My first post about my backpacking gear reviewed 6 very crucial backpacking items. Since then, I’ve happily added to my setup to make life in the back country even better!

1. UCO 6-Piece Mess Kit
   I was musing over this UCO kit and the United By Blue Meal Kit. I chose the UCO Kit instead for a number of reasons. The United By Blue kit lacked a knife which was one of the main reasons- I also liked that the UCO cup has measurement units in it. It also was helpful that the UCO Kit was for 1 person. It was pricer to buy 2 kits, but my boyfriend and I can each have our own if we’re not backpacking together.
   

2. Nemo Flyer Sleeping Pad
   I’ve graduated from the Therma-Rest and got this self-inflatable Nemo Flyer sleeping pad during REI’s big sale! It is definitely comfier and I love that it packs up smaller than my old sleeping pad. This one I can fit inside my pack! I also purchased the Vortex Pump Sack to make inflating it super easy.
   

3. REI Co-op Midweight Base Layer Crew Top - Women's
   This top!! So for a long sleeve hiking top I’ve been wearing Lululemon’s Swiftly Tech long sleeve. This REI crew top is my new go-to. The material is super soft, stretchy, warm, and moisture wicking. If you get your usual size it is slightly form fitting (size up for a looser fit), but even if it is form fitting it does not feel as constricting as the Lululemon top feels. But, it is sliiightly heavier.
   

4. Patagonia Baggies
   Iykyk! These Patagonia Baggies shorts are a classic and long-time favorite for those frolicking in the great outdoors. Lightweight, super comfy, quick drying. I sleep in these.
   
   Note: I sized up an got a Medium instead of my normal Small and I think that was a really smart decision for eeextra comfort. And they don’t look overly large, but you can roll the waist if you want to make them shorter!
   

5. MSR Pocket Rocket Stove - Deluxe
   So I got the Solo Stove because I liked the idea of being able to have a camp stove that didn’t require fuel. I still like that idea and the stove, but it has proven itself to be not as convenient as I had hoped. Because of this, I ended up getting the tried and true MSR Pocket Rocket Stove - Deluxe. I used this recently on a backpacking trip in the White Mountains and it was perfect. Super lightweight, efficient…what else can you ask of it?