Things to consider when selecting gear

A few things to consider before we get started. Backpacking equipment can be quite pricey. If you are just getting started, you don’t need to buy the latest and greatest, most expensive equipment on the market. In fact, I advise against it, at least until you know that you are going to stick with it. That being said, keep in mind that you get what you pay for…but that doesn’t mean that you have to pay top dollar. I have found if you are flexible, do some research and shop around you can often find some really good deals on some really good equipment. 

 

Check closeouts and discontinued items at places like REI or Moosejaw. Both of those sights also have some major sales in which you can get some substantial discounts. When shopping around do not take the retailers word on the “discount”. Often a retailer will boast discounted prices and will show a list price and then will show their “special discounted price” or sale price. If you can buy it on amazon for the same price, its not much of a discount now is it. Always price check and shop around for the any higher dollar items. 

 

I will make some recommendations on gear and what you should spend a little extra on and where you can cut some cost. But the more you get out on the trail and go backpacking the more you will get a feel for what items are worth it to you spend the extra funds on and which ones you can just pick up at the dollar store or Walmart. There are some items where the brand doesn’t matter nearly as much as the material. If you are a seasoned car camper and /or outdoorsman chances are that you already have a lot of the items on this list. They just might be a little bigger and bulkier that what is ideal for backpacking, but they will get you started and as I mentioned before the more you get out on the trail the more you will get a feel for what needs to upgraded.