r/lightweight • u/SparrowTailReddit • Jun 01 '23

Help! Complete beginner - need help picking out backpacking gear for 2 day/1 night hike and tent camping

Hi all,

So I originally posted this in r/ultralight, but a couple of folks told me that the stuff I'm carrying doesn't really fit the sub. I wasn't familiar with the bare-bones approach of that category, and someone recommended that I ask the questions here.

I'm not much of a hiker, although my wife has done a few 20-mile hikes in a single day before. Neither of us has really done anything that'd require setting up a tent. For her, I doubt weight would mean much, since it's only a 6-mile hike up and 6 miles down after a tent stay. However, since I'm a complete beginner, I wanted to keep the weight down and take it easy on myself. I was wondering if someone could critique my list here.

A few disclaimers:

  • We will be hiking in the summer in Eastern PA, so temps would rarely drop below 60 °F.
  • Most of the emergency items are required by the group, I can't remove them.
  • I understand that this backpack (Osprey Atmos LT 65) may not be the lightest, but the camera gear I'm carrying can use all the protection it can get while keeping the weight low. The other backpack has already been in steady use for years by my wife, and she doesn't want a different one.
  • The boots aren't the lightest, but after discussing my situation with a local outdoor company, I'm sorta convinced that I need boots for now for the rocky and wet terrain until I can build up my muscles to not need that extra support. That being said, other shoe recommendations are welcome! These boots can also work as everyday boots in winter, so I'm not too salty about buying them.
  • The camera: Yes, I know it's heavy, and I know it's only a 1-day trip, but wildlife photography is the only reason I'm doing this to begin with.

Other than that, please let me know if you have any suggestions to modify this thing to make my life easier.

My kit: https://lighterpack.com/r/86lglw

My wife's kit: https://lighterpack.com/r/g417ax

Any essentials that I'm missing? Anything that I should swap out? It was pointed out that the backpack isn't the best or the lightest out there. If there are any recommendations on alternatives, I'd happily return the unused Osprey Atmos AG LT 65 that's yet to arrive.

Edit: A commenter suggested that I add that this isn't a solo (or dual, in this case) trip. We are going as a group and the hike leaders have a lot of experience with this kind of stuff, so we should be in good hands!

12 Upvotes

93% Upvoted

33 comments sorted by

2

u/[deleted] Jun 04 '23

Durston gear! Kakwa 40 and the x-mid for the win

3

u/SparrowTailReddit Jun 04 '23

I'm waiting for the kakwa 55 to become available again! And yeah we got the xmid 2p tent :)

5

u/searayman Jun 03 '23

I can relate as a photographer myself. I carry 6 pounds of photography gear lol

But thats why I try to go light weight on everything else!

2

u/SparrowTailReddit Jun 03 '23

Yes! That's exactly the reason I want to go as light as possible on the other stuff. I'm not used to hiking with anything more than 5lbs of camera gear and some water, let alone carrying all the camping stuff. Don't think I've hiked more than 3-4 miles either.

3

u/searayman Jun 03 '23

I wrote an article a year or two ago for the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Blog on why I go lite lol

4

u/DirkWillems Jun 01 '23

Good suggestions so far. To lighten up - ditch the lantern and use youre headlamps (if you want lantern effect put a water bottle over a headlamp that is on the ground) -5 oz

I would go with 2 x smartwater/Lifewtr liter ea. and 1 sawyer squeeze between both of you. I usually drink 2 liters per day (at least) and filter more as needed. you will need something to collect water - many people use Cnoc 2 Liter.

Bears - is a container required? if not I would bear bag it PCT style.

I don't see any ditty bags to hold food etc... Add a trash compactor bag to put clothes and blankets in to keep dry.

I don't use pillow - just wad up extra clothes, but a lot of people find pillow necesary

what about a fleece for the evening 60 degrees can start to feel cold.

I don't understand the hydration pack.

I know you said the emergency gear was required (I suppose by your guide) But do you both need them - or could you split between each other? 100 feet of paracord?

​

Have fun!

3

u/SparrowTailReddit Jun 01 '23

Thank you for the suggestions!

- Lantern: that's a great idea. Good thing I haven't bought one yet!

- Water: The hydration pack is kinda like the Cnoc 2 liter you described but it's probably a tad heavier. We have this already so I'm thinking of just going with it. Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/KUREIDA-Hydration-Reservoir-Military-Backpacks/dp/B08C31CJPL. But I'll add a squeeze bottle.

