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Buzz Feed
19-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Buzz Feed
Reviewers Say These 27 Things Are 'Perfect" For Camping
A Coleman lantern perfect for car camping trips — it's essential to keep your path illuminated (and stay safe) with this classic piece of gear. The lantern requires four D batteries, but is also available in a rechargeable version!Promising reviews: "I don't think that you can have too many of these. They are perfect for camping, hiking, under-the-sink repairs, needing to go to the shed at night, power outages, or just porch-sitting. These lanterns have both a high and a low setting to accommodate whatever light is needed. They are super-durable both outdoors and inside. I received my first Coleman lantern as a gift from my sister, who had one on her porch, that I admired. This lantern has been through repeated power-outages, many campfires, small-space repairs, searching for small creatures at nighttime, and so much more. It hasn't once let me down!" —Amazon CustomerGet it from Amazon for $41.49. A set of marshmallow (or hot dog!) roasting sticks that telescope all the way out to 34 inches for campfire time. Goodbye, singed knuckle hair! But don't worry, they collapse back to 10 inches for easy storage. A Therm-a-Rest camp pillow because camping doesn't always mean forgoing all of your favorite creature comforts. It even has a smart little drawstring feature that lets you adjust the firmness so it's exactly to your liking. Promising review: "Decided to try this pillow out after reading the reviews and researching other brands. I didn't want to spend too much right now, as I'm new to camping and not backpacking. What I like is that the large size is perfect for me and it's very comfortable. I have used this several times now, and each night I sleep great with this pillow. The material is soft and easy to fold up for traveling. I love the fun mushroom design, and the colors are vibrant. I'm glad I went with this pillow and the size large. I usually like a flatter pillow so I don't have a stiff neck. This was a great choice and had no issues. It was perfect and definitely recommend!" —Andreana AGet it from Backcountry for $25.56+ (originally $31.95+; available in three colors). A lantern and fan hybrid that's as close as you're gonna get to sweet, sweet AC in the woods. I cannot help but stan a mini ceiling fan gadget, it's just so cute and helpful. Promising reviews: "I went camping this week, and I just hate when it's sooooo darn hot in the tent, and of course there's no place to put a fan AND a light. This one worked perfectly. It hung by its built-in hook to the top of the tent, the light was just right, and the fan was quiet and effective for a two-person tent. Happy I bought it." —Kevin Gaither"This is a lifesaver. I bought it for camping, but really, I keep it in my car year-round. It's an extraordinary car light; the hook allows you to hang it under your hood if, for any reason, you need to pull over at night (which I did). The fan is tiny but mighty and a great accessory to a great light. Doesn't eat up its own battery while not in use, which is a blessing. Accidentally left its fan for a while without noticing, and it's still good as gold." —CloudGet it from Amazon for $18.89. An REI base layer because layering is the name of the game when it comes to getting dressed for the outdoors. These make the perfect under-jacket short for cold hikes or a perfect PJ top, even on cool summer nights. But regardless, it'll help you retain some heat without feeling scratchy. Thanks, flat-seam construction. Promising review: "I was looking for some base layers for running and hiking, and this has been perfect! It's comfortable, fits true to size, and wicks moisture nicely. Would definitely recommend!" —jsearlGet it from REI for $37.93+ for women's (available in sizes XS–3X and 10 colors) and $37.93+ for men's (available in sizes XS–XXXL, including some tall sizes, and 10 colors). An inflatable sleeping pad to ensure you get the best night of rest that you can. Let's make sure you're sleeping LIKE a rock instead of ON a rock. A pair of Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion Socks that famously come with a lifetime guarantee, because they're that confident they'll serve you well. I finally got my first pair of Darn Toughs this year, and I LOVE THEM! The heels and toes are perfectly cushioned, the merino wool blend isn't scratchy at all, and they're, tough! Look at me walkin' around on that campground gravel! Hot tip for my hiking girlies with muscular calves: my life changed the day I started just ordering socks in men's sizes! I'm a shoe size 8.5 and find that a men's M in these socks sits great. Not too big in the foot while leaving ample room for my legs as I FLEX UP THAT MOUNTAIN, BABYYYYYYY! Promising review: "Extremely comfortable socks. They look and feel nice. I have another pair of the same product and they've lasted years. They don't smell after many long days of wearing, making them perfect for camping or backpacking." —dominicGet them from Amazon for $24.95+ for men's sizes (available in sizes S–XXL and 12 colors) and $25+ for women's sizes (available in sizes S–L and seven colors). A portable, hand-operated espresso machine so you can whip up the good stuff (yes, even the crema!) using just a little bit of boiling water and a pump mechanism — no electricity or stovetop required. *Swoon* A Katadyn BeFree 3-liter microfilter for anyone who's tired of putting in the elbow grease with filters that require squeezing and just want to let gravity do its thing. With the BeFree, all you need to do is fill the bag, let it hang, and let your newly cleaned water flow into the vessels of your choice. The reservoir you put dirty water in holds 3 liters of water, and it filters at a rate of 2 liters per minute. Whoa, that's faster than I thought! Maybe it's time I finally try one! Backpackers love this system, but they'd also be great for car camping trips where you have access to nice, running mountain water. Sure, you could pack your own, but drinking the water you find in the backcountry really is a special experience, especially when you have confidence it's safe to drink after treatment. Promising review: "Only used once in 50 degrees. Stream was clean, running fast, and filled the bladder in seven seconds. Flow rate was perfect for my needs. Perfect holding points especially at intake side for submerging. First, BeFree, so will see how long it lasts with a good flow rate. I'll likely carry an extra filter if out solo. Weight is perfect for the benefit. Last thing I want to do is squeeze a bag for my water after a long hike and setting up camp. Now I know why I see a lot of gravity filters are hanging. The holding strap was a bit much for my needs unless someone uses it as a shoulder-carrying strap. I changed that up." —DilfGet it from Backcountry for $79.95. 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 is so easy to dial in. 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." —MLSGet it from REI for $49.95 (available in two colors). An REI Co-Op Base Camp 4 Tent so you and your camping crew have the perfect place to lay your heads at night, safe from the elements and ready for anything. Two big doors provide excellent ventilation and ensure you don't need to crawl over sleeping friends to get in and out and big ol' vestibules give you the perfect place to put extra gear. A good rule of thumb for how many folks can fit in a tent is the number of people listed squished all together *or* that number minus one with room to spread out and for review: "REI's Basecamp four is a well-designed tent that works perfectly for two adults, a dog, and gear. The dual vestibules are a nice feature; they come in handy for keeping gear dry, but dirt out of the tent. The rain fly holds up well in a rainstorm. The many options for venting are also a great feature." —TravisGet it from REI for $474. Or a North Face Wawona 6 Tent if you want something so roomy you can literally stand up in it and walk around — a wonderful quality, especially if you happen to find yourself rained in for the day. You could also set up a little seating area in there, or better yet, invite basically everyone you know to join you on your next adventure. The more the merrier! Promising review: "I've had the tent for just over a year now, I wanted to try it a few times before putting in a review. I can confidently say there is a bit of a learning curve on setup for the tent itself. Once you get used to it, it's great! and definitely seems built to last, the seams are pretty well weatherproofed. I wanted a tent that I could stand up in and could fit my cot without worrying about hitting either side of the tent and messing up the water tension when it rains. I don't do any backpack camping, so I just needed it to be able to throw it in the car and set up wherever I want to stay for the weekend. This was perfect. It's definitely oversized for what I needed. It could definitely be used as a glamping setup for two people and would still have extra space. I do recommend keeping track of the instructions/diagram sheet that comes with it, at least for the first few times of setting it up. Set up is easiest to do with two people, but I've set it up by myself on solo trips. Have learned the trick to go ahead and clip in the rain fly before putting in the main tent poles because once it's fully stood up, it can be a struggle for a short person like me to get it over. Only comments/downsides would be that the bag the tent comes in is not structured. And because of all the different parts, it can be a bit chaotic if you're having to pack up quickly and just tossing everything into a bag. The tent stakes that come with the tent aren't the sturdiest. You can always try it and find out if they'll work for you, but I would recommend also picking up some spares from a camping store." —campsmokieGet it