Originally Posted by
Rex Clifton
Cheese:
Have no fear, I’m here to help on your way. Take my advice and go lightweight, it makes a world of difference.
Headlamps are a great start, now you can hike in the dark and not break your neck. Here are some other basic things you’ll need.
Packs: ULA Circuit for the hubby and ULA Ohm or Gossamer Gear Gorilla for you. Cost $400.
Tent: Big Agnes Flycreek UL2, with footprint. The tent is a little tight (you get along, right!) but it weighs only 3 lbs (with the footprint) and is a great, durable shelter, even though when you first see it you’ll think it is made out of tissue paper. Cost $350 (with 20% coupon).
Sleeping bags: Don’t get a sleeping bags, get down quilts, Check out Underground Quilts Flightjacket or Hammock Gear Burrow. Get a 20 degree models with the snap and cinch footbox, not sewn. This provides the greatest venting flexibility for the warmer weather. If you wiggle around when you sleep (are you newlyweds?) get the pad attachment systems from either manufacturer. Cost $600.
Sleeping pads: Thermarest Neoair Trekker in regular size. Cost $200 (look for 20% off coupon).
Stove: You want easy-peasy, alcohol stoves are an art form. Get a canister stove, almost any model. If I had to recommend one it would be the Snowpeak Litemax. You may be tempted with a Jetboil, but these are only good for boiling water. You need a unit you can actually cook with (i.e.; that will simmer). Cost $60.
Pot: For two a good choice is the Evernew Titanium 1.1 liter pot. Cost $60.
Food: Plan out breakfast-lunch and dinner for every day between resupply stops. For me, breakfast is a Cliff bar, lunch a series of stops where I graze and dinner a cooked meal (freeze dried or a dry mix, like Knoor side dishes with some meat added). If you’re addicted to caffeine (and really, who isn’t?) ditch all the coffee mumbo jumbo and take a 200mg caffeine pill in the mornings and a mix up energy drink mid day. This will save you weight and hassles on the trail.
Trail shoes: Very important, you’re feet need to be happy. La Sportiva Wildcats. Cost $220.
Clothing: Lightweