(Part 2) Best products from r/CampingGear

REI's Backpacking Tips for Beginners is a good place to start.

https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpacking-beginners.html

You'll notice the first section is "Find an Experienced Partner". While this sub and others can give you a lot of advice, it's not a substitute for a partner who knows what they're doing. That doesn't mean you can't just go out and "wing it"... if you do, don't bite off more than you can chew. Better to take a few shorter overnights just to get used to things before heading out into the backcountry and having an epic. And I think you need a permits for Yos/Mammoth, so better look into that.

The REI list discusses shared gear and personal gear. Most likely an experienced partner is going to already own a tent, stove, cookware... but if it's just two of you with no gear, you'll have to pick up both shared and personal gear. How you want to split the cost is up to you.

The checklists are nice... but before you go out and buy everything on the list, make sure you will actually need them. Start with the basics; tent, bag, pad, pack, headlamp, FAK, maps & compass, stove, pot, utensils, shoes and clothing... and then go from there.

Here's the REI backpacking checklist:

https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpacking-checklist.html

It's comprehensive, but remember you don't need everything on the list. It's pretty common for a beginner to go out and spend way too much money, and then start leaving stuff home as they find they don't need it on the trail.

REI is a great place to spend (a lot of) money. They've got very nice gear, and a great return policy if the gear doesn't work for you... but you'll pay full retail if you just walk in and buy the gear. With a membership, all full price items return 10% to you at the end of the year so it's not too bad, and they have seasonal 20% off coupons which do help. It's a good place to pick up a pack since they can help getting you one that fits, which goes a long way to a comfortable hike. Ditto with shoes, and you can try out mattress pads and see what's comfortable for you.

You can buy other things elsewhere like Amazon... but it's recommended that you go to a gear shop to try on packs (and buy it there to support the store).

Here are a few recommendations:

Pack - Gregory and Osprey are often recommended. For a beginner, 50L-60L is a good size. Don't get a 70L pack, you'll just end up bringing more gear than you need. Try the pack on, load it up with weights, and make sure it fits and carries well. Sometimes the REI packs will fit you better than others... if that's the case get the REI (and save a few bucks).

Tent - Huge range of products here. The Lynx is a decent starter tent for the cost. It'll probably last a few years, and by then hopefully you'll have more money and more experience and get something you like better.

Sleeping bag - If you can afford a down bag, that's great, they're lighter and pack smaller than synthetic bags. The Kelty Cosmic 20 is a good bag for the price.


Pad - Look at the basic inflatables (keep in mind the R-value if you're thinking of going later in the season) like the Thermarest ProLite. Some stick with foam pads like the Thermarest Z Lite pad to save money. Try them out and see what you like.

Stove - The MSR PocketRocket is ol' reliable. Lot of people have them, but the new MSR PocketRocket 2 is more compact and lighter. There are some cheap (< $15) stoves on Amazon, the Etekcity and BRS 3000T... people have been using them but they're small and more suited to people who are just boiling water for dehydrated meals rather than those who actually cook.

Cookset - Don't spend money on a 12 piece cookset...they're cool, but at some point you'll probably figure out you only need a shared pot and a mug for each person. And maybe a small fry pan. Depends on what you want to eat out there. Anodized aluminum is light and sturdy, but more expensive than other options. Titanium is super light, but doesn't disperse heat well so it's great for boiling water, but not so much for cooking non-liquid meals. Stainless steel is heavy but will last many years.

Spork - so many sporks out there... long handled spoons work better for getting food from the bottom of a packet.

Headlamp - Get a decent headlamp. Black Diamond Spot is a nice one, Petzl makes some nice ones as well.

Good luck!

I"m assuming that you will be going soon, say the next month or so, time of year counts, but I'll assume it's soon.

Your tent is a little "meh." it'll work but it might not last so long; especially take core of the poles, they beak easily. Also the cheapo tent stakes that come with the tent are going to bend and you will curse them every time you set up your tent. Pick up some like these and they will serve you well. (Personally I hate using tents; they are hassles to set up and take down, and generally not pleasant to sleep in. If you can help it try sleeping under the stars and see if that suits you.)

You might find your sleeping bag to be a bit chilly, I'd recommend a 20 degree bag with a hood. I know it won't get that cold but the degree ratings are quite exaggerated so 20 degrees is really more suitable for 50 degrees. If you don't want to spend more money on a bag, make sure you have warm clothes and a good fitting beanie.

Air mattresses are fine, just take care to feel out for thorns or anything that might puncture it. Also you might want a blanket or something in between you and the mattress because it will suck out the heat from underneath you if you don't have some insulation.

You should have a tarp or footprint to put your tent on to protect it and the air mattress from punctures, it's worth it. The tarp you have should be fine (maybe doubled over if its thin), but a footprint will be more convenient.

For $15 that stove is a great deal, buy it if it still works fine. It runs off of white gas AKA "camp fuel", which you can find at many grocery stores, gas stations, any place with a sporting goods section, and many stores near popular camping areas. Finding white gas is not really an issue.

Don't buy matches, just get 2 or 3 Bic lighters. Really you should learn to make a fire using only your lighter, make that your goal each night. In a pinch my favorite fire starter is one you can make at home before your trip. Get an old egg carton and stuff each cup with cotton balls or dryer lint. then pour melted candle wax into each cup until about 90% full. Let the carton harden then pack it away. To use it rip off one cup and light the cardboard edge, you will have a strong flame for about 15 minutes.

Don't buy a filter. Water will be easy to come by at most campsites, but not all of them have a tap so make sure to bring along a few extra gallons just in case.

Lanterns produce almost no usable light, save your money and stick with the headlamp. Also that headlamp is excellent I highly recommend it. Protip: leave it around your neck like a necklace when you sleep then it's easy to find in the middle of the night.

I have a lot of experience with wilderness medicine and those pre-made kits are mostly worthless, you are much better off making your own kit.

I Recommend:

• 2-3 Rolls Athletic Tape - This works for making bandages and splints, covering blisters, cuts, burns, ect.
  
• Small Bottle of Ibuprofen (Advil) - Pain reliever, and muscle relaxant that aids in the recovery and prevention of injuries
  
• 1-2 Ace bandages - Makes bandages, splints, and slings
  
• Duct Tape - General purpose item
  
• Roll Gauze - For major injuries with significant bleeding
  
• Individually Wrapped Antihistamine (Benadryl) Tablets - Optional if you don't have allergies
  
• Bic Lighter - Sterilizes metal instruments
  
• Mini Swiss Army Knife - Excellent scissors and tweezers for minor injuries, sterilize with a flame before each use
  
• Sunscreen - Don't want to get burned
  
• Triple Antibiotic (Neosporin) - Ward off infection of open wounds, do not apply directly to the cut but rather around like a defensive wall
  
• Alcohol Prep Pads - Cleans and sterilizes open wounds before dressing
  
• Add Any Prescription Meds / Regularly Taken Medicines - Inhaler, insulin, Epi-Pen, ect.
  
• Add Anything That Makes You Feel Better Knowing You Have It - eg snake bite kits, aspirin, SAM splint, burn gel
  
  Chair looks comfy, get one you like with at least 1 cupholder
  
  A good knife makes a great survival tool and is just generally a useful item, check here every few days for a good deal on high quality knives. Multi tools are great to have around camp but an inexpensive set of tools would be much better for your situation. If you want a true multi-tool this one is good quality and a fair price.
  
  

I don't know too much about that backpack, so I can't comment, but you should be able to pickup a pack in that price range if you're just getting started.

water

A lifestraw will work, but essencially you need to go source to mouth, so if you need water for anything but drinking (i.e. for cooking) I don't know if the lifestraw will be best. Sure you can suck in, spit out, but there is a better solution: the sawyer mini is about the same price point: http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP128-Filtration-System/dp/B00FA2RLX2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398890779&sr=8-1&keywords=sawyer+mini

meals

and that brings me to water for cooking. MREs are heavy, and while you won't be hiking far carrying that weight even for a short distance might not be the most fun (especially if you are saving money on your pack) - there a many commercially available freeze dried meals which are very light and you simply add boiling water to. Mountain house is the most common - http://www.amazon.com/MOUNTAIN-HOUSE-Beef-Stroganoff-4-80oz/dp/B0002YRNJK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398890892&sr=8-1&keywords=mountain+house

besides mountain house there is backpackers pantry (better IMO):
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=backpackers%20pantry&sprefix=backpacke%2Caps

and finally if you want to try some of the best I recommend packit gourmet:
http://www.packitgourmet.com/CookInBagMeals.html

clothes

wool is good because it keeps it's insulation warmth when wet. wool can be expensive though. If the weather is going to be good I'd recommend a couple quick drying shirts (which are pretty affordable)
http://www.amazon.com/Russell-Athletic-Sleeve-Dri-Power-3X-Large/dp/B00719Y8HO/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1398891200&sr=8-3&keywords=quick+dry+shirt

and be prepared to own the worlds best pair of underwear - buy two pair wear one, wash one in a river:
http://www.amazon.com/ExOfficio-Give-N-Go-Boxer-Brief-Medium/dp/B001M0MN02/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398891283&sr=8-1&keywords=exofficio+boxer+briefs

