6 Packable Comfort Essentials for Backpacking
When embarking on a backpacking adventure, everything you put in your rucksack is important, but comfort is the most important consideration. Find equipment that provides the most value by serving double, and possibly triple-duty.
If you select the best portable gear, challenging hikes and camping can result in rest and recovery rather than fatigue. Here are six comfort items to consider packing on your next backpacking adventure.
Packable Hammock
There are few things better than swaying between two trees after a long climb. Sometimes, a packable hammock paired with a puffy blanket can be the best napping tools during the daytime on long hikes, and a place to sleep if you are tenting out on a clear night. There are lots of models that feature an integrated stuff sack so you do not have to worry about losing it.
Many of these products will also compress down and weigh less than two pounds collectively. Nakie outdoor gear is a great example of an innovative outdoor gear company that has tree-friendly hammocks made of recycled material. They are durable, affordable, and comfortable.
An Insulated Puffy Blanket
The versatile puffy blanket is an untapped hero of the trail. It can be used to wrap yourself around a campfire, as a liner in your sleeping bag, or as an extra layer for added warmth. Be sure to look for lightweight recycled outdoor puffy blankets made with water-resistant fabric and an attached compression sack for easy storage after use.
On multi-day hikes, it can act as a warm top quilt in your hammock or as a wind block while being exposed on the ridge. Most decent quality puffy blankets weigh 1-2 pounds and pack down to about the size of a loaf of bread.
A Quick-Dry Towel for Swims and Sweat
If you’re hiking in the vicinity of a river, or sweating up a steep hill on a hot day, you probably will enjoy bringing a microfiber towel along with you. It is super fast drying, small enough to pack away, and you’ll come to like the fact it can also be a small blanket, or head wrap.
A medium towel works well (large enough to towel off from swimming, but not so big you can’t fit it on the side of your pack). Don’t forget that you can also always hang it on the pack straps and air dry while you are trudging along.
A Lightweight Ground Blanket
Think of it as a mobile living room. This blanket will provide you a dry spot for cooking, lying down, or just sitting, no matter if your adventure takes you to a rocky overlook or a sand beach. Some blankets also feature waterproof coatings and corner loops that let you stake it to the ground in the event of wind.
It may be ideal for lunch stops, yoga at the campsite, or laying under your hammock to keep your gear clean.
Tree-Safe Straps
If you’re taking a hammock with you, be sure to have tree-friendly straps that are wide and flat webbing to ensure the straps do not tear into the tree’s bark. Most weigh less than 10 ounces and they typically have daisy-chain loops. Allowing for a low, wide hang will help distribute weight without harming the tree. This is required for responsible backpacking.
Simple Bug Protection
It is difficult to get a good sleep with bugs trying to bite you. Compact bug nets and natural repellents add nearly no weight but are a game changer. For hammocks, be sure to get a full-coverage net that completely seals your set up. When sleeping on the ground, a treated buff or small head net is enough.
Endnote
Comfort on the trail does not mean heavier packs. These items demonstrate that you can enjoy hiking light and sleeping well without having to sacrifice anything. Consider using mindful products, like Nakie outdoor gear, improving your packing habits, and bringing some multi-use gear. They will keep you warm, dry, and well-rested throughout your time hiking.