from REI for $550 (available in two colors). A compact broom and dustpan for sweeping dirt out of your tent quickly and effectively. It may seem inevitable, but there's nothing worse than a super dirty tent floor. Promising reviews: "OXO, quite by mistake, has created the best tent broom I've ever used. I know they had other things in mind when they designed this, but it is perfect for car camping (a little too big for backpackers). The bristles are soft and fine enough to get the sand off your taffeta tent floor without damaging it. The cup-style dust pan holds your sweepings so you don't have to resweep after you accidentally tip them. The whole kit packs together securely so nothing gets lost. 5-star performer." —H BartGet it from Amazon for $9.99. An REI Co-Op Siesta 20-degree sleeping bag that's oh-so-roomy, oh-so-cozy, and the perfect place for you to snuggle up on car camping trips where you can really make yourself at home. Reviewers especially love that you can unzip just the bottom for ventilation or even unzip it all the way into a quilt. Where are my "sticks one foot out of the blanket to sleep" friends at? This is the sleeping bag for you. Promising review: "I've been using a 30-degree F sleeping bag I bought 20 years ago. It's a high-end product, and it served me well, but this time, I decided to upgrade to a 20-degree F bag from REI Co-op and grabbed a new mat too. The price was affordable and reasonable. So, I tested it out with a couple of nights under the stars—camping without a tent at BLM in the Grand Canyon, New Mexico, and at Mirror Lake in Wyoming. With the Milky Way stretched out above me and the sound of insects all around, I felt like I was truly living in the wild, part of the vast universe. Arizona's Page felt like I was among the stars, while the forests of Mirror Lake felt like pure Earth. The sleeping bag was almost too warm, even in just shorts and a T-shirt. But when the temperature dropped at dawn, it held up perfectly. This sleeping bag helped me live out my dream of sleeping directly on the ground, under the open sky. Absolutely incredible." —KitaGet it from REI for $149 (available in medium, medium wide, long, and long wide sizes). A pack of two LED headlamps so you (and a friend!) can always ensure the path ahead is illuminated. Whether it's just in case for a late-night hike, finding your way to the bathroom at 2 a.m., or reading in your tent, it's always a good idea to have one of these bad boys nearby. A fire-starting necklace that features an ambidextrous steel striker and a ferrocerium rod for creating fire as quickly possible. Holding the ability to create flame right around your neck... What power! What responsibility! A pair of collapsible dog bowls with carabiners so your pup is always nourished on the go. Gotta keep your #1 camping buddy ready for adventure! Promising review: "These bowls are great. Took them camping with my dog. Worked perfect. Hooked them to my backpack so we have a way to give the dog a drink on our hike." —Jennifer a pair from Amazon for $5.99 (available in two colors and two sizes). A LifeStraw personal water filter if you need a little peace of mind for a "just in case" water filtration situation. This little device allows you to safely drink from any water source and is small enough to tote along anywhere. The straw's microfiltration membrane eliminates bacteria and parasites so you can safely drink from any available water source without if you're immunocompromised, be sure to read all the package instructions to make sure it's safe for review: "The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast. It's perfect for hiking with its reliable 5-star performance, keeping me hydrated wherever I go. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry. While the flavor of water isn't perfect (four out of five), its unparalleled filtration makes up for it. Overall, a lifesaver for camping, travel, and emergencies!" —Ana CunhaGet it from Amazon for $17.49+ (available in three colors). A Stanley cook set for two equipped with a stainless-steel pot and two nesting cups (that can double as bowls, of course). Your signature meal of instant ramen with fun and funky toppings is served. A cot and air mattress if sleeping on the hard ground is a hard no from you. Sleeping under the stars is rad, but sleeping in a BED under the stars? Unbeatable. Promising review: "My husband and I purchased this in hopes that we could enjoy tent camping without compromising our fragile backs. Wow, not only is it easy and fast to set up, but it's also easy to tear down and pack away. We have never struggled with fitting it back in the bag. And my god, we got better sleep than we do at home! We've taken those glorious accidental naps, and slept the whole night through, waking up feeling refreshed. Again, we don't even feel refreshed in our own bed at home. Love this cot, best purchase of the year. No buyer's remorse here! It's also perfect for those low-key bougie folks like me that love to make tent camping feel luxurious." —Kelsea HinojosaGet it from Amazon for $229.99+ (available in twin and queen sizes). An inflatable lounge chair that will make a sunny outdoor nap feel like the height of luxury. You inflate it just by whipping it in the wind, meaning no pesky hand pumps or electricity needed! Promising review: "This product is easy to use, very comfortable, sturdy and easy to pack up and store! What more could you ask for! Our friends have a similar item from another company and this one was far more durable and comfortable. We used it at the beach and while camping. It's a perfect to rest, read or relax in. Highly recommend!" —Lenna Vanden HoovenGet it from Amazon for $39.98 (available in 21 colors and patterns). A Kelty tarp to get yourself and your fellow campers some shade and rain cover should you need it. And if you're super hardcore, this could be your shelter for the night! Promising review: "Just used this car camping this past weekend in the Adirondacks and it was perfect!! It was a little tricky to put up with high winds, but it held up super well once we got it situated and in place. It survived 15-20 mph gusts, mid-heavy rain, and snow!! Absolutely loved it and worth the price." —Alyssa PGet it from Backcountry for $79.95+ (available in two sizes). An Aeropress coffee and espresso maker — with a stellar 4.6-star rating from over 24,000 reviewers — that brews top-notch coffee anywhere boiling water is available. It's also small, durable, and easy to clean, so bringing it to the ends of the Earth with you is a no-brainer, especially when a hot bevy in the morning is considered essential. The set comes with the chamber, plunger, seal, filter cap, funnel, filter holder, scoop, and stirrer. Here's a super informative video on how to use the Aeropress (while camping, even!) made by the coffee smarties at Stumptown. Promising review: "I love this AeroPress! Easy to use, very easy to clean, and perfect for camping! Small, unbreakable, and portable!" —Angelynn HallGet it from Amazon for $33.99 (available in two sizes and eight colors). A pack of cleansing wipes so you can freshen up a little bit between showers, much to the satisfaction of your campmates' your own, honestly. Promising review: "Perfect for outdoors. I do a lot of camping and these are perfect. No water needed. Keeps you feeling fresh and clean." —Scott a 25-pack from Amazon for $8.99. A tiny, foldable backpacking stove to help you whip up delicious backcountry meals, make coffee in the morning, and sanitize water in case of emergency. Just screw it onto a fuel canister, and voilà! Your kitchen awaits you. Even for car camping trips, if you don't feel like lugging around a large stove, you don't need to forgo a small hot meal or a tasty cup of coffee. There are loads of fancy name-brand backpacking stoves out there, and I have no doubt that they're great. But ya know what? I've exclusively used a random, inexpensive one that was probably already 10 years old when it found its way to me, and it honestly works perfectly. Sometimes, with gear, price is directly related to quality or longevity, but when it comes to these little stoves, it seems like just getting your hands on one is enough. Building out a kit is expensive enough — might as well save where you can (especially when there are good reviews to back up your purchase, like with this stove). Promising review: "Used it several times on the AT and it's always performed just fine. I just heat water for coffee and instant food. I would not try to really cook or scramble eggs because the pot could easily fall off, but it's perfect for hiking." —Russ CherryGet it from Amazon for $16.90. A four-pack of lightweight collapsible silicone mugs with lids so you don't have to drag around an awkwardly shaped mug around if you're trying to pack nice and light or are headed out backpacking. Promising review: "We bought these a year ago to bring on backpacking and camping/hiking trips and they have worked perfectly for when we want to drink something other than the water in our Nalgenes (Tang, hot chocolate, or coffee). Very lightweight, helpful measurement lines, attached cover to keep it clean when hanging on the outside of your backpack, durable, and easy to clean. Love them!" —M. R. a four-pack from Amazon for $13.49 (available in five color combinations). A Trail 25 day pack that's perfect for toting all of your snacks, layers, first aid supplies, and other essentials to and from camp or out on a day hike. Committing to carrying a water bottle in your hands while you trek? Never the move! Promising review: "Great pack for short trips. The bag has plenty of intuitively-placed pockets for storage and ease of access. I used it for a five-day trip to Jeju Island, Korea and it was perfect. I didn't carry it all day but it was fine for a few hours at a time. The color is distinctive without being too loud." —Jack in DCGet it from REI for $99.95 (available in sizes XS–4XL and five colors).
