Backcountry Hiking Essentials

Embarking on a backcountry hiking adventure requires gear that's both dependable and versatile, ensuring every step is as enjoyable as the last. Our collection of backcountry hiking essentials is designed to enhance your journey, offering quality and durability that stand up to the challenges of the great outdoors. From lightweight layers that keep you comfortable in changing weather to sturdy footwear that supports every stride, these essentials are crafted with a focus on lasting value and ease of use. Whether you're navigating rugged trails or setting up camp under the stars, our selection promises to enrich your outdoor experience with timeless style and practicality.

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Men's Water-Resistant Cresta Hiking Pants, Standard Fit

A pair of dark cinder, water-resistant hiking pants with UPF 50+ and abrasion-resistant nylon blend.

Pros: Durable Versatile Comfortable Good fit Quick-drying
Women's Vista Trekking Pants, Mid-Rise Straight-Leg

A lightweight, durable pair of trekking pants with UPF 50+ protection, made from stretchy nylon/spandex blend.

Pros: Quick drying Lightweight Versatile Comfortable Good fit
Men's Cresta Hiking Pants, Standard Fit, Fleece-Lined

A pair of dark cinder, fleece-lined hiking pants with UPF 50+ protection and two-way stretch for winter adventures.

Pros: Warmth Durable Versatile Comfortable Good fit
Women's Water-Repellent Comfort Trail Pants, Mid-Rise Straight-Leg
Price was from: $69.95 now: $34.99

A pair of ash-colored, mid-rise, straight-leg hiking pants with water-repellent, quick-dry nylon and UPF 50+ protection.

Pros: Versatile for outdoor activities Water-repellent feature Great quality Lightweight material Comfortable fit
Men's Water-Resistant Cresta Hiking Pants, Natural Fit

A durable, water-resistant hiking pant with UPF 50+ protection, made from a nylon-spandex blend.

Pros: Excellent for travel Lightweight Durable Quick-drying Comfortable fit
Women's Trailduster Hiking Shoes
Price was from: $129 now: $109

A waterproof nubuck leather hiking shoe with a grippy VertiGrip rubber outsole, available in burgundy and soft cayenne.

Pros: Vibrant color Good support Durable construction Versatile use Comfortable fit
Men's Oboz Bridger Low B-Dry Hiking Shoes

A versatile, waterproof hiking shoe with advanced cushioning, superior arch support, and a durable granite peak outsole.

Pros: Durable construction High-quality materials Superior arch support Comfortable fit Professional customer service
L.L.Bean Rambler PowerLock 2.1 Hiking Staff

A lightweight, sturdy hiking staff with a comfortable cork grip and secure PowerLock 2.1 system.

Pros: Comfortable grip Easy to stow Lightweight design
Men's Elevation Hiking Shoes, Waterproof

A lightweight, waterproof hiking shoe with a recycled polyester upper and durable VertiGrip rubber outsole.
Adventure Pro Waterproof Day Pack, 26 L

A blue 26L waterproof day pack made from durable 400-denier TPU-coated double ripstop nylon.

Pros: Good material Lightweight Bright color Durable Comfortable fit
L.L.Bean Ridge Runner Hiking Poles, Regular

A versatile set of lightweight aluminum hiking poles with adjustable height and comfortable cork grip.

Pros: Easy to adjust Comfortable grips Secure latches Well made Improves steadiness and stamina
L.L.Bean Ridge Runner Day Pack, 15L

A lightweight gray day pack made from durable nylon with breathable straps and multiple convenient storage pockets.
Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle, 40 oz.

A blue double-wall stainless steel bottle that keeps drinks hot for 12 hours or cold for 24.

