Appalachian Adventures

Hello Adventurers!

Hiking and camping is arguably some of the most exhilarating and genuinely enjoyable things to do. However, very quickly can a good hike go off the rails. This is why it is imperative to plan out your backpack. Choosing what to take with you and what to leave behind can help prevent an unfortunate situation from turning bad.

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1. Backpack

Your backpack is the cornerstone of your hiking and camping experience. After all, without a backpack, you limit your possible inventory down to two items. This is why you need to choose a backpack that has enough storage capacity. A comfortable fit, proper weight distribution, and materials that are durable to withstand the elements are equally as important. Features such as hydration compatibility, multiple compartments, and weather-resistant materials can make a big difference in convenience and longevity.

I highly recommend the Granite Gear Blaze 60L Backpack. Despite weighing just 3.0 pounds, this backpack comfortably supports up to 50 pounds. It is an excellent choice for light backpackers who need durability and load capacity.

It is designed for versatility, featuring a stretchy mesh front pocket, spacious hip belt pockets, a removable top lid, a breathable back panel, and a long front access zipper. With nine compression straps, it efficiently manages varying loads, ensuring stability on the trail. Additionally, the removable brain and waist belt convert into a fanny pack, perfect for short hikes away from camp.

It should be noted that there are a few cons. First, the backpack is on the pricier side, coming in at $222 for the regular size, and $180 for the short and long sizes. Second, the buckles can be difficult to use with gloves, seeing as they are relatively small.

This pack strikes the perfect balance—offering all the essential features without unnecessary extras. Its impressive weight-to-capacity ratio makes it ideal for keeping base weight low while still accommodating luxury items, winter or climbing gear, or extra food for extended trips, thanks to its robust suspension system. If you’re looking for a high-performing, ultralight pack that doesn’t compromise on comfort, the Blaze 60L is a standout choice.

Granite Gear Blaze 60L Backpack: https://amzn.to/4jKeaSX

2. Multi-tool

A multi-tool is an invaluable piece of equipment that can be used from everyday household tasks to camping outdoors. Choosing a high-quality, Made-In-America tool can ensure durability, reliability, and superior craftsmanship. Whether you’re fixing gear, preparing food, or cutting rope, a well-made multi-tool can be a lifesaver. Look for features like stainless steel construction, locking mechanisms for safety, and ergonomic grips for comfort during extended use. Investing in a Made-in-America multi-tool not only supports local craftsmanship but also ensures you get a product built to last. From backpacking adventures to DIY projects at home, a high-quality multi-tool is an essential companion for anyone who values preparedness and versatility.

This is why I chose the Leatherman Signal Multi-Tool. Leatherman is a brand known by nearly all outdoors enthusiasts. The tool is made with Stainless Steel, and features a 420HC combo knife, a saw, 154CM replaceable hard-wire cutters, a wire stripper, regular pliers, needle-nose pliers, a safety whistle, a can opener, a bottle opener, a 1/4″ hex bit driver, a bit driver, a 1/4″ box wrench, a 3/16″ box wrench, a carabiner, an awl with a thread loop, a ferrocerium fire rod, and a diamond-coated sharpener.

Leatherman Signal Multi-Tool: https://amzn.to/4hHQQTZ

3. Sleeping Bag

Camping without a sleeping bag is like cooking without a pot—sure, you could try, but it’s not going to be comfortable or effective. When shopping for high-quality sleeping bags, make sure to look for durable, water-resistant materials, reliable insulation, and a comfortable fit to ensure warmth and protection throughout your outdoor adventures. I personally like sleeping bags that allow for enough room to turn over, especially since I’m a side sleeper. I love sleeping bags that have a double zipper so that you can precisely control the temperature as well as escape if need be.

This is why I recommend the Nemo Jazz Synthetic Sleeping Bag. It’s weighs about 6 pounds, so you aren’t sacrificing durability at the cost of weight. Its rated for 30*F, so make sure to check the weather before your trip so that you aren’t caught off guard. It fits up to 6’6″, so the majority of people will have plenty of room in the bag. The duffel bag that comes with the bag has plenty of room, so you don’t have to worry about putting the bag away (which is an absolute pain). The fabric chosen for the bag is 100% polyester, which allows the bag to be rated for 30*F. If you are camping in colder environments, I recommend the ALPS OutdoorZ Redwood Sleeping Bag. This bag is rated for -25*F, and is made out of polyester, cotton, canvas and flannel. The downside is that it weighs a whopping 13 pounds, so it may be difficult to bring on a backpacking trip.

