Gear Up for Yellowstone: Top Trekking Poles, and Backpacks for Day Trip Adventures
If you asked me what gear you need for a basic Yellowstone National Park adventure, I would start with trekking poles, backpacks, first-aid kits, and some simple mosquito spray. These are the basics you need to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, checking out Yellowstone’s main attractions.
In a previous chapter of my life, I spent years reviewing and product-testing outdoor items. So, I tried to find some good options that are worth the money without blowing up the gear budget for your Yellowstone vacation.
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Trekking Poles: Enhance Stability and Reduce Fatigue
Trekking poles provide support on Yellowstone’s often uneven terrain and help reduce strain on your joints.​ If you have mobility issues and use a cane, I would strongly consider investing in a high-quality trekking pole to help you get around.
BLACK DIAMOND Trail Sport Trekking Poles
​The Black Diamond Distance Z Trekking Poles are a top choice for hikers and trail runners seeking lightweight, durable, and compact gear. Made from 7075 aluminum, these poles are both sturdy and light. The EVA foam grips provide comfort and have moisture-wicking properties. It's not the sort of thing you'll notice right away. yet it's something you'll come to appreciate hiking on a hot day.
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I like how their Z-pole folding design allows them to collapse down to 13 inches. I can then slip it easily into my pack or pockets when I don’t need them and pull them out quickly when I do.
Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles
​The Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles are a lightweight and durable choice for hikers and walkers seeking enhanced stability on various terrains. Weighing just 7.6 ounces each, these poles are made from 100% carbon fiber, offering strength without adding extra weight.
I like how you can quickly adjust them between 24 to 55 inches, which is nice for a guy my height. The poles come with multiple accessories, including interchangeable tips and baskets for different terrains,
Hiking Packs for Day Trips
The following hiking packs are affordable, lightweight and easy to use. They have enough capacity to serve as a day pack to hold everything you need for a day of outdoor adventure.
Osprey Talon 22L Hiking Backpack with Hip Belt
​The Osprey Talon 22L Hiking Backpack is a top-tier choice for day hikers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a lightweight yet durable pack. Its ergonomic design includes a ventilated back panel and adjustable harness, ensuring a comfortable fit for various body types.
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​I used this pack on a Yellowstone hiking trip and a Death Valley day trip, and I really appreciated the ample storage and multiple compartments. Especially the stretch-mesh side pockets and a front panel pocket. It also has and external hydration sleeve to let you keep a water bottle handy and Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment.
Deuter Speed Lite 21 Hiking Backpack
​The Deuter Speed Lite 21L backpack is an excellent choice for hikers and travelers seeking a lightweight, comfortable, and eco-friendly daypack. Weighing just 430g, it features Deuter’s Lite back system with ergonomic, ventilated shoulder straps and a detachable waist belt, ensuring a snug fit and even weight distribution.
I like this backpack’s dual elastic side pockets, and hydration system compatibility. You can add your own camel bag if you want to carry extra water with you, without being forced to take one if you don’t. I also appreciate that it’s made from 100% recycled, bluesign® certified materials, it also boasts sustainable credentials.
AMHEH Tactical Backpack Military Army Molle
​The AMHEH Tactical Backpack is a rugged and versatile 32L pack designed for durability and organization. This is my go-to pack when I’m hiking in for an overnight primitive camping with my daughter. I’ve tested a lot of tactical backpacks over the years, I’ve put this one through Hell and it’s still kicking.
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Constructed from water-resistant 1050D nylon with YKK zippers and reinforced stitching. The backpack features multiple compartments, including a padded laptop sleeve which is big enough to hold my 17-inch laptop. There’s also a hydration bladder pocket. It has a MOLLE system that you can use to customize it with other accessories. I’ve made some long hikes and the mesh-padded shoulder straps, and back panel have always been comfortable, but they can leave your back a bit sweaty.
Final Thoughts on Trekking Poles & Backpacks
Of course, you'll need more to enjoy a day trip at Yellowstone or any other outdoor adventure than just some high-quality trekking poles and a backpack. Yet they provide you with a solid foundation, to bring what you need with you at the start of the day without having to go back to your campsite of hotel room. If you're not used to carrying a loaded backpack over uneven ground the trekking poles will go a long way toward reducing your risk of tripping with an imbalanced load on your back.
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Disclaimer: With nearly two decades of experience as a product tester, reviewer, and promotional product specialist, I bring you my honest, unbiased opinions. If you make a purchase through my site, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.