tools

this is probably one of the first things that gets "over packed" what to you anticipate needing a tool for? On the hand saw if you will be collecting fire wood there is a very nice lightweight handsaw that is perfect for backpacking, the Sven Saw:
http://www.amazon.com/SVEN-SAW-Sven-Saw-21/dp/B002J900EQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398891413&sr=8-1&keywords=sven+saw

cookware

on cookware it all depends on what you'll be cooking. on a budget I'd recommend this cup:
http://www.amazon.com/GSI-Outdoors-Glacier-Stainless-Bottle/dp/B001LF3IB6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398891523&sr=8-1&keywords=GSI+cup

and this stove:
http://www.amazon.com/Ultralight-Backpacking-Canister-Ignition-silvery/dp/B00ENDRORM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398891563&sr=8-1&keywords=backpacking+stove

with that you'll be able to boil water for your freeze dried meals, make ramen, and you can also make hot drinks like tea.

You'll need to list a budget if you want valuable advice. Like most camping gear - these items can go for a wide range of prices / quality. You generally get what you pay for - so the bigger budget the better quality.

Are you shopping in the USA or abroad? Online or local shops? Different areas have different brands available.

When / where will you do the majority of your camping? Don't need to list the specific parks - but a general idea of the temps and terrain you'll be using this equipment would be idea. Warm beaches or snowy mountains, Windy plains or thick forests, etc.

You said car / base style camping - that's a valuable distinction. Backpacking / wilderness style gear would be very different.

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Tent - 4-person tent for 2 people is best for car camping, you could even go higher for more room/comfort.

Stove - a 2-burner propane stove would be ideal. Coleman brand is classic.

Lantern - a propane lantern is old-school, but bright / effective. I'd probably go with a battery powered option though, easier to deal with.

cookware - tons of options here. You could start by going to your local Thrift Store. Get the basics, they even have cast iron there often. Then get a plastic tub to store it all in - as your kitchen kit grows it will be valuable to store it all together for transport.

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Without knowing the answers to my above questions, I'll throw out some basic gear options for you to check out:

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Tent

• https://www.rei.com/product/894015/rei-co-op-kingdom-4-tent
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Sundome-4-Person-Tent-Green/dp/B004J2GUOU
  
  There are other top brands, but the REI one is good quality for the cost. The Coleman one is cheap, but highly popular and good enough for most. Kind of 2 ends of the spectrum there.
  
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  Stove
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Stove-Ppn-BRN-Triton/dp/B00VTJGWNU
  
  This one really is the standard, I don't recommend any other option personally.
  
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  Lantern
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Northstar-Propane-Lantern-Case/dp/B00HUG7OZQ
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Etekcity-Portable-Camping-Flashlights-Batteries/dp/B00XM8HTIS
  
• https://www.amazon.com/rechargeable-camping-batteries-EdisonBright-Batteries/dp/B01HB4WK3M
  
  Tons of options in the battery category. Might as well start cheap and see if it works well enough. I rarely even use my lantern anyway. I sit by the fire or use my headlamp. Better to invest in a good headlamp I'd say.
  
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  Cookware
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Stanley-Adventure-Base-Stainless-Steel/dp/B01MTFIMUC
  
• https://www.amazon.com/GSI-Outdoors-Superior-Backcountry-Cookware/dp/B006ERSCNA
  
  Kits are a good way to get started. Then add single items like tongs, knives, wash buckets, etc. as needed. I really do suggest using items from the thrift store whenever possible. That way you don't care if it gets dinged up or burnt while camping.

They are spendy, but a roof top tent is great for road trips where you are making frequent stops and hitting up out of the way locations like some trailheads. The very reason I picked mine up. The first time you pack up (actually, unpack the next day) a muddy tent you'll understand why. They are quick to set up and tear down and you can deploy them pretty much anywhere your car can go. Give /r/rooftoptents a look.

Anyway, prior to the RTT, I used a couple of tarps that I rotated through for a ground cloth. Will help keep your ground tent clean and dry.

Keep your vehicle super-organized. I use 15qt hefty totes. Small so you can carry and store easy and clear so you can see what is inside. Before I saw the tote-light, my car would turn into a pile of stuff within minutes of stopping. Made packing the next day a chore.

Camp Chef Everest is my current favorite camp stove. Any old pot and pan will do. A little JetBoil is nice to quickly boil water for oatmeal, coffee or dehydrated meals.

A bit goofy, but if you like fires this elevated fire pit is really nice. Get the large version. I was a huge skeptic but it turns out I use it a lot. If you are at a dispersed site with no existing fire ring it lets you build a fire that leaves no trace. That said, smelling like smoke on a road trip isn't great so maybe forego fires...

Make sure you get an insulated pad for under your bags. Even on a warmish day they help. Ground can be cold even in the summer.

The closest thing I used to a life straw is the "Soldier water filter". An ultra small membrane type filter built inside a real tiny hand pump.

While it worked incredibly well as a filter, as a pumping device it sucked. Took circa 30 minutes of minutia pumping while crouched by a water source to suck up a single liter of water.

To me those straw, look more like a last resort type of water filter for similar reasons. They probably work well as a filter but are rather tedious to use. They have a truly limited use scenario.

Also because of it's method of use you are likely not to be fully hydrated as you will likely not drink as much as actually needed for long hikes in hot weather, as it's designed to be only used at the water source. Water sources can be rather far apart. Good sucking skills are also required.

I have images in my head of sucking that straw until I turn blue with my face suspended a few inches above the lake or river bank attempting to suck water then sliding and falling into the water while simply attempting to have a drink.

I don't know about you but it seems likely to produce some rather comical photo opportunities for other hikers while simply attempting to get a drink.

I personally used the Katadyn 6L base camp water filter (The revised Version #2) and found it an amazing high speed device that allowed me to filter enough water to fill my 3L bladder and cook dinner and breakfast as well as provide water for other hikers with me. This each and every night at base camp. This in a mater of minutes. it filters really fast. An entire days supply only takes minutes.

Aside this I would perhaps consider the Sawyer squeeze filter, which is somewhat similar but designed for smaller quantities of water. You don't have to suck until you turn blue.

Simply fill bag and squeeze, Around a liter per squeeze bags and is about the size of a life straw while stored in your bag. This is the real economical yet highly functional solution. Small, compact. The only draw back is you have to do this multiple times a day. Other than that it's the perfect kit.

Katadyn and a few others make better hand pump type water filter that are more usable than what I had. However they are truly cost prohibitive and I personally cant see why pay this much makes sense for me.

In the end for me it's a gravity filter, less work, fast, more quantity per water pull from lakes and rivers and fast easy filtering. It is a real blessing to have ease of use, when tired and having to setup camp and prep food etc. I cant say a single bad thing about that filter, yet.

Albeit I have read some rather bad reviews on the same filter I use, but so far it's not my experience with them. Not a single issue ever...

I would not recommend this. choices differ between if you are backpacking/hiking to a camp or just driving in/car camping. Gear can be expensive or reasonable but If you are just starting out, I would not recommend buying expensive gear before you know what provides you value. Everyone's different so some questions only you will be able to answer once you go a few times. I would recommend going conservative on cost to start out until you know what you prefer (Checking out other peoples gear on camping trips/ REI browsing sessions are a gold mine)

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Sleeping Bag depending on what the night time low temps are (based mostly on how high the elevation youre going to be sleeping at this time of year) you don't need a sleeping bag, I would instead recommend a light packable down quilt like the one from Costco or This cost: $20-$40

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pricier sleeping bag option

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XE2SKG2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=darwionthe-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00XE2SKG2&linkId=faa0813c08ae84dc66e192d16eef9fde

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Sleeping Pad Basic sleeping pad :https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LZWW2FD/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=darwionthe-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01LZWW2FD&linkId=7f466defe405f13e4d8f457436a33b6c $35-$40

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I personally use the Klymit Static V, You can get them refurbished for very little on Amazon/Ebay

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Tent Lots of options here, a few of them good for a low price. Decision is if you're going to be going solo or taking company (Size) and again how light you want to go on the weight. Freestanding tents generally provide more shelter but can be hotter in the summer and generally heavier. Some people choose only a light tarp setup for ultralight backpacking. its a personal choice but I would definitely take some time to think what suits your need on this. A few options.

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(requires trekking poles) light

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01J9XWJEI/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=darwionthe-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01J9XWKHY&linkId=df511cfe28f404892810dfcda5f5560d&th=1&psc=1

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Freestanding option $112

https://www.amazon.com/Kelty-Salida-Camping-Backpacking-Tent/dp/B00NFCFO0Q/ref=sr_1_1?qid=1563337921&s=gateway&sr=8-1

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Cheaper $95

https://www.amazon.com/ALPS-Mountaineering-Lynx-1-Person-Tent/dp/B00BMKD1DU/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=1p+tent&qid=1563338006&s=gateway&sr=8-3

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For the tent I would recommend spending a little more if you are strictly buying for car camping, itll have more longevity and youll be using it for a few years. This is my car camping tent. $260

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https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00M87LPMU/ref=twister_B07BWCR88J?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

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I would highly recommend investing in some permethrin/bug spray, a good hat and a Head Net to go along with it.

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Happy trails.

Great, super light, can hold in hand for better trail illumination or clip on to a hat for hands free.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LUO028U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_b2l2Cb31GDXSB

Awesome headlamp. Super light, lots of levels and a red light and lockable. Get it from Litesmith.com with the shock cord band for an even lighter option.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077Z3LNX9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Q3l2CbTEV8FDE

I have both and love both.

I've had this one for over a year and am in love. Surprisingly good build quality and is super comfortable to wear under a load. Its also on super sale right now. Feel free to message me if you've got questions

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Internal-Hiking-Backpack-Rainfly/dp/B06Y6LRWZQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1537407971&sr=8-7&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=Amazon%2BBasics%2Bbackpack&dpPl=1&dpID=41uM1qW5vfL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

I'm loving these poles so far. Great price for the quality.
Kelty Cosmic Down is a great down bag that comes in lots of flavors. Not sure how cold it gets at night in Australia. A down quilt would be a good option if it's warm at night. This is a good down throw a lot of people use as a summer quilt.
Here's a great stove option that's a good price for the quality

As for tents and sleeping pads, that depends on how you sleep and if you're looking for a 1 or 2 person tent. The weather also is a factor for sleeping pads.

Get the Sawyer mini instead for $19: http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP128-Filtration-System/dp/B00FA2RLX2

Anyone looking at this should look at the Sawyer as a (better) alternative.

Lifestraw:

• 264 gallons total filtration per straw.
  
• Shelf Life: 5 years when stored at room temperature (package may say 3 years).
  
• .2 micron filtration
  
  Sawyer filter:
  
  
• 100,000 gallons (actually more, but this is the guarantee)
  
• Shelf life: no limit on shelf life. Only temperature constraint is it should not be allowed to freeze.
  
• .1 micron filtration
  
  Lifestraw is $20. Sawyer is $20. I own the Sawyer and the flow through it is easy. It comes with a squeeze bag, but also attaches to regular bottles. Fill an empty Pepsi/Coke/Water bottle with nasty water, screw on the Sawyer and you are good to go. It works with Platypus bags, and as an inline or end filter for any hydration bladder.
  
  
  If there is something special about the Lifestraw that I am missing, please let me know. I see tons of news, charaties buying them for 3rd world countries, and outdoor enthusiast recommending it. I do not see any advantage it has over a Sawyer filter.
  
  Edit: One comparison: http://prepforshtf.com/sawyer-mini-water-filter-vs-lifestraw/
  
  For me, the multiple ways of using the Sawyer have been the biggest benefit. I've used my Squeeze in a bucket gravity system, attached to bottles (ultralight backpacking) and with a straw (like a Lifestraw). I will often squeeze enough water to fill a Gatorade bottle or two before moving away from the water source. Now I have the mini and the flow rate is even better - best of any filter I've ever used, and it is still incredibly versatile.

I'm doing my first camp in a long time next week with the scouts too. We are in Utah, but expect 30s overnight.

I am taking a cot, with an insulated sleeping pad, and a 0° bag. My son is fine in his 0° bag in a hammock, he's done a few at this temp without being too cold (even without an underquilt or pad).

I'm also a side sleeper, and feel too tight in mummy bags. I picked up a Teton Sports Polara bag, it was a little cheaper a month ago when I bought it. It's really nice. I tested it out with the cot and insulated pad, and it was very comfortable. It has a built in fleece liner that won't get all twisted because it clips and zips into the bag. They unzip fully, so you can get 2 and make a double bag. You can remove the fleece liner for warmer weather.

I will also be trying out an inflatable pillow for between my legs instead of a body pillow.

Check with your local REI store, see if they have a garage sale between now and the camp. You can get lots of stuff at about 70% off. I got my insulated stratus pad for $20 that's normally $100. Klymit makes a decent one that's well reviewed on Amazon and cheap.

Because I am rusty with camping, and getting involved with the local scouts, I will be camping more in the future, but have little to no supplies. I'm building my new supplies now. I have been reading a lot of Outdoor Gear Lab reviews, I like their reviews, they compare different brands instead of just reviewing one product at a time. That's what lead me to the Polara sleeping bag. They also usually have a budget pick.

Solid choices so far!

Something for water? Some campsites have running water but you'll still want bottles or a canteen.

A small folding chair or stool is great.

Regarding headlamps the best deal that I know of in the UK is the £20 Wowtac A2. A little on the heavy side but it is well built.