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Travel + Leisure
17-07-2025
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
Barefoot Shoes Are Back—Here Are Our Top Picks
While we love a good pair of fully cushioned walking shoes, barefoot shoes have been seeing increased interest from folks leaning more into the minimalist shoes trend. These shoes have minimal cushion and often a zero-drop heel-to-toe build, which can help encourage a more natural stride while maintaining some support and protection from the ground. I typically lean toward moderate-to-full cushion shoes, but I love a good pair of barefoot shoes to help keep my feet strong and improve my ground contact. Studies have shown that wearing barefoot shoes can help strengthen your feet and ankles, which improves control, balance, and stability, but they aren't for everyone. 'The benefits of barefoot shoes include improved stability and activation of intrinsic or small foot muscles for improved balance and strength,' says Dr. Peter Lovato, DPM. 'When used in the correct setting and training regimen, they can reduce overuse injuries.' And if you're just getting into barefoot footwear, podiatrists recommend starting off by wearing the shoes for short periods of time. We put a range of barefoot shoes to the test while walking, running, training, and running errands, evaluating everything from out-of-box comfort to long-term durability and impact on posture and stride. These are the barefoot shoes we tested and recommend for travelers of all types. Credit: REI View on REI $120 at Backcountry View on Dicks Sporting Goods While we were initially skeptical of the comfort of the Trail Glove, these barefoot shoes for women and men surprised us with the level of support, smooth upper material, and improved ground feel. We felt no discomfort, blisters, or chafing, and the stability was more than we expected for such a minimal shoe. We tend to heel-strike when we walk, and since the minimalist midsole encouraged more of a forefoot strike, we did feel increased calf fatigue after longer wear. That isn't necessarily a bad thing, and it was interesting to note regarding the difference in encouraged stride. As with most of our barefoot shoe testing, we felt the ground more (especially on trails and rocky surfaces) but the outsoles had just enough protection where it didn't cause true discomfort. We loved that the front of the shoes had an added toe bumper for more protection, and the whole shoe is well designed and constructed. The reinforced eyelet alternatives show these were designed by people who have put them to the test, and they've shown no sign of wear or damage. The Details: Size 6-13 men's and 5-11 women's | Mesh, foam, and rubber | 14.2 ounces | 0 mm drop Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Zappos $100 $82 at Amazon View on REI $100 at Backcountry We were so impressed with how this shoe for men and women encourages a natural gait—whether walking or running—that we gave it top marks in almost every category. We felt almost no sense of pavement underfoot, and the traction was excellent. We wore these in wet and stormy conditions, over roots and slick rocks, and the grip and ability to use our feet for added leverage was fantastic. The sole offered just the right amount of thinness: close to our feet without sacrificing comfort, and it molded to our foot almost like a wetsuit—snug, flexible, and form-fitting. We wore these around cobblestone streets and on trips in high temperatures and humidity, and felt no pressure from the ground, hot spots, or overheating despite the warm conditions. They flexed without resistance, and we will continue to wear these for years to come since they're just that comfortable. The Details: Size 7-15 men's and 5-11 women's | Mesh and rubber | 11.3 ounces | 0 mm drop Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon $130 at Amazon View on REI $130 at Backcountry Altra is known for their 'foot shape' build and zero-drop midsole, and this minimalist pair for men and women plays off that ethos by encouraging natural foot strike and offering extended comfort. We never felt rubbing or pinching, and they have enough cushion where it was less of a dramatic switch from standard running shoes to this minimalist pair without foot or calf fatigue. These are a little taller than a true barefoot shoe, which makes them a good transition pair if you're just getting into trying shoes with less cushion. I've personally worn these as my lifting shoes for the past year, and appreciate the stability and support underfoot as well as the ease of balance during complex movements. As far as sizing goes, these run a little big (and might feel bigger if you're used to narrower shoes), so if you're between sizes, we recommend dropping a half size. The Details: Size 7-15 men's and 5.5-12 women's | Mesh, EVA foam, and rubber | 18.3 ounces | 0mm drop Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Lems These comfortable, stylish shoes for women and men felt comfortable right away, and are made of a soft suede-like material for a unique look and feel. We found these to be fairly wide (even more so than other barefoot shoes), which allowed our feet more room to naturally splay. If they were any wider, they would have felt almost sloppy, but the balance ended up being just right and we felt no fatigue, soreness, or hot spots during the test period. We walked in these shoes for upwards of 12 hours and put more than 10 miles on them and felt plenty protected on variable surfaces thanks to sturdy sole and widely spaced traction. That said, they do have thicker outsoles than the most minimalist shoes we tested. This provides plenty of protection, but it can be harder to tell if the shoe promotes a natural gait. So while we love these for longer walks, people looking for a more minimalist pair should probably look elsewhere. The Details: Size 4.5-15 men's and 6-12 women's | Polyester, rubber, and cork | 15.3 ounces | 0 mm drop Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Tolos These soft, fashionable unisex sneakers come with comfy textured insoles that can also be flipped over for a smooth surface. We loved the flexible lacing system and supportive heel that provided just enough cushion around the achilles without feeling constricted, and they come in six neutral colors to match whatever we feel like wearing. They have a protective 3.5-millimeter rubber outsole and 2-millimeter insole for a total of 5.5 millimeters of protection—midrange for this style of shoe and provided versatility for wear duration. We did have some fit issues with these shoes, and wouldn't recommend them for people with wider feet or bunion issues. They felt quite short top to bottom, and the toe box was narrow enough that our pinky toes felt pinched. But for people with lower-volume feet or narrow widths, they're a great bet and a classic sneaker style easy to pair with a range of outfits. The Details: Size 5-14 men's and 6.5-15.5 women's | Polymesh and rubber | 14.8 ounces | 0 mm drop Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: REI $90 $70 at Amazon View on REI View on Nordstrom I've been wearing Xero's Prio Shoes as my go-to pair of barefoot shoes for the past few years. I often wear moderate shoes for daily errands, but my running shoes are quite highly cushioned, and I like to switch it up and wear barefoot shoes as a change of pace, easing into my wear each season to avoid injury. The Prio for men and women are excellent for this, as they have a slightly more moderate 5.5-millimeter outsole that provides a little more support than the thinnest shoes we tested, and the offset lacing offers more wrap through the upper. These have been really good for encouraging my natural footstrike, and I like to think that even my on-and-off usage helps strengthen my feet. I also love how breathable the upper material stays during the summer, and I can wear them with thin socks and have no overheating issues. The Details: Size 6-14 men's and 5-12 women's | Mesh, synthetic leather, and rubber | 14.6 ounces | 0 mm drop Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: REI $162 $135 at Amazon View on REI View on Vivobarefoot has a strong corner of the barefoot shoe market for everything from lifting shoes to dress shoes to running shoes. In fact, my friend just ran a fast 5K with me in a pair of Vivobarefoot shoes—a far cry from my max-cushioned road runners. We found the RA IV Men's Oxford Shoes to be so comfortable