How to Choose the Right Backpacking Gear (Without Overpacking)
When the trail calls, you answer. But before you lace up your boots and disappear into the pines, there’s the not-so-small question of what backpacking gear to bring and how to make sure it won’t weigh you down.
At its best, backpacking gear should do two things: keep you comfortable and stay out of your way. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a week off the grid, choosing the right backpacking backpack, sleep system, and hydration setup can mean the difference between a trip you remember for the views and one you remember for the blisters.
Choosing the Right Backpacking Backpack: Fit Comes First
The most important part of your gear setup is your pack. And it’s not about bells and whistles—it’s about fit, capacity, and comfort. A great backpacking backpack should hug your frame, distribute weight evenly, and adjust to match your body’s shape.
Take the Teton Explorer Backpack, for example (also available in a smaller frame size, the Teton Scout Backpack). Its ergonomic shoulder straps, lumbar foam padding, and multipoint adjustment system let you dial in the perfect fit. External stash pockets keep essentials like your rain jacket or trail snacks within reach, and the built-in hydration bladder compartment helps you stay hydrated on the move. It's even water-repellent-- a huge bonus when the weather turns on you mid-hike.
How to Choose Backpack Size for Your Trip
65L or 75L: Great for multi-day trips with standard gear.
85L: Ideal for longer trips or bulky gear like winter layers or photography equipment.
Stay Hydrated: Backpacking Hydration Bladders That Work
Ever tried to grab a water bottle while scrambling up a ridge? It’s not fun. That’s why a hydration reservoir is essential.
Teton’s hydration systems are designed for trail efficiency—featuring high-flow bite valves, push-locks to prevent leaks, and wide-mouth openings that make cleaning and refilling fast and simple. They’re also fully compatible with all Teton packs, so integrating them into your gear setup is seamless. Add one to your setup and forget fumbling for bottles.
Build a Comfortable Backpacking Sleep System
After logging miles all day, your sleep system is what stands between you and a miserable night. The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice comfort for packability.
Sleeping Bag: Warmth Meets Packability
Teton’s Leef mummy bag is ultralight but warm, thanks to its breathable lining and 3-piece ultra-puff hood that locks in heat even when temperatures drop.
Sleeping Pad: Comfort You Can Feel
Pair your bag with the Teton Altos inflatable sleeping pad. With body-mapped air pads and soft stretch fabric, it conforms to your shape and helps reduce pressure points. It inflates in about 11 breaths, packs down small, and helps keep punctures at bay, making it perfect for lightweight backpacking.
Don’t Forget the Little Things: Small Comforts, Big Impact
Even the most weight-conscious hikers know that a few creature comforts go a long way. Take our ultralight camp pillow, for example. Weighing next to nothing, it’s a simple addition that drastically improves sleep—and it pulls double-duty on the ride home, too.
Final Thoughts: Smart, Lightweight Backpacking Gear Pays Off
The best backpacking gear for beginners or seasoned hikers isn’t always the most expensive—it’s the gear that earns its spot in your pack trip after trip. Look for durable materials, thoughtful design, and a fit that matches your body. Prioritize comfort, hydration, and sleep, and your next trek won’t just be easier—it’ll be unforgettable.
Backpacking Gear FAQ
What should I pack for a 3-day backpacking trip?
Start with the essentials: a 65L backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, shelter (tent or bivvy), hydration bladder, stove, food, headlamp, and layers. Add comfort items like a pillow if space allows.
How do I choose a backpacking sleeping pad?
Look for lightweight, inflatable pads with body-conforming support. The Teton Altos is a great option with puncture resistance and compact pack size.
Do I really need a hydration bladder for backpacking?
Yes—especially for longer hikes. Hydration bladders keep water accessible and reduce the need for frequent pack removal.
Is 65L enough for a multi-day backpacking trip?
For most 2–5 day trips, yes. Unless you’re packing bulky gear or need extra food/warmth, 65L provides a good balance of weight and capacity.
Want to build your lightweight backpacking setup?
Explore Teton’s full line of backpacks, hydration gear, and sleep systems.