Cast Iron Skillet - 8" or 10" should be good for two people.

Cast Iron Dutch Oven - you want the big deep one, with legs and a flat top.

Barbecue gloves - for grabbing hot cast iron.

Two plastic cutting boards - easy to sanitize, have one for meat and one for veggies

Aluminum Foil don't cheap out here - get the thick one. Perfect for covering the grate on the fire ring before putting on some kebabs.

Knife, metal spatula, ladle and tongs - ideally a chef's knife that has multiple uses, and tools that have long handles.

Wash tub and sponge, soap (I like dawn)

High absorbency towels - we got a big bag of these and they've been invaluable - cleaning up around the campsite, drying dishes, etc.

For $6 you could buy this stove 15 times before buying a $100 MSR once. I'm pretty happy with it. Worth getting and trying for a weekend. if you don't like it it's a great stocking stuffer.

I'm pretty happy with my Geertop 1 person that I got off of Amazon.

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https://www.amazon.com/Geertop-Ultralight-Backpacking-Climbing-Trekking/dp/B01J9XWJEI/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1538677835&sr=8-4&keywords=geertop%2Btent&dpID=31ejrh5PD4L&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch&th=1&psc=1

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The inner tent is about 1 lb, the fly is about another 1 lb. I tested this out on a 33 degree clear night at ~ 7,000 feet with both pieces setup. I liked how the vestibule kept my pack covered and the two doors. There was some condensation but it was probably because I was too lazy to setup the air vents on the rain fly. It's not like I was being dripped on though.

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Definitely need a solid footprint because the bathtub floor is pretty thin. Some hard dry grass or a pine needle could poke through. You'll also need trekking poles.

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Edit: fixed link. I bought the 3 season, not the 4 season.

To clarify, the Nitecore NU25 (Amazon link).

I love it! Super light, rechargeable, very bright, decent battery life, redmode. Perfect for a weekend trip.

I'll recommend the Wowtac A2S NW as well - brighter and way longer battery. It's a little heavier, but that pays off with more battery life (and an interchangeable cell).

"Amazon Basics" is some gear that's not perfect or ultralight, but decent and well-priced.

For example, they have a backpack that's a knock-off of the Teton 3400 (which itself is a decent-and-reasonably-priced product itself!), without being a complete piece of junk. Currently it's like fifty bucks, though the price moves a lot (I paid like $42, I think):
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06Y6LRWZQ/

Whereas I believe this is the Teton original, for 50% more:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JYY7M5S/

Somewhere in my emails I have a long note about buying cheap gear that I wrote up for the new parents in our Scout troop; I can dig it up if you want to read it, though I am sure some here would dispute my lazy generalizations. :7)

I hate on Wal-Mart a lot, but their camping stuff has a good reputation for being "cheap and cheerful," which makes it perfect for n00bs on the principle of "Buy a cheap item first and if you use it enough to wear it out, you'll know that you want to buy high quality next time. And if you don't wear it out, then you haven't spent much to discover that this hobby isn't for you."

I have the fire pit in the picture and absolutely love it. Really handy, super portable and so far, durable as long as you store it properly after use. I neglected to do this with the first one, folded the mesh instead of rolling it as directed and tore a hole in it. The second and third fire pits are in great shape after about a year and a half of use (needed one for the car & one for the RV).

As great as it is, I personally wouldn't take it on a long hike.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07D34J96Q/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I use the fire pit with this fire pad, which also rolls up.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DPRWKLB/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

The Scout is the latest of my many shelters and I really love it for my solo travels. It's lightweight, easy setup and just enough space for you and your gear. IMy only gripe is that the bathtub floor doesn't come up quite as high as I'd like. However, we had some heavy downpours my last 2 trips and not a drop of water got in. I used Seam Grip for seam sealing.

Here are some links for the product in the above comment for different countries:

Amazon Smile Link: 'Ove' Glove


|Country|Link|Charity Links|
|:-----------|:------------|:------------|
|USA|smile.amazon.com|EFF|
|Canada|www.amazon.ca||




To help add charity links, please have a look at this thread.

This bot is currently in testing so let me know what you think by voting (or commenting). The thread for feature requests can be found here.

Yeah I'm thinking I might start with a pair of the cheapest trekking poles I can find to see if I like using them. From what I've read, I'm not sure I'll actually get much benefit out of using them since I row (leg sport) and I have good knees. There's a Chinese brand that has $40 carbon poles on Amazon that actually look like decent quality. Apparently they can sometimes be found cheaper at Costco.

I also saw the Big Agnes Fishhook UL 2 on steepandcheap for $184. It's heavier (58 oz. vs. 41 oz.) and bulkier, and I'm trying to decide if that is worth $100.

I checked out the HG Burrow 40 with overfill, and it configures a bit lighter than the EE Rev 30 w/ treated down (and is basically the same price). So HG is the clear winner for a treated down bag, but EE has a cheaper untreated option. Basically the question becomes "Do I want to spend $20 more for treated down?".

The pocket rocket style stoves rule supreme for boiling water though. My alcohol stove set up does good with a wind screen but not as fast as the $15 amazon propane/butane stove I used. This one I think:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ZA39W6U/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

$18 for a two pack. No idea why it's so cheap but I've used it 3 times and worked like a champ.

• Headlight
  
• Lightweight titanium forks or sporks
  
• Mess kit
  
• 
  
  I bought a lightweight cooking set from Amazon this summer that works well. Interesting enough the wooden spoon looking thing turned out to be the most useful eating utensil I have used. It was also good for cleaning the pots without scratching, stirring and eating from those freeze dried packages to get the last morsel out.
  
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PTRLR6U/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

GSI Outdoors makes a pretty handy kit. Expensive, though.

I have this Mallome set. So far pretty good, but only really big enough for 1-2 people. I picked it up after deciding to downsize my cook kit.

I almost never take cast iron with me, as I find it really heavy and bulky to bring along, even car camping, and it seems like a lot for 2 people.

Gear Aid Seam Grip WP Waterproof Sealant and Adhesive for Tents and Outdoor Fabric, Clear, 1 oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000OR5PHW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_l5zwCbE9JN0V4

Good stuff

http://www.amazon.com/Ultralight-Backpacking-Canister-Stove-Ignition/dp/B004U8CP88
Bam. My friend has one and it works just as well as my PocketRocket. The Piezo ignition doesn't work for shit but who cares, you should have matches or a lighter with you anyway. Less than $8. Can't beat it.

These are a pair of poles I picked up as my first pair. They are generally recommended for beginners. You should pick up a pair, they are great.

I've been using this $8 stove I got on Amazon, and so far it's been working just as well as my friend's Pocket Rocket. Just putting that out there.

But out of curiosity, where would you recommend finding used gear?

I love this one:

https://www.amazon.com/Etekcity-Ultralight-Portable-Backpacking-Ignition/dp/B00ZA39W6U/ref=sr_1_17?keywords=camping+stove&qid=1557541454&s=gateway&sr=8-17

At $11, it's just a bit more than the dehydrated meals.

Given the quality and prices, no reason not to have both tools. Or even one that satisfies both requirements, like this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072P1W1X6/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I like the WowTac or similar not only because it can be used as a headlamp or flashlight, but works as a clip b/c of the L-shape.

Flashlights are necessary when you need big power, or for long running use, since more LEDs and more batteries start to get cumbersome on your head. But these days you get so much power and long use out of so little that's less of a factor.

For me, it's the ergonomics. Flashlights I use have say magnets or clips so for some uses, where I don't want it on my head, they work better. I HATE walking around a camp at night with a headlamp on since every time you look at someone you night-blind them. Very rude. And actually, 'round camp I prefer a lantern over flashlight or headlamp. You can keep it low, with indirect light, and make it easier to see out into the dark. Having lots of people with headlamps beaming lights all over the campground (esp with today's more powerful lights) makes your camp look like a cheesy Hollywood premiere with klieg lights, the visual equivalent of playing boom boxes in camp at night.

And of course sometimes you want the light directed at an object from a different direction than just above your eyes. You can do that with a headlamp too, provided the strap doesn't get in the way.

For running at night we preferred flashlights over headlamps. Much easier to see the trail (kinda for the same reason your headlights on your car aren't at eye-level). Holding a light lower makes shadows and obstacles more apparent, esp at speed. For long runs, the ergonomics of holding the small flashlight just felt better than the squarish headlamps and no strap to get in the way.

I just bought these and they are amazing. Also only $29 at Costco. http://www.amazon.com/Cascade-Mountain-Tech-Carbon-Trekking/dp/B007E0ZBZI

$10 is nice and cheap for a light that includes 18650 cells, but I wouldn't trust the no-name cells tossed into this package, especially if I was planning on strapping them to my head.

I think people are better off spending a bit more money and getting the more functional, less steam-punk Wowtac A2, or the A2S if they can stretch the budget a bit.

This is what I'm using now, but I don't use anything except the pot. I should have got something like this. It's more expensive but it's lighter and doesn't come with anything unnecessary. They both have stuff sacks.

I'm thinking it's this? I guess it's sold at Costco as well for like $20 or something.

http://www.amazon.com/Double-Black-Diamond-Packable-Throw/dp/B015D47MVW

Yes. So will $5 stoves from Amazon.
Stove

Them-a-rest Z life and I have taken so many camping trips way better than a air matter no blowing up
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Original Ultralight Foam Camping Pad https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00453NA1E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ZtjxCbFR0QQNQ

It's one of these. However, at Costco (US) they're only like 20 bucks!

http://www.amazon.com/Double-Black-Diamond-Packable-Throw/dp/B015D47MVW

I would think something like a down throw blanket. Something along the lines of this: https://www.amazon.com/Double-Black-Diamond-Packable-Throw/dp/B015D47MVW/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1472963036&sr=8-3&keywords=down+throw

I believe you mean the 'Ove' Glove which is good, briefly, for a few hundred degrees, but it's basically just an oven mitt. I wouldn't expect it to handle ash & cinders.

I don't have one yet, but the Nightcore NU25 is on my list for my next headlamp. It has high lumen output when needed and is usb rechargeable.

Nightcore NU25 Headlamp

http://www.amazon.com/Ultralight-Backpacking-Canister-Stove-Ignition/dp/B004U8CP88/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368227199&sr=8-1&keywords=ultralight+stove

New king of bang for the buck stove, and it's reliable. When do you see both those checked off for any product.

Sawyer Mini water filter. 1 for $15.46, 2 for $29.47
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FA2RLX2/ref=twister_B06XVV54DF

My wishlist for this year:

• ZPacks 900 Fill Down - Lightest warmest 900 fill down sleeping bag on the market and for a reasonable price! Sadly I can't afford it for my 6 month bicycle tour that I'm going on this year :'( I'm stuck lugging around a 4lb synthetic sleeping bag that takes up about 25L of volume - If I had the ZPack sleeping bag I wouldn't need a front rack and two front panniers which would save me considerable weight as well.
  
  
• Ortlieb Folding Bowl 5L - This folding bowl serves multiple purposes and can be used for doing laundry, washing dishes, washing smelly feet, and can even be used reverse side for food prep.
  
  
• Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System - Most versatile compact water filtration system (I don't really need this one yet but it will come in handy for future trips outside of North America)
  
  
• Keen Commuter 3 - Hiking/Biking sandal with SPD cleats (Apparently Keen Commuter 4 is coming out this year so I will wait and see how much that one has improved)
  
  
• Icebreaker Anatomica Boxers - I would have bought these for only $18CAD but they don't have any in my size :'( I can't justify spending $30+ on a pair of boxers on my budget
  
  
• Therm-a-rest Evolite Plus - I have a feeling this is going to be on par if not better than the NeroAir XLite because apparently it doesn't crinkle nearly as much! If I didn't already buy a Trail Pro this year then I would be purchasing the Evolite Plus
  
  
  Future trips wishlist:
  
  
  
• MSR Dromedary Water Bladder 4L
  
  
• dhb Merino Zip Neck Base Layer 200
  
  
  Stuff I bought this year:
  
  
  
• Hennessy Hammock Expedition Asym Zip - Can't wait to try this out, it only weighs 2.4lbs, takes up little space since no tent poles, and it can be used virtually anywhere
  
  
• Thermarest Trail Pro Sleeping Pad - I don't why it's marked "Irregular"? There's nothing wrong with it, no blemishes or anything
  
  
• Eureka Cimarron 15 Degree Sleeping Bag - This sleeping bag is stupidly heavy, but cheap and very warm
  
  
• Marmot Zeus Down Vest - 700 Fill Power - Lightweight warm high quality down vest that I got for stupidly cheap (Originally $200CAD got it on sale for $76CAD 61% off!)
  
  
• Icebreaker Tech Lite National Park Shirt - 100% merino wool T-shirt for only $40CAD, nothing to complain about there
  
  I actually have a Green MSR Hubba Hubba with Gear Shed that I bought last year and only used for a handful of days last Summer - no wear N tear at all. I'm going to be selling it soon for a steal at $420CAD on Amazon.ca (would cost you $620CAD+ to buy new) if you are interested feel free to let me know. Here is what it looks like http://i.imgur.com/hSjfpZb.jpg except the gear shed vestibule expands more than that http://i.imgur.com/ePVtarF.jpg

It costs 37€ in Germany.... Wtf Amazon... :/

http://www.amazon.de/Sawyer-Wasserfilter-Wasseraufbereitung-Outdoor-Filter/dp/B00FA2RLX2/ref=sr_1_sc_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1407264857&sr=8-1-spell&keywords=sawyermin