There are things in my gear closet that I’ve had for ages.
My patched-up puffy is a security blanket.
That backpacking stove that’ll light right up in the pouring rain.
The portable noise machine that keeps my daughter (and let’s be honest – me) sound asleep on a windy night.
This is my list of must-haves that just keep on giving. These gear reccos are items I’ve had for years, some so nice I’ve bought them twice as newer models come out.
These are absolute staples. Coveted gear that has literally been around the world and back. Durable. Dependable. And down for mile after mile.
This sunshirt is a game-changing layer. From the hot savannah of East Africa to the high alpine peaks of Colorado – this bad b*tch is always in my pack.
A fully functional (harness compatible) kangaroo pocket stashes almost anything, while the hood keeps the sun off your back.
If you want protection from the rays while feeling like you’re wearing an air conditioner, look no further than the Astroman Air Sun Hoodie.
I got tired of constantly swapping batteries out of my headlamp. Then I discovered the Petzl Tikka Core. All the functionality you need (hello red light, late night diaper changes) without tossing batteries in the dump.
The rechargeable battery pack was a game changer. Not to mention, the Tikka still takes backup AAAs for burly expeditions.
All-around winner for a budget-friendly pack that fits everywhere from under the airplane seat to in your backpacking bag.
Stay found and stay in touch. Perfect for a family on the go, group trips, or solo outtings.
Lightweight footwear my whole family loves.
These camping essentials have been in my gear arsenal for almost a decade. Buy it once. Use it for a lifetime.
An all-time classic in the backpacking stove world. I used to test stoves for Backpacker Magazine and nothing has ever come close to the abilities of the MSR Pocket Rocket. Nope, not even JetBoil.
Fast heat, quick meals, and compact storage make this a must-have for any backcountry camper.
I’ve had this cookset for almost 10 years and Teflon is still in great shape. That’s a tall order considering this set regularly bounces down the dirt.
With 2 bad shoulders, this is the only ground sleeping pad that won’t have me aching in the morning.
Sleeping quilts feel like a home away from home.
Our cooler is like a passport to our past adventures while refueling us on our current ones. Toddler approved!
Getting outside with a toddler is a big task. Having the right gear for the job streamlines even the biggest parenting days.
Let’s be honest. Baby sleep is a bit like rocket science. You want to head outdoors knowing your nugget is cozy, warm, and safe. Cue the Little Mo.
We started off with the Little Mo 40 and a fleecy onesie with footies.
We’ve since graduated to the Big Mo 20.
Both sleeping bags act like fluffy sleep sacks so both you and your young one can snuggle up and snooze confidently.
I hesitated on the price tag, but we’ve gotten more use out of our Guava Lotus Travel Crib than I could ever imagine.
From trips to grandma’s house to remote corners of the Grand Canyon, we’ve gotten mileage out of this packable (fits in an overhead bin) travel crib.
A little white noise lets everyone go to bed without distractions. We’ll admit, we love the sound machine camping just as much as our daughter does.
Yet another purchase I thought I’d regret and have gotten TONS of use out of. Dark shade for napping and let’s the breeze through.
Bottles and cups galore! This easy-to-pack travel bottle brush makes quick work of cup mountain on the go!
I’ll level with you – baby gear is pricey! I’ve found quite a few of the above items gently used on places like Facebook Marketplace and Mercari. I particularly like Mercari because it’s far less of a hassle. Just shop and buy – no need for pickup!
Use the code VMMZXV with the link below to get up to $30 off.
This list looks at the unexpected. The seemingly gimmicky stuff that actually delivers an elevated outdoor experience. These are things I don’t leave home without!
Have you ever wanted a blanket, poncho, and pillow all in one?
Listen, I didn’t think I needed one either until I met the Honcho Poncho. AKA my security blanket!
This was a gift, and it keeps on giving. I take it with me camping, plane trips, and weekend getaways.
It’s a great layer for some fireside chilling (complete with massively functional pockets) and I love using it as a pillow on the go!
Squat to pee? Say goodbye to exposing your backside with this incredible funnel device.
I’ve used this thing absolutely everywhere from backcountry camping to dirty public bathrooms. It’s life-changing!
I like it clean down there and the Culo Clean keeps it fresh. Perfect for number 2’s and camping on your period.
If you hike or backpack with a digital camera, the Peak Design Camera clip is a must-have!
Here at altitude, it helps to have a hand when you’re blowing up an air mattress at 12,000 feet. Compact and lightweight – this is my little splurge when I backpack.
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All opinions are my own.