Rain Mitt #3 – Biohazard mitts UPDATE OCT 2026
Update Oct 2025 – These biohazard trigger mittens are inexpensive, waterproof, and light at 1 oz a pair. Over time, I found they work surprisingly well for rain. Read More …
Tag: budget gear
Gear Review – Squak Alpha Fleece Beanie
The Squak Alpha Fleece Beanie is absurdly light, breathable, and low bulk. I’m still not enamored with Alpha fleece for active use, but for static insulation, this $20 beanie fits nicely into my cold-weather system. Read More …
Western Snap shirts vs. Sun Hoodies- Hot and Dry Weather
I’ve tried several sun hoodies over the years. I still find my poly-cotton Western snap shirt works better in hot, dry weather. Here’s why. Read More …
One Year Review – OYGSieg Sun Hoodie
A look at some effective sun hoodies for cool to cold weather use. Read More …
Gear we liked for 2025
Our annual roundup of the simple, effective gear that served Joan and me well in 2025 — from shelters and stoves to daypacks, pans, and a few DIY touches. Read More …
Quick Tip – Kitty litter bucket for camping and river
A humble kitty litter bucket beats a $70 “utility bucket” any day—stronger, square, easier to pack, and endlessly useful on river and camp trips. Read More …
Budget camping gear
Car camping serves as a useful introduction to the outdoors for many. And a useful adjunct to other trips for the experienced. How to equip affordably? Updated March 2025. Read More …
Gear we liked for 2024
Our annual summary of “The Gear We Liked” in 2024. A mix of cottage, budget, and even some MYOG courtesy of the talented Joan. Read More …
Gear review – Coghlan’s Map Compass
A basic compass at $8 from Coghlan’s but made for them by a navigation company with over 40 years experience. Good quality at a good price! Read More …
Gear review – GADIEMKENSD long-billed running hat
A look at the $14 GADIEMKENSD long-brim foldable nylon “running hat” that works better than a trucker-style hat for me and my needs. Read More …
Quick Tip – Arizona Tea one liter bottle
Gatorade bottle is early 2000s, get the full one liter goodness of Arizona iced tea. Read More …
Pants for trailwork
The pants I use for trail or related work. One pair for heavier duty or cold weather work and one for lighter duty work or when it’s warm. Read More …
The Frugal Backpacker – The $300 Gear Challenge
Backpacking gear on the cheap. A complete gear list for $300 and under 15 lbs. Revised for 2024. Read More …
The Budget Backpacking Kit
A sequel of sorts to my $300 gear challenge. A little over $800 and 10 lbs for a kit that is light, functional, and easily, assembled. Updated Mar 2024. Read More …
Quick review – Groundhog clone tent stakes
Just in time for February 2nd, here’s a review of some budget-minded Groundhog-style stakes that also work for less money.
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10+ year gear review – Flytop tent
An off-hand purchase about a decade ago of our current backup/loaner tent makes me think of the place and use of budget gear items. Read More …
Dirt Bagger Winter Stove Platform
How to build an inexpensive stove platform for winter backpacking. Bonus: doubles as a heat reflector.
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20+ years Gear Review – Military Surplus Wool Liner Gloves
As winter approaches, I am reminded of one of the items we use all year around: Surplus wool liner gloves. A long-time favorite for twenty years now and a favorite budget pick for both Joan and I.
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