Camping Gear - Backcountry Gear Labs

5 Trail Umbrellas Tested: We Hiked 100 Miles to Settle the Weight vs. Weather Protection Debate

Camp Mavrik / August 6, 2026

We tested 5 trail umbrellas on 100 miles of hiking. Find out which offers the best balance of weight and weather protection for backpacking.

Camping Gear

Tick Prevention Gear Tested: Permethrin Clothing, Removal Tools, and Field Protection That Actually Works

Camp Mavrik / August 5, 2026

Tested tick prevention gear including permethrin clothing and removal tools. Discover field-proven protection methods that actually work to keep ticks away.

Camping Gear

Ultralight Shelter Showdown: Tarptent ProTrek vs. 5 Budget-Friendly Alternatives Under $300

Camp Mavrik / August 4, 2026

Compare Tarptent ProTrek with 5 affordable ultralight shelters under $300. Find the best budget-friendly tent for backpacking and camping.

Camping Gear

Phone GPS vs. Dedicated GPS: 3 Devices Tested in Dead Zones to See Which Keeps You Safe

Camp Mavrik / August 3, 2026

We tested phone GPS vs dedicated GPS devices in dead zones. See which navigation tool keeps you safe when signals fail.

Camping Gear

Backcountry Navigation App Tested: Google Maps vs. Gaia GPS vs. Garmin on the Same Trail

Camp Mavrik / August 2, 2026

We tested Google Maps, Gaia GPS, and Garmin on the same trail. See which backcountry navigation app performs best for outdoor adventures.

Camping Gear

Best Backcountry Navigation Tools: 5 Reliable Picks That Won’t Leave You Stranded

Camp Mavrik / August 1, 2026

Discover the 5 most reliable backcountry navigation tools to keep you safe and on track. Expert picks that won’t fail when you need them most.

Camping Gear

Best Budget First-Aid Kits for Backcountry Travel: 5 Options Under $50 Tested on Trail

Camp Mavrik / July 31, 2026

Discover the best budget-friendly first-aid kits for backcountry travel under $50. We tested 5 options on trail to help you stay safe without breaking the bank.