like backpacking tents and sleeping pads) and then we send our expert testing team into the field. After months of using products in a wide range of conditions, we rate and score how each product performed and make recommendations based on key performance metrics. Whether you need a backpack, a sleeping bag, a camping tent, a cooler, a pair of hiking boots, or anything in between, let us help you find the perfect product for you.
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Best Pick Reviews in Hiking & Camping
Best Hiking Gear of 2022
Our experts list our favorite hiking gear picks so you can have the best experience on the trail.
Best Backpacking Gear of 2022
If you are gearing up for Backpacking, we've got you covered with our comprehensive list of the best gear of the year.
Best Hiking Boots of 2022
We've done the homework for you on men's hiking boots, buying the most popular models, hiking many miles on varied terrain and measuring them against their competitors.
Best Hiking Boots for Women 2022
Now is the time to invest in your next pair of hiking boots. But where to begin? We have narrowed down the options to the top models on the market for hands-on testing.
Best Hiking Shoes of 2022
We selected the top hiking shoes and put them to the test. After months of hiking on all types of trails, we wrote the most comprehensive hiking shoe review, which will help you select the...
Best Hiking Shoes for Women of 2022
We're here to help you sort through the options for the best women's hiking shoes. We tested the market's leading pairs, then picked the 13 leaders for thorough side-by-side testing.
Best Rain Jackets of 2022
Whether you need an all-around rain jacket or one suited for specific types of applications or budgets, we have a pick for you. We analyzed over 80 jackets before purchasing
Best Rain Jackets for Women of 2022
In the market for the perfect rain jacket? We've tested over 25 models in the past 6 years to bring you this line-up of the best 11 rain jackets currently on the market...
Best Down Jackets of 2022
Searching for an awesome new down jacket but aren't sure where to begin? Our experts reviewed 12 of the best and most popular mid and lightweight models available on the market today to...
Best Down Jacket for Women of 2022
As you venture into the mountains or around town, a good lightweight down jacket can do wonders to make your adventures more accessible, fun, and safe. With modern styles, they're still...
10 Best Backpacks of 2022
We're always looking for the best backpacks to fuel our adventures. We tested hundreds of models this year and these are the best of the best.
Best Backpacking Tent of 2022
We analyzed hundreds of models before deciding on the top 14 to purchase for testing. We'll help you find the most comfortable, lightweight, weather-resistant, and easy-to-use tent for...
Best Camping Tents of 2022
From deserts to coastlines, we've tested camping tents for a decade and know a thing or two about sleeping well in the outdoors. Find out what tents have stood up to our rigorous testing...
Best Ultralight Tent of 2022
To bring you the best ultralight tent review, we've focused on options weighing less than two pounds. Thru-hiking on the world's longest trails, running from point to point, and...
Best Bivy Sack of 2022
What is the best bivy sack? Throughout the past few years, we have traveled near and far with a pack full of bivys to determine which are worth their weight and which should be turned into...
Best Budget Backpacking Tent of 2022
We researched over 45 models of budget-friendly backpacking tents and selected our top contenders to take out on trail.
Best Four Season Tent of 2022
Looking for a four season tent? Let us help. We researched over 50 of the most popular tents on the market and put the best 12 in head-to-head tests over several months. Our expert...
Best Rooftop Tents
Rooftop tents are all the rave, but purchasing one can turn into a bit of a headache. We selected 7 of the most popular models available today and put them to the true test.
Best Hammock of 2022
How do you find the perfect hammock in a market exploding with options? You lay around a lot. We tested the top contenders in the field side-by-side to help you find the perfect option for...
Best Handheld GPS of 2022
Looking to improve your backcountry navigation? We bought and tested 7 of the best GPS units on the market to help you find the right one for your next dream trip.
Best GPS Watch of 2022
Looking for the perfect GPS watch? Our experts spent hours looking over options before choosing 12 of the most popular and high-tech to test side-by-side. We tested them while running...
Best Altimeter Watch of 2022
To help you find the best altimeter watch for your needs, we researched over 40 and bought the best to test side-by-side while summiting mountains, hiking through canyons, and climbing...
Best Canopy Tent of 2022
If you're on the prowl for a canopy tent to suit your needs, you've come to the right place. Our experienced team has studied and tested nine canopy tents from three separate categories...
Best Coolers and Ice Chests of 2022
Looking to keep your food fresh and beers cold while you're out adventuring? We've researched and tested the best models for 8 years to bring you the top 20 options...
Best Soft Coolers of 2022
Which soft cooler is the best? To find out, we took fourteen of the top-rated and most popular models available and compared them side-by-side. From ice tests to beach days, we left no...
Best Powered Coolers
Feel like you're drowning in a sea of technical specs without a clue of what's best? Let us throw you a life raft of research and results we gained after months of testing the top powered...
The Hunt for the Best Headlamps
Need a headlamp? Our comprehensive review is here to help. We researched over 50 models before subjecting the best 27 to a gauntlet of hands-on, side-by-side tests. Each product was...
Best Lantern of 2022
We bought the best camping lanterns on the market and compared them side-by-side on our well-lit adventures across the U.S. to help you find the one that's right for you.
Best Binoculars of 2022
What are the best binoculars? We took 15 different models through rigorous testing in the outdoors to find out. We went birding at Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge, used them on the...
Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2022
We spent hundreds of days testing 15 of the best backpacking packs to give you the needed info to choose what's best for you.
Best Backpacking Backpacks for Women of 2022
Ready to go backpacking? We tested the top women's specific backpacks on the market to determine which one is best. After researching hundreds we bought the best to carry loads large and...
Best Ultralight Backpack of 2022
Keen to make ultralight backpacking more enjoyable? Over six years, we've purchased and tested over 25 of the best ultralight backpacks. We've done the leg work, highlighting our top...
Best Sun Hat of 2022
We evaluated over 40 models and purchased 15, which our team of experts put through extensive side-by-side testing. We can help you find the perfect sun hat for your kit.
Best Umbrella of 2022
When the weather goes sideways, you want an umbrella that won't. In this review, we tested 11 of the industry's leading umbrellas and found out how each one ranks across several metrics...
Best Budget Backpacking Packs of 2022
We know not everyone wants to pay for a top-tier backpack, so we've ranked some of the best budget backpacks on the market. They're not the most expensive packs you can find, but they...
Best Daypacks of 2022
Sizing up the daypack market and choosing what is best for you, your needs, and your budget is tough. Here we've done the dirty work for you, putting over a dozen packs through rigorous...
Best Daypacks for Women of 2022
If you're a woman in the market for a daypack, we can help. We considered 80+ different models and chose 13 of the best to rigorously test, side-by-side, for months....
Best Budget Backpacks
Are you in need of a new backpack for school or everyday use? Our team of reviewers independently purchased ten of the best selling backpacks to compare in series of side by side tests.
Best Travel Backpacks of 2022
If you are in search of the perfect travel backpack, then you've come to the right place. Through ample research and hands-on testing, we have found the top 14 options for all occasions...
Best Hydration Packs
Are you ready for a new hydration pack? Whether you're replacing an older model or looking to try one for the first time, we've got you covered. We tested the latest top models from...
Best Running Hydration Pack for Women of 2022
Only recently have female-specific hydration packs become popular and we sure are glad they did. Our running-obsessed gearheads have tested many of the most popular hydration vests in...
Best Running Hydration Pack of 2022
After months of researching the most popular running packs on the market, our testers dedicated hundreds of miles in variable conditions to determine which of our 13 finalists is best.
Best Hydration Bladder of 2022
Searching for the best hydration bladder? Our experts have personally tested today's top models for hiking, running, and climbing adventures around the world.
10 Best Sleeping Bags of 2022
Our never-ending hunt continues for the perfect sleeping bag in this 2022 update. Within this review, we highlight our favorite models from 7 sleeping bag categories. Whether you're...
Best Camping Sleeping Bags of 2022
A good sleeping bag can be essential to an enjoyable camping trip. We covered a lot of campgrounds to find the best bags for every camping challenge.
Best Laptop Backpacks
Seeking the best laptop backpack? After perusing over 80 of the best options on the market, we chose 9 to test side-by-side. We loaded up our binders, books, and laptops in each one while...
Best Backpacking Sleeping Bag of 2022
A sleeping bag is a cornerstone of your overnight kit. Picking the best one isn't easy. To ease the confusion we researched more than 100
Best Sleeping Bags for Women of 2022
With so many great products to choose from it's hard to decide what to buy. We help you choose by testing and assessing the top women's sleeping bags on the market
Best Fanny Packs of 2022
Are you on the hunt for a fanny pack? Looking to add a little flair to your outfit with a "bum bag"? Look no further, we're here to help. Our experts will show you which packs soar and...
Best Ultralight Sleeping Bag of 2022
We tested 15 of the top models available today to help you find the best bag for your lifestyle. Ultralight sleeping bags use top of the line materials and construction to keep you warm on...
Best Trekking Poles of 2022
Looking for the best trekking poles for your next hike or backpacking trip? Whether you're concerned with comfort, adjustability, weight or just the greatest value, we're here to help with...
