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33 Genius REI Products
A four-function whistle that's a compass, magnifying glass, thermometer, and, of course, emergency whistle all in one handy-dandy little tool. Perfect to clip onto your pack just in case. Promising review: "Good multitool I like to have on my daypack. Clipped onto my sternum strap for easy access. Very lightweight." —Luis MPrice: $6.50 The iconic Petzl Grigri belay device, because if you've been rock climbing for a bit, chances are it's time to finally invest in one of these bad boys. The assisted brake gives peace of mind to both climbers and belayers alike, whether you're top rope or lead climbing. Need a locking carabiner to go with? I use a Black Diamond RockLock Screwgate Carabiner. Promising reviews: "Great belay device. I use it constantly and have had no issues with it. The paint will most likely wear off from rope friction, but the function of the belay device is great. Prefer it way more over my old ATC belay device." —Matt"I love my Pretzl GRIGRI. As a 5'4" woman who lead climbs with 6'+ guys, it saves my butt on a regular basis. I feel completely comfortable catching a whip with this, no matter what distractions are going on or how fast I need to react. It does take a bit of practice to learn how to feed the rope through smoothly for lead belaying, but after a bit of practice, it doesn't slow me down at all. I also feel much safer climbing with my belayer using an auto-locking belay device, and I've never had any issues with any Pretzel GRIGRI I've ever climbed with. I highly recommend it." —livhausPrice: $99.95 (available in three colors) A doggie life jacket to keep your tail-wagging co-pilot safe and sound as you adventure on the river, lake, or high seas. They've thought of every detail, like reflective trim and a sturdy handle, so you can yank them safely out of the water if needed. Promising review: "Zeke loves adventure, and being on the water is one of his faves. This jacket has all the necessary features needed for safety in the water, and is very well-made. Plus, the design makes for a very comfortable and non-restricting fit. I most certainly recommend this life jacket!" —Heather KPrice: $94.95 (available in sizes XS–XL and three colors) A Kula Cloth, aka the most amazing reusable pee rag money can buy. It has a waterproof external layer (that's the pretty printed one), an antimicrobial ~wiping~ side, and snaps that keep the cloth closed when you're not using it. If you're tired of doing a weird pee dance or straight-up damp underwear after going in the woods, here is the long-awaited solution! If you didn't know, now you know. Yeah, the Kula Cloth is life-changing if peeing in the woods gets you down. It's also super useful for general travel if you're traveling anywhere with an unreliable TP situation. There's also a little loop on the corner so you can just carabiner it to the outside of your pack if you're backpacking. Ya know how people who drive Jeeps nod at each other on the road. People with Kula Cloths on their packs nod to each other on the trail. It's a thing. Promising review: "I've had one for years now and it has been such a game changer from backpacking, camping, or just hiking. We take them everywhere outdoors, and I consider this one of the best outdoor inventions ever. If you don't want wet panties or have to be packing toilet paper into a baggie to pack out, this is the ticket! I wouldn't be without one outdoors!" —outdrgrlPrice: $20 (available in five patterns) And a portable outdoor bidet — you heard me right — to get that tush of yours squeaky clean even if the nearest bathroom is miles and miles away. Just fill the chamber with water, squeeze it, and you're good to go. Promising review: "I've been using a peri-bottle I once got at the hospital, but this thing is a seriously great upgrade. I bought it to go on a trip that requires wag bags, and I didn't want to backpack out a bunch of used TP. The bulb and spout direct a cleansing stream of water right where you want it. After six days of using this and a Kula Cloth to pat dry, I was fresh as a daisy, as they say. Everyone who was on the trip wants one now." —Amy BPrice: $14.95 An Osprey Aura AG 65-liter pack so you can hit the ol' dusty trail with everything you need in a supportive, cushioned pack that has all the special features you need, but not so many that it weighs you down. With a suspended mesh back, plenty of pockets, and a comfortable hip belt, there's nothing I don't adore about this pack. I call it my "Cadillac." ^That's me with the slightly older model on my first backpacking trip!Osprey's known for making exceptional packs for all kinds of journeys, and the Aura is no exception. It has a separated sleeping bag compartment, a huge mesh pocket on the outside for camp shoes and immediate needs, snack pockets on the hip belt, a whistle on the chest strap, large water bottle holders on each side, loops for trekking poles or an ice axe, sleeping pad straps, and compression straps to get your weight distributed *just* so. But best of all, a ton of these features are unclippable/removable if you're not using them and don't want the extra weight — because it adds up! I took the "brain" off my pack — a separate large compartment that goes over the pack's top — but it's included if you want it. I find that this pack's weight