Based on 100+ Reddit Threads, YouTube Videos, and Expert Lists

If you’re building your gear list for 2025, this roundup of the most frequently recommended hiking items — based on Reddit threads, YouTube gear videos, and expert blog lists — will help you find battle-tested, hiker-approved equipment.

🎒 1. Osprey Exos / Eja (58L)
Why hikers love it: Ultralight yet supportive. Airspeed suspension keeps your back dry.
Popular with: AT and PCT thru-hikers.

🛏 2. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite NXT
Why hikers love it: Best warmth-to-weight ratio. Packs small.
Heads-up: Some find it noisy, though the NXT version is quieter.

⛺️ 3. Durston X-Mid 2 (and 1P)
Why hikers love it: Best value ultralight tent. Easy pitch, spacious, lightweight.
Sleeper pick: Great even for non-ultralighters.

🥄 4. Toaks Titanium Pot + BRS-3000T Stove
Why hikers love it: Dirt-cheap titanium setup. Entire kitchen under 100g.
Downside: Wind protection needed.

💦 5. Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
Why hikers love it: Lightweight, reliable, field-cleanable.
Tip: Pair with CNOC Vecto bag for faster filtering.

🧦 6. Darn Tough Merino Wool Socks
Why hikers love it: Lifetime warranty. No blisters. Durable.
Runner-up: Injinji toe socks for blister prevention.

👟 7. Altra Lone Peak / HOKA Speedgoat
Why hikers love it: Trail runner comfort with grippy traction.
Note: Wide toe box (Altra) vs. max cushioning (HOKA).

💡 8. Nitecore NU25 (USB-C Version)
Why hikers love it: Ultralight, rechargeable, long battery life.
Bonus: Red light mode for camp.

💨 9. Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt
Why hikers love it: Lighter than a sleeping bag. Customizable temp ratings.
Tip: Learn quilt sleeping tricks (draft collar, pad straps).

🧥 10. Patagonia Houdini Windbreaker
Why hikers love it: Weighs nothing, blocks wind, compresses to a fist.
Alternative: Enlightened Equipment Copperfield.

🧢 11. Buff Neck Gaiter
Why hikers love it: Sun protection, sweat-wiping, camp towel, face mask — all-in-one.
Essential in: High UV or dusty trails.

🎒 12. Hyperlite Mountain Gear Pods
Why hikers love it: Ultralight, weatherproof organization for DCF backpacks.
Nice-to-have: Makes packing cleaner & drier.

🔪 13. Victorinox Classic SD / Gerber Dime
Why hikers love it: Minimal tools, max utility. Nail clippers + blade + tweezers = trail gold.

🔋 14. Anker Nano II 65W / Nitecore NB10000 Battery Bank
Why hikers love it: Fast-charging, ultralight, high-capacity.
Perfect for: Charging GPS, headlamps, phones.

🧽 15. Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes
Why hikers love it: Thick, unscented, biodegradable.
Use case: Post-hike cleanup when there’s no water.

🧻 16. Deuce of Spades Ultralight Trowel
Why hikers love it: Poop responsibly, LNT approved, 17g metal shovel.
Also in packs: Bidet bottles or toilet paper kits.

🧊 17. Smartwater Bottles + CNOC Bag System
Why hikers love it: Cheap, durable, fits Sawyer threads.
Ultralight tip: Drop the hydration bladder altogether.

🔥 18. Fire Maple Stove / Jetboil Flash (If not UL)
Why hikers love it: Rapid boil. Great for coffee addicts or freeze-dried meals.
UL crowd: Still prefers BRS-3000T.

🌧 19. Frogg Toggs Ultralight Rain Jacket
Why hikers love it: Dirt cheap, very light, surprisingly good in short storms.
For long trips: Consider Zpacks Vertice or OR Helium AscentShell.

🧼 20. Dr. Bronner’s Soap (Travel Size)
Why hikers love it: Multipurpose — body, dishes, clothes. Biodegradable.
Pro tip: Don’t use it in natural water sources — rinse 200 feet away.

🧭 Your Turn — What’s in Your Pack?
Which of these do you swear by? What’s missing from the list?
Let us know in the thread below — and if you’re a beginner, feel free to ask for recommendations!