We spend a lot of time dialing in the resources we bring on backpacking trips. Often, we pack certain items for specific trips based on what we expect from the terrain, weather, etc. But there's always a few items that go with us on every trip, like a first aid kit. For me, the most prized of these repeat items is my "luxury item," a non-negotiable that always improves my backpacking trip but maybe isn't 100% necessary.
My luxury item is a travel pour-over coffee kit. Between my cup, coffee grounds, filters, and collapsible pour-over, my setup is bulkier and heavier than instant coffee but dramatically improves my experience.
What's yours?
I love this topic!! Funny yours is coffee....I actually put coffee in my necessities category. I was going to call "creamer" my luxury item! When backpacking, I keep the coffee itself simple with just the instant stuff. I usually bring a little Nalgene storage bottle full of instant cappuccino mix. It always seems a little silly, but I just love starting my mornings in the backcountry with a little french vanilla in my tin cup. 🍵
I have an older Nemo tent that has a small battery pack that plugs in at the top where the poles all intersect, and it lights up the poles, making it look like twinkle lights. I definitely don't have to bring the battery pack for backpacking, but I usually do. A luxury item, no doubt, but I love the coziness inside the tent when I have them. It makes even the most desolate sites feel like home.
Lastly, this one isn't mine, but it's worth the share. I went out with one of my friends in Montana once, and he brought a baguette. He said he always brings one. 🤣 He packed it vertically on the outside of his pack, like it was just another water bottle. I thought it was absurd, until we were enjoying our warm Mountain Houses by the fire that night, with some fresh bread on the side!
I went out with one of my friends in Montana once, and he brought a baguette. He said he always brings one.
This is EPIC! Good call on the coffee creamer, too. And the tent lights. I remember seeing that tent when it first came ou,t and I thought it was very unique.
@twdondanville It's definitely a piece of gear I'll always hang onto! The rain fly is slowly becoming riddled with patches, but that just gives it character 👍