Osprey Packs Aether AG 60L Backpack is the smallest of Osprey’s Aether men’s backpack series. This highly adjustable backpack features an anti-gravity suspension system to distribute your load incredibly well, a removable top pouch that converts to a real day pack, many pockets and access options. Built with Osprey’s quality, this pack will carry your gear comfortably, although you will need to pack efficiently with this small version.
The Jetboil Sumo Stove is part of the Jetboil system of burners, pots and accessories. The Sumo boils water in two to four minutes, and is well-suited for a quick meal of coffee and oatmeal, or packaged noodles. The stove is self-contained, with components that nest together, although some of the components are flimsy and fitting everything back together can be a little complicated. The reliable push-button lighter makes it easy to light the stove with no flare-ups.
The NEMO Equipment Inc. Stargaze Luxury Recliner Camp Chair is a good option for campers who are prioritizing comfort. This reclining chair is a good option for those who enjoy sitting and relaxing, but may not be the best choice if you’re looking for a reliable and secure option, due to the recalls. Anyone considering this chair should be comfortable with the recalls, the potential awkwardness while sitting up straight, and heavier weight.
The Camp Chef Explorer 2 Burner Range is a portable, free-standing camp stove that can handle multiple pot meals at camp, tailgate parties or at home. Its 30,000 BTU output boils water and heats food quickly, yet can still simmer nicely. It will help you cook gourmet meals at camp, keep your home kitchen cool by allowing you to do your canning outside, and with optional accessories, you can grill or even bake pizza.
The North Face Furnace Sleeping Bag: 20 Degree Down is a very warm and spacious sleeping bag that works best for car camping and short hikes. While the bag offers enough warmth to hold up in the backcountry, it does not compress well and also weighs more than many other bags, making it inconvenient to carry. The bag does stay very warm and also resists water well, but the weakest point is the zipper, which catches and breaks easily. For the price, this is a good sleeping bag for anyone looking for warmth but not picky about weight.
The Mountain Hardwear Optic 3.5 Tent: 3-Person 3-Season is a weather-resistant, functional, easy-to-set-up, and packable tent, that is best suited for 3 adults comfortably. The two doors on the one side mean you have to crawl over someone to get out, but they provide an expansive view. Despite the weight, the easy transportation, big vestibules, and ample storage space make this a great option for shorter backpacking trips.
The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 2-Person 3-Season tent is very lightweight and easy to pack. It has enough headroom to change clothes while sitting up, though space may be a little tight for two large people. The tent is easy to set up and holds up in wind and rain. Due to its ultralight construction, the fabric, zippers and poles need to be treated carefully to avoid damaging them.
The Black Diamond Bipod Bivy is warm, sturdy, and very weatherproof, and you can feel secure when hunkering down in even the most unpleasant weather. Although the headspace in this bivy is generous because of the pole, the footpace can be a bit tight, especially when using highly insulated sleeping bags or pads, or when side sleeping. The Bipod is also not the most packable or lightest option on the market, although this could be because of its generous headspace and durability.
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm MAX Sleeping Pad is a lightweight, warm, comfortable, and all-season option. The durability issues and high-price point may deter some, but if you want a pad that will keep you warm and comfortable in a variety of climates, this is a great choice.
The Therm-a-Rest Luxury Map Sleeping Pad is a comfortable, warm, easy-to-use, and durable pad, that sets itself apart from the competition due to the strategic placement of the foam, ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep. The bigger size and weight means this pad is not the best choice for backpacking, but for car-camping this option is a great choice, ensuring a supportive and comfortable night’s sleep.