camping hiking 312380837

Camping Hiking Essentials: Gear Up for an Epic Hike with REI Co-op

Planning a camping hiking trip? You need the right gear. REI Co-op offers 4,492 products for outdoor adventures. This guide will help you choose essential items for your hike. Get ready to hit the trails with confidence!

Key Takeaways

  • REI Co-op offers 4,492 camping and hiking products, including 519 backpacks and 412 tents.
  • Essential gear includes a good backpack, tent, sleeping bag, first aid kit, and navigation tools.
  • AllTrails app has 450,000+ trails and helps 65 million hikers with maps and alerts.
  • Top beginner trails include Navajo Loop in Bryce Canyon and Emerald Lake Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park.
  • Pack smart with a light backpack, water bottle, snacks, rain gear, and emergency items for a safe hike.

Essential Gear for Hiking and Camping

A worn-out hiking backpack leans against tall pine trees.

Gear can make or break your hike. Good stuff keeps you safe and comfy on the trail.

Choosing the Right Backpack

Picking the right backpack makes or breaks your hike. REI Co-op offers 519 hiking backpacks. Osprey and REI Co-op lead with 124 and 194 options. Prices range from $50 to $499.99. Weight matters – choose from 1 to 4.99 lbs.

Top picks include Osprey Exos and Gregory Maven.

A good backpack is like a loyal friend on the trail.

Comfort is key. Look for padded straps and back panels. Size your pack to your torso length. Consider capacity based on trip length. Water-resistant materials keep gear dry. Check user ratings – 421 products boast 5-star reviews.

Selecting a Tent for Different Conditions

After picking the right backpack, you need a good tent. REI Co-op offers 412 tent options. Big Agnes, NEMO, and MSR are top brands. The Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 2 Tent is great for two people.

For family trips, try the REI Co-op Base Camp 4 Tent.

Tents come in different weights and prices. Light tents (5-7.99 lbs) are best for backpacking. Heavier tents (8-11.99 lbs) work well for car camping. Most tents cost $200-$499. High-end models run $500-$749.

Check tent ratings before buying. Many have 4 out of 5 stars from happy campers.

Importance of a Comfortable Sleeping Bag

A cozy sleeping bag makes or breaks your camping trip. REI Co-op offers 523 options from top brands like NEMO and Big Agnes. Prices range from $100 to $499.99, with weights from 1.5 to 5 lbs.

Choose based on your needs – warmth, weight, and size matter most. A good bag keeps you snug in chilly nights and boosts your energy for daytime hikes.

Your safety gear is just as vital as your sleeping bag. Let’s look at the must-have tools for a safe trek.

Safety and Navigation Tools

Safety gear keeps you out of trouble on the trail. Maps and GPS tools help you find your way back home.

Maps and GPS devices are key tools for hikers. Paper maps offer a wide view of the area and work without batteries. GPS units give exact locations and can track your route. The AllTrails app has 450,000+ trails and helps 65 million explorers.

It offers offline maps and wrong-turn alerts with AllTrails+.

A map is a must-have for any hiker, but a GPS is a great backup.

GPS devices come in many forms, from handheld units to smartphone apps. They use satellites to pinpoint your spot on Earth. This tech has changed how we hike, making it easier to stay on track.

But it’s smart to carry both digital and paper maps for safety.

Safety Gear: First Aid Kits and Emergency Supplies

Safety gear is a must for any hike. A good first aid kit has bandages, pain meds, and antiseptic wipes. REI Co-op offers 387 health and safety items to choose from. Pack a whistle, flashlight, and extra batteries too.

These tools can save your life in an emergency.

Don’t forget water and food supplies. Bring more than you think you’ll need. A water filter or purification tablets are smart choices. Emergency blankets and fire starters are key for unexpected overnight stays.

With the right gear, you’ll be ready for any trail challenge.

Trail Recommendations

Trails come in all shapes and sizes. We’ve got picks for newbies and pros alike.

Best Trails for Beginners

Hiking newbies can start with easy trails. These paths offer great views without tough climbs.

  • Navajo Loop in Bryce Canyon: A 1.3-mile path with stunning rock formations. It’s perfect for first-time hikers.
  • Emerald Lake Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park: This 3.5-mile round trip showcases alpine lakes and peaks. The trail is well-marked and has a gentle slope.
  • Rattlesnake Ledge near Seattle: A 4-mile hike with a 1,160-foot climb. The trail ends with amazing views of the Cascade Mountains.
  • Trail of Ten Falls in Silver Falls State Park: This 7.2-mile loop passes ten waterfalls. It’s a bit longer but still good for beginners.
  • Avalanche Lake in Glacier National Park: A 4.5-mile hike through cedar forests to a crystal-clear lake. The trail is flat and easy to follow.

These trails are great for testing new gear like the Sea to Summit eVac Compression Dry Bag or Nite Ize Radiant 250 Headlamp. For more trail options, check out the AllTrails app with over 450,000 curated paths. Next, let’s look at some challenging trails for seasoned hikers.

