Are you getting started outdoors, gearing up for a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, or just need to save a few quid? We all need to get out, even in this economy. Here’s the lowdown on the best, more budget-friendly backpacking kit our team have reviewed over the last year or so, in one place for the first time

JBL Grip Built for beach days and lazy kayak ...

Andy Westlake tests a lightweight camera backpack that’s designed to look anonymous

Used well, they can make a weekend on a non-electric pitch feel easy: phones topped up, lights on, laptops charged and a bit of evening comfort without worrying about flattening your leisure battery.

JBL Grip Built for beach days and lazy kayak ...

All the gear you need to tackle bold outdoor pursuits, from bikepacking through Wales to a Lake Como retreat