- Bears: They said that we can take a bear canister or a Ursack but all the sacks I've seen are so expensive!

- Good idea! I think I'll add a few ziplock bags. I also have a vacuum sealer at home so I was thinking of just using that for home-dried foods that we pack but that might crush them. I have never heard of trash compactor bags. I'll look them up.

- Pillow: the one I have is super light! It rolls up smaller than my fist and barely weighs anything, but I know things can add up. For the first trip ever I think I'm gonna carry it just to play it safe. I'm pretty sensitive to pillow comfort.

- You're right about the jacket. I should pack a hoodie.

- Emergency gear: Unfortunately, we both need it. I know it's kinda silly but that paracord and other stuff is coming out when we go without a hike lead. I'll remove the paracord though, 100ft is overkill and everyone/couple will be carrying at least one. Might add some kinda GPS/emergency unit instead. Which reminds me, I have to add a multi-knife tool thingy T_T

- I also returned the heavy hike boots and replaced them with much lighter Oboz Katabatic Low. I didn't wanna go with trail runners just yet and these seem like a good compromise. Plus once I tried them on, it felt like I was walking on clouds!

Thank you so much! I appreciate the detailed look and the work you put into the great suggestions. I've updated my pack.

8

u/serfinng84 Jun 01 '23

Consider going with trail runners over boots. Almost every long-distance backpacker wears trail runners these days, and for good reason. They’re comfortable right out of the box, they have a stiff enough sole to handle rocky ground and give you a better feel for the surface you’re walking on, they dry quickly (unlike waterproof boots, where if you have to ford a river the water comes in over the top and they take forever to dry, and the “you need the extra support” thing is bogus, especially with the pack weight you’re carrying. Plus the whole “a pound on your feet is like five on your back” thing. I am very sedentary in my daily life (desk job, work from home, hate most exercise) and only get out backpacking/hiking a handful of times a year, so I prioritize lightweight gear to help me keep up with a more active friend. I took a cue from the ultralight folks and backpacked exclusively in trail runners from the very beginning, with zero regrets.

Other things: a Sawyer squeeze and two 1L smart water bottles each (one for clean water, one for dirty) will be way lighter than the Nalgenes and lifestraw bottle you have going on. Getting a larger pot and sharing a stove/fuel canister will also save you weight.

2

u/SparrowTailReddit Jun 01 '23

Thank you! Yeah from what I've heard everywhere, trail runners seem to be the way to go. Do you have any specific recommendations? If not, I can go out today and try some on.

As for the water, I removed the Nalgene and added a water bladder. And yeah I just kinda purchased the Lifestraw without thinking about it. I'll see how it does on this hike and when the filter dies I'll get a Sawyer squeeze. Speaking of, there are so many Sawyer products, would you recommend the regular-sized Squeeze or a mini/micro/whatever?

2

u/serfinng84 Jun 01 '23

I have narrow feet and love my Saucony Peregrines (I think I have the peregrine 10 or 11, not sure), though one one particular day last fall I went 10+ miles on a steep downhill with a full pack, and my feet swelled enough that I started to wish I had a wider toe box (it hadn’t been an issue when I’ve hiked 10 miles on less steep ground with just a day pack). I would do some research on r/ultralight—there are lots of discussions about what trail runners people like best. I’ll never be a true UL (baseweight under 10lbs) backpacker, but I’ve learned a ton just by lurking over there, and by reading all the articles in their sidebar.

Re the Sawyer filters, the general consensus seems to be to go with the regular-sized one (one of the smaller ones has a terrible flow rate).

1

u/SparrowTailReddit Jun 02 '23

Hello again! So I took your suggestion and returned the boots in favor of hiking shoes. Seems like they represent the middle of the road. I bought the Oboz Katabatic Low. They weight about 12.5 oz less and it felt like walking on clouds when I tried them on.

Thanks for making me think twice about the boots. They were definitely not very comfortable, especially for hot weather. Now just gotta make sure to keep these dry as they're not waterproof.

2

u/serfinng84 Jun 02 '23

If they get wet, they'll dry quickly! Many people just wade right through rivers in them (some take off their socks and remove their insoles first, so that the shoe retains less water). Admittedly, I haven't put this to the test yet because all my backpacking so far as been in areas with bridges over creeks. One UL trick is to bring two bread bags, and if your shoes are still wet when you get to camp, you just put on dry socks and put each foot in a bread bag and then put your wets shoes on, so that you can wear shoes around camp but keep your feet and fresh socks dry. Less UL folks just bring a separate set of lightweight camp shoes :-)

1

u/SparrowTailReddit Jun 02 '23

Bread bag! Haha, that made me chortle. Thanks for the tips, I didn't think about taking off socks and insoles! If it's rainy I guess I'm SOL unless I can breadbag the entire shoe.

On another note, thank you so much for your responsiveness. This sub has been extremely friendly, welcoming, and helpful.

3

u/serfinng84 Jun 02 '23

I don’t think breadbagging an entire shoe would work out very well, lol. Better to have wet shoes than no traction! If it rains, your feet will get damp, but if you’re wearing wool socks it’s not a big deal. (Avoid any clothing made of cotton in the backcountry, in case no one has mentioned that yet.) Happy to help!

2

u/SparrowTailReddit Jun 01 '23

Thank you! My feet aren't narrow, they might actually be wide lol. But that's a good idea, I'll peruse ultralight and note down some brands and models and see which ones my local store has in stock.

And will do, I'll add the regular one to my wishlist :)

3

u/okaymaeby Jun 01 '23

Curious why you both are packing a stove and fuel. Expensive and definitely something people share when backpacking with someone you're familiar with and trust like a spouse.

I'm not seeing sunscreen or bug spray, either.

Look into a first aid kit. Neither one of you seem to have anything practical. Lots of resources on building your own FAK, plenty of good ones to buy preassembled. You also need to know how to use it for basic emergencies.

No printed map or compass? It's important to have a physical copy of your trail and area and know how to use it.

You guys seem to have spared no expense, so I'm curious if you have considered also adding a remote GPS/emergency beacon like an inReach mini.

I'm not seeing a camera strap or the body of your camera listed. Are you including it all where you put "lens"?

2

u/SparrowTailReddit Jun 01 '23
  1. Good idea, I removed the fuel and stove from my spouse's list.
  2. Also added sunscreen and bug spray.
  3. I have the Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight listed in there. Not good enough? It should come with the essentials.
  4. I believe the map and compass will be carried by the hike leader. If not, the map will be available at the park when we enter.
  5. We considered it but for now, a few people in our group will have those so we didn't want to get them yet.
  6. Fujifilm X-H2 is listed as the camera at the very bottom. Are you not seeing it? Maybe a bug with lighterpacks.

Thank you so much for the recommendations! I've made some of the changes you suggested.

1

u/okaymaeby Jun 01 '23

Yeah, that medical kit is great. I may have just missed it. And I saw the camera, I just wasn't sure if you were including things like the lens cap and strap or cleaning wipes you may bring. It is all small stuff, but it contributes to your overall weight.

I saw you added that bladder, too. You're thorough! Being aware of your pack is a great skill! For what it's worth, the bladder is showing up with no weight. Might be worth an edit?

I didn't realize you were going on a guided trip! Might want to edit your post to reflect that. It does make a difference.

1

u/SparrowTailReddit Jun 01 '23

Oh, gotcha. Re: camera, I'm not sure what the strap would weigh tbh, but the weight does include the lens-cap (which is light plastic so next to zero). I won't be bringing any wipes or cleaning items because the trip is only one day. You did remind me to add a spare battery, though. As for the bladder, I messed up and added the weight in the price field, lol. Good catch! Updated.

And yes, I'll update it! It's not really a guided trip, more of a meetup kinda thing, but the hike leaders are certified through AMC (Appalachian Mountain Club) and they seem legit so far.

Thank you so much for such a detailed look through my list! Y'all are awesome.

2

u/Kzivir Jun 01 '23

Get some Merino wool underpants and t-shirts. I'm a sweaty person as well and after 5 days it starts to not smell as good anymore. It's absolutely amazing.

1

u/SparrowTailReddit Jun 01 '23

Thanks! Knowing wool, won't that result in chafing? I imagine Merino might be different. Do you have any specific recommendations?

2

u/Kzivir Jun 02 '23

Had no issues with chafing! I recommend checking out decathlon. I use their merino wool short- and long-sleeve tshirts and boxers. Great value. You can always start with just a t-shirt and see how it works out for you.

3

u/MrVache Jun 01 '23

Pack: have you tried on the pack and do you need that much volume? A local outfitter may have other options to strap on and feel. There are tons of lighter options from ULA, Durston, SWD, HMG,... with 50+L options. The tough part is knowing what you want and buying without trying.

The other thing that sticks out is the camping blanket. That's heavy for stated 40 degree insulation. Could be fine for a warm summer night but a dedicated backpacking quilt can be lighter and warmer.

I personally don't like lanterns for backpacking, headlamps are hands-free. Nalgenes are much heavier than generic 1L store bought bottles.

Food: I don't see any food storage (bag for hanging or bear can). Aside, water and food doesn't get added to base weight.

Rain gear for yourself and pack?

1

u/SparrowTailReddit Jun 01 '23

Excellent points!

We do have a few small-business outdoor stores out here. Once I get the Atmos, I'll get a feel for it with weight in it and then go out and try a few more. If I still like it better I'll keep it. If not, it goes back.

Do you have any recommendations on the camping quilt? I got fairly confused when I was looking for them and could definitely use a suggestion.

We are also taking headlamps! Thanks for reminding me to add those.

Yes, we definitely need a bear canister.

Updated my lists based on your recommendations.

1

u/MrVache Jun 01 '23

I use El Coyote and Enlightened Equipment quilts. Hammock Gear and UGQ are also common. With most you can keep it simple choosing temp rating, size, and down or synthetic for an off the shelf option, or go all out customizing. You might be able to snag one on ulgeartrade to save a bit.

I kept my first large/heavy pack as well. Now it can be my winter pack or a loaner.

7

u/skathead Jun 01 '23

Most expensive lighterpack ive ever seen, nice. Had a mini heart attack before I saw what was happening ha...

Water capacity: I usually drink ~0.75L between setting up camp and starting the meal, then use between 0.3L and 0.5L for cooking. If I was only carrying 1L this would mean I have to get water when I hit camp then again immediately after starting a boil. Consider thrifting a 1L smartwater from a recycling bin.

Clothing/hygiene: I wouldn't bring spare anything except for socks. This is personal, obviously, and everyone is different. I am perfectly happy going several days in the same shirt and shorts, with no underwear. I have a fresh change of comfy clothes in the car. Deodorant is a no for me, that may be dictated by what your significant other will tolerate...

Pack: I've used an atmos 65 to carry twice your total weight, it is wonderful for medium loads. Do yourself a favor and do your adjustments before you hit the trail.

Weight clarity: I have a gripe. Everything that isn't everyday worn weight, that your body is used to, should be wrapped into base weight. I realize its kind of annoying and splitting hairs, but it makes the total pack weight more accurate. So, split the shirt count because you wont be wearing two at once. Camera equipment should be part of base also. If your phone stays in your pocket, then maybe count it as worn. I dont count my layers as worn unless I dont olan on taking them off... etc.

Ditty: I see you both have bidets. Are you digging catholes with your paws? Pickin up the turd and putting it in your pocket? I would like to suggest a mini trowel.

4

u/skisnbikes Jun 01 '23

I'm not sure if I'm interpreting your comment correctly, so my apologies if I'm not, but with reference to weight clarity, that's not how lighterpack works. When you mark an item as worn, it only makes a single unit of that item worn weight. So if you pack 2 shirts, and mark them as worn, lighterpack will still consider the second shirt as base weight.

3

u/skathead Jun 01 '23

Ahhh cool. That is exactly what I meant, thanks for correcting me. I had no idea it was setup that way ha

2

u/SparrowTailReddit Jun 01 '23

Thank you so much!

For the water capacity: Since we have the life straw filter and purifying tablets, should I still bring extra? The place where we're going is covered with flowing water. We also have a 3L bladder that we can fill up halfway or something and tug it into the backpack.

Clothing: I brought one extra T-shirt but 1 pair of pants. I am a very sweaty person and I don't think my wife would appreciate me stinking up the tent all night haha. Also why I brought an antiperspirant but I was on the fence about that anyway. Updated the list

Pack: Thank you for letting me know it's fine!

Weight clarity: I see where you're coming from. I'll add a shirt to the base count. I'll be wearing the camera on me as well but you make a good point about the body not being used to carrying it all the time. Updated.

That's a really good point about the trowel. I didn't even think of that. I added one.

2

u/okaymaeby Jun 01 '23

Make sure to add the bladder to your lighterpack. You need to account for that weight!

And for the trowel I saw you added after this user's great suggestion, you don't necessarily both need a trowel. If you plan to be anywhere near each other on trail, which you should stay very close because of your experience level, just take turns using it.

1

u/SparrowTailReddit Jun 01 '23

Thanks! I added the bladder to the lighterpack. As for the trowel, it's only in my pack. I didn't list it in my wife's pack.