As an avid hiker, I can attest to the importance of having reliable gear on the trail. That’s why I always turn to REI for my camping and hiking needs. Not only does REI offer a wide range of high-quality gear, but the company is also committed to sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices. In this article, I’ll share my top 10 picks from REI for the ultimate hiking experience.

Introduction to REI and Why It’s a Top Choice for Outdoor Gear

REI, or Recreational Equipment, Inc., is a specialty outdoor retailer that was founded in 1938. Over the years, REI has grown to become the go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from camping gear to clothing to footwear. What sets REI apart from other retailers is its commitment to sustainability and the environment. The company has a number of programs in place to reduce its carbon footprint and promote responsible manufacturing, such as its Opt to Act plan and its REI Co-op Used Gear program.

Essential Camping Gear Checklist for a Successful Hiking Trip

Before you head out on a hiking trip, it’s important to make sure you have all the necessary gear. Here’s a checklist of essential camping gear to ensure a successful trip:

• Tent: Your tent is your home away from home on the trail, so it’s important to choose one that’s sturdy, easy to set up, and appropriate for the conditions you’ll be facing.
• Sleeping bag: A good sleeping bag will keep you warm and comfortable at night, even in cold temperatures. Sleeping pad: A sleeping pad provides insulation from the cold ground and adds an extra layer of comfort to your sleeping setup.
• Backpack: Your backpack should be comfortable to wear, have enough space to carry all your gear, and be durable enough to withstand the rigors of the trail.
• Water filter: Clean drinking water is essential on the trail, and a water filter will help remove impurities and bacteria from natural water sources.
• Stove and cookware: A lightweight stove and cookware set will allow you to cook hot meals and boil water for drinking.
• Headlamp or flashlight: A headlamp or flashlight is essential for navigating in the dark or in low-light conditions.
• First aid kit: Accidents can happen on the trail, so it’s important to have a first aid kit with basic supplies.
• Map and compass: Even if you’re using a GPS device, it’s important to have a map and compass as backup in case your device fails.

Related Article: 5 Pollen-Free Hiking Trails for a Memorable Adventure’”

Top 10 Camping Supplies and Equipment from REI for the Ultimate Hiking Experience

1. REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus Tent: This tent is spacious enough for two people and has a durable rainfly to keep you dry in wet conditions.
2. REI Co-op Trailbreak 20 Sleeping Bag: This sleeping bag is warm, lightweight, and packs down small for easy transport.
3. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite Sleeping Pad: This sleeping pad is lightweight and provides excellent insulation from the ground.
4. REI Co-op Traverse 70 Pack: This backpack is comfortable to wear and has plenty of space for all your gear.
5. Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter System: This water filter is easy to use and removes 99.9999% of bacteria and protozoa from natural water sources.
6. Jetboil Flash Cooking System: This stove and cookware set is lightweight, compact, and boils water in just 100 seconds.
7. Black Diamond Spot Headlamp: This headlamp is bright, durable, and has a long battery life.
8. Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7 Medical Kit: This first aid kit has everything you need for basic medical emergencies on the trail.
9. Suunto A-10 Compass: This compass is lightweight, durable, and easy to use.
10. REI Co-op Trailbreak 60 Sleeping Bag: This sleeping bag is warm, comfortable, and affordable.

Choosing the Best Hiking Pack for Your Needs

When it comes to choosing a hiking pack, there are a number of factors to consider. Here are some tips to help you choose the best hiking pack for your needs:

Capacity: Consider how much gear you’ll be carrying and choose a pack with an appropriate capacity. Fit: Make sure the pack fits comfortably and distributes weight evenly across your hips and shoulders.

Features: Look for a pack with features that are important to you, such as a hydration system, pockets for organization, or a removable daypack.

Weight: Choose a pack that’s lightweight but durable enough to withstand the rigors of the trail.

Price: Hiking packs can range in price from less than $50 to several hundred dollars, so consider your budget when making a decision.

Some of my top picks for hiking packs from REI include the REI Co-op Traverse 70 Pack, the Osprey Atmos AG 65 Pack, and the Gregory Baltoro 65 Pack.

Backcountry Gear Essentials for a Safe and Enjoyable Hike

If you’re planning on hiking in the backcountry, it’s important to be prepared with the right gear. Here are some backcountry gear essentials for a safe and enjoyable hike:

GPS device: A GPS device can help you navigate in unfamiliar territory and track your progress on the trail. Bear spray: If you’re hiking in bear country, bear spray can be a lifesaver in an emergency.

Emergency shelter: A lightweight emergency shelter, such as a bivy or tarp, can provide protection from the elements in case of an emergency.

Multitool: A multitool can come in handy for a variety of tasks, from repairing gear to preparing food.

Water purification tablets: In case your water filter fails, water purification tablets can help make natural water sources safe to drink.

Warm layers: Temperatures can drop quickly in the backcountry, so it’s important to have warm layers, such as a down jacket or fleece, on hand.

Sun protection: The sun can be intense at high altitudes, so make sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Navigation tools: In addition to a GPS device, bring a map, compass, and/or altimeter to help you navigate.

First aid kit: Make sure your first aid kit includes supplies for treating blisters, cuts, and other common injuries.

Best Hiking Accessories to Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

In addition to essential gear, there are a number of accessories that can enhance your outdoor experience. Here are some of my top picks for hiking accessories from REI:

Trekking poles: Trekking poles can help reduce the impact on your joints and provide stability on steep terrain. Portable power bank: A portable power bank can keep your devices charged on the trail.

Camera: Capture memories of your hiking trip with a high-quality camera.

Binoculars: Binoculars can help you spot wildlife and take in stunning views from a distance. Compression socks: Compression socks can help improve circulation and reduce fatigue on long hikes.

Water bladder: A water bladder, such as the Platypus Big Zip EVO Hydration System, can make it easy to stay hydrated on the trail.

Hiking Apparel for Men and Women: What to Wear on the Trail

Choosing the right hiking apparel can make all the difference in your comfort and performance on the trail. Here are some tips for what to wear on the trail:

Base layer: A moisture-wicking base layer can help keep you dry and comfortable on the trail.

Mid layer: A mid layer, such as a fleece or down jacket, can provide warmth in colder temperatures. Outer layer: An outer layer, such as a rain jacket or windbreaker, can protect you from the elements.

Hiking pants or shorts: Look for pants or shorts that are comfortable, breathable, and allow for a full range of motion.

Hiking boots or shoes: Choose footwear that’s appropriate for the conditions you’ll be facing, with good traction and support.

Socks: Invest in high-quality socks that are moisture-wicking and provide cushioning.

Some of my top picks for hiking apparel from REI include the REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants, the Patagonia Better Sweater Jacket, and the Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX Hiking Shoes.

Backpacking Gear for Longer Trips and Overnight Stays

If you’re planning a longer hiking trip or an overnight stay, you’ll need additional gear to be comfortable and prepared. Here are some backpacking gear essentials:

Backpacking tent: A backpacking tent is lightweight and easy to pack, but still provides protection from the elements.

Sleeping bag liner: A sleeping bag liner can add warmth and comfort to your sleeping setup.

Camp stove: A lightweight camp stove, such as the MSR PocketRocket 2, can make it easy to cook hot meals on the trail.

Bear canister: A bear canister is required in some areas to protect your food from bears and other wildlife. Water bladder: A water bladder, such as the Platypus Big Zip EVO Hydration System, can provide easy access to water on the trail.

Trekking poles: Trekking poles can help reduce the impact on your joints and provide stability on steep terrain.

Hiking Gear Maintenance and Care Tips for Long-Lasting Use

Proper maintenance and care of your hiking gear can help ensure its longevity and effectiveness on the trail. Here are some tips for maintaining and caring for your gear:

Clean and dry your gear after each use to prevent mold and mildew.

Store your gear in a cool, dry place to prevent damage from moisture and heat. Patch any holes or tears in your gear as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Follow manufacturer instructions for washing and waterproofing your gear.

Replace any worn or damaged gear before your next trip.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts on REI’s Top Camping and Hiking Gear

Overall, REI offers some of the best camping and hiking gear on the market, with a commitment to sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices. From backpacks to sleeping bags to hiking apparel, REI has everything you need for a safe and enjoyable hiking experience. By following the tips and recommendations in this article, you’ll be well on your way to a successful trip on the trail.

CTA: Ready to enhance your hiking experience with high-quality gear from REI? Visit rei.com to browse our selection of camping and hiking gear today.