Backpacking Gear Review: Sleeping Bag, Trekking Poles, Inflatable Pillow & More!

This backpacking gear review dives into a range of essential items, from sleeping bags and trekking poles to inflatable pillows and a versatile fleece jacket. We put each piece to the test, focusing on real-world performance and value for money. This review covers a mix of budget-friendly options and higher-priced investments, providing a balanced perspective for backpackers of all levels. We'll explore the strengths and weaknesses of each product, helping you make informed decisions for your next adventure.Our honest assessments cover everything from temperature ratings and packability of sleeping bags, to the durability and comfort of trekking poles and inflatable pillows. We also examine the practical performance of a mid-layer fleece, highlighting features like odor resistance and overall comfort. By the end of this review, you'll have a clearer understanding of what gear works best, and which items might be better left on the shelf, helping you build the perfect pack for your next backpacking trip.

Pros And Cons

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APA 40° Sleeping Bag: A Budget-Friendly Option?

This mummy-shaped sleeping bag from APA boasts a blend of 55% down and 45% polyester insulation, offering a lightweight and warm option at a more affordable price point than a full down bag. Its 15D nylon outer and 20D nylon inner contribute to its packability. Weighing in at 2 lb 1.3 oz, it compacts down surprisingly small, thanks to the included compression sack.

While advertised as suitable down to 9°F, this claim is misleading and potentially dangerous. Using it at such low temperatures would be risky. It performs admirably in temperatures between 40°F and 60°F, making it a solid choice for spring and summer camping. At $140, it's a budget-friendly option compared to higher-end down sleeping bags.

Trekology TrekZ Trekking Poles: A Solid, Affordable Choice

The Trekology TrekZ trekking poles are made of aluminum with cork and foam handles. They're extendable from 110cm to 130cm and each pole weighs 9.5 ounces. While not the lightest on the market, they're a reasonable weight and offer good value for the price.

The double-handle design, with both cork and foam sections, is somewhat unconventional. I found myself primarily using the cork handle. At $44 for the pair, they provide dependable performance for the price; however, carbon fiber poles are significantly more expensive.

FlexTail Zero Pump: Convenient, but is it Worth the Price?

The FlexTail Zero Pump is a small, battery-powered sleeping pad inflator and deflator. It attaches to your pad's valve and quickly inflates it, freeing up your hands. It includes various nozzles for compatibility with most sleeping pads and works quietly.

While advertised as weighing 1.2oz without the battery (a misleading specification), the total weight with battery and attachments is approximately 2.1oz. The pump provides around a dozen inflations per charge and is USB-C rechargeable. The $48 price tag might be prohibitive if you don't mind using a traditional pump sack.

Trekology Aluft Ultra Inflatable Pillow: Big, But Not Necessarily Better

The Trekology Aluft Ultra inflatable pillow is surprisingly large once inflated (24” L x 16” W x 5” thick), comparable to a home pillow. While it packs down small (10.5oz), its size proved problematic for comfortable sleep. The removable strap is unnecessary and the soft, brushed fabric is comfortable to the touch.

Despite the adjustable firmness valve, I found this pillow uncomfortable. The lack of cushioning in its compact form hindered its performance. The valve even popped out during use. While affordable at $25, its comfort level was significantly lacking.

Koalatri Baseline Mid Layer: A Durable and Odor-Resistant Fleece

The Koalatri Baseline Mid Layer is a full-zip fleece hoodie incorporating coffee grounds for natural odor resistance. Its honeycomb fabric is surprisingly durable, having lasted two years of regular use without significant wear. It features two side pockets and one chest pocket, all with zippers.

This mid-layer provides good warmth for spring and fall hikes or around the campsite. Weighing 14oz, it’s reasonably lightweight and packs well. The side pockets' placement could be improved but overall, this $19 fleece delivers excellent value for its durability and odor resistance.

Overall Conclusion

This review highlighted various backpacking and camping gear, ranging in price and quality. While budget-friendly options like the APA sleeping bag and Trekology poles are functional, their limitations are evident. The FlexTail Zero Pump offered convenience but comes at a higher price point.

The Trekology inflatable pillow was a disappointment, despite its low price, while the Koalatri fleece stood out as a durable and comfortable piece with excellent value for money. Choosing the right gear depends on individual needs and priorities, considering both budget and performance.