we found ourselves wearing them around the house on a regular basis. There was plenty of room for our toes, and the cork-like sole provided a nice bounce and added comfort while walking. We didn't experience any fatigue while wearing these shoes for most of the day, though they lack much in the way of arch support, so people with flat feet might prefer an added insole. Otherwise, there were no hot spots or tenderness, and the style goes well with everything from casual summer outfits to nicer clothes we'd wear to a fancier restaurant. They do have ample room in the toe, so people with shorter feet might want to size down for a closer fit. The Details: Size 7-15 men's | Leather and rubber | 20.6 ounces | 0 mm drop Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Vivobarefoot $122 at Amazon View on REI View on These shoes for women and men were so comfortable during testing they became our daily go-to pair. We didn't notice any rubbing or pinching and they flexed really well right out of the box, whether we were training at the gym or running errands. The sole is quite thin and we were able to feel whether we were walking on concrete or gravel, but once we became accustomed to the feeling, it barely registered. The underfoot cushion is among the most minimal on this list, with just 2 millimeters in the forefoot and heel. Since these are so minimalist, we did feel fatigue in our feet and calves at first (remember, it's important to ease into barefoot shoes), but we appreciate the strengthening from this style. If you're heading to the gym for lifting, you'll also like the stable platform and ability to micro-adjust for balance. The Details: Size 7-12 men's and 5-10 women's | Mesh and rubber | 19 ounces | 0 mm drop Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Wildling Our first impression right out of the box was how incredibly lightweight these unisex shoes felt. They were lighter than any other footwear on our shelves, and we loved the ability for our toes to splay out in the wide toe box despite the minimal build. Wildling promotes these as some of the lightest shoes in the world thanks in part to their thin build and unique materials that include cotton and washi (a paper material). As far as sizing goes, they did feel a little short at first and we were concerned about rubbing on the tops of our feet, but it wasn't an issue as we could adjust the lacing and tongue. Similar to the Vivobarefoot training shoes, you will feel much of what's going on underfoot, and we recommend avoiding rough or rugged surfaces while getting used to this style. These were incredibly easy to walk in and we felt no fit discomfort, and the cotton insole provided a scant bit of cushion without losing the barefoot, breathable feel. These are a more 'advanced' barefoot shoe and feel very natural on our feet, though we'd recommend wearing them for shorter amounts of time at first. The Details: Size 4-13.5 men's and 5-14 women's | Washi, polyester, cotton, and rubber | 8.8 ounces | 0 mm drop Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: REI $80 $48 at Amazon View on REI $80 at Zappos These super minimalist sandals for men and women are one of my go-to camp shoes, travel sandals, and packable options when space is at a premium. I wear them on my paddleboard, in my kayak, and as pool shoes. They are super adjustable and the straps are lightweight but nicely cushioned to avoid hot spots. They cinch down with just one tug, and the flat underfoot portion is so easy to pack I almost lose them in my carry-on. Despite this thin, barefoot build, the sandals actually have a three-layer platform that includes a foot-conforming foam under my feet, a cushioned TrailFoam midlayer, and a toothy rubber outsole with similar traction as my thicker hiking sandals. I don't necessarily hike long distances in these, but the natural stride and ease of packing makes them a stalwart on my sandal shelf. The Details: Size 5-13 men's and 5-12 women's | Rubber, foam, and polyester | 8.6 ounces | 0 mm drop Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Travel + Leisure
17-07-2025
- Automotive
- Travel + Leisure
These Are the 9 Best Coolers With Wheels—For Beach Days, Picnics, Camping, and More
Whether you're packing for a weekend camping trip, a backyard barbecue, or a long day at the beach, a cooler with wheels can make your life a lot easier compared to one you have to pick up and lug—especially when it's full of heavy ice, drinks, and food. Over my years of experimenting with coolers with wheels for camping trips, beach days, and parties in my own backyard, I've learned that not all wheeled models deliver on their promises—these do. We tested each cooler on this list for performance, durability, maneuverability, and ice retention on trips across the country. The best models kept contents cold for over 24 hours, rolled smoothly across grass and gravel, and had thoughtful features like dry storage compartments, built-in drains, and sturdy handles. If you're shopping for a cooler with wheels, consider one of these options that balances capacity with portability, has solid insulation, and is easy to clean and store. Credit: Yeti $475 at Amazon View on REI $450 at Backcountry This cooler is a beast—in the best way. During indoor testing, it kept ice mostly intact for 24 hours, even when packed with room-temperature drinks. Once the interior reached temperature, it stayed cold for hours on end, with minimal ice melt. It has a wide-opening lid that props itself up, making it incredibly easy to pack and clean, too. The dry storage basket is a smart touch for keeping things like snacks and hot dog buns out of ice, and the sturdy drain plug makes cleanup simple. At 35 pounds empty, this is a big cooler—best suited for people who have storage space and use it often. But the rugged wheels and telescoping handle make it surprisingly easy to move, even when full. The wheels don't swivel, so keep that in mind when maneuvering into tight spots, like when it's pushed against a wall. Still, for anyone who camps regularly, tailgates, or entertains outdoors, this cooler is worth the splurge. It's sturdy enough to last for years—and might be the last cooler you ever need to buy. The Details: 20 x 20.5 x 23.7 inches | 98-can capacity | 30.6 pounds | High density polyethylene (HDPE) Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon $260 at Amazon View on Dicks Sporting Goods View on Walmart When it comes to serious all-day cooling power for large groups, this 70-quart wheeled cooler holds its own. We used it at kids' sporting tournaments and races in the Alabama heat, loading it with up to six bags of ice and enough drinks to hydrate entire teams—and it never ran out of cold storage. The rugged design features large wheels that easily tackled rough, wooded terrain and even steps, while integrated cup holders, a phone slot, and side-mounted bottle openers made it surprisingly versatile. We also appreciated the dry storage compartment and net basket on the exterior. While it's not quite as well-insulated as other top-performing hard coolers, it still retained plenty of ice over 24 hours and kept everything cold through long days in the sun. The lid doesn't latch, which made spills a concern when tipped, and the plastic wheels could use an upgrade. But overall, this cooler is a powerhouse for game days, group camping, and off-the-grid gatherings. The Details: 36 x 24.75 x 20.25 inches | 70 quarts | 34.7 pounds | Plastic Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Academy Sports + Outdoors I was drawn to this cooler for the cool retro-inspired color scheme in turquoise and pink—so appealing for use at a party. Plus, there's tons of functionality, with a built-in bottle opener, removable trays, and a generous interior capacity. During testing, it kept drinks cold for an impressive 48 hours, with plenty of ice remaining even after the first full day. The latches are smooth and secure, and the divider system makes it easy to separate items (like sandwiches or snacks) from the ice below. It also features a drainage spout for easy cleanup and has flat sides and a flat lid for stacking in storage. That said, this cooler is very heavy—enough to make it impractical for more mobile uses. In fact, I had to scrap plans to take it to the beach for my kids' school beach day after realizing I couldn't maneuver it alone—even before loading it up fully. The wheels roll smoothly, but don't swivel, and they don't do much to offset