Camp Gear
Below are trustworthy ultralight gear picks I’ve tested or recommended on wilderness retreats. I’ve included short notes on use, weight/size, and why each item stands out for solo or small-group backcountry travel. If you like any of these, consider supporting my work by purchasing through the affiliate links provided.
What it is: A small, reliable canister stove with good simmer control and fast boil time.
Why I recommend it: Excellent balance of size, weight, and performance for solo cooks; more stable and controllable than the classic PocketRocket.
Best for: Fast boils, coffee, and dehydrated meals.
BRS Outdoor BRS-3000T Ultra-Light Titanium Alloy Camping Stove
What it is: Featherlight titanium stove that screws onto a fuel canister.
Why I recommend it: Extremely light and compact — perfect as a backup or for minimalist ultralight setups. Durable for its weight and packs down tiny.
Best for: Fast-and-light hikers who want the absolute lightest canister stove.
Don’t forget a lighter, as this stove does NOT have an igniter.
Sawyer Squeeze with CNOC Gravity Filter Bags
What it is: Sawyer Squeeze inline water filter paired with CNOC gravity bags for hands-free filtering. I use two of the 2L bags with different colors to identify “clean” and “dirty.”
Why I recommend it: The Squeeze removes bacteria and protozoa reliably; combined with CNOC bags you get a quick gravity system that frees your hands and makes camp chores simpler. I’ve tried the smaller Sawyer Mini and, while it will save a few ounces of carry weight, the Mini filters slower and requires extra tubing/rigging for a gravity system.
Best for: Multi-person camps, long trips, or any time you want fast filtering without pumping.
Like most filters, this one will require occasional cleaning/back-flushing, especially if you filter water with sediment. A SmartWater bottle with a sport cap works great for this.
REI Flexlite Air Chair
What it is: Ultralight collapsible camp chair with inflatable backrest and packable frame.
Why I recommend it: Incredible comfort for how little space and weight it consumes. The inflatable back gives real rest value after long days on the trail.
Best for: Weekend trips and retreats where a lightweight chair adds a lot of campsite comfort.
What it is: Sturdy, compact trowel designed for digging catholes and general camp tasks.
Why I recommend it: Built tough, comfortable grip, and just the right length for leaving minimal impact when digging catholes. A reliable piece of Leave No Trace kit.
Best for: Backpacking, especially where digging is required for sanitation.
Toaks Titanium 115 mm Frying Pan
What it is: Small ultralight titanium skillet, about 115 mm diameter.
Why I recommend it: Good for single-serving frying or heating meals without adding much weight. Titanium cleans easily and won’t rust.
Best for: Solo cooks who want to fry or sauté small portions at camp.
What it is: Heavy-duty tent stake designed for secure anchoring in a variety of soils.
Why I recommend it: Strong and reliable; better holding power than thin aluminum stakes in soft or rocky ground.
Best for: Windswept camps, car-camping with heavier shelters, or any site where stakes need extra bite.
Toaks Titanium 750 ml Pot with Bail Handle
What it is: Lightweight 750 ml titanium pot with a folding bail handle (in case you wanted to boil over a campfire).
Why I recommend it: Versatile for boiling, brewing, and compact enough to nest with other gear. Durable and corrosion resistant.
Best for: One- or two-person trips where you want a pot that doubles as a mug and small cook pot.
Roxon S501 Folding Pocket Knife and Scissors
What it is: Compact folding tool with a small blade and fold-out scissors.
Why I recommend it: Small, legal to carry in most places, and the scissors are surprisingly useful for first-aid tasks, food prep, and small repairs.
Best for: Everyday carry on trail, quick campsite tasks, and first-aid kits.
Do you really need a nail file, corkscrew, or a giant battle knife? Save the weight and bring the two (in one) things that you actually will use at camp.
Camping Moon Butane Gas Refill Adapter
What it is: Adapter that lets you refill small butane canisters from larger fuel sources.
Why I recommend it: Saves money and reduces waste by allowing you to transfer fuel safely when compatible canisters are available.
Best for: Frequent cooks who use butane stoves and want to bring small canisters.