distributes very comfortably — at least as comfortably as it can be — and the cushions on the waist strap really did the trick. No bruising or even chafing, even on my first trip! Picking a pack is personal, especially since everyone has different intentions, needs, and bodies, but with how customizable this pack is, I'd recommend it to almost anyone. This was my first ever pack and it really helped me ease into the idea of ummm carrying everything I need, which is daunting! This is an extremely comfortable intro. I found the 65 to be a good size for starting out with larger/heavier beginner gear, but if you're going for a shorter trip, a summer trip where you have less bulk, or are already a lightweight packing pro, it also comes in a 50-liter review: "I bought this last year and am still very happy with my purchase. It has all the room I need, even when I carry a bear canister. It sits nicely on my hips, so I have no sore back at the end of the day. I couldn't ask for a better pack." —BobbiePrice: $340 (available in sizes XS–L and two colors; the Aura is technically a "women's" pack, but you can check out the "men's" version called the Atmos here) Or for ultralight backpackers, a Hyperlite 55-liter Southwest pack that weighs in at just two pounds — pretty compelling, especially if you're working hard to cut weight in your setup elsewhere. Its main mesh pocket will help you access snacks and extra layers, as well as dry any wet clothing, and its nearly waterproof construction is just the cherry on top. While you shouldn't expect the same comfort and bells and whistles as you might in a cushier (and heavier) pack, folks with ultralight setups swear by this bag for thru-hikes. I'm on the cusp of being ultralight, so I haven't quite taken the plunge and gotten it, but if (read: when, sorry, I love gear) I splurge on an ultralight pack, it'll be this one. Since I've mostly backpacked around the Appalachian Trail — known for nonstop rain — the near-waterproof body seems too good to be true. What does nearly waterproof mean exactly? It's made of waterproof material, and its seams are taped, rendering it mostly waterproof, but Hyperlite knows better than to promise these things. It's always smart to double up on waterproofing on important items just in review: "Used this pack for my 2024 Appalachian Trail thru-hike. Held everything really well, had no issues whatsoever. As a matter of fact, after 2200 miles it's still going strong!" —RogerH289"I got the black version, 55L, and it worked great for the PCT. After 2,000 miles, there was some wear on the bottom where the struts rub on the bottom of the pack, but mostly cosmetic and nothing major. I didn't have back issues or shoulder pain, which I've experienced with other packs in the past. The 55L provided enough space. For sections of the hike where I carried a bear can, I just strapped it to the top of the pack and didn't have any issues. Whole thing felt solidly built and would buy again if I needed another." —JackPrice: $379 (available in two colors) A Nemo Chipper seat pad so you can join the veritable army of outdoor enthusiasts who swear by this simple and elegant little "chair." Use it to keep your bum clean while you take a rest, give yourself a little more padding wherever you need it when you sleep, as a list goes on and on. Plus, it's made out of reclaimed and remolded foam scraps, hence the funky, cool colors. Promising review: "This is a luxury item, but the kind you can easily justify because of its compact size, lightweight, and versatility. I'll throw it in both a backpacking pack and a day pack. I've used it under my sleeping pad to add a little more padding under my hips, to make a picnic bench cleaner and softer, to sit on in a parking lot while changing shoes, to widen the top of my hammock so it's not closing in on my head, and of course just to sit on when taking a break. I rest my pack against a tree and use it and the Chipper to make a nice recliner in the woods." —GorillaJasonPrice: $19.95 A chalk bucket by Organic Climbing that probably looks familiar if you've spent a decent amount of time at the climbing gym lately. Plunge your hands into this bucket made out of upcycled scraps (resulting in a fun ~mystery~ colorway with every order) and send your next project with ease! Because all you need to level up is a cool chalk bag, right...? Promising reviews: "I bought this chalk bucket for an outdoor bouldering trip in Colorado, and it served me so well! You'd think it'd be bulkier or harder to carry around, but it's exceedingly practical for climbers with pretty sweaty hands like me lol." —Probablyclimbing"If you want a good-looking chalk bag that holds lots of chalk and is durable, look no further than this bag. Since purchasing this bag, I've gotten a few compliments at my climbing gym. Can't go wrong with organic climbing." —PaulPrice: $39.95 A Nathan QuickSqueeze Plus Insulated Handheld Water Bottle with a phone pocket and adjustable strap so hydration is always at your fingertips on trail runs. Promising review: "Perfect size for an hourlong run! Holds car keys, credit cards, and a gel or two, and is super easy to hold." —MCTPrice: $35 A Leatherman Signal multitool that slams a whopping 19 tools and functions into one little package so you're prepared for anything that comes your way in the backcountry. OK, and in regular