The author hikes the John Muir Trail with his children in tow.
Wendy Altschuler
When you’re carrying everything on your back, the weight of most items certainly matters, especially for overnight backpacking adventures. Of course, you’ll need to factor in the terrain and weather when deciding what to pack. Fall often means cooler temperatures, making warm layers and accessories like hats, gloves, and wool socks a must. Plus, you’ll need a good sleeping system, a tent, a decent first aid kit, and plenty of food and water. But what about luxuries—special, yet unnecessary things that not only bring a little comfort, but also joy? Consider the following luxuries for your next outdoor adventure. You may find that the tradeoff is worth the extra weight.
Take a seat: camping chairs
Having a clean, comfortable place to sit while backpacking can be a huge asset to any overnight adventure. And with so many brands designing lightweight chairs, it can be hard to decide which one to bring.
THE AirCliner by Crazy Creek Products is ideal for most camping situations. It’s durable and can even double as an extra sleeping pad under your sleeping bag, with a shorter length that extends from shoulder to hip. Need a place to sit on your lunch break? The AirCliner can help. Now how smart is that?
Light up dinner: stoves
Whether you need a full backcountry kitchen or opt for a lightweight stove, Jetboil is your one stop shop for all things camping, whether you're a van lifer, car camper, backcountry hiker or day hiker.
For hiking, the Fast cooking system features a one-quart cooking cup with an easy-to-use burner and ignition system that runs on a convenient fuel canister and stabilizer. This innovative system is perfect for dehydrated meals, soups, and that all-important morning cup of coffee.
Let your feet breathe: camping shoes
There's nothing better after a long day of hiking than taking off your socks and boots and slipping on a pair of comfortable, breathable sandals. Danner The Wallowa Nylon Sandals are a great fit. They’re relatively lightweight (24 ounces per pair) and provide plenty of traction to keep you upright. Plus, these shoes are multifunctional: wear them for crossing streams or as a backup pair of shoes if you get a dreaded blister from your boots while hiking the trail.
The author camps overnight in the Northwest Territories of Canada.
Wendy Altschuler
Brighten up your face: fun sunglasses
Why not pack a pair of lightweight pink sunglasses from Performance, Tifosi Optics? In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October), 100% of proceeds from the awareness drive support the valuable educational outreach and research efforts of the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer FoundationIt's always good to have a quality pair of sunglasses on any backpacking adventure, especially ones that benefit a good cause.
Comfort above all: cotton shirts
Yes, it’s true: It’s generally not recommended to wear cotton while hiking unless it’s a short day hike or the weather is ideal. It’s often best to choose moisture-wicking materials like merino wool, nylon, or polyester to keep you warm and dry. However, sometimes a soft, comfortable cotton shirt or sweatshirt is perfect for relaxing around the campfire or getting a good night’s sleep.
The Landmark Project makes durable and trendy graphic tees and their new collection features vintage-inspired national park designs, including ones that feature Smoked Bear (who turned 80 this year!) and Woodsy Owl. These tops are also great for changing into once you're done hiking and off trail.
Let There Be Light: Camping Lanterns
A lantern is definitely a “need” and not a “necessity” when backpacking, but the extra ambient light at camp can really make a difference to your overall wilderness experience and well-being.
THE BioLite AlpenGlow Mini Lamp has functional white and color modes, it is rechargeable and the elastic strap makes it a versatile item as you can easily hang the light on trees, branches or tent loops. Best of all, the mini lightweight lamp is small enough to fit in your hand or pocket.
Go on a parallel adventure: folding kayaks
Okay, hear me out. For shorter hikes to a lake where getting out on the water would be perfect, why not bring a portable boat. Kayak Oruthe original origami kayak brand, has introduced the Inlet Sport Kayak in a new black shade for its latest fleet of folding boats. Lightweight at just 23 pounds, this sleek kayak takes just minutes to set up.
This kayak is definitely a luxury item and will provide you with plenty of enjoyment at camp. Pair the Inlet with the backpack, which features shoulder and hip straps, to easily carry the kayak on your back. You can carry it anywhere, including on a plane or in the trunk of your car.
Be prepared, bring what you need, but leave some room for a luxury item.
Wendy Altschuler
Be smart about the weather: warm pants
Perhaps more essential than luxury, the Keb Agile winter pants from Fjällravennow also designed for women, are durable and built to last. Choose from three different color patterns. Perfect for the cooler fall weather, these surprisingly stretchy pants will keep your legs warm. The best part? Pockets. Lots of pockets. These pants are an investment that will pay off for years to come.
Take time to appreciate the change of seasons, when the colors and smells of fall emerge and the woodland creatures rush to stock up on food. After all, isn’t that what hiking is all about?
