the Gear Garage
Every thru-hiker’s favorite topic: gear. Here you’ll find everything from packing lists and how-to guides for particular pieces of gear to gear reviews.
Since I started hiking in 2008, backpacking gear has changed in a revolutionary way! Because of those changes, I’ve used numerous packs, tents, hiking clothing items…you name it.
Everyone has a slightly different thru-hiking setup that works for their needs. On trail, most hikers pick and choose gear that works for them as they see others using it. I encourage you to use my gear experience where it fits for you — you never have to use everything from one hiker; only what fits.
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Best Thru-Hiking Backpacks: 13 Backpacks, 17 Years & 20K+ Miles
You’ve likely found this post because you’re about to embark on an epic adventure. If you’re ready throw down some…
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Camino Packing List: What You Need and Don’t Need
Congrats on choosing to hike the Camino de Santiago—that’s a solid life choice! Now, you need a Camino packing list…
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How to Wash a Hiking Backpack: Full Tutorial
When you think about the smelliest piece of gear you own, you’ll likely think about your backpack and cringe. What…
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How to Clean a Tent after Camping All Summer
You’ve camped all summer at lakes, on the beach, in the mountains, and everywhere you wanted. Before you put it…
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SMD Haven Tent: A 4500-Mile Couples Tent Review
Looking for the best couple’s tent for thru-hiking? Consider the Six Moon Designs Haven Tent, an ultralight two-person tent for…
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Ultralight Thru-Hiking Gear List For Your Epic Backpacking Trips
Have a thru-hike or epic backpacking trip on the horizon, but need more gear? Never fear! Before you go, you…
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Backpacking Umbrella: Everything You Need to Know
I can’t believe what a difference a backpacking umbrella made for my sanity on thru-hikes! If you want to radically…
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5 of the Best GPS Thru-Hiking Apps
Getting on trail has never been easier with the advent of GPS hiking apps! But, as they get more popular…
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Six Moon Designs Swift X/V: A 4500-Mile Review
Want the best overall deal on an ultralight thru-hiking backpack? Check out either the Six Moon Designs Swift X or…
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5 Thru-Hiking Gear Items You Need to Buy in Advance
Whether you’re planning your first thru-hike or any subsequent one, you need to buy a few pieces of thru-hiking gear…
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18 Best Presents for Hikers Under $25 in 2025
There comes a time every year when you have to buy something for that thru-hiker in your life. But, after…
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Our Complete CDT Gear List as a Couple
Gear Item Who Packs It Weight Notes Backpack SMD Swift V Backpack with Vest Harness Both 36 oz We cut…
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Backpacking as a Couple: The Best Ultralight Thru-hiking Gear Guide
You’ve found a million posts on the best ultralight gear, but most of them are for solo hikers. But what…
