
Review: Nitecore AP01 Air Pump
The Nitecore AP01 is an ultralight air pump that uses a USB-C power bank, making it easy to inflate my sleeping pad and pillow without adding much weight to my pack.

The Nitecore AP01 is an ultralight air pump that uses a USB-C power bank, making it easy to inflate my sleeping pad and pillow without adding much weight to my pack.

The Zenbivy Ultralight Mattress has a high comfort to weight ratio, plus it packs down smaller than most mattresses, making it one of my favorite options for backpacking trips.

A modular three-piece backpacking pillow that balances support, height, and softness with adjustable comfort for better sleep at camp.

The Carbon Evo is an ultralight framed backpack that balances low weight with a stable, comfortable carry and supportive suspension for reliable on-trail support.

A lighter, more powerful, and quieter update to Flextail’s compact 3-in-1 pump — it inflates, deflates, and doubles as a tent light, making it a practical choice for backpacking trips without adding much weight.

The Exped Ultra 6.5R is an ultralight sleeping pad with an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio — delivering strong cold-weather performance in a highly comfortable design.

An integrated stove system that includes fold-out pot supports for using with other cookware, plus a pressure regulator for fuel-efficient, controlled flame and versatile cooking beyond boiling water.

The Zenbivy Ultralight Synthetic Bed is a new addition for 2026, bringing a synthetic insulation option to Zenbivy’s popular ultralight sleep system.

The Tarptent Moment DW is a lightweight one-person double-wall tent. This is the pre-2019 version that I purchased at the end of 2016 and have used on over 20 backpacking and camping trips.

The Durston X-Dome 1+ is a fully freestanding, double-wall shelter that offers a rare combination of lightweight design, high-quality construction, and generous interior space for one person.

The Enlightened Equipment Revelation is a highly customizable and ultralight sleeping quilt for backpacking.

The Tarptent Aeon Li tent is an ultralight single-wall one-person tent that utilizes trekking poles and stakes for setup. This is my go-to tent for most backpacking trips due to the low weight.

The updated Jetboil Flash backpacking stove offers fast boil times, fuel efficiency, and simple operation — ideal for backpackers who want reliable performance without the fuss.

For backpackers wanting a lighter pack that doesn’t feel ultralight-minimal, the Gregory Facet 55 balances a streamlined design with solid support, cushioning, and useful on-trail features.

Shaving weight usually means sacrificing comfort, but smart packing systems can help. I tested the Zenbivy Pack Liner to find out if it would allow me to carry a smaller, lighter pack.

Known for its exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT offers ultralight comfort and reliable insulation for three-season backpacking trips.

With a thickness of 4.6 inches and a soft stretchy knit fabric, the NeoLoft is easily the most comfortable backpacking pad I’ve used – and it's impressively compact when packed.

The Platypus QuickDraw stands out for its fast flow, smart design details, and added safety features — all in a compact, easy-to-use filter that’s ideal for both hiking and backpacking.

Combining quilt flexibility and sleeping bag warmth, the Zenbivy Ultralight Bed is a lightweight, luxurious choice for ultralight backpackers who want maximum comfort and premium materials.

The 2025 REI Half Dome 2+ offers a durable, spacious, and affordable option for campers and backpackers alike — building on a long history as a trusted favorite since 1980.

Gossamer Gear's The One is a single-wall, trekking pole-supported tent that offers excellent value without stepping up to the steep cost of similar ultralight backpacking shelters.

The REI Flash 55 is a budget-friendly backpack that manages to be both lightweight and feature-rich, with multiple size options and an adjustable torso length for a more customized fit.

The Half Dome SL 2+ is a generously sized two-person freestanding tent for backpacking with two people, but it also makes a super spacious car camping tent for one.

With 3.9 inches of loft, an R-value of 4.1, and a 40% smaller packed size than its predecessor, the new Ether Light XR hits that sweet spot between performance specs and trail comfort.