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Posted by Tom D on May 26, 2008 at 2:22:46 pm EDT
In reply to Advice sought on extended trip planning posted by Richard on April 16, 2008 at 3:10:32 pm EDT

Since you already have some experience, you probably have an idea as to what worked on those trips and what didn't, but it wouldn't hurt to read a few books on backpacking to give you a more complete picture. The "bible" for backpackers is "The Complete Walker" by Colin Fletcher. Get the 4the Edition the latest one)which can be ordered online from stores like Amazon, B&N or Borders. REI should also have it.

One problem you will have if you don't have all your gear yet,is choosing from the bewildering array of choices for equipment at all different price points. There are dozens of packs,sleeping bags, tents, stoves and so many different kinds of clothes made from a wide variety of fabrics that you can easily be overwhelmed.

You can buy gear everywhere from Wal-Mart to specialized retailers like REI or smaller stores or online at dozens of outdoor gear websites.

Avoid any suggestion that any one piece of gear is "the best." That may be generally true, but it may not be the best choice for you, for various reasons. You already have two choices for a type of stove posted here, and that is just the beginning of it.

You can avoid making most gear selection mistakes by figuring out where you will be going most of the time and then tailoring your gear to those trips. For example, you don't need a 4 season mountaineering tent if all your trips are in summer in temperate climates and you don't need a multi-fuel stove if you have ready access to canisters or white gas, as you do here in the US.

One thing to be aware of is the trend among many backpackers towards lightweight, or even ultralightweight gear. Some of this gear is a good replacement for "mainstream" i.e. heavier gear, but some is more suited for experienced hikers who don't mind sacrificing comfort and to some degree, safety for a lighter pack. On the other hand, you don't need and really shouldn't be carrying 50 or 60 lbs on your back.

The more you read, here and elsewhere, the better position you will be in to ask questions about specific pieces of equipment, so don't hesitate to ask.

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