Pros: Functional design Keeps drinks hot or cold Large capacity Durable construction
Men's MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes

A pair of lightweight, durable black snowshoes with advanced traction and freeze-resistant bindings for steep climbs.
Women's L.L.Bean Ridge Runner Plus Day Pack, 30L
Price was from: $139 now: $69.99

A 30L day backpack in spruce pine, made from durable 100D triple ripstop nylon with Hypalon accents.
L.L.Bean Ridge Runner 26L Plus Day Pack

A lightweight gray day pack made from durable nylon and Hypalon, featuring breathable panels and multiple pockets.
Trail Model Day Hiking Pack

An orange hiking backpack made from durable recycled polyester with a hydration sleeve and multiple pockets.
Men's Cresta II Waterproof Hiking Boots, Leather

A brown leather hiking boot with waterproof membrane and Vibram® sole for rugged, all-weather traction.
Women's Hikelite 4 Season Carbon Compact Hiking Poles

A lightweight pair of hiking poles with carbon fiber and aluminum construction, featuring foam grips and nylon straps.
Stowaway Day Pack, 28L

A superlight black 28L day pack made from recycled polyester ripstop with multiple pockets and trail-ready features.
Women's L.L.Bean Ridge Runner Plus Day Pack, 22L

A lightweight gray nylon day pack with breathable straps, multiple pockets, and hydration sleeve for hiking essentials.
L.L.Bean Adventure Day Packs

A rugged, persimmon orange day pack made from recycled nylon with multiple organizational features for outdoor adventures.
Women's L.L.Bean Ridge Runner Backpack, 48L
Price was from: $219 now: $109

A rugged, lightweight 48L backpack with women's-specific harness, made from 100D triple ripstop nylon.
Jetboil Genesis Basecamp Cooking System

A compact gray ceramic dual-burner cooking system with nonstick fry pan and 5-liter FluxPot for camping.

Backcountry Hiking Essentials

Backcountry hiking is a pursuit that calls for a special kind of preparation—one that balances a love for the wild with a healthy respect for its challenges. As the days grow longer and the woods come alive with the promise of summer, hikers of every experience level are drawn to remote trails, eager for the solitude and beauty that only the backcountry can offer. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend trek or planning a multi-day adventure, the right gear can make all the difference. It’s about more than just comfort; it’s about having equipment that stands up to the elements, packs easily, and helps you feel confident no matter how far you roam. When choosing your hiking essentials, it’s wise to think about durability, versatility, and ease of use—qualities that ensure your gear won’t let you down when you’re miles from the nearest trailhead. Items that are thoughtfully designed for backcountry use—lightweight yet tough, simple yet reliable—can help you focus on the experience, not the logistics.

These hiking essentials aren’t just for seasoned backpackers or solo explorers. They’re perfect for families setting out on their first overnight in the woods, friends planning a long-awaited reunion on the trail, or anyone looking to give a meaningful gift to the outdoor enthusiast in their life. There’s something special about giving a piece of gear that’s built to last—knowing it will be part of someone’s favorite memories, from sunrise coffee at a remote campsite to laughter around the evening campfire. May is a wonderful time to gear up, as the forests and mountains invite exploration and the weather lends itself to long, rewarding days outside. Each item on your list has a role to play: sturdy packs that carry the load without weighing you down, weather-ready outerwear that keeps you comfortable when the wind picks up, and compact camp tools that make life in the wild a little easier. Even the smallest details, like a well-chosen pair of socks or a reliable headlamp, can have a big impact on your comfort and peace of mind.

As you plan your next adventure—whether it’s a quick overnight escape or a longer journey off the grid—take a moment to consider the essentials that will help you make the most of every step. The right gear brings confidence to cross rocky creeks, climb sun-dappled ridges, and settle in under the stars when the day is done. If you’re looking to round out your kit or find inspiration for an upcoming trip, you’ll find a thoughtfully curated selection of backcountry hiking essentials right here. And for those venturing further into the wilderness, don’t miss our guide to Essentials For Backcountry Camping, where you’ll find even more ideas to help you prepare for nights spent under the open sky. With quality gear by your side, every adventure becomes a little more comfortable, a little more memorable, and a lot more fun.