Best Winter Down Sleeping Bags of 2022
With a plethora of sleeping bags to choose from, it can be hard to know how best to turn your hard-earned dollars into comfortable winter warmth. Fear not, we've researched over 55 of the...
Best Budget Sleeping Bag for Adults of 2022
Trying to make sense of all the different sleeping bags available today is a tall order. It doesn't have to be. We bought and tested 9 of the most popular sleeping bags priced low
Best Backpacking Sleeping Pad of 2022
No matter what your budget or backpacking style is, we can help you find a pad that will allow for the best sleep while in the backcountry.
Best Sleeping Pad For Women
Who makes the best sleeping pad for a woman? We spent dozens of nights in the backcountry testing out these 11 top pads to see which one gave us the coziest night's sleep...
Best Camping Mattress of 2022
Our search for the best camping mattress starts with sifting through over 40 models and choosing the top 14 from the bunch, then putting them head-to-head rigorous (not for our testers)...
Best Camping Cot of 2022
Searching for a comfortable way to sleep in the great outdoors? We bought the 10 best camping cots currently available and comprehensively tested them head-to-head all to help you find the...
Best Budget Hammocks of 2022
After researching more than 50 models, we bought the top 8 hammocks and put them to the test with a thorough hands-on review. We spent hours setting up and taking down each model, not to...
Best Camping Blanket of 2022
Hoping to stay cozy by the campfire? We are too, and we've selected 10 of the best camping blankets available to test for months of bundling and snuggling...
Best Camping Pillows of 2022
After side-by-side testing of 17 of the industry's top models, we feel confident that we've found some of the best camping pillow options for you. True, we did sleep on the job a lot.
Best Backpacking Stoves of 2022
We've been testing the best backpacking stoves for over a decade, and this current review has our 20 favorites. We purchased each stove for rigorous and thorough testing, spending more...
Best Camping Stoves of 2022
Love to cook? Searching for the best camping stove for you and your crew? Then, you've come to the right place. We tested 15 of the most popular camping stoves available, putting them...
Best Camping Cookware of 2022
Our expert on-trail chefs took to the trails, testing 16 of the best sets out there. After cooking over 100 meals in places all over the world...
Best Camping Coffee Maker of 2022
We drank enough coffee to blast-off into space to find the best coffee brewers for camping or backpacking. We considered options for any group size, budget, storage, or weight restriction...
Best Portable Grill of 2022
Our comprehensive review directly compares some of the best products available, so that you can focus on what to grill up during your next outdoor adventure.
Best Camping Chairs of 2022
When choosing the best camping chair, we have a lot of demands. It must be portable and last through lots of use and abuse just like our other gear, but also maintain the comfort and...
Best Backpacking Chair of 2022
Have you been stumped by the quest for a comfortable backcountry seat for your rump? We gathered data on over fifty of the most popular chairs on the market, and then carefully selected 11...
Best Camping Tables of 2022
A good camp table can make all the difference in a camper's kitchen set-up, and we're here to help you figure out which one will get the job done for you...
Best Sporks
Sporks are the perfect utilitarian utensils for eating away from the comfort of home. From workday lunch breaks to alpine adventures, this hybrid spoon-fork is an ingenious tool to keep...
Best Budget Backpacking Sleeping Bags of 2022
On a budget for your backpacking gear? Save cash with a bargain sleeping bag for your backcountry adventures without compromising quality.
Best Sport Sunglasses of 2022
Looking for the best pair of sport sunglasses available? We researched 100+ models and then bought the 21 best for our sun, sweat, and adventure-filled tests.
Best Portable Solar Charger of 2022
Are you in the market for a new solar setup? Perhaps the hundreds of options available online are a bit overwhelming? Look no further! We've reviewed over 65 solar panels before purchasing...
Best Satellite Messengers of 2022
We've got the most wilderness-savvy tech testers you have heard of. We look at satellite messengers first from the perspective of wilderness travelers and professionals, but also have a...
Best Walkie Talkies
We put 9 radios to a head to head test after scouring all of the top models on the market. After 150+ hours of testing in the field and lab, we have found the best walkie talkies and...
Best Energy Bars
With literally hundreds of choices available in the energy bar world, it can be hard to figure out which are the best ones. We've got you covered, detailing our favorites across all...
Best Water Bottles of 2022
We've been back in the ring testing this year's top water bottles. We have compared and assessed all aspects of these products to determine the best and worst of the bunch.
Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2022
What's the best backpacking water filter? For over a decade, we have tested 43+ unique models to find out. Our team of experts are seasoned backcountry experts with a passion for adventure.