life, when you just need a bottle opener. The tools on this Leatherman include a stainless-steel blade, needle-nose/regular pliers, wire cutters, screwdrivers, saw, awl, can/bottle opener, carabiner, safety whistle, and a fire-starting ferro review: "I'm amazed at how many useful tools are crammed into this Leatherman. It took me a good hour to read through all the instructions to discover all there was. Very comfortable and easy to grip and use. Truly an amazing tool." —JoeMPrice: $139.95 Rhino Skin Solutions Repair Cream because a climber is only as strong as their fingers, and that includes the skin! Taking good care of your precious hands is a big part of climbing consistently, so reach for this menthol, honey, tea tree oil, and willow bark–packed lotion to give those hard workers a little R&R. Promising review: "Always keep a bottle in my car! Originally got to keep those hands sending on long climbing trips…now a part of my winter kit too, living in a really dry climate. Smells amazing and does the trick, but without being super heavy or greasy. Have tried a lot of different climber's skincare 'repair' creams/balms; this will always be my go-to." —KDizzlePrice: $18.95+ (available in two sizes) A camp spork so you're ready for scoopin', stabbin', and eating an all-around delicious backcountry meal. Promising review: "I bought two of these, one for each of my kids, for a backpacking trip we took together. They loved the novelty of this spork and how light it was in their pack. I had one of these 15–20 years ago, and it was one of my favorite pieces of equipment. My kids are hard on gear, and I can tell that these are going to hold up well. They clean easily with soap and a little brush, and the tines are wide enough apart that you can get any 'stuck in there' food out easily. I do regret getting the dark blue as it would be hard to see if you dropped it. The pale teal one was easier to spot." —Kristy SutinPrice: $4.95 (available in three colors) A Ninja PFD (that stands for "personal flotation device," aka a life jacket) by NRS, the most beloved rafting, kayak, and water sports gear brand around. The thoughtful fit gives you a great range of motion for paddling while still conforming to the body, and it has lots of special features like zippered pockets, attachment points, and a silicone-coated waistband to help keep it in place while taking a dunk. Promising review: "This was recommended to me by a sales associate. They were out of stock in the store, so I ordered it online. Design works great for paddling! The style allows for a much better range of movement than the normal zip-up PFD. It's lightweight and easy to put on and take off with two side buckles and two shoulder straps. Front pocket is great for storing stuff; can fit a phone in a dry bag with room for a wallet and keys." —AlisonPrice: $149.95 (available in sizes XS–XXL and four colors) A pair of collapsible trekking poles for aiding your climbing (and making you look super legit). Yes, they help you get up the mountain, but we're not talking enough about how useful they are for getting down. Step with certainty and do your knees a favor by getting yourself a reliable pair! You don't want to skimp on quality with a piece of gear you're putting your weight on, uhhhhh next to a cliff edge. Under-$100 is a nice little price point for a high-quality set that's much cheaper than the alternatives while still making sure they're going to be safe and last you a long while. Promising review: "For the price, these are excellent trekking poles. I've brought them on day hikes and multi-day camping trips, which prop my tent up. They're significantly cheaper than carbon and weigh nearly the same. If you're getting into hiking and aren't sure what to get, go for these, they're the best all-around introduction to trekking poles." —EKTPrice: $79.95 (available in two colors) A self-inflating sleeping pad so you don't have to huff and puff into your pad after hiking all day and setting up your campsite. I recommend this pad for car campers or backpackers looking to get their feet wet and start to build out a kit. It's not the lightest, *but* at under $100, it's a great deal for the quality and on the low end of the price spectrum of what the typical fully inflatable backpacking pad costs. Promising review: "I love this pad so much. It keeps me warm in the winter, is the most comfortable pad I've ever slept on, and the material doesn't stick to you. 10/10 recommend. I love it so much I just deal with the weight and take it on my backpacking trips too." —HarryAHPrice: $84.95 (available in short, regular, regular wide, and long wide sizes) Or a Big Agnes Divide Insulated Sleeping Pad if you want a small, lightweight pad you can take on backpacking trips. Bonus if you're a side sleeper — fully inflatable pads tend to be the most comfortable for folks like us! I've had a Big Agnes inflatable pad for three years and it's pop-free, even after camping in the desert where basically everything is pokey. This 3.25-inch thick pad has an R-value of four, meaning it'll insulate you well through spring, summer, and fall. Promising review: "I slept on this over five weeks on a bike tour during a very rainy Norwegian autumn. The product dries quickly, is durable, and I found it very comfortable. I wish it compressed to a smaller size, but I didn't want to spend the