the cooler's weight when fully loaded. Still, if you want a cooler that looks great and keeps things cold all weekend long—without ever leaving your yard—this checks all the boxes. The Details: 16.65 x 16.75 inches | 45 quarts | 30 pounds | Hard plastic and steel Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Ninja $300 at Amazon $300 at Target View on Whether you're heading to a park picnic or packing for a full-day beach hang, this high-capacity wheeled cooler makes transporting cold drinks and food practically effortless. We tested it during a summer outing in Rancho Bernardo, California, and were impressed by how smoothly it rolled over grass and curbs—even when fully loaded with ice and 15-plus cans. The oversized wheels and sturdy telescoping handle made maneuvering easy, and the spacious main compartment kept everything cold for hours. We especially appreciated the separate lower 'Dry Zone' drawer that kept lunch meat safely chilled and dry, even as the top compartment gradually lost ice. It's rugged, easy to clean, and clearly built to last. The Details: 28.58 x 17.36 x 18.89 inches | 45 quarts | 30.2 pounds | Plastic Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: RTIC $308 at Amazon View on We tested this rugged wheeled cooler over a two-night biking trip in Missouri, and it more than delivered. It kept drinks and deli snacks cold for over 48 hours, even as the ice slowly melted, and held up beautifully through multiple outings and terrain types, from campfire nights to grass and gravel paths. We especially loved the attached lid net, which kept cheese and meat slices chilled, but dry above the ice, as well as the locking lid that doubles as a bottle opener. Despite its large size and sturdy build, it was surprisingly easy to maneuver thanks to the wide handle and oversized wheels. It's heavy, yes. But it performs on par with high-end coolers at a more accessible price point. The Details: 20.5 x 23 x 20.75 inches | 45 quart | 37 pounds | Plastic Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon $290 at Amazon $290 at Backcountry View on Walmart This sleek, squared-off cooler performed great during testing over a full weekend of activities—an overnight camping trip in near-freezing temps, a sunny picnic, a party, and casual porch use—and it consistently kept everything from canned drinks to cream cheese cold for more than 24 hours. Even after 48 hours, drinks still felt fridge-cold despite the ice being fully melted. We love the clean, modern design and found it incredibly easy to pack into a car thanks to its boxy, space-saving shape. It's heavy-duty and durable (you can sit on it, no problem), and the easy-to-clean surface is a huge upgrade from older textured coolers. We would prefer it if the wheels were bigger, but overall, it's a stylish and highly functional cooler. The Details: 18 x 17 x18 inches | 28 liters | 26 pounds | Polyethylene (PE) Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure This cooler came with us everywhere—from a rainy camping trip in Big Bear to a sunny picnic and hike through a muddy botanic garden—and it consistently outperformed expectations. It held 24 cans and 10 pounds of ice with ease, kept everything ice-cold for well over 24 hours (even in direct sunlight), and rolled smoothly over dirt, rocks, and pavement thanks to its rugged, all-terrain wheels. We were particularly impressed by its smart design: the square interior made packing effortless, and the telescoping handle adjusted to multiple heights and felt stable even when the cooler was fully loaded. Bonus: the lid doubles as a seat, and there's a built-in drink dispenser compartment. It's sturdy, easy to clean, impressively insulated, and surprisingly sleek. The Details: 22 x 21 x 19 inches | 35 quarts | 27.5 pounds | Polyurethane foam Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: dbest $40 $36 at Amazon $55 at QVC View on If you're looking for a compact, budget-friendly cooler for short adventures or park picnics, this soft-sided rolling cooler is a smart pick. We used it to haul around a mix of drinks—from water and soda to kombucha and sports drinks—during several mild-weather outings, and it consistently kept everything cold for a full day. It fits up to two dozen beverages with ice, and we loved how quick it was to pack and clean it. The real standout feature is how collapsible it is: unlike bulky hard-sided coolers, this one folds down for easy storage when not in use, making it perfect for road trips or storage in small apartments. The zippered exterior pockets are great for stashing sunscreen, snacks, and even a book or two. While the insulation isn't built for multi-day cooling and the small wheels are best on smooth surfaces, it's an excellent value for everyday use. The Details: 10 x 12 x 35.5 inches | 4 gallons | 5 pounds | Polyester Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Coleman $75 at Amazon View on Walmart View on We tested this wheeled hard cooler on a six-day road trip where temps ranged from the 50s to the 70s—and it impressed us with how well it kept food cold. Whether packed with meat, dairy, or drinks, the contents remained chilled for over 24 hours, even when left in a warm car. It was easy to roll across gravel, concrete, and carpet, and it held up well as a makeshift seat, too. I also appreciated thoughtful touches like cupholders with drainage and a sturdy drain plug. That said, the lid doesn't stay open on its own, which makes loading and unloading awkward at times. Overall, this cooler is a great pick for campers, road trippers, and tailgaters who want reliable insulation and smooth portability without splurging. The Details: 15 x 28 x 18 inches | 62 quarts | 15.7 pounds | Plastic Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure
Tom's Guide
10-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Tom's Guide
7 Backcountry outdoor gear deals that blow Amazon Prime Day out of the water
Amazon isn't really known for having a highly curated selection of high-end hiking gear or technical outerwear, but Backcountry is. Best of all, amid the massive Amazon Prime Day sales event, Backcountry is having its own wallet-busting flash sale with some of my favorite gear from Columbia and Marmot reduced by as much as 65% off. The most impressive deal is on the Marmot half-zip fleece. Normally $114, this cozy, technical layer is only $40 right now on Backcountry, with both men's and women's styles eligible for savings. That's not all, my favorite Smartwool Hiking Socks are 35% off, and Camelbak Vacuum Mugs are just $16. That's just scratching the surface! Find details and links to these deals and more below. This slim, cup-holder-friendly vacuum-insulated travel mug boasts 16 ounces of capacity for hot or cold beverages and features an easy-sip cap, making it a fab travel companion. Also, doesn't it look snazzy AF in that metallic 'Moss' Green? My favorite comfortable, breathable, warm, and long-lasting Merino wool hiking socks don't go on sale all that often, so don't let this deal walk on by. Sorry, dudes, this bargain is ladies' only. Little waistpacks are supremely handy, especially come summertime, when you've got the essentials to carry but limited pocket real estate. For less than $20, the Eastpak Spring Pack is here to rescue you from this conundrum with a wide range of eye-pleasing colorways to choose from, both on sale and full price. If you'd prefer a pack with lots of separate compartments for greater organization than the Eastpak above, consider this fresh-looking option from Dakine. While I don't personally own the Jagger Hybrid, I do own several other Dakine packs, which have served me well over the years. So, I have no doubt this bad boy will meet your needs, too. A comfy, stylish and warm Columbia fleece jacket for just $34? That's right, folks. This deal, available for the guys, applies to three styles, ranging from timeless to funky-fun, with tons of sizes still available... for now. Marmot may not be as big a brand as Patagonia or Columbia, but maybe it should be, because its outerwear is just as good. This ultra-plus half-zip fleece, for instance, is packed with features, highly rated, and a whopping 65% off. Choose from two discounted styles. Guys can also take advantage of the 65% off Marmot Half-Zip Fleece deal on with just one style, but plenty of sizes still on offer. Trust me, you'll thank me when you're snug as a bug in a rug this fall in your new, wallet-friendly fleece. (You're welcome).