Nemo Jazz Synthetic Sleeping Bag: https://amzn.to/3CLpuO4

ALPS OutdoorZ Redwood Sleeping Bag: https://amzn.to/41k3689

4. First Aid

First aid is your first line of defense against unexpected injuries and medical emergencies, ensuring you’re prepared for anything the outdoors throws your way. I recommend a first-aid kit that has all of the essentials. Weight should not be a concern, especially when your life may be on the line. The Mountain Series Medical Kit comes with all of the necessities you will need to ensure safety for up to 2 people for 4 days. It comes with a guide book that is great for emergencies, over-the counter medication, a trauma pad, plenty of sterile bandages and much more.

If you are looking for a more all-encompassing kit, look at the Pro Series Emergency Kit. It contains a splint, plenty of medications, instruments, bandages, burn and wound care, gauze and 2 trauma pads to stop bleeding quickly and effectively. It also comes with the same guide book as the previous kit.

Mountain Series Medical Kit: https://amzn.to/4jKVdzL

Pro Series Emergency Kit: https://amzn.to/419k2Ot

5. Rapid Radio

Rapid Radios are all the buzz nowadays, and for good reason. These innovative devices provide seamless communication with your camping partners and emergency services, ensuring safety and convenience on every trip. As long as you have a 4G LTE connection, (View this site to check coverage) you can stay connected with anyone, even internationally—making them an excellent choice for remote adventures. Each pack includes two radios, two SIM cards, and an entire year of free communication without the need for a subscription. Whether you’re deep in the wilderness or just off the grid, Rapid Radios keep you in touch when it matters most.

Rapid Radio: https://amzn.to/4jKVq61

6. Propane Stove / Cooking Pot

While you can absolutely create a fire by hand, but a good, small propane stove can save you plenty of hours getting a fire going. I really like the smaller size of stoves so that they fit perfectly into your backpack. Despite their small size, these stoves are incredibly powerful and can boil 1 liter of water (.26 gallons) in around 4 minutes. They’re incredibly easy to use as well, only requiring a propane tank to function. I prefer using coleman stoves, but the choice is yours!

The best stoves are durable, yet small and compact. My absolute favorite stove is this Coleman Bottletop Stove. Make sure to buy some extra propane bottles too, since the stove does not ship with propane.

You will also need a good, high-quality cooking pot. You can opt for a stainless steel frying pan or kettle as well, but keep in mind the weight you’ll be carrying. I like to stick to either a cooking pot or frying pan, depending on the food that I’m bringing and foraging.

This stainless steel cooking pot is food safe, has a locking lid, and a handle to hang the pot from. The pot also can fold down to a size of 14.7 x 13.1 x 16.4 cm.

Coleman Bottletop Stove: https://amzn.to/40PFDdf

Extra Propane Bottles: https://amzn.to/3QcngdO

Stainless Steel Cooking Pot: https://amzn.to/4aSbE94

8. Tarp

Alright, let’s talk shelter. Having a tarp is arguably the most efficient shelter you can carry for the weight. My favorite way to use a tarp for shelter is by finding a fallen tree and securing one end of the tarp to its exposed roots with some paracord. Then, I use the back of an axe head to hammer sticks or pegs into the ground to anchor the other side, creating a simple and sturdy lean-to. Pro-tip, make sure to keep your stove outside of the lean-to to prevent a shelter fire. You can however, build a fire outside of the lean-to for colder weather. Just be sure to check above the fire for any trees or low-hanging branches. This tarp is tearproof, waterproof, and reinforced.

Cartman 10×12 Multipurpose Tarp: https://amzn.to/4jWxMn9

9. Knife

One of the most crucial items to have on you while camping is a high-quality, trustworthy bushcraft knife. Whether you are carving wood or filleting a fish, having a reliable knife is the key to a good adventure.

Look for high-carbon steel or premium stainless steel. High-carbon steels, like 1095, hold a sharp edge well, and can be sharpened while camping. This kind of steel requires regular maintenance to avoid rust, so you may be better suited looking for a stainless steel. Stainless steel is great for resisting corrosion, however it can be much more difficult to sharpen.

Full-tang bushcraft knives are by far the safest and most durable design. Full-tang means that the blade extends throughout the handle, so it is much sturdier and less likely to snap.

Comfort is another factor that can be overlooked. G10 and Micarta handles offer excellent grip and weather resistance, however it is truly personal to you. Wood handles provide a natural look and feel. The handle should fit comfortably in your hand, especially if used extensively.

Aim for a blade length between 3.5 and 5 inches. Shorter, and you might experience issues with heavier tasks. Longer, and you lose control for precision work. Out in the wilderness, you need a perfect mix of the two. A well-balanced knife should feel sturdy, but not cumbersome.

