Hiking and Backpacking
Hiking and Backpacking.com is your quick and easy way to find info on hiker and backpacker activities. It’s also a fast way to find out who has the best deals on outdoor gear, including backpacks, hiking boots and shoes, clothing and accessories. We’re constantly searching the Web for best buys and good deals on outdoor gear, but we only recommend these deals if they are being offered by a well-known and trusted site. So look around, browse the hiking clubs, locate a link to a manufacturer, find a promising trail to try someday, or look for a bargain on that special gear item you need.


Who is offering Free Shipping Today:
Backcountry.com has free shipping on any gear order over $50.
US Outdoor Store won't charge for shipping on all orders over $40.
Altrec.com is offering free shipping today on orders over $45.
Bootbay.com and ShoeBuy.com both offer free shipping on footwear.
Moosejaw will ship orders over $99 for free.
Sierra Trading Post will ship your $100+ order for no charge.
The Walking Company has no-charge shipping on orders over $100.

Top Gear Choices from around the Web

Altrec.com carries well over 150 backpacks. They have a good supply of daypacks, with most being under $100. Along with eBags, they have one of the better selections on the Web.

REI has a top offering of footwear, including these Merrell backpacking boots, which are a terrific choice for serious hikers and backpackers. The Walking Company offers plenty of other good options for more urban treks and when comfort is a top priority.

Patagonia is one of the best choices for outerwear, featuring longtime favorites such as this waterproof Storm Jacket — perfect for around the mountain and around town. Besides Patagonia's own site, you can also locate big selections of their gear at sites such as Backcountry and Moosejaw.

This Week's Deals at Backcountry.com:

New article on backpacking alone —
It's always best to backpack with another person and we don't recommend going out into the backcountry by yourself, but if you're gonna do it, make sure you at least take some elementary precautions when hiking solo. Read more...

New tips on buying the the perfect GPS system —
Okay, so maybe my father never needed a GPS system with him when he headed out into the wilderness, but a good GPS unit can be a great convenience and a valuable safety device for a lot of people making their way around the backcountry. Read more...

New recommendations on selecting a great camera for your pack —
How many times have you been deep in the outdoors when you've wished you had a camera with you? Never again, my friend. Here's what to consider when shopping for a hiker's camera. Read more...

New info on choosing birding binoculars —
Do you enjoy birdwatching while you're out hiking? Every birdwatcher needs a good pair of binoculars for the trail. Find some good tips for choosing the perfect pair. Read more...

New details on picking the right cookware for the trail —
If you're gonna be walking around all day, you will get hungry and thirsty. Trail mix and water may keep you going, but nothing beats a hot meal cooked outdoors. Read more...


Find an affordable hostel no matter where your hike takes you.


Do you know of a great outdoor gear store, club or trail? Are we missing something? Drop us a note and we’ll pass it on to other hikers and backpackers.

Hiking Gear

Top Deals Today:








Discover great new warm weather outdoor gear at REI.

Try Cabela's for all kinds of great seasonal outdoors gear and outerwear.

Check out our list of the Best Shopping Sites on the Web for backpacking supplies.

Get Patagonia straight from the factory.

If you really want to save some money on outdoor equipment, try buying used gear. See our short list of the
top used gear sites, including eBay.