WIRED
05-07-2025
- Business
- WIRED
I'm an Outdoor Writer. I'm Shopping These 55 Deals From REI's 4th of July Sale
Whether you need a camp chair, sleeping pad, running shoes, or new pack, REI's Independence Day sale has something for everyone. All products featured on WIRED are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links. The 4th of July is over, but the REI deals continue. The REI 4th of July sale is a great time to get a deal on hiking, camping, and backpacking essentials. This year, there are also great competing July Fourth sales on top brands at Backcountry and Public Lands. We test camping and hiking gear all year round here at WIRED, and these REI deals are on gear we've tested and approved. There's something here for nearly all our favorite summer activities—tents, stoves, sleeping bags, and plenty of outdoor apparel. If you're not sure what you need, be sure to look at our guides to outdoor gear, like the Best Backpacking Tents, Best Sleeping Bags, Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads, Best Rain Jackets, Best Merino Wool Clothes, and Best Binoculars. Updated July 5, 2025: We've added a deal on a Cannondale ebike, Patagonia Nano Puff jacket, several merino wool t-shirts and socks, the Garmin Forerunner 265, several rain jackets, and our favorite car camping sleeping bag. Do I have to be an REI Member to save? AccordionItemContainerButton No, but REI Co-Op members earn 10 percent Member Rewards on all their purchases (which you can redeem at the end of the year), and there are some special deals for members, like a coupon for 20 percent off any one full-price item. REI membership is a one-time fee of $30. Right now, when you spend $50 on gear, you can sign up for a new membership, and REI will give you a $30 bonus card, making membership effectively free. When Does the REI Fourth of July Sale end? AccordionItemContainerButton This year the REI Fourth of July sale runs June 27 through July 7. Both Backcountry and Public Lands are running sales through July 7 as well. The Best Hiking and Running Deals Be sure to check out our guides to the best rain jackets, the best merino wool, and how to layer your clothes to stay comfy in any weather. This deal is only on one color (Redtail Rust for men and Oxide Red for the women) and probably won't last, but this is the lowest price we've seen for one of our favorite hiking rain jackets. I have last year's version of this jacket. The taped seams and welded construction keep wind and moisture at bay, and the side zip vents run all the way from the hem to the bicep, offering great ventilation when you're moving (they're also handy for getting at stuff in the pockets of your mid layers). I don't love my Houdini, but I find it extremely useful. It packs down to about the size of a tennis ball, it's light, and it'll stop the wind and shed a light rain, which has earned it a permanent spot in my day hiking kit. Still, as my editor writes in our rain jacket guide, "it rustles, it's not too breathable, and I feel like I'm wearing a plastic bag." Note that this deal is only available on select colors. The Rainier is our favorite budget rain jacket, especially so on sale. The Rainier uses high-quality three-layer, seam-taped, laminate waterproofing (a rarity at this price), and the DWR coating is non-fluorinated (no PFAS). It has features like venting pit zips, a weatherproof center zip, and features an adjustable, packable hood. This is a classic rain jacket. Go camping in Oregon in the rain, and you'll find everyone standing around in their identical Betas. The AR (for 'all-round') is the beefiest of Arc'teryx's Beta jackets. The combination of 40-denier fabric (with 80D reinforced areas) and Gore-Tex Pro 3L membrane make this not just highly waterproof, but very durable as well. This deal is limited to one color and is going fast. Backcountry (Men's) Backcountry (Women's) This North Face fleece jacket features in our upcoming guide to mid-layers. The stretchy, recycled midweight fleece is perfect for cool mornings and evenings in the shoulder seasons. It offers a good range of motion, though the sleeves are elastic, which some people will not like. I like this fleece, though, because it's not overly technical looking, you can wear it around town or when belaying. The Rab Cinder Phantom is our favorite rain jacket for cycling. It solves almost all my issues with rain gear—it's incredibly light (3.3 ounces/114 grams for a medium), stuffs down to about the size of a tennis ball, and is somehow surprisingly waterproof. It will eventually wet out, but it takes quite a downpour. Photograph: Scott Gilbertson When the weather gets down well below freezing, and the wind makes your cheeks burn, this is the jacket I turn to. With a base layer at the bottom, a wool sweater over that, then this jacket, I was toasty warm walking in the early morning chill of winter (usually –10 Fahrenheit in January). The shell is lightweight (20D) Pertex ripstop nylon that's nicely windproof and water-resistant. For some reason, only the women's jacket is on sale. Patagonia's Nano Puff is beloved by everyone who lives places that don't actually have winter. Just kidding. Sort of. I live in northern Wisconsin and the window of time where this jacket is useful is short, but it's a nice option for cool fall days. If you do need something warmer, check out our puffer jacket guide. If you live in a cold climate, even if it's not quite Canada, you need this shirt. It's your classic, ultrawarm wool shirt. Sorry, shirt jacket. Whatever it is, it's warm, cozy, and comfy. Don't let the wool scare you, it's not itchy. The best midweight base layer we've tested, this Smartwool shirt is perfect for chilly spring and fall mornings. It's comfortable, though tending to be looser fitting, which is something to keep in mind when layering. The heavy-duty seams (read: sturdier, longer lasting) don't rub, and sit off the shoulder for more comfort when wearing a pack. At 87 percent merino wool (blended with nylon), these are also very durable while remaining lightweight (10.3 ounces for a men's large). An honorable mention from our merino wool t-shirt guide, this Smartwool t-shirt is cousin the long sleeve above. It's lighter than that one, and soft and comfy. It's a merino blend, 88 percent merino wool and 12 percent nylon, which makes it more durable than pure merino—mine is going on three years now with not a hole in sight. As with many of these apparel deals the sale price is only on select colors, but if you like the colors on sale this is a good way to build up your merino collection without spending a fortune. Huckberry's Proof 72-hour Merino T-shirt ranks high in our guide to merino T-shirts. It's soft, and the classic fit is loose and comfortable. It doesn't look overly 'sporty,' the way many merino T-shirts do (though there is a slim fit version also on sale for $52 ($20 off) if you prefer that style). This shirt is 87 percent merino wool and 13 percent nylon, which gives it a bit of extra stretch. I bought this during the REI Anniversary sale in May and have been very happy with it. It's too hot for it now, but a cool spring gave me a chance to wear it for a good week. It's slightly oversized, but very soft, stretchy, and comfortable. I mean it's a merino wool beanie; hard to go wrong with one of those. And it's Fjällräven, so it's well-made and should last a very long time. I bought my father, father-in-law, brother-in-law, and husband each one of these shirts last year. Roark Clothing is a small company that makes some of my favorite active apparel, and the Bless Up shirt is the perfect summer shirt. It's perforated and made from synthetic