Basecamp
The expedition HQ
The best tent is no tent, but when bugs, rain, or cold say otherwise, you pack one.
Tents
I’ve been using this lately, and it’s been one of my best investments and upgrades. It’s roomy, easy to pitch, holds up in storms, and compacts nice and light in my pack. Sometimes I’ll skip the tent entirely and just cowboy camp if the weather’s right, because nothing beats sleeping under the stars after a long day in the field. I used the REI Passage 2 for years, and it worked great on a budget; find what feels like home and rock with it.
NEMO Hornet 2p
Sleeping essentials
Sleeping pads
01
Keeps you warm, cushioned, and off the ground.
For most trips, I use an old insulated Therm-a-Rest. It’s lightweight, compact, and feels super comfortable. For summer trips, I swap to the Klymit Static V or go with the ol reliable ground pad.
Sleeping bags
02
Warmth and survival in one.
My 3-season go-to is the REI Magma 30°, but in the alpine or colder months, I’ll swap to my Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 0°. Both are down-filled bags that compact super light.
Pillows
03
A small luxury after a long day
When space is tight, I reach for the Trekology Ultralight. It’s super compact, inflates in a single breath, and gets the job done. That said, I’ve fully converted to the NEMO Fillo. Nothing beats a squishy pillow.
Camp Kitchen
01
Cookware
Spoon + Fork = Spork
I’ve been running the Sea to Summit X-Set 21. They don’t make it anymore, but their whole line is solid. It’s great for backpack-style cooking, but if you’re trying to go ultralight, titanium setups can get the job done.
Water filter
02
The bare minimum lifeline.
My favorite piece of gear. The GRAYL Ti Geopress works as a bottle, a purifier, and a minimalist cooking setup all in one. Pair it with a small stove and you’ve got everything you need for tea, meals, or clean water on the fly.
Stoves
03
Your pocket-sized kitchen.
For most trips, I use the JetBoil Flash. It’s super fast, and has a heat indicator that tells you when your water’s boiling. For more casual trips or lightweight setups, I use a Pocket Rocket and my Grayl Ti.