Hiking Supplies

This page will show you where to go for your hiking supplies. There is a list below, with links to a few of the best places to buy gear. Almost everything here applies to hiking and backpacking. For tips and recommendations on specific categories of hiking supplies, follow these links to other pages:

Lightweight Backpacks covers day packs and backpacks for multi-day trips. The new ultralight packs are lighter than many day packs, so you may want to consider getting one of these for both hiking and backpacking.

Hiking Clothes has some good ideas for outdoor clothing that you can buy or make. There is also a guide for those who want to travel light.

Hiking Shoes Versus Hiking Boots suggests that you give shoes a try, instead of those old-fashioned hot and heavy hiking boots.

Hiking Staffs is about the necessity, or lack thereof, for trekking poles and walking sticks of every kind. Did you know there are carbon-fiber trekking poles that weigh less than 6 ounces per pair, and are as strong as traditional poles?

Lightweight Rainwear covers some of your rainwear options. Hiking in mountains, in particular, requires rainwear that works well. Keeping it light means you won't be tempted to leave it behind when you go hiking.

Who Has The Best Hiking Supplies?

Who knows? But I have had good luck buying hiking and backpacking supplies from the following sources. I also tell you the reasons I like them, so you can decide if they are the right suppliers for you. (I also shop thrift stores and rummage sales for hiking supplies, but that will have to be another page someday.)

Backcountry.com has a large selection of backpacking gear, hiking supplies, and all things related to the outdoors. They also have decent prices, and they post independent reviews of their products-both good and bad. I like independent reviews.

REI has a good selection of everything related to hiking, backpacking, climbing and other outdoor activities. They are one of the best places to go for hiking equipment when you want the highest quality. They carry a good selection of freeze-dried meals and other backpacking/hiking foods. (I haven't tried these, as I usually use grocery stores for these supplies.)

SierraTradingPost.com has name brand hiking and backpacking gear and clothes for 35% to 70% off retail. I particularly like their closeouts, because I prefer to wear last year's style when it cost me 70% less. I've gotten some great deals on good running shoes here, too. You won't always find what you need here, but if you do, it will be good quality at a good price.

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