extra money, and it probably would have sacrificed some durability. I always woke up refreshed after a long day of biking. Five stars!" —Ciao90Price: $119.95+ (available in five sizes, including a double size) A Black Diamond Momentum Harness Package for any new climbers looking to get an amazing deal on all the gear they need to get started. It comes with a harness, ATC belay device, locking carabiner, chalk bag, and chalk, all for $100. Woohoo! Your mother would be proud you got such a score, but mayyyybe don't tell her you're super into dangling off cliffs yet. $$$ can be a real barrier to entry for starting to climb since you need some gear to get started, but I really do think this is a sweet deal! Just nab some shoes and you're good to go for literal YEARS. One and done until the gear gives out, which should be a long while when you're buying from a trusted brand like Black review: "A great all-around harness! I've been using it for about three months now for several outdoor all-day climbing trips and at the gym three to four times a week. It's been comfortable for everything from rappelling to crack climbing. It's easy to fit into my bicycle bag and can tuck nicely into any of my backpack pockets. The gear loops are well-designed, and the placement was clearly thought through. The right side loops are great for my chalk bag and anchor kit, as they are easy to access! My left-side gear loops work great for carrying quickdraws, ATCs, or anything else I need! Great harness for climbers of every level while sport climbing. I would love to see a bit more adjustability in the leg loops, but other than that, wayyy better than the gym rentals I had been using before!" —AndyPrice: $99.95 (available in men's sizes XS–XXL and women's sizes XS–XL) A cute little camp table so you have a place to rest your drinks, play cards, you name it! You'll never be mad to have a spare surface around that's not uhhhh the cold, hard ground (no offense to the cold, hard ground). Promising review: "We had one of these tables, liked it so much, we bought a second. Extend the legs, then flip it out to set up. Takes 15 seconds. It's very stable and great for a side table or a table for two. Very nice quality." —Camp4smorePrice: $43 A Stanley 14-Piece Wildfare bowl prep and cook set that has everything you need to prep, cook, and eat simple campground meals. Stanley may have recently gotten popular for their big ol' cups, but never forget they started in the rugged, reliable camp gear game. The kit comes with a 1.5-liter saucepan with a fold-and-lock handle, a lid with vent and strain holes, cutting boards, removable trivets, two bowls, two two-piece sporks, and a two-piece spatula. And it's all dishwasher-safe, so cleanup is super easy once you get home from your adventure. Price: $45 A Rumpl Camp Pillow if you refuse to go even one night without a snuggly pillow but don't want to sacrifice your home pillow to the wilderness gods. I *love* this pillow for its double-sided fabric (one cooling, one soft), perfectly plush feel, and ability to fold in half into this little stuff sack. I thought I was done with outdoor pillows for good until this one from Rumpl walked into my life. Wanting something outdoor-specific but disappointed by inflatable models, my backpacking brain transitioned me fully to just using my clothes bag, even when car camping! But thank goodness I've finally found an outdoor pillow I dig so I can get a good night's sleep when on trips with a little more gear! It really is so plush and comfy, and at the end of the day, that's all I really want from a pillow! I use the fleece side because I tend to sleep cold, but it's nice to know the cooling side is around for the next time I'm on a humid trip. Is the pillowcase machine-washable? You bet! That's the Rumpl $49 A Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil roll-top dry sack because keeping your camp clothes and electronics dry is absolutely essential for any fun, safe camping trip. My love for these lightweight waterproof bags can't be stifled. On my camping trips, I always bring two of these bags that each work double time. One serves as my clothes bag, and the other is my food bag since it's easy to hang as a bear bag as well. Sometimes I bring another for my electronics, but sometimes they just go in with my clothes. But enough of my packing specifics — the point is, they're incredibly reliable, actually waterproof, and being able to pack them down nice and small as you take things out of them is amazing out in the wilderness and for storing at home. Promising review: "Bought this last minute for a three-day backpacking trip (3L size) to stuff my day food in the outside mesh pocket of my pack, so I wouldn't have to go inside my pack to find my food while on the trail. It's a great size for various items and fits easily in the outside pocket. Stayed dry during the rain, and it is easy to fold over and keep secure. Love this little bag. Might get more for other items." —JenniPrice: $22.95+ (available in six sizes and four colors) A reflective vest to make sure drivers see you in the dark when you're running super early or late at night. This vest isn't restrictive and is very adjustable, so throwing it on under whatever layers you have, depending on the season, won't be a problem. Promising review: "I feel much safer riding after dark now that