Best Camping Shower of 2022
Go from camping to glamping by bringing a camp shower with you on your next outing. We've reviewed the top camping showers on the market to identify the one best suited to your needs...
Best Multi-tool of 2022
We directly compare 19 different models and draw on decades of experience with many more. Our findings are authoritative and based on real-world use and application. If you need a...
Best Camping Axes
Are you looking for the best camping axe for your splitting, limbing, and kindling needs? We bought and tested 11 of the best in a head-to-head competition. Check out the review to find...
Best Pocket Knife of 2022
We are knife experts that understand that you don't wish to be a knife expert. You want a tool to do tasks. We've unpacked the market and cover exactly what you need to know, and nothing...
Best Folding Saws of 2022
Are you searching for the best folding saw? Our team of expert gear reviewers diligently researched over 40 different options and then purchased the top 9 saws for extensive side-by-side...
Best First Aid Kit of 2022
Nobody plans on needing a first aid kit, but if you do need one you will be very glad that you have it, and that the one you have meets your needs. We checked out 13 of the best on the...
Best Fishing Reels
After thoroughly researching the 2021 market, we bought 8 of the best reels and rigorously tested them for months. All, so you can win the battle when the trophy fish calls.
Best Fishing Lines of 2022
We purchased the best fishing lines and tested each one to give you the information you need to make the right choice. Get ready to land the big one!
Best Fishing Nets
We picked the best fishing nets and tested each one to give you the information you need to make the right choice. Get ready to land that trophy fish!
Best Fishing Rods
The right fishing rod can mean the difference between angling glory and going home empty, so get ready to haul in the catch of the day.
Best Duffel Bags of 2022
A dependable duffel bag will take you and all your gear on the best adventures and will also make everyday travel a breeze. We've done years of research and hands-on testing and are...
Best Tent Stakes of 2022
Wanting to find the best tent stakes 2022 has to offer? We put in the research before buying 10 of the best to test rigorouslyRecent Gear Reviews in Hiking & Camping
Editors' Choice
Backpacking Packs - Women's
Gregory Deva 60 Review
This plush pack provides the level of support that is signature to Gregory but is slimmed down to make it sleeker and easier to pack.
Best Buy
Water Bottles
CamelBak Eddy+ Tritan Renew Review
With a reasonable price tag, a low number on the scale, and a design that promotes hydration, this bottle does it all. We
Best Buy
Water Bottles
Simple Modern Summit Review
It didn't take long for us to see that this bottle was going to be one of our favorites this year. It is large enough to keep you hydrated but lightweight and inexpensive enough to seem...
Best Buy
Daypacks - Men's
REI Co-op Flash 22 Review
The Flash 22 wins our Best Buy award for its impressive functionality while maintaining a low price and weight.
Editors' Choice
Rain Jackets - Men's
Arc'teryx Zeta SL Review
Scoring high in all metrics, it offers excellent versatility, durability, and water resistance, while still maintaining a reasonable weight and excellent overall mobility
Best Buy
Hydration Packs for Running - Men's
REI Swiftland Hydro Review
This pack works in the best, straightforward, simple way you want. With options for hydration systems and plenty of storage, any activity will be heightened with this pack on your back. At...Hiking & Camping Learning Center
How to Choose a Down Jacket
This article helps you decide which down jacket is the perfect one for you by going into much greater depth about the decision making process, as well as all of various features and...
How to Choose a Backpacking Sleeping Pad
We help you find the perfect pad for your next backcountry adventure and let you know where to spend and where to save money.
How to Choose a Personal Locator Beacon
What device should you buy and for what application? Below we break it down. Once finished, however, do read our complete Personal Locator Beacon Review to find out how each device scored...
How to Choose a Camping Stove
With so many different products on the market, it can be hard to decide which camp stove is best for you. Never fear, our dedicated review team has your back! We tested the best camping...
Expert Advice on Choosing the Right Backpacking Sleeping Bag
We break down exactly what to look for when buying your perfect sleeping bag.
How to Choose a Backpacking Tent
Picking the right backpacking tent means checking out a list of variables. Probably the first issue is deciding which is more important to you: comfort or light weight? Will you spend more...Ad-free. Influence-free. Powered by Testing.
GearLab is founded on the principle of honest, objective, reviews. Our experts test thousands of products each year using thoughtful test plans that bring out key performance differences between competing products. And, to assure complete independence, we buy all the products we test ourselves. No cherry-picked units sent by manufacturers. No sponsored content. No ads. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing and comparison.
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