fibers, so it's perfect for super-humid beach days when the temperatures are above 90 degrees. —Adrienne So This is another deal that's only on one color, but REI's 650 puffy jacket (9/10, WIRED Recommends) is the best budget three-season puffy you can buy, more so at this price. At 10.9 ounces it's reasonably lightweight and has large hand pockets and some very nice internal pockets for stashing a hat or gloves. You can't go wrong with a pair of Darn Tough merino wool socks. These are a merino blend, 52 percent nylon, 45 percent merino wool, 3 percent spandex. That's makes them nice and stretchy, as well as more durable than 100 percent merino, but the nylon does mean you can't wear them as long without washing, I find about 2 days max for blends like this. Running Gear Deals Our top-rated running shoes are now on sale because the latest version, the Endorphin Speed 5, just came out. However, reviewer Kieran Alger has run thousands of miles in this version and can vouch for their light, snappy ride. These are consumer tech director Michael Calore's favorite running shoes, and one of our top picks for shoes with the most stability. Do you need to beat chafing burn on your bits? This plant-based unguent is our top pick for long distances and is the pick of ultrarunning legend Courtney Dauwalter. Deals on Backpacking Gear Photograph: Scott Gilbertson This deal is a combo of our top-pick backpacking water filter and our top-pick water bladder. As the name suggests, the Sawyer is a squeeze filter, but paired with the Cnoc it turns into a gravity filter when you have the time. When I'm not testing something else, this is the filtration system I use, and it's never let me down. If you don't want the Cnoc bladder for some reason, the Sawyer is also on sale for $35 ($10 off). Heading into bear country this summer? You'll very likely need a bear-resistant way to store your food. In my experience, the BV500 from Bear Vault is the most widely approved option (though always check with the rangers in the area). At 700 cubic inches, the BV500 has room for about three to five days of food for two (depending on how well you pack). It does weigh almost 3 pounds, and it's a bummer to carry, but when you need it, you need it—might as well grab one when it's a little cheaper. I'm not sure this really qualifies for the 'ultralight' moniker, and these pots are unfortunately marred by having a ton of fake influencer reviews out there, but they're actually quite good. The hard-anodized aluminum is sturdy and provides good heat transfer. The ceramic nonstick coating makes for easy cleanup (especially paired with the GSI scraper below). Still the most useful piece of backpacking gear I own, GSI's pot scraper is the unsung hero of backcountry cooking, turning cleanup from a tedious chore to a couple of seconds' work. Now, if you seriously burn something, this thing will not save you (boil water in the pan to loosen the burnt bits), but for every other situation, scraping down your pot with this tool will get you 99 percent of the way to a clean pot. Backcountry (40L) Southwest (55L) While I love my Junction pack (see above), were I buying today, I would get the Southwest. The only real difference is the outer rear pocket, which is mesh in the Junction and Dyneema in the Southwest. Turns out I never dry wet gear in the mesh, and I have found it snags on things more than I'd like. If you don't need the mesh, the Southwest is the pack to get. Again, I'd go 55 liters, but if I were only doing solo trips, the 40 liters should be plenty. Backcountry (40L) Backcountry (55L) This has been my backpack of choice for the past five years. It's light, durable (it's made of Dyneema), and carries loads of up to about 35 pounds in comfort. The rear mesh pocket gives you a place to stash wet gear, and a water-repellent outer means your gear doesn't get wet (there may be limits to this, but I've never had a problem). My only regret is that I didn't get the 55 liters (also on sale for $340 ($60 off)), so I could fit a little more gear when backpacking with my kids. Sea to Summit's entire line of tents is on sale right now. The ultralight Alto (8/10, WIRED Recommends) is designed to keep weight down on your solo adventures. At just 33 ounces for a semi-freestanding tent, it remains one of the lighter options on the market, and at this price it's hard to pass up. Photograph: Scott Gilbertson Six Moon Design's Lunar Solo (7/10, WIRED Review) is my favorite single-wall ultralight solo tent. It's not without its quirks (read the pitching tips), but if you want something more than a tarp, that still weighs just 26 ounces (740 grams), this one is hard to beat. This is the first REI 4th of July sale I've seen in years where Big Agnes Copper Spur tents aren't on sale. This is the lone Copper Spur deal, on the giant five-person version that somehow still manages to weigh just 6 pounds, 14 ounces. As will all Copper Spur tents, four people will be more comfortable, but five will technically fit. There are lighter 1-person tents out there, but the MSR Elixir is strong, quick to set up, and surprisingly roomy for a 1-person tent. The improved fabric coatings in this latest version have held up well to a couple of Lake Superior storms, and I really like the interior pockets and the all-metal corner hardware. Setup is a snap. The Petzl Tikka is the best headlamp you can buy. I've had the same Petzl Tikka for 14 years, and it's still going strong. The Tikka is not the brightest, topping out at 450 lumens, but it's plenty of light to cook by in the backcountry. The deal is on the Core model, which features Petzl's rechargeable battery (there's a Micro USB port on the battery), but it can also run on any old AAA batteries. Sleeping Bag and Sleeping Pad Deals Looking to upgrade your sleep system? Check out our guides to the Best Sleeping Bags and the Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads. The Zenbivy Bed 25 (9/10, WIRED Recommends) is hands-down the most comfortable backcountry sleeping experience I've ever had. It wouldn't be my top pick for extreme situations, but so long as your expected temperatures fit in Zenbivy's range (the comfort rating is 35 degrees Fahrenheit), it doesn't get more comfortable than this. The Zenbivy isn't just a sleeping bag. It's a sheet, hood, and quilt-style bag that can be combined in various ways. Zenbivy's Light Bed is a brand-new option that takes the basic clip design of other Zenbivy beds and lightens up the load. I've been testing this bag for several months, and it is everything I loved about the original above, but lighter weight. I'll have a full review very soon, but if you've been tempted by the Zenbivy, but wanted to keep your base gear weight down, this is the option you've been looking for. It's no longer our top pick for side sleepers, but the Questar remains a good option for those who want more room. It uses what Therm-a-Rest calls W.A.R.M. fit, which stands for 'with additional room for multiple' positions. Indeed, this bag is very roomy for a mummy design. I was able to draw my legs up when side-sleeping and spread out considerably more than with most of the other sleeping bags I've tested. Sea to Summit's Ether Light XT is only marginally heavier than the Therm-a-Rest above. The extra 4 ounces for the Sea to Summit pad gets you quite a bit more cushion too—this is a 4-inch thick pad, compared to the 3 inches of the Therm-a-rest X-Lite, which makes this a better ultralight option for side sleepers. I also like the baffle design better, and it seems to be a little more durable, making this an excellent alternative ultralight pad. Note that this one is an REI Outlet deal; the XT has been replaced by a newer model. The best super comfy car camping pad you can buy, the MondoKing is the most comfortable, deluxe mattress in the Therm-a-rest line, the flagship for picky car campers and those who are stationary in the backcountry for weeks or months at a time. This burly mat is 4 inches thick and weighs 4 pounds, offering plenty of cushioning and support. You won't want to lug it far, but even a large-bodied side sleeper won't bottom out. Closed-cell-foam pads like the Therm-a-Rest Z-Lite Sol are a must-have. They weigh next to nothing (10 ounces for the small), fold up small enough to lash to the outside of any pack, and double as a chair, extra padding on cold nights, table, you name it. I am too old and too soft to be the sort of ultra-minimalist who gets by with just a Z-Lite, but I still have one around on almost every trip I take. REI's Siesta is great budget sleeping bag. The 98 percent recycled polyester fill is rated to 20 degrees, which is good enough for 3-season car camping trips. I would use something warmer if you're expecting below freezing temps. That said, the Siesta's hood really helps on colder nights. My favorite feature though, the reason it's our top pick for car camping, is the full length zipper, which allows you to turn it into a quilt on warmer nights. Hiking and Camping Deals Don't forget to check out our guide to the Best Day-Hiking Backpacks and the Best Travel Bags. As noted above, you don't have to be an REI member to get most of these deals, but there are some extra perks, like this deal. REI members can save 20 percent off anything Yeti. Grab our top-pick cooler, the Yeti Tundra Haul Wheeled Cooler, or that pricey but very nice water bottle you've always wanted, the Yeti Yonder. This chair is the coziest way to hang out around camp. It is somewhat huge, heavy, and awkward to fold up and carry, but so long as you have room for it in your vehicle, there's no better way to relax around the fire with your loved ones. This deal is only available on the almost blinding Firefly Yellow color, but if that works for you, this is the best price we've ever seen on the Roadie 32. The Roadie coolers aren't quite as robust as the Yeti Tundra, but they're great for camping. You get a basket for organizing your contents and the usual high-quality Yeti rotomolding to keep your food cold for up to five days in our testing. Hurry, though, this deal will not last. Cannondale's Adventure Neo line (8/10, WIRED Recommends) has a 250-watt Bafang motor with a Bafang sensor and a thumb throttle, which makes it a class 2 ebike (it tops out at 20 mph assist). It's not the most powerful bike we've tested, but it features reliable components from Shimano and Bosch along with great shocks and a suspension seat post. This is the adult-size version of our favorite kid's mountain bike. REI's hardtail comes with XS–S 27.5 x 2.6-inch wheels in the XS and S sizes, and 29 x 2.6 for the M-XL sizes. The SR Suntour XCM 120-mm coil fork has a 15-mm thru axle and 110-mm boost, making it good at cornering, but also offering pretty solid durability. It's got hydraulic disc brakes (Shimano MT200) for precise control and microSHIFT ADVENT x 1 x 10 drivetrain, which shifts nicely. The heavier-duty DRT 1.3 bike is also on sale for $1,200 ($200 off). I have yet to do a trip with a satellite communicator, but I do understand why people use them. If I were to bring one along, this is the one I'd get. It's tiny, light (3.5 ounces), and easily stashable. It utilizes the super-fast Iridium satellite network, so you can send a rapid SOS from pretty much anywhere. There are extra features like waypoints and interval tracking, and it plays nice with compatible Garmin watches. Garmin's Forerunner 265 is excellent multisport watch, with 30+ built-in activity profiles including everything from running to open water swimming. It's got a very nice, vibrant AMOLED touchscreen, and it can deliver reliable heart rate metrics during workouts, which is why it's our top pick watch in our best heart rate monitors guide. Photograph: Scott Gilbertson; Getty Images It's watersports season. If you don't have a paddle board, it's time to invest. My favorite paddleboard for lazy days paddling at the lake, this Bote is large and stable, making it great for beginners. Despite that it's surprisingly nimble and easy to steer, with very good tracking ability. I also love the two-in-one kayak/SUP hybrid design, which means you can turn it into a full fishing rig with Bote's various add-ons. Oru's foldable kayaks are genius—all the boat, none of the size. The Lake is light, reasonably fast, and the cheapest way to get into the world of folding kayaks. As with all Oru's offerings, the Lake folds origami-style into a roughly 30-inch square that's just 15 inches deep—small enough to fit in a car trunk or hall closet. The ultralight backpacking company Gossamer Gear is now making travel products, like these awesome packing cubes. As you would expect these are lightweight, but what makes them the most versatile cube set you can get is the wide range of options here. The half- and full-size cubes have compression, mesh, and sturdy pull zippers. The dual-chamber dirty/clean cube has a shocking 15-liter capacity and the dirty side seals off. — Adrienne So Osprey's venerable Talon packs have long had a spot in our guide to the best day-hiking packs. The 100-denier high-tenacity nylon (Bluesign-approved) outer shell is durable and light, and the dual panel access makes it easy to get to your stuff. There are eight pockets all told, which means you have plenty of space, inside and out, to stash all your gear. The Osprey Talon 33 is also on sale $120 ($40 off) I haven't had a chance to play with this one much, but if you like having some extra chest storage space this Mystery Ranch pocket is good way to go. It's works perfect with Mystery Ranch packs, but the clips should work with just about any pack that has a little webbing on the shoulder straps. The REI Co-op brand Kingdom 6 tent was a long time favorite around here, alas REI discontinued the Kingdom 6 and replaced it with two tents: The Wonderland 6 and the REI Base Camp 6. The Wonderland 6 has more mesh, which makes it a better choice for summer trips. We'll be testing both very soon, but based on my experience with the very similar Kingdom, this is a solid deal on a good tent. I like Kelty's tarp tent, though I have the 9-foot version and really wish I had the 12, which is what I've linked to here. It has stood up well in 20- to 30-mile-per-hour winds in the Outer Banks, and kept the rain off in the deep north woods of Wisconsin. If you plan to use it in a treeless area like the beach, be sure to pick up the poles, which are sold separately. Photograph: Kristin Canning This is the best-smelling bug repellent that uses oil-of-lemon eucalyptus. Reviewer Kristin Canning notes that the spray comes out even and fine and much less intense-smelling than other sprays she tried. It offers about six hours of protection. Our favorite way to avoid the green propane bottles is this gas growler. This model gets you a 1.2-pound propane tank with a nice padded/insulated sleeve and a handy strap for carrying, and it makes your camp setup look much nicer than a bare tank. It also saves your shins during those inevitable run-ins with cold hard steel that come from lugging around a big propane tank. This size is the equivalent of five green propane bottles. Permethrin is a bug repellent you can apply to clothing, and theoretically other gear, although I do not recommend it on nylon tents. Still, if you want serious bug repellent spraying Permethrin on your clothes is the way to go.
