2026 AWESOME GEAR Guide

Morgan’s Pick: Gregory Alpaca Gear Basket

The Gregory Alpaca 70 Gear Basket is one of my favorite pieces in a wide, varied storage arsenal.  Even though it’s collapsible down to a scant nothing, that rarely happens since it’s so gosh darn useful.  Setting up and breaking down camp is usually littered with stuff sacks of this and that, which can easily get lost.  Thanks to its ample capacity, everything has a place to call home and can be carried in one fell swoop thanks to the aluminum handles. Bonus points for days when it doubles as a reusable, oversized market basket at the grocery store when I’m out of cloth bags.

Nicholas’ Pick: Sea to Summit Breeze Sleeping Bag Liner

I’m a super light sleeper, so when I travel, I give up a ton of bag space to bring along my 2 big home pillows. This seems crazy but a good night’s sleep is just worth it to me. But, when I picked up the Sea to Summit Breeze Liner, I learned that comfort doesn’t have to cost me pack space. This little travel buddy fits in my hand and adds a wonderful homey feeling to my sleep system. The fabric is stretchy, comfortable, and strikes a perfect balance between cozy and breathable. The unique wicking material doesn’t cling to sweat, which feels great on summer nights. The Traveller style gives me space to sprawl and even holds my pillows in place. Stuffing neatly into a side pocket, this liner is always at the ready when I need saving from cabin mattresses and scratchy hotel sheets.

Steven’s Pick: Primus Long Handle Spoon

If I’m not careful, I can easily be that guy. The guy hungrily making a total mess trying to scarf down a dehydrated meal at the end of the day only to end up with food and sauce stuck to his knuckles. This nifty utensil solves that problem with a long handle that reaches into every corner of freeze-dried packages and a tilted design that helps to collect every last crumb without ever getting my hands dirty. Literally. It weighs next to nothing, cleans up easily, and takes up very little space in my pack. No more being that guy!

Cheyne’s Pick: LEKI Skytera FX Carbon SL Trekking Poles

When it was time to finally upgrade my trekking poles, I knew I wanted something lightweight and collapsible that still felt sturdy enough to inspire confidence over sketchy terrain. My LEKI Skytera poles have done exactly that. The carbon construction makes them super lightweight, but thanks to LEKI’s legendary craftsmanship, they feel rock solid and ready for adventure. I love how compact they collapse while offering a handy amount of adjustability, plus the grips are generous and really comfortable. I’m looking forward to many fast-paced day hikes and ambitious backpacking trips with these poles.

Becky’s Pick: Kelty Rad-arondack Chair

Spend enough time around campfires and you know—not all camp chairs are created equal. After a few seasons of putting the Kelty Rad-Arondack Chairs (and table) through the paces, they’ve become a staple at our family campsite and everywhere we relax outdoors.

I was first drawn to the modern take on the classic Adirondack look that instantly elevates any campsite. But what really sold me was the feel. Unlike typical sling-style chairs that swallow you whole, the Rad-Arondacks have a structured seat and back that give real support without the typical slouch. I also love how low they sit, keeping you closer to the warmth of the fire. In short, this is the chair that made me wonder why I ever tolerated saggy camp chairs. They’ve become the envy at family gatherings! Add them to your wish list, and don’t miss the matching table and loveseat.

Dave’s Pick: MSR Pocket Rocket

The original MSR Pocket Rocket stove is an undeniably useful piece of kit. It’s simple, reliable, and packs up small. I love how easy it is to quickly connect to a cannister and get cooking. The updated MSR Pocket Rocket 2 and Pocket Rocket Deluxe are also great options with some helpful new features, but this original model has held up so well that I haven’t needed to replace it yet! When it’s time, I’ll be glad to pick up another Pocket Rocket stove.

Mandy’s Pick: Big Agnes Captain Comfort Deluxe Camp Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad