Ways to be properly equipped for backpacking

[Hamilton Reef]

Ways to be properly equipped for backpacking and still save money

So you want to go backpacking this summer?
Let's see, you'll need boots (approximately $75), a pack ($150), a sleeping bag ($100), tent ($180), lightweight stove ($75) and a waterproof parka ($150). That makes your first outing a $730 walk in the woods.

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[1wildchild]

Man this could not be more ture! Good article. I've been shopping for a backpack since January. I have finally narrowed it down, now I gotta wait for the REI sale in June. I also need a cook stove so I am gonna try some of the websites listed in the article. Thanks!

[Robert W. McCoy Jr]

Unless you just want name brand stuff.
You could contact some Army surplus places and buy some of there used equipment.

I survived out of my ruck sack for a long time.
There durable and hold plenty of gear if you take advantage of the all the space including tying stuff to the top in a water proof bag.
Compresion bags for sleeping gear.
Properly rolling clothes.
Attaching a day pack to the bottom or ( fanny pack).

There actually pretty comfortable to travel long distances with them also.

Some people even did some adding of additional padding etc.

Water proof parkas and other gear can also be found.
Cheap.

The best place I have found for used gear is in Georgia near Ft. Benning
Ranger Rag's (706) 689-7140

New gear
Ranger Joe's (800) 247-4541
http://www.rangerjoes.com/

[1wildchild]

I have gotten some great gear at army surplus. My biggest problem is the backpack. Being short AND female definately doesn't help with fit! I also need to think pretty light cuz I will be carrying some of my son's gear as well. Man I cannot wait until he can pack his own!!!! On second thought, I can wait. About the time he can pack all of his own gear, he won't be intersted in holding mom's hand as often!!!!

[Robert W. McCoy Jr]

They make a smaller size pack.
Also there are many ways to adjust the packs to fit.

I had a PLDC class that was 1/2 women and we adjusted there packs so they could carry them long distances with little discomfort.

One big trick is buying an old sleeping pad from an Army surplus store and using Duct Tape to tape peices into place to make the kedney pad more comfortable.