cydwhitSo, last weekend I realized I want nicer backpacking gear, thrift store stuff is great till you have to carry it up a mountain. Hopefully NS has some advice on what to get.

I'm looking for a new pack, preferably pretty cheap, I am thinking of mainly doing 2-3 day trips so I was thinking somewhere in the 50-60L range. Is that right? I usually pack more than I need and I want to force myself to go lighter. I have been looking at some bags from Osprey and Black Diamond, Anybody have affordable recommendations?

Also looking for a new sleeping bag. I have been using an old one I got from Cosco 11 years ago that is probably rated for 50degrees. I was thinking of maybe a 30 degree bag so that I can do some winter camping as well, Looking for something packable and affordable, I really have no idea what a good bag for this would be. Definitly needs to pack smaller than the one I have now.

Any other advice or gear recommendations would be much appreciated.

Thanks!

As far as backpacks go, definitely look into Mountainsmith packs. They're made locally here in Colorado and are great packs. They have excellent features and are durable as hell. Not to mention they're pretty affordable.

Sleeping bags, I have a Marmot Helium and it's freakin awesome. I got mine on a steal from Craigslist, but I know that they're on the more expensive end. 30 deg rating seems on a little light-core for winter camping though. I'd shoot more for 10 or 15 deg.

That reminds me, scan Craigslist for gear people are getting rid of. You can find some awesome deals.

Thanks! As far as the sleeping bag goes, I do pretty well with the cold, last winter temps in my mobile home dropped bellow 0 a couple of nights and I was fine in my crummy 50 degree bag and a blanket, had to sleep with my water bottle to keep it thawed, haha, I was thinking a 30 degree bag wouldn't be too much overkill for the spring/fall as well, but I really don't know.

if you're gonna spring relatively quickly on a purchase, backcountry.com is having a free 2-day shipping sale on orders over 50 bucks. ends tomorrow

Go to a local REI or similar chain outdoors store to get a feel for certain brands. It's nice to be able to compare the fit and adjustments available on packs before spending any money. Same goes for sleeping bags; some brands have features that may appeal to you, or turn you away. You don't have to spend money, but you can start getting a feel for what you like/don't like right away.

Good, and affordable pack company to check out is Kelty. They make great gear for not as much as some of the "higher end" companies out there.

I prefer synthetic bags as they dry faster and are typically a bit lighter. And I would also recommend going a bit lower with your rating than you originally anticipate. It's easy to vent your bag to release heat in the summer, but much harder to stay warm on a trip, especially if you and your gear have gotten wet.

There are deals all over the place for this kind of gear, all year long. Just need to know where to look!

Thanks! I am aware of the Backountry shipping deal, probably going to snag my skis tonight...

As far as size, is 50L about right for 2-3 day trips? Also, good point on the sleeping bag, will definitely keep that in mind. I am not sure if I will need to use it in the winter at all, there just might be a chance that I do.

Thanks all!

cydwhitThanks! I am aware of the Backountry shipping deal, probably going to snag my skis tonight...

As far as size, is 50L about right for 2-3 day trips? Also, good point on the sleeping bag, will definitely keep that in mind. I am not sure if I will need to use it in the winter at all, there just might be a chance that I do.

Thanks all!

Personally, 50L is a pretty small pack. That's for me. I say that as I am typically the one carrying the extra gear; tent, cookset, stove, fuel, saw, axe, etc. on top of my normal necessities.

I spent 3 weeks in Alaska living out of a 75lb 90L pack and that was pushing it at times.

The nice thing about buying a slightly bigger bag is that you can utilize the compression straps to minimize your bag when necessary, and still be able to stuff more in when you need to. Gotta do your homework on what you really need to bring along.

What all do you pack for a 2-3 night excursion? Maybe we as a group can brainstorm a good size to look for.

Being from MN, and having done a good share of winter camping, know your comfort limits and the limits of your gear before going out. Haha, I've had some friends that were less than prepared on a few outings. Needless to say they were miserable and didn't get much sleep.

Awesome, list of stuff I bring:

-Sleeping bag

-Dont usually do a pad.

-half a tent

-Stove (tiny one that screws onto fuel can)

-two little fuel cans

-Stanely cup thing for stove

-Freeze dried backpacker meals

-One warmer outfit (pants, flannel shirt, insulating layer, need to get a packable puffy as well.)

-Rain coat

-Knife

-Leatherman

-Hatchet

-Med kit

-"survival" kit (compass, duct tape, fishing gear, snare wire, whistle, mirror)

-Water

-Camera gear, usually a 7d and two lenses

-Non water beverages

-Gummy worms

-Matches, lighter

-Extra socks

That usually does it for me, last weekend I took 12 people on a hike that was a first overnight trip for about half of them so I ended up using my brother's 85L thriftstore bag filled all the way up with two sleeping bags and the camera strapped to the outside. Better for me to carry a bunch of stuff for them and be over prepared than to have people whine the whole time. Of course, a fully loaded 85L pack on a hike with 3800 ft of elevation gain kind of ended up sucking but if thats what it takes to get people out there then so be it, haha, definitely over packed...

