
15 Travel Essentials That Belong in Your Kit: Bags, Jackets, Shoes and More
The best travel gear our team has tested over the past 20 years, with an emphasis on durability and versatility.

Hayley Helms is an associate editor at Gear Patrol specializing in outdoor gear. Once upon a time, she wrote for Men’s Journal, Gearjunkie and Shape. Whether it's testing a new rain shell or putting a pair of hiking boots through its paces, she leaves no stone unturned (however, she always Leaves No Trace).

The best travel gear our team has tested over the past 20 years, with an emphasis on durability and versatility.
By Hayley Helms, Jack Seemer, and Sean Tirman

This season, step up your snow style.
By Hayley Helms

Outdoor Research may have just dropped the mic with the release of the Vesper Insulated Hoodie.
By Hayley Helms

Field-tested recommendations to amplify comfort and convenience in the great outdoors.
By Hayley Helms and Jack Seemer

We've tested thousands of outdoor products over the years. Here is the gear we recommend across 80 categories.
By Ben Bowers, Hayley Helms, Steve Mazzucchi, Jack Seemer, and Sean Tirman

Make cooking a breeze, wherever you roam.
By Hayley Helms

Flower power never looked so capable.
By Hayley Helms

All-terrain capabilities in a lightweight design.
By Hayley Helms

This feature-rich daypack easily makes the transition from rugged adventure pack to durable daily driver.
By Hayley Helms

Camp smarter, not higher.
By Hayley Helms

From a full-length axe that’ll make quick work of cordwood to a simple hatchet that you can stash in your backpack.
By Tanner Bowden and Hayley Helms

Pick up this popular EDC option before it sells out...again.
By Hayley Helms

A low-commitment way to bring mid-century warmth to your home or yard.
By Hayley Helms

We break down two common pocket knife locking mechanisms that are similar, but not the same.
By Hayley Helms and Steve Mazzucchi

Crafted in collaboration with designers Chen Chen and Kai Williams, the Sidewinder is a moving sculpture moonlighting as a knife.
By Hayley Helms

Here's what's going on within those winter accessories — and what's happening when they don't work.
By Hayley Helms

Most puffy jackets look the same. But it's what's inside that really counts.
By Hayley Helms and Tanner Bowden

A puffy down jacket is an essential piece of gear in any outdoor arsenal.
By Hayley Helms

Adding a hydration vest to your kit can elevate your runs on and off trail.
By Hayley Helms

We take a deeper look at one of the most beloved, enduring and still remarkably affordable knives on the market today.
By Hayley Helms