I have this. The reflective bands are really bright. It is easy to adjust its size so I can wear it over a heavy or light jacket (or no jacket at all) depending on the temperature." —GeorgePrice: $35 A Hest Foamy Sleeping Pad for anyone who refuses to be any less comfortable sleeping outdoors than they would in their comfy bed back home. More power to ya! This rollable pad has two layers of memory foam, a waterproof bottom in case your tent gets wet, and has a compression harness that doubles as a welcome mat. Aw, home sweet home. Promising review: "If you are looking for a mattress for car camping or extra bed in a hotel, this is it. So much more comfortable than any air mattress or sleeping pad. I'm 6'3" and 230 pounds, and this mattress is better than half of the hotel beds I have slept on. It's incredible." —JlendoPrice: $249+ (available in short, regular, and regular wide sizes) A Garmin inReach Mini 2 to help you stay in touch with loved ones or in case of emergency when you're out in the backwoods with no cellphone service. A huge relief to have for hikers of all kinds, especially if you love nothing more than a good solo trip. To use the Garmin on your trip, the device requires a monthly service fee of $14.95+ (or $11.95+ if you opt for an annual contract). But don't worry, if you're just planning on one trip, the monthly plan only requires a 30-day commitment, so you can bail after your hike and reactivate the next time you go on an adventure. Promising review: "Recently used the Garmin inReach Mini 2 on a seven-day backpacking trek in the northern Yosemite wilderness. I kept it on during the day, sent two to three preset check-in messages per day, and turned it off overnight (and kept it in my sleeping bag). After six nights/seven days like this, I still had 40% battery life left. Messages usually took about a minute to send with no/minimal tree cover, and the Bluetooth-connected phone app makes typing messages from your phone very easy. I'm so glad I had it with me to get info about the Washburn fire that started while I was on the trail. Overall, I (and my loved ones back home!) am very happy with how the Garmin performed." —ElysePrice: $299.99 (originally $400, available in two colors) A Black Diamond sun hoodie that's a personal fave for camping, sunny hikes, climbing, and backpacking trips. Basically, if I'm outside, I'm wearing this. I've started to take sun protection super seriously, so a long-sleeve UPF 50+ option is a must. And even as the sweatiest person alive who refuses to pack deodorant when backpacking (extra weight? No thanks), it keeps me dry no matter how many miles I trek. Other things I love? It's washed and dried super well in the two years I've had it, and there's a little zippered pocket on the side, which stores important little doo-dads like keys and headphones securely. Promising review: "I bought this shirt over a year ago, and since then have worn it hiking, backpacking, climbing, skiing, and mountain biking. I took a fall while mountain biking and ended up getting a small hole the size of a when I took the shirt off, I was surprised to find the elbow pad I was wearing underneath was ripped, and my arm was all scraped, but the shirt was fine! I've hiked with it in 70/80-degree weather and haven't been sunburnt. I sweat a lot, and this shirt dries pretty quickly, so I stay pretty dry. I'm really happy with this shirt. The only thing I wish was that it had a thumb hole and a pocket on the other side as well to balance it out." —Pei FPrice: $109 (available in women's sizes XS–XL and three colors) An ENO DoubleNest Hammock for relaxing amongst the trees. I literally can't imagine anything I'd like to do more than chill in a hammock on a camping trip. Check out the ENO Atlas straps for a simple setup!Promising review: "The best hammock I've ever bought! I swear there is something magical woven into the material, because the moment you slide in = instant relaxation mode! I wish I had purchased this hammock earlier in the season. Super easy to set up (you do need to have your own anchor straps), and VERY dog friendly. I'm excited for many years of magical moments with my pup in this hammock. Worth the price tag! Very well made and VERY cozy." —JenniferPrice: $74.95 (available in 10 colors) A Rumpl Backcountry Puffy Blanket to stay comfy outside, whether you're in need of extra warmth in your tent, the perfect picnic blanket, or anything in between. With a small packed size, lightweight, tough fabric, and dirt- and water-resistance, this blanket is up for basically any and all adventures. My personal favorite feature? It's machine-washable and dryer-safe! The extra features on this blanket feel limitless. Oh look, a little zipper pocket on the corner! Oo, neat, a paracord loop on the other corner! Hey, a cape clip so you can wear the darn thing! I've been rocking the same original Rumpl blanket since 2019 and have loved it from day one, but the Backcountry model is a really tasty upgrade. Highly recommend for anyone who goes outside, and yes, I know that means basically everyone. Price: $149+ (available in two sizes and five colors)Also check out my full review on the OG Rumpl blanket for more deets on why I've been all-in on these insulated beauts for years. A Sea to Summit Spark 15 sleeping bag if you want a bag you can add to your backpacking setup (and probably cut some pack weight while you're at it!). 