Thanks for all the help!

Forgot to add, I have done a couple two day trips with a 20L HeliPro and a fanny pack, usually in less sketchy places though

If you're going to buy a pack, I'm going to recommend either the Osprey Aether series, or the Gregory Baltoro series. I have the Baltoro 70 and it's the last pack I'll ever buy, but the Aether 60/70 is also a pretty damn fantastic pack and I'd have probably gone with it if it fit me as well as the Gregory. North face packs are okay as well, but they're overpriced for what you actually get. A dedicated pack company is where it's at in this regard, but if it fits you and you get a good deal, whatever works is what you should get.

You're going to want to get measured out as well to make sure you have the right size. Nothing sucks more than having a pack that doesn't fit you well, rubbing all day causing blisters and sore shoulders.

On top of that, I'd highly recommend good shoes with footbeds. Putting that much more weight on your back, you're going to be using a lot more energy for balance and that will absolutely kill your feet and knees after a couple days if you're out of shape. Footbeds in decent hiking shoes/boots will be just as much of a savior as they are in ski boots.

As for bags and tents, I have a Big Agnes -15 bag and a pad made by them too. They are super affordable and pretty high quality (I probably paid 70 for the bag and maybe 60 for the pad). If you're not trying to break that bank, that's the brand I'd look into for sure. Otherwise, Sierra Designs always makes really killer stuff for the price too.

As for winter camping, you have no idea what you're getting yourself into if you think a 30 rated bag will be adequate haha. The general rule of thumb is getting a bag rated about 15-20 degrees cooler than the ground surface temperature. If you're camping on snow, that means that the surface will be something like 10-15 degrees at night at the warmest... If you want to do any serious winter camping you'll need at least a 0 degree bag. You can get away with a 15-20 in spring/warmer winter conditions.

**This post was edited on Sep 15th 2014 at 4:40:17pm

cydwhitAwesome, list of stuff I bring:

-Sleeping bag

-Dont usually do a pad.

-half a tent

-Stove (tiny one that screws onto fuel can)

-two little fuel cans

-Stanely cup thing for stove

-Freeze dried backpacker meals

-One warmer outfit (pants, flannel shirt, insulating layer, need to get a packable puffy as well.)

-Rain coat

-Knife

-Leatherman

-Hatchet

-Med kit

-"survival" kit (compass, duct tape, fishing gear, snare wire, whistle, mirror)

-Water

-Camera gear, usually a 7d and two lenses

-Non water beverages

-Gummy worms

-Matches, lighter

-Extra socks

That usually does it for me, last weekend I took 12 people on a hike that was a first overnight trip for about half of them so I ended up using my brother's 85L thriftstore bag filled all the way up with two sleeping bags and the camera strapped to the outside. Better for me to carry a bunch of stuff for them and be over prepared than to have people whine the whole time. Of course, a fully loaded 85L pack on a hike with 3800 ft of elevation gain kind of ended up sucking but if thats what it takes to get people out there then so be it, haha, definitely over packed...

Thanks for all the help!

Right off the bat, 50L will be tough with these 3 items; sleeping bag, half a tent, and your camera gear.

Are you using any cases or storage boxes for your camera/lenses?

My 50L bag is probably just barely tall enough to fit my tent's poles, without trying to cram in a sleeping bag/pad. I could definitely strap them to the outside, but when I am bushwhacking I prefer to be as streamlined as possible and avoid getting snagged on bushes, saplings, etc.

Camera gear excluded for the time being, a 50L bag is feasible if you don't stray much from your aforementioned packing list and don't venture out much when the weather gets colder. Unfortunately the cold weather gear gets bulkier in the packs and also makes bringing a few extra layers mandatory.

If you want visual proof, I can scrounge up some comparable gear and try stuffing it into my 50L pack.

I've had good luck with Gregory's backpacks, though I'm sure other brands are nice as well. Make sure you pay attention to the fitting information. Backpacks can fit well/poorly, though there is a lot of adjustability on some models these days.

I'd definitely get a sleeping pad. The cheaper foam options aren't as nice as the more expensive ones and the inflatable pads, but they are cheap and really light.

Winter camping with a 30 degree bag wouldn't be advisable, even if you sleep warm. Go for 15. You can get a decent amount of range out of a decent 15 degree bag, and you already have a 50 degree bag for summer camping (though apparently it doesn't pack down much). I have one from the Mountain Hardware Lamina series and it's served me well without being too expensive.

DingoSeanAs for winter camping, you have no idea what you're getting yourself into if you think a 30 rated bag will be adequate haha. The general rule of thumb is getting a bag rated about 15-20 degrees cooler than the ground surface temperature. If you're camping on snow, that means that the surface will be something like 10-15 degrees at night at the warmest... If you want to do any serious winter camping you'll need at least a 0 degree bag. You can get away with a 15-20 in spring/warmer winter conditions.

**This post was edited on Sep 15th 2014 at 4:40:17pm

Haha, should have clarified, I am not planning on camping in the snow in the dead of winter, more like camping in areas that may have snow/camping not in the summer, Thanks for the advice, I am not getting into winter camping yet because I realize I will have no conception of how gnarly it is. Thanks!

First off, I HIGHLY recommend a sleeping pad... Even if it is a foam pad because it will keep you soo much warmer. Forget comfort, you'll sleep so much better.

As far as sleeping bags go, if you can afford it (which I doubt because almost no one can) stay away from brands like TNF, sierra designs, & REI. They all make great bags, but if you look at companies like western mountaineering & feathered friends, you will get a bag that is going to last you ages. Maybe a decade or two. Seriously. It will also save a few pound too.

For backpacks, my biggest pack is an osprey volt 75 which is the biggest one in the volt series. (I think they make it in a 60 which would be great for you). It's a fantastic bag that I've carried loads up to 60lbs for month long trips with. It's also pretty cheap at $200 so you can't go wrong with that.

Finally I recommend that you do A LOT of research when it comes to backpacking or any backcountry gear for that matter. These are things that you will be spending a lot of money on, as well as using them to save your life.... Know what you are getting, and make a good purchase. I am always a fan of putting money down to begin with on things that are going to last a long time. If you have the funds to do that, do it for sure.

Also check out this website, they have gear reviews and tests on anything you can think of. http://www.outdoorgearlab.com/

Hope this helps and have fun!

division.bellRight off the bat, 50L will be tough with these 3 items; sleeping bag, half a tent, and your camera gear.

Are you using any cases or storage boxes for your camera/lenses?

My 50L bag is probably just barely tall enough to fit my tent's poles, without trying to cram in a sleeping bag/pad. I could definitely strap them to the outside, but when I am bushwhacking I prefer to be as streamlined as possible and avoid getting snagged on bushes, saplings, etc.

Camera gear excluded for the time being, a 50L bag is feasible if you don't stray much from your aforementioned packing list and don't venture out much when the weather gets colder. Unfortunately the cold weather gear gets bulkier in the packs and also makes bringing a few extra layers mandatory.

If you want visual proof, I can scrounge up some comparable gear and try stuffing it into my 50L pack.

Ok, good to know! Maybe a 65L bag then. I usually have the camera gear in a fanny pack that currently gets strapped to the top of outside of my backpack, that way it is accessible for quick shots. For longer trips where I want to be more streamlined I usually just wrap it in a layer of clothes. I am definitely trying to move in a more streamlined direction so it is good to get all this info. Also, as far as a pad goes, I will probably try to get an inflatable pad by next summer, until then I am fine without or sometimes I use a car windshield reflector thing, reflects heat, has a little bit of padding and is super light and cheap, just has to be strapped on to the pack.

Thanks for all the advice everybody!

cydwhitOk, good to know! Maybe a 65L bag then. I usually have the camera gear in a fanny pack that currently gets strapped to the top of outside of my backpack, that way it is accessible for quick shots. For longer trips where I want to be more streamlined I usually just wrap it in a layer of clothes. I am definitely trying to move in a more streamlined direction so it is good to get all this info. Also, as far as a pad goes, I will probably try to get an inflatable pad by next summer, until then I am fine without or sometimes I use a car windshield reflector thing, reflects heat, has a little bit of padding and is super light and cheap, just has to be strapped on to the pack.

Thanks for all the advice everybody!

I'm going to throw some more personal preferences in your direction...

Fuck inflatable sleeping pads! More expensive, more hassles, prone to mold/mildew, and leaks. The only upside is they pack down smaller. Yet they are not anymore comfortable than a closed cell foam pad. I'll pass.

I've been using the same closed cell Cascade Designs Ridgerest pad for more years than I care to admit. It has easily been with me for over 400 nights in a tent through the years.

This also comes in a 3/4 length if you don't want to deal with a full length pad.

Pro tip for packing a foam sleeping pad: Unroll the sleeping pad to create slack in the "O" shape and then push the pad into your pack standing straight up. You should now be able to pack clothes/gear inside your sleeping pad. This helps keep your pack streamlined, adds more shaped support for your backpack, adds more protection for your belongings, and can allow you to separate items in your pack (clean/dirty clothes, food, gear, whatever).

A 65L pack would be just about right in my opinion. With a 65L, you should get a divided sleeping bag compartment that you probably wouldn't find on a smaller pack.

Good tip, also sounds like a good way to add a little insurance for my camera in the case of a tumble.