A quality sheath can prevent unneeded injury, potentially ending a trip and getting a visit to the ER. I prefer leather sheaths because I fear Kydex may scratch the knife, but both are great options! Bonus points if you can find a sheath that allows for storing ferro rods for fire-starting!

ESEE RB3 Reuben Bolieu: https://amzn.to/3ExcITW

Woodcraft Fixed Blade Knife: https://amzn.to/3WWftnY

10. Silky Saw

When it comes to cutting wood in the wild, a silky saw is like no other. Unlike a hatchet or large knife, these saws are perfect for cutting down branches quickly and efficiently. It takes very little effort to saw down anything that may stand in your way. Tasks like cutting firewood, creating camp tools, or even building a shelter, are like a hot knife through butter. I don’t know what I would do without mine.

Silky saws use hardened Japanese steel, ensuring an incredibly long lifespan. They cut on the pull stroke, making them easier to control and more efficient.

I know this sounds like an ad, but I genuinely love having a silky saw, and it goes with me everywhere. I promise you wont be disappointed. They fold down easily and can fit in any backpack.

The design of the teeth digs into the wood and saws through perfectly. This saves time and energy; I rarely ever get stuck using a silky saw.

Silky saws last an incredibly long time, and the blades are easy to replace, so should it get bent or dull (highly unlikely to happen to begin with), replacement blades are easy to install.

• Silky PocketBoy – A compact option for ultralight backpackers and smaller tasks.

• Silky Gomboy – A great all-around saw for general bushcraft and camping.

• Silky BigBoy – A larger saw with a longer blade for cutting thick logs with ease.

• Silky Katanaboy – A beast of a saw, designed for heavy-duty wood processing and serious bushcraft use.

A silky saw is one of the best tools I’ve ever used. It’s fast, efficient, effortless, and incredibly durable. The next section will discuss axes, but I would absolutely recommend a silky saw over an ax or hatchet if you can’t take both. It’s safer, less cumbersome, and saves a lot of storage space. You can do almost anything with a silky saw, and it is an absolute necessity (in my opinion).

Silky: https://amzn.to/3EwXCO9

11. Hatchet

When I go camping, I typically bring both a silky saw and a hatchet because a hatchet serves 2 purposes. Cutting down larger trees as well as using the back as a hammer. When creating a lean-to, a hatchet is an incredibly value tool for securing shelter and gathering firewood.

High-carbon steel hatchets hold a sharp edge and sharpen relatively easily, while stainless steel hatchets resist rust but are more difficult to sharpen.

Wood handles are best for resisting shock, while full-tang hatchets are more durable at the cost of delivering more shock to your hands. I personally find full-tang hatchets incredibly frustrating to use, and would recommend a nice wooden handle instead.

One of the best hatchets is the Gränsfors Bruk Wildlife hatchet. It’s 13.5 inches and weighs 1.3 pounds. Gränsfors Bruk is a well-known, high-quality Swedish company delivering incredible craftsmanship. Incredibly well-balanced and durable, you cannot go wrong with this hatchet.

Gränsfors Bruk Wildlife: https://amzn.to/3Qab3X5

12. Water Bottle

A good water bottle will help you stay hydrated and healthy, and paired with the propane cooking stove and pot, its incredibly easy to boil water and drink safely. The best options are durable, insulated, and easy to carry. Stainless steel bottles like the Yeti Rambler keep water cold for hours, at the cost of weight, while lightweight plastic ones like the Nalgene (love these!) are nearly indestructible.

Either way, you cannot go wrong with a good water bottle, just be sure it can withstand boiling water. A plastic bottle may not be able to handle high temperatures.

Yeti Rambler: https://amzn.to/3CWEGb7

Nalgene: https://amzn.to/3WQPEG8

13. Paracord

A good spool of paracord allows you to set up strong shelters, string up a clothesline, or even make emergency repairs. Paracord is incredibly strong, with a breaking point of around 550 pounds. It’s essential and won’t break the bank.

Titan Survival Paracord: https://amzn.to/42P2BnF

14. Pen/Notebook

A pen and notebook can be overlooked, but it is incredibly useful for jotting down foraging locations, trail maps, recording survival tips or even just journaling. Waterproof options are great, and can save all that hard work if your notebook gets wet.

Rite in the Rain Notebooks: https://amzn.to/40VvGuK

Rite in the Rain Waterproof Pens: https://amzn.to/4hzcSca

Conclusion

This is meant to be a starting list to get you out and about. If there is anything you think I’ve missed, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment and let me know. This will probably be one of the only lists that I do, and further gear reviews will be one product per post, allowing me to go more in depth into each piece of gear.

I hope you enjoyed reading this, make sure to follow for more tips, gear guides, trail maps, and more!

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Thank you guys for reading and happy adventuring!