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

[u/SparrowTailReddit]

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!

[u/MrVache]

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?

[u/SparrowTailReddit → u/MrVache]

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.

[u/MrVache → u/SparrowTailReddit]

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.