850+ fill goose down packs down ridiculously small, thanks in part to the included compression sack, and keeps you toasty warm, and its 15-degree rating means you can push into the shoulder seasons. More camping = more good days. I have this bag, and while I haven't been able to take it out yet (curse you, work and grad school!), I can't WAIT to use it cowboy camping in the desert, aka sleeping outside without a tent. I've heard nothing but *chef's kiss* things from other backpackers, and when I snuggled into it to "try it on" when it first arrived, know that I fully dozed off a little at 2 p.m. Price: $549+ (available in regular, long, and double sizes) A Sawyer Squeeze water filtration system that blows any other system out of the — say it with me — water. It's adaptable and easy to use in almost any situation, planned or not. I've encountered some pretty sad excuses for water sources and have still been able to get liquid into the bag to be filtered and safely consumed. The set comes with one squeeze screw-on water filter, two 32-ounce collapsible pouches, one replaceable pop-up drinking spout, and one syringe filter cleaner. It weighs three ounces. It removes bacteria such as Salmonella, cholera, and E. coli, and protozoa such as Giardia and If you're immunocompromised, be sure to read all the package instructions to make sure it's safe for you.I adore this water filter for its ease of use, adaptability, small size, and zero wait time. Just fill the bag, screw on the filter, and roll the bag to squeeze the filtered water into your bottle. You don't need to wait for it to be done like with water treatment pills or gravity systems, and there's no funky taste — just fresh, clean, crisp water. If even the bag-filling situation sounds like it would take too much time, you can also screw the filter DIRECTLY ONTO A WATER BOTTLE and drink straight from it. Game-changing. Either way, it's a quick, lightweight system that I completely recommend. Promising review: "I've taken this on a couple of backcountry/backpacking trips and it's so handy and easy to use. I find I prefer to carry two Smartwater bottles with me (one for dirty water, one for filtered water), screw the filter to the top of one, and squeeze clean water into the second bottle. I also love that it's small and lightweight. It's perfect for backcountry trips." —sarah279Price: $45.95 A Yeti Tundra 45 Cooler famous for keeping your food and drinks colder than you could ever imagine for days at a time. Especially if you pre-cool it before you load it up, everything from seltzers and beers for campfire time to bacon, eggs, and OJ for a special backcountry breakfast will be ready to rock. Promising review: "This is the first Yeti cooler I have ever purchased, and I am in love. We used this camping and the drinks were so cold they may have been in our refrigerator. We did prime the cooler to get it chilled before loading it up, which was simple and made a huge difference! There was ice in our cooler three days after camping, and the drinks were still cold after sitting in our house without AC for four days in 85/90-degree heat! (It's a bummer, I know.) That really says something about the quality! Love the king crab orange color 10/10 if you're considering a Yeti, get a Yeti" —Steph_keen_Price: $325 (available in eight colors) A BioLite AspenGlow mini lantern that packs a whole lotta light into a teeny-tiny package. With a diameter of just three inches, it's a breeze to pop into any bag, and an integrated bungee makes it easy to hang almost anywhere. It's USB rechargeable and can run for 40 hours on its lowest setting, though it'll be hard to resist playing with the "party" setting, which cycles through its multicolor modes. Fun! This little lantern RULES. I'm just a huge fan of BioLite generally, but have been really impressed by how bright and reliable this little guy is. And at the end of the day, those are the two things you really want a lantern to be! The little bungee on the back really is useful for putting it up in your tent or somewhere unconventional, and the dimmer just rules. Promising review: "Ordered this to have a light in our tent. It's small and compact — perfect for car camping. Also rechargeable. I also like that the lights can change color." —MLSPrice: $49.95 (available in two colors) And a BioLite Dash 450 headlamp if you want to go fully hands-free. Even for all my casual car campers out there, let me impart to you just how helpful it is to have a hands-free light at your disposal. Life. Changing. While most headlamps have a lot of weight up front where the light is, BioLite headlamps have their batteries on the back, which is just SO much more comfortable it's not even funny. But the weight is barely noticeable at all at just 2.75 ounces. The light is adjustable so you can angle it down where you're walking or running. And get this! It has five modes, ALL of which are dimmable. A dimmable red light?! I'm in heaven. Price: $59.95 (available in three colors)
Express Tribune
a day ago
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Quit PTI, if you can't withstand pressure, Imran tells party leaders