Backpack - I have an Osprey Aether 85 and love it. I use it from one-night trips to week-long trips. You can always cinch the pack down, I would err on the side of getting a bigger pack. 50-60 is pretty small, I would have a very hard time packing everything I need for a multi-day trip into that. Once you decide on a size, the most important part is fit. Sure you can adjust packs but certain ones WILL fit you better. Fact. Buying a pack is like buying ski boots. Go to a shop and try them on (with some weight) and see what fits rights. I tried mine on and instantly knew it was the one. It fits so that 90% of the weight is on my hips with very little weight actually on my shoulders. Having it match your torso length is the secret.

Sleeping Bag / Pad - I love the Big Agnes sleeping bag and pad system. I currently have a North Face Blaze 20 degree and it does great, but the Big Agnes is so sick. The bags don't have any insulation on the bottom, instead the sleeping pad slips into a sleeve on the bottom and acts as insulation. That means two things: 1) the bag is lighter and packs smaller due to less material and 2) you won't roll off your pad. I would recommend a 20 degree bag for most three season camping. If you get one that is too warm you can always add a liner to the inside for colder nights.

Tent - Shop around and see what fits your needs. Keep in mind that when they say a "two-person" tent that means two people and nothing else. My girlfriend and I sleep in a Sierra Designs 2-person XL tent that has some extra length and width to it that allows our dog to fit inside without totally being on top of us. Bags go in the vestibule. I would recommend a matching footprint made by the manufacturer. Find a tent that has the features you want and is on sale. Keep it under 5 lbs if it is a backpacking tent.

Other stuff - I have two other items that are the best thing ever when backpacking: 1) CamelBack water bottle UV filter. Not packing fluid is key to save weight, making a water filter a necessity. This one works great, is super light, and is idiot proof. Get the pre-filter to screen to catch any larger items before filtering. 2) JetBoil -this makes camping so easy. Nothing is worse than struggling to get a good fire going in order to eat. You can boil water in a jet boil in, I kid you not, two minutes. Whoever said a watched pot never boils never had a JetBoil. Bring some Mountain House dehydrated meals, oatmeal, and coffee with you and you are set.

There are always other little things to pick up along the way but these will get you the necessities. A good knife is good to have, I always carry a compass just in case, chocolate bars are delicious and contain a lot of energy. A good headlamp can make your life nice. Hit me up if you have more specific questions and I'll be happy to answer what I can.

Also, forest service cabins make for awesome backpacking trips... http://www.recreation.gov to search for ones in your area.

Sorry, I think my pack is actually the Aether 70. I am having a hard time remembering on the top of my head. Either way, it is the best pack I could have imagined but I probably like it so much because I literally spent about two hours at REI trying on different packs, loading them with weight, and walking around. I can't empasize enough that finding a pack that fits you right is key.

Also, the dude the mentioned your shoes and insoles, I 120% agree. I have terribly flat feet and did a 40-mile trip this summer. By the end my feet were so sore, even after I bought new insoles. I don't think I would have made it without the insoles. Your boots are probably the most important piece of equipment you will have. I always carry a pair of flip-flops to slip on once we are done hiking.

jensenSorry, I think my pack is actually the Aether 70. I am having a hard time remembering on the top of my head. Either way, it is the best pack I could have imagined but I probably like it so much because I literally spent about two hours at REI trying on different packs, loading them with weight, and walking around. I can't empasize enough that finding a pack that fits you right is key.

Also, the dude the mentioned your shoes and insoles, I 120% agree. I have terribly flat feet and did a 40-mile trip this summer. By the end my feet were so sore, even after I bought new insoles. I don't think I would have made it without the insoles. Your boots are probably the most important piece of equipment you will have. I always carry a pair of flip-flops to slip on once we are done hiking.

Awesome, so much info! The big Agnes system looks sick, will definitely have to look into that. My buddy has the REI Halfdome 2 which seems pretty nice, I will probably stick with hauling my heavy walmart tent or bumming a spot in a tent until I am in a better place to spend some dough.

That filter looks awesome. For now I will stick to a sucker straw deal but once I can afford it that is definitely on my list. Up till now I have just been super lucky drinking a lot of unfiltered water, I realize this is a bad idea so definitely going to have to get some filtration stuff.

Jet boils are incredibly rad! I have several friends with them and I always end up jealous. I have a tiny screw on stove that doesn't heat as fast but still boils water in under 5 minutes and costs about 1/5th of a jetboil.

Mountain House are incredible. I eat better camping then I do at home. So far my favorite is the Beef Stew, Had apple crisp for breakfast yesterday and it killed it as well. Instant oatmeal packets are the bomb as well. What do you do for coffee? I don't drink coffee but it would be good to know the best way to do that.

Shoes. I need to get some new boots at some point... For now I am in Forsake boots with insoles, not the best but they work, for shorter trips I have some Nike trail runners I got for cheap. What do you recommend for shoes? I have a few friends that wear salomon trail runners for everything. I did 20some miles in borrowed salomons and loved them but wouldn't have minded a little more support. I always carry birckenstocks or flip-flops for around camp as well, hopefully get chacos for that next year.

Thanks for all the advice everybody!

cydwhitAwesome, so much info! The big Agnes system looks sick, will definitely have to look into that. My buddy has the REI Halfdome 2 which seems pretty nice, I will probably stick with hauling my heavy walmart tent or bumming a spot in a tent until I am in a better place to spend some dough.

That filter looks awesome. For now I will stick to a sucker straw deal but once I can afford it that is definitely on my list. Up till now I have just been super lucky drinking a lot of unfiltered water, I realize this is a bad idea so definitely going to have to get some filtration stuff.

Jet boils are incredibly rad! I have several friends with them and I always end up jealous. I have a tiny screw on stove that doesn't heat as fast but still boils water in under 5 minutes and costs about 1/5th of a jetboil.

Mountain House are incredible. I eat better camping then I do at home. So far my favorite is the Beef Stew, Had apple crisp for breakfast yesterday and it killed it as well. Instant oatmeal packets are the bomb as well. What do you do for coffee? I don't drink coffee but it would be good to know the best way to do that.

Shoes. I need to get some new boots at some point... For now I am in Forsake boots with insoles, not the best but they work, for shorter trips I have some Nike trail runners I got for cheap. What do you recommend for shoes? I have a few friends that wear salomon trail runners for everything. I did 20some miles in borrowed salomons and loved them but wouldn't have minded a little more support. I always carry birckenstocks or flip-flops for around camp as well, hopefully get chacos for that next year.

Thanks for all the advice everybody!

I have a french press that came with my Jet Boil (there is a Jet Boil "java" package). I can make gourmet fresh coffee right out of my Jet Boil. Sometimes it is a harder to clean grounds out though so I'll just pack some of that instant coffee and dissolve it into some boiled water in my cup. If I am doing the french press I bring some coarse coffee grounds and powdered vanilla creamer with me. Just boil your water in the the Jet Boil, drop the grounds in, give it 5 minutes, press, pour, and add your creamer. Some times it comes out with some coffee grounds in it, but you are camping and it wouldn't be camping coffee without eating some grounds.

My favorite mountain house are the chicken fajita wraps. I think it is nice to add a tortilla to the meal, makes me feel more like I am eating something real and not just dehydrated food over a bag. Mountain House is good but only in limited quantities. Eating Mountain House days on end gets old and can get you pretty backed up. When I start a multi-day trip I will a lot of times make a hobo camping dinner (ground meat, potatoes, vegetables, etc) wrapped in foil, freeze it the night before I leave, then pack it with me as it thaws the first day. Then the first night start a fire and throw it on. Makes for a good start to a long trip and gets rid of one of the heavier items on the first day. I will usually also bring a couple "luxury" items with me to help keep morale and spirits up when you need it. Fruit is heavy but I love having an orange or grapefruit to eat in the middle of the trip and they pack well. And packing liquid is also heavy but having a little whisky at the end of a long trip sure is nice.

I have some shitty Nike hiking boots with some arch supporting insoles in them. I really need some new ones, mostly because I have terrible feet. It wouldn't be as bad if I didn't have Fred Flintstone flat feet. I am looking at a pair of Asolo's for my next boot. Something with a fairly stiff sole and a lot of support. Also water proof. Some of those Salomon shoes like nice but the ones I have seen look more like trail running shoes and I would be nervous about tromping through some mud with them. Buying some good socks is also clutch. Normal cotton socks can give you terrible blisters. I got some Smartwool PhD hiking socks and they are awesome.

Big Agnes Lone Ranger 15F down bag,

Matching Big Agnes Air Pad (money because it slips in bag so you dont roll off it)

Sea to Summit Thermolite Reactor sleeping bag liner, gets you an extra 10 F if needed.

And one water bottle with boiled water in it thrown at the bottom of the bag.

Rolled with that setup this winter was very comfortable when it was 5-10 F.I did cheat and slept in lean-tos though since in the winter they are always open (ADKs/White Mountains). Some people do sleep hot though so sometimes they dont need as much.

I have a rocket tent that I got on the cheap but didnt use it yet. worried about multiple nights and moisture problems inside it with a down bag. Anyone rock a down bag and ever got it a bit damp like that? just curious

Jensen is soo right on that coffee. Such an awesome pick me up in the morning.

jensenI have a french press that came with my Jet Boil (there is a Jet Boil "java" package). I can make gourmet fresh coffee right out of my Jet Boil. Sometimes it is a harder to clean grounds out though so I'll just pack some of that instant coffee and dissolve it into some boiled water in my cup. If I am doing the french press I bring some coarse coffee grounds and powdered vanilla creamer with me. Just boil your water in the the Jet Boil, drop the grounds in, give it 5 minutes, press, pour, and add your creamer. Some times it comes out with some coffee grounds in it, but you are camping and it wouldn't be camping coffee without eating some grounds.

My favorite mountain house are the chicken fajita wraps. I think it is nice to add a tortilla to the meal, makes me feel more like I am eating something real and not just dehydrated food over a bag. Mountain House is good but only in limited quantities. Eating Mountain House days on end gets old and can get you pretty backed up. When I start a multi-day trip I will a lot of times make a hobo camping dinner (ground meat, potatoes, vegetables, etc) wrapped in foil, freeze it the night before I leave, then pack it with me as it thaws the first day. Then the first night start a fire and throw it on. Makes for a good start to a long trip and gets rid of one of the heavier items on the first day. I will usually also bring a couple "luxury" items with me to help keep morale and spirits up when you need it. Fruit is heavy but I love having an orange or grapefruit to eat in the middle of the trip and they pack well. And packing liquid is also heavy but having a little whisky at the end of a long trip sure is nice.

I have some shitty Nike hiking boots with some arch supporting insoles in them. I really need some new ones, mostly because I have terrible feet. It wouldn't be as bad if I didn't have Fred Flintstone flat feet. I am looking at a pair of Asolo's for my next boot. Something with a fairly stiff sole and a lot of support. Also water proof. Some of those Salomon shoes like nice but the ones I have seen look more like trail running shoes and I would be nervous about tromping through some mud with them. Buying some good socks is also clutch. Normal cotton socks can give you terrible blisters. I got some Smartwool PhD hiking socks and they are awesome.

Good information on the coffee stuff.

Yeah, I have never had Mountain House for more than a few days in a row, I can definitely see them causing digestive issues though, I usually steer clear of the mexican dinners, just because the combination of Mexican food and dehydrated dinner sounds bad. Non-Water beverages are also always a must.

Smartwool's are the bomb, I'll probably spend the winter shopping for boots.

Thanks!

Gregory Baltoro

North Face Cat's Meow

I've done a fair bit of backpacking, somewhere around 3,000 miles give or take a few. You're in the right ballpark for a pack. A 50 or 55 L is perfect for everything from overnights to extended trips. You should not buy a backpack online. Go get fitted at an outfitter. Just because you're tall (or short) does not mean you need one size pack or another. You want to get actually fitted. Then, most importantly, put every pack in the store on and walk around for quite a bit in it. Make sure there is weight in the pack. All reputable outfitters (and REI) have sandbags in the store for this purpose. I am partial to Gregory packs (the Z55 is perfect), but your body may fit another pack well. I personally cannot wear an Osprey pack - just a terrible fit for me.

As far as sleeping bags, it is impossible to recommend a bag without knowing what temperatures you will be used it for. As a general guideline, Western Mountaineering makes some of the finest bags available. They're pricey but worth it. Marmot bags are also nice and can be an excellent value. Feel free to PM me with any backpacking questions. I have my systems pretty dialed and am up on all the different product offerings out there.

I'll just be an echo for some of what has been said:

Pack fit is important, so try on a bunch. I've been a big fan of the Osprey Aether and Xenith packs - light for their size, carry loads really well, and fit me like a dream (most important factor). So find what fits well for you first and foremost, then go from there.

I'm a big advocate of thicker inflatable sleeping pads - like a Exped downmat ul or Therm-a-Rest x lite/therm. Pair that with a closed cell foam pad and it's golden. You can lose a ton of heat through the ground, not to mention comfort.

For a bag, I'd recommend the investment in a high quality down sleeping bag; typically considerably lighter than synthetic bags, packs smaller, and can last WAY longer. Just all around better stuff.

division.bellPro tip for packing a foam sleeping pad: Unroll the sleeping pad to create slack in the "O" shape and then push the pad into your pack standing straight up. You should now be able to pack clothes/gear inside your sleeping pad. This helps keep your pack streamlined, adds more shaped support for your backpack, adds more protection for your belongings, and can allow you to separate items in your pack (clean/dirty clothes, food, gear, whatever).

My mind...

I didnt read any other comments so idk what others have suggested. I could right a fucking dissertation about backpacking. If i could give on solid piece of advice, DO NOT SKIMP ON YOUR GEAR. You get what you pay for, and most exspensive brands have excellent warranties, some for life. Plan ahead to make one single large purchase every couple months to slowly acquire your gear. Seriously do not waste your money. PM ME if you have any questions about brands and specific products, youd be suprised some of the crap they shovel you at big camping stores. I dont wana name names on a public forum. I spend about 100 days a year camping for work and would love to help a fellow Ns'er.

Dang, So much good info in here! I feel like I should have just made "the official backpacking advice thread or something." haha.

Thanks!

with backpacks you gotta try them on. go to a place like rei and try on as many as possible. There are a lot of great brands out there but half of them won't fit you right or be comfortable. Sleeping bags are a similar situation. I have gone through a few different north face cats meow bags and they are pretty good. my favorite bag right now is the sierra designs backcountry bed. If you want anything from sierra designs let me know and I can get you a deal from them.

jensenSorry, I think my pack is actually the Aether 70. I am having a hard time remembering on the top of my head. Either way, it is the best pack I could have imagined but I probably like it so much because I literally spent about two hours at REI trying on different packs, loading them with weight, and walking around. I can't empasize enough that finding a pack that fits you right is key.

Also, the dude the mentioned your shoes and insoles, I 120% agree. I have terribly flat feet and did a 40-mile trip this summer. By the end my feet were so sore, even after I bought new insoles. I don't think I would have made it without the insoles. Your boots are probably the most important piece of equipment you will have. I always carry a pair of flip-flops to slip on once we are done hiking.

I can vouch for the aether 70.it is such a good pack, especially if you're carrying more stuff like you seem to male out. It is a bit on the expensive side, but the quality you get with osprey is worth it.

jensenSorry, I think my pack is actually the Aether 70. I am having a hard time remembering on the top of my head. Either way, it is the best pack I could have imagined but I probably like it so much because I literally spent about two hours at REI trying on different packs, loading them with weight, and walking around. I can't empasize enough that finding a pack that fits you right is key.

Also, the dude the mentioned your shoes and insoles, I 120% agree. I have terribly flat feet and did a 40-mile trip this summer. By the end my feet were so sore, even after I bought new insoles. I don't think I would have made it without the insoles. Your boots are probably the most important piece of equipment you will have. I always carry a pair of flip-flops to slip on once we are done hiking.

I can vouch for the aether 70.it is such a good pack, especially if you're carrying more stuff like you seem to male out. It is a bit on the expensive side, but the quality you get with osprey is worth it.

jensenSorry, I think my pack is actually the Aether 70. I am having a hard time remembering on the top of my head. Either way, it is the best pack I could have imagined but I probably like it so much because I literally spent about two hours at REI trying on different packs, loading them with weight, and walking around. I can't empasize enough that finding a pack that fits you right is key.

Also, the dude the mentioned your shoes and insoles, I 120% agree. I have terribly flat feet and did a 40-mile trip this summer. By the end my feet were so sore, even after I bought new insoles. I don't think I would have made it without the insoles. Your boots are probably the most important piece of equipment you will have. I always carry a pair of flip-flops to slip on once we are done hiking.

I can vouch for the aether 70.it is such a good pack, especially if you're carrying more stuff like you seem to male out. It is a bit on the expensive side, but the quality you get with osprey is worth it.

jensenSorry, I think my pack is actually the Aether 70. I am having a hard time remembering on the top of my head. Either way, it is the best pack I could have imagined but I probably like it so much because I literally spent about two hours at REI trying on different packs, loading them with weight, and walking around. I can't empasize enough that finding a pack that fits you right is key.

Also, the dude the mentioned your shoes and insoles, I 120% agree. I have terribly flat feet and did a 40-mile trip this summer. By the end my feet were so sore, even after I bought new insoles. I don't think I would have made it without the insoles. Your boots are probably the most important piece of equipment you will have. I always carry a pair of flip-flops to slip on once we are done hiking.

I can vouch for the aether 70.it is such a good pack, especially if you're carrying more stuff like you seem to male out. It is a bit on the expensive side, but the quality you get with osprey is worth it.

You can check my pac out cy, its an osprey ,beyond enough for any thign u want.

For a backpack i have a Kelty Yukon 50L. I got it because it is one of the few external frames you can find. Thus far it has done me well.

The external frame allows my back to breathe, and if i'm running low on space i can just clip whatever i need to the frame.

For water, I platypus Big Zip 3L. It works real nice.

AT-ATFor a backpack i have a Kelty Yukon 50L. I got it because it is one of the few external frames you can find. Thus far it has done me well.

The external frame allows my back to breathe, and if i'm running low on space i can just clip whatever i need to the frame.

For water, I platypus Big Zip 3L. It works real nice.

Whatever you do, do NOT buy an external-frame pack. The load sways and moves all over. An internal-frame pack keeps the mass closer to you, so your body is better able to work efficiently. There is a very good reason external-frame packs are all but extinct (aside from the Boy Scouts, which is where I'm guessing AT-AT got his info).

I was never a boy scout, but thank you.

I weighed the pros and cons of the external. Yes it does sway, and yes it is rigid, but it lets my back breathe (i sweat an insane amount) and it gives me a limitless amount of ways to pack my stuff.

To each his own

All the backpacking I've done has been either with my backcountry skiing pack (not nearly big enough) or someone else's gear. I finally got my own backpaking bag for myself this year and I haven't even had a chance to use it!

Some of my gear that I like:

-Deuter ACTlite 60L+10

-Kelty 20 degree synthetic (I tend to get cold in it if it drops below 30)

-Thermarest sleeping pad (whatever the standard blow-up model is)

-Kelty Ouray 2 person tent (they discontinued it and I can't find a footprint for it for the life of me)

-Jetboil

Haha I still rock the ole Alice. Works for me.

And who the hell can downvote the Sven saw. Thing weighs like 3 ounces and folds up to take up almost no room.

While jet boils are nice, take a look at alcohol stoves. All you need is some denatured alcohol an empty beer or cat food can, and your cooking cup/pot.

It works just as well, and can save you money/space/weight.

You might want to also look into hammocks instead of tents. Hammocks can be pricey, but you can set it up anywhere there is two trees (dont need to find flat ground), and it gets you off the ground if it is raining. They will also save you space and weight.

AT-ATWhile jet boils are nice, take a look at alcohol stoves. All you need is some denatured alcohol an empty beer or cat food can, and your cooking cup/pot.

It works just as well, and can save you money/space/weight.

You might want to also look into hammocks instead of tents. Hammocks can be pricey, but you can set it up anywhere there is two trees (dont need to find flat ground), and it gets you off the ground if it is raining. They will also save you space and weight.

Tried a hammock this weekend, I love the concept, the feeling and the view. Unfortunately I sleep on my side which doesn't work really well in a hammock. I had a pretty rough night and ended up falling out around 4 in the morning, scared all my friends and almost got shot because they thought I was a bear rooting around the campsite, probably the last time I try hammoking in the fall. Maybe next summer though

cydwhitTried a hammock this weekend, I love the concept, the feeling and the view. Unfortunately I sleep on my side which doesn't work really well in a hammock. I had a pretty rough night and ended up falling out around 4 in the morning, scared all my friends and almost got shot because they thought I was a bear rooting around the campsite, probably the last time I try hammoking in the fall. Maybe next summer though

Just keep an eye out for a cheap one and you can experiment from time to time. I got mine off the clymb for like 40 bones shipped. It has a bug net and all the extra strings needed to rig it up. I slept in it for several weekends at the beach this summer, definitely not the greatest for cold weather camping though. I find them comfortable but then again I sleep like a log on piles of rocks or hard wood floors so that's just me. Mine with the bug net though actually zips you fully enclosed though so absolutely no falling out. I don't always take it but it always lives in my truck, if ya know what I mean, it's one of those pieces of gear.

iFlipexternal-frame packs are all but extinct

external frames are fucking amazing when it comes to packing meat. I dont do much backpacking per say but i spend a great deal of time hunting/camping and haul a lot of gear around. i cant give much insight for backpacking packs but there has already been a lot of good info in here. and as someone else said, dont skimp on your gear, you will be doing yourself a favor in the long run.

get a pad of some sort to sleep on, especially if you are doing any sort of multi day treks . i grew up on the thin closed cell pads and they work well enough. i find they are bulky to pack and after a few nights on them i get sore and stiff. I bought a big agnes pad at the beginning of the summer and have been very happy with the upgrade, the r- value and support are worth spending a few minutes to blow it up. and if you are worried about having to use some lung power, you can find nice hand pumps for sleeping pads.

get a new sleeping bag, there are lots of great ones to choose from just shop around a bit. mine is a 0F synthetic REI bag, i have had it for about a decade now and it is about time for a new one. It is decent but i have never been overly pleased with it. I wouldnt go any warmer than a 15F bag. if you want something for cooler nights without sweating you balls off on regular nights i would recommend looking for a 15F(depending on where you live) bag and getting a fleece sleeping bag liner to go with it. liners are great.

as far as tents go i use two methods. if i dont have to worry too much about size/ weight or am with people ill bring my 3 man or 6 man dome depending on the situation. I am a huge fan of bivvy sacks though, and much prefer them to tents. a bivvy sack with a siltarp over it, gives me just as much shelter as a tent while packing down smaller than my sleeping bag.

i think that it is important to find what works best for you though. everyone is different and will have their own preferences and opinions when it comes to gear. so dont be afraid for doing some trial and error to find out what fits your needs the best.

Yeah, bivy sacks look like a really cool option actually. Thanks for all the info, external frames are great for hauling meat, wouldn't use it for much else though.

Thanks y'all!

Hey man please message me. I can give you advice (backpacked 30 days through Wyoming wind river wilderness and can give you some advice. AS well as camping, backpacking and skiing is my life. And i work as a ski and backpacking expert at EMS (Eastern Mountain Sports)

So, bumping this old thread since I finally got a pack.

I went with a 75L bag since I'm getting into more extended climbing and I need the room for the extra gear. Did my first winter trip last week, hiked in to some hot springs and slept in like an inch of snow. It was cold, everything we hung up to dry froze solid instead and I was freezing in sub 20 temps in a 45 degree bag. Was a good little wakeup call since I had a full 75L bag but did NOT have enough warm dry gear, really need to get a decent 15 degree bag. Thanks for all the advice, I'm stoked to get out there with the new pack!

I have an osprey pack thats about 80L, which I use for anything from one night to a week, and works fine for both. I would say it's good to spend some money on your pack, because a nice pack will make everything sooo much easier. As far as sleeping bags, Marmmot bags are the best for something that won't be too expensive. I think sinthetic bags are the way to go, but It's not as big of a deal if you are in a dryer climate.

I should threads this. Trying to get more into the legit side of things. Still might hike mountains in beat sandals or barefoot but some proper gear would be a nice touch.