Top Challenging Trails for Experienced Hikers

Experienced hikers love a good challenge. Here are some top trails that test your skills:

  1. Angels Landing: This 5-mile trail in Zion National Park has steep drops and chain-assisted climbs.
  2. Devil’s Bridge: A 4-mile round trip in Sedona with a natural stone arch at the end.
  3. Skyline Loop: An 8.5-mile loop in Mount Rainier National Park with steep climbs and amazing views.
  4. Cathedral Rock: A short but steep 1.2-mile climb in Sedona with rock scrambling.
  5. Sky Pond: An 8.5-mile round trip in Rocky Mountain National Park with waterfalls and alpine lakes.
  6. Upper Yosemite Falls: A tough 7.2-mile round trip with 2,700 feet of elevation gain in Yosemite National Park.
  7. Delicate Arch: A 3-mile round trip in Arches National Park with no shade and steep slickrock sections.
  8. Camelback Mountain: A 2.5-mile round trip in Phoenix with a 1,264-foot elevation gain.

These trails need good gear and planning. Let’s look at some camping and RV essentials for hikers.

Camping and RV Essentials for Hikers

Hikers need key gear for camping and RV trips. REI Co-op offers 4,492 camping and hiking products. Their Camp Kitchen category has 1,158 items. Sleeping Gear has 523 options. Hikers can find 519 Hiking Backpacks.

For shelter, there are 412 Tents.

Popular brands at REI include Big Agnes, Gregory, and Osprey. Prices range from $100 to $499.99 for most items. Top picks are the Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 2 Tent and Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Travel Blanket.

These items rate 4.0 out of 5 stars on average. Hikers should pack a good tent, sleeping bag, and cooking gear for their trips.

Packing Tips and Tricks

Pack smart for your hike with these tips and tricks. Learn how to fit everything you need in your backpack… Read on to become a packing pro!

How to Pack Efficiently for a Hike

Packing for a hike can be simple and quick. Here’s how to pack smart for your next trail adventure:

  1. Choose a lightweight backpack (0 to 0.49 lbs)
  2. Pack a first aid kit for safety
  3. Bring a map or GPS device for navigation
  4. Include a water bottle like Nalgene (12 fl oz)
  5. Add a compact cooking system (e.g., Jetboil Flash)
  6. Pack a rain cover for wet weather
  7. Bring a sleeping bag for overnight trips
  8. Add trekking poles for balance on tough trails
  9. Include a headlamp or flashlight for night hikes
  10. Pack snacks and meals in ziplock bags
  11. Bring a multi-tool or knife for repairs
  12. Add a fire starter for emergencies
  13. Include a small trash bag for Leave No Trace
  14. Bring a spare pair of socks
  15. Pack a light jacket for changing weather

Must-Have Items for Every Hiker

Now that you know how to pack, let’s look at what to pack. Every hiker needs these key items for a safe and fun trip.

  1. Backpack: Choose a comfy pack that fits your gear. REI offers packs from $20 to $50.
  2. Water bottle: Stay hydrated with a Nalgene Sustain or similar bottle. Pack extra for long hikes.
  3. First-aid kit: Be ready for cuts and scrapes. Include bandages, pain meds, and blister care.
  4. Map and compass: Bring both, even if you have a GPS. AllTrails+ offers offline maps for easy use.
  5. Snacks: Pack energy bars, trail mix, and fruit for quick boosts.
  6. Sun protection: Use sunscreen, lip balm, and a hat to avoid burns.
  7. Rain gear: Bring a light, waterproof jacket for sudden showers.
  8. Layers: Pack a warm layer and extra socks to stay cozy.
  9. Headlamp: A must for dark trails or late returns. Don’t forget spare batteries.
  10. Emergency shelter: Carry a light tarp or space blanket for unexpected stops.

Conclusion

Gear up right for your next hike with REI Co-op. Pick top-notch gear for safety and fun. Learn smart packing tricks to lighten your load. Explore new trails with confidence. REI’s expert advice helps you enjoy nature to the fullest.

FAQs

1. What are must-have items for a backpacking trip?

Essential gear includes a backpacking tent, sleeping bag, hiking boots, and a hiking pack. Don’t forget a water jug, cookware, and a spork or cutlery set. REI Co-op offers expert advice on gear for your adventure.

2. How do I choose the right hiking footwear?

Pick waterproof hiking boots or shoes that fit well. Consider the terrain – rugged trails need sturdier boots. REI has a wide range of hiking footwear to keep you comfy on the trail.

3. What’s the best way to set up camp?

Find a good spot at a campground or for dispersed camping. Set up your tent on level ground. Use a sleeping pad for comfort. Bring a packable camp chair to relax. REI’s gear recommendations can help you create the perfect campsite.

4. How can I stay comfortable during multi-day hikes?

Use lightweight, water-resistant clothing. Pack a portable stove and mess kit for meals. An inflatable pillow ensures a good night’s sleep. REI offers ultralight gear for backpackers who want to travel light.

5. What should I know about camping in different weather?

Be ready for all conditions. Bring layers for warmth, and a rain jacket for wet weather. Use a sleeping bag liner for extra warmth. REI’s outdoor experts can help you prep for any climate.

6. How do I care for my camping gear?

Clean and dry gear after each trip. Store sleeping bags uncompressed. Waterproof your boots regularly. If you need help, REI offers product support and warranty returns for most items.

Author

  • William

    I'm William an outdoor enthusiast who grew up hiking and camping in the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee. At greatopenoutdoors.com, I aim to inspire and help you by providing valuable insights and tips on making the most out of your outdoor adventures.

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