Listen to article PTI's incarcerated founder Imran Khan has delivered a clear message to his party's leadership: Either withstand mounting pressure or part ways with the party, according to PTI's legal spokesperson Naeem Haider Panjutha. Speaking to the media outside Adiala Jail on Saturday, Panjutha alleged that the judiciary has become totally subservient to the government, and that the objectives behind the 26th Constitutional Amendment have become abundantly clear as PTI leaders and supporters are being convicted and disqualified. About Saturday's proceedings of the Toshakhana 2 case, Panjutha said that the hearing was scheduled to take place inside Adiala Jail but could not proceed as planned. "Only some of the legal representatives were granted access, while others were barred from attending. As a result, no substantive proceedings occurred," he said. He added that former first lady Bushra Bibi boycotted the hearing in protest. Panjutha recalled Imran as saying during the meeting: 'Truth ultimately prevails, while falsehood is destined to fail.' The jailed PTI founder further claimed that Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) judges and others are acting in concert with the government, withholding CCTV footage related to the events of May 9. Panjutha pointed to the sentencing of MNA Latif Chitrali as evidence of what he described as a broader campaign to disqualify elected PTI lawmakers. 'If senior leaders like Yasmin Rashid and Shah Mahmood Qureshi were to leave the party today, they would likely be released,' he claimed. Drawing parallels with past judicial controversies, Panjutha alleged that former chief justice Saqib Nisar had played a role similar to that of Justice Munir in undermining judicial independence. He further criticised the electoral appeals process, claiming it is being overseen by the same Election Commission of Pakistan officials allegedly involved in electoral malpractice. According to Panjutha, Imran has directed the party to adopt a strategy of peaceful resistance, rejecting any further confrontation or violence. 'The chairman has made it clear: no more bullets. Our protests will now be peaceful,' he said. 'He will personally lead the movement from behind bars, as all other democratic avenues have been closed.' Imran, Panjutha added, considers himself a prisoner for the cause of 'Haqiqi Azadi' (real freedom). He added that all political forces believing in human rights will be invited to join PTI's protest movement. 'Participation is voluntary,' he said, 'but the movement will proceed with or without them.'
Express Tribune
2 days ago
- Politics
- Express Tribune
PTI MNA, ex-MPA among 11 convicted in May 9 rioting case
PTI protesters take to the streets in Lahore on May 9, 2023. SCREENGRAB Listen to article The Islamabad Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) on Friday convicted and sentenced 11 individuals to various prison terms and fines in connection with the violence that occurred on May 9, 2023. The charges against them included attacking the Ramna police station, assaulting police personnel, committing arson, and spreading terrorism. Among those convicted were Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Member of National Assembly Abdul Latif and former Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa MPA Wazirzada Kailashi. Following the announcement of the verdict, four of the convicts, Muhammad Akram, Mira Khan, Shahzeb, and Sohail Khan, were arrested from the court premises. Arrest warrants were issued for the remaining seven, namely Abdul Latif, Wazirzada Kailashi, Zaryab Khan, Samuel Robert, Abdul Basit, Shan Ali and Muhammad Yousuf. The verdict, delivered by ATC Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra, stated that the accused attacked the Ramna police station, opened fire, pelted stones and attempted to kill police officials. They also set motorcycles on fire. According to the court's decision, the accused were sentenced to 10 years in prison and fined Rs200,000 each for acts of terrorism. Moreover, they were sentenced to five years in prison and fined Rs50,000 each for attempting to kill police personnel; four years in prison and a fine of Rs40,000 each for burning motorcycles; another four years in prison and a Rs40,000 fine each for setting the police station on fire; three months in prison for obstructing police work; and one month in prison for violating Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). The May 9 cases refer to violent attacks on state installations that followed the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan on corruption charges in 2023. A number of individuals were arrested in these cases, which have been tried by both military courts and anti-terrorism courts in various cities. ATCs across the country continue to hear related cases. In April, a three-member bench of the Supreme Court, headed by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, directed ATCs to conclude proceedings in May 9 cases within four months. In Lahore, 14 cases remain pending in two ATCs, which are currently hearing them on a daily basis at Kot Lakhpat Central Jail. However, a judge of one of these courts noted that the unavailability of case records was creating significant obstacles to meeting the Supreme Court's deadline. ATC Administrative Judge Manzer Ali Gill wrote to Punjab Prosecutor General Syed Farhad Ali Shah, stating that the police records were not being provided to the deputy prosecutor conducting the trial for various reasons. The judge emphasised that the matter had been brought to the attention of the prosecution office to take necessary steps to ensure that witnesses could be recorded on every hearing date. He cautioned that failing such action, the court would proceed according to the law. It has been observed that the majority of May 9 cases have faced adjournments due to the unavailability of relevant records. On each hearing date, police officials have informed the courts that the case records remain with the Supreme Court. (With input from our Lahore correspondent)
