Our Tried & True Gear: Be Prepared, Comfortable, and Safe on Your Adventures
Every great journey starts with preparation. Having the right equipment in your pack or car means you can focus less on the “what ifs” and more on the incredible experience in front of you. The right gear can be the difference between an unforgettable adventure and a miserable ordeal, and we’re often asked about the specific items we rely on, so we’ve finally put it all in one place!
For us, good equipment isn’t about having the most expensive stuff; it’s about reliable, tested gear that provides comfort when you’re tired, safety when you’re in a bind, and peace of mind from the moment you leave home. Over thousands of miles (in fact, tens of thousands of miles) on the road and countless trails under our boots, we’ve refined our packing lists through trial and error—learning what’s essential, what’s a worthy luxury, and what’s just dead weight.
Below, you’ll find our guides to the gear that has kept our family safe, comfortable, and connected through every season and terrain. We cover everything from:
- Our basic hiking kit for the hot deserts of Southern California (and beyond).
- Campsite essentials for a cozy survival experience (without trying to turn the wilderness into your living room!).
- The tech and charging gear every modern traveler needs to stay powered up.
- Specialized equipment we tested for tackling winter conditions on the trail.
- “Stay safe and prepared” gear that we hope you’ll never need, but should always carry.
- Essential equipment that’s always good to have in your car for any road trip.
These aren’t just lists; they’re the result of real-world testing. Please note that these posts contain affiliate links. If you decide to purchase something through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. (For perspective, if a hat costs $10, we might earn up to 40 cents that would otherwise go to a large corporation!)
Whether you’re planning a winter hike, a desert trek, or just want to be better prepared for your next journey, you might find our recommendations useful. Dive in and get ready for your next adventure!