Dennis Lewon with pack gear
Dennis Lewon with pack gear

BACKPACKER: Editor Dennis Lewon Picks His Favorite Budget Gear

Spend less, hike more with a system that prioritizes affordability and durability.

At its heart, backpacking is a simple pursuit: walk into the woods, sleep on the ground, walk out. You can do that without expensive gear. But you still need stuff, and not cheap stuff that will end up in the landfill after a season or two—that’s no way to save money. Put together a kit that will last with these low-priced picks.

See Dennis Lewon's full list on Backpacker's website here.

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Media Mentions from Backpacker
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Media Mentions

Why use a plastic bag when you can simply screw on this end cap, specifically designed for Sawyer water filters?

Zoe Gates
Editor at Backpacker

Media Mentions

In future, I’ll use gravity when I can, and squeeze when I have to.

Richard, aka "LowRange
Hiker

Media Mentions

For longer hikes, it’s convenient to carry a small backcountry water filter, such as a Sawyer Mini or Micro, which allows you to replenish your water from natural sources like streams or ponds.

Philip Werner
Author and Backpacker