Most backpacking gear is designed around one goal: getting lighter, faster, and more technical. At Barefoot Backpackers, we look at gear a little differently. We focus on equipment that supports a more natural, grounded way of traveling and trekking, from what you wear on your body to what you carry in your pack.
We look for gear that is comfortable, functional, durable, and made to be used for years rather than quickly replaced. Natural materials are an important part of that approach, particularly breathable fibers such as merino wool, linen, and alpaca, alongside well-designed equipment that performs when you are living out of a backpack.
This is the home of our backpacking equipment and travel gear reviews, covering everything from barefoot footwear and natural-fiber clothing to camping equipment, sports gear, and practical technology for backpacking and trekking. Some products have been used on our own travels, while others are researched and reviewed based on materials, construction, performance, versatility, and real-world value.
Barefoot and minimalist shoes, boots, and sandals that are designed with features such as wide toe boxes, flexible soles, and zero or minimal heel-to-toe drop. We cover everyday footwear, hiking shoes, running shoes, winter boots, and styles suitable for travel with a focus on natural movement.
Clothing and accessories made with natural fibers, including merino wool, linen, alpaca, cotton, and other breathable materials. We look at base layers, socks, mid-layers, beanies, scarves, gloves, and more, focusing on temperature regulation, comfort, durability, and how different materials perform during long travel days and outdoor days.
Find practical camping equipment designed to complement life outdoors without adding unnecessary bulk. Our guides cover sleeping mats, tents, hammocks, folding chairs, stools, tables, and other camp essentials. We focus on simple, functional camp gear that packs small, performs reliably, and avoids plastic-heavy construction.
Technology can make long-term travel and digital nomad life easier, but more isn’t always better. We review practical digital essentials, from laptops and compact cameras to equipment designed to make working and traveling with technology more comfortable. We have carefully chosen a selection of tools that make digital nomad life easier while reducing common downsides like blue light exposure, constant screen strain, and overly complex setups.
After years of traveling through different countries, climates, and environments, we’ve found that the gear we appreciate most is not necessarily the most technical or the lightest. It is normally the gear that we like to wear, that performs reliably, and continues to earn its place in our backpack.
That is why natural materials play such an important role in our approach. Merino wool, linen, alpaca, cotton, and other natural fibers can offer useful qualities for travelers, including breathability, temperature regulation, and durability. We also recognize that technical materials have their place too, particularly when weight and weather resistance are needed.
Where we have first-hand experience, we share it. For products we have not personally used, we focus on detailed research into materials, construction, specifications, customer feedback, and real-world performance. We are also honest about limitations and trade-offs, so you can decide whether a product is right for your own travels.
Whether you are building your first backpacking kit, looking for a better merino wool layer, switching to barefoot footwear, or simply trying to pack with more intention, explore our guides below to find equipment that supports a simpler, more comfortable way to travel.