Business Recorder
2 days ago
- Politics
- Business Recorder
May 9 riots case: 11 PTI workers including MNA convicted by ATC
ISLAMABAD: An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) on Friday sentenced 11 Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers, including a sitting Member of the National Assembly (MNA) and a former Member of the Provincial Assembly (MPA), to a combined 27 years and four months in prison in a May 9 riots case. ATC Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra announced the reserved verdict in a case registered at Ramna police station, handing down a 27-year and 4-month sentence along with fines to MNA Abdul Latif, former MPA Wazir Zada Kalashi, and nine other PTI activists. Following the announcement of the verdict, police took four of the accused — Mohammad Akram, Meera Khan, Shahzaib, and Sohail Khan — into custody from the courtroom, while the court issued arrest warrants for the absconding co-accused. The court found the convicts guilty of attacking the police station, firing at police officers, throwing stones, attempting to kill law enforcement personnel, and setting motorcycles on fire to gain their objectives. The court also noted that 24 witnesses testified against the accused, and proper identification parades were conducted before magistrates. The order says that if police stations in the capital are attacked, there will be no place left in the country that is safe to live in. According to the judgment, five years in prison and a Rs50,000 fine for attempted murder of police personnel, four years and Rs40,000 fine for setting motorcycles on fire, another four years and Rs40,000 fine for setting the police station ablaze, three months for obstructing police duties, one month for violating Section 144, two years for committing crimes in a mob, and 10 years with a Rs200,000 fine under terrorism charges. The FIR was registered under sections148 (rioting with deadly weapon), 149 (every member of unlawful assembly guilty of offence committed in prosecution of common object), 186 (obstructing public servant), 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 324 (attempted murder), 353 (assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty), 427 (mischief causing damage amounting to Rs50), 436 (mischief by fire or explosive substance with intent to destroy property), 440 (Mischief committed after preparation made for causing death or hurt)of the Pakistan Penal Code and Section 7 (punishment for acts of terrorism) of the Anti-Terrorism Act registered at Ramna police station. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
2 days ago
- Politics
- Business Recorder
27-year prison sentence: PTI MNA Latif claims ruling as bogus terrorism conviction
ISLAMABAD: The firebrand Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) MNA from Chitral Abdul Latif, who was handed down a 27-year prison sentence on Friday, claimed he was given a bogus terrorism conviction after refusing a jaw-dropping Rs2 billion bribe to back the controversial 26th Constitutional Amendment. A diehard loyalist of jailed ex-prime minister Imran Khan, Latif slammed the ruling as revenge by what he called the 'installed regime of Form 47 and its handlers, who are pulling the strings of the puppet Shehbaz Sharif regime.' An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Islamabad convicted Latif over his alleged role in the chaotic May 9 riots – when PTI supporters allegedly stormed police stations and government buildings. But Latif insisted the charges were bogus, calling it a false flag set up by the powers that be. Latifinsisted that he didnot even know the police station he is accused of attacking existed. 'I hadn't even heard of the Ramna Police Station until I was falsely accused,' Latif said in a defiant video message following the ATC verdict. 'Just because I support Imran Khan, they threw me into this mess.' The court's decision came down hard – 27 years for allegedly leading the charge on the Ramna PS during the nationwide unrest. But Latif, unbowed, said the real crime was his refusal to accept a massive payoff to support the controversial 26th Amendment – a move that he insisted would have betrayed his party and Khan's ideology. 'There is also a court of Allah, where no police, no pressure works,' he said, taking a fiery swipe at the lower judiciary. 'Justice will ultimately be served.' Latif remained hopeful that the higher judiciary of the country will toss out what he called a 'politically motivated and unjust' ruling. He insisted he would never sell out, no matter the price – or the prison sentence. 'No conviction, no bribe can shake my conscience,' he declared. 'I've stood by Imran Khan for 28 years – and I'm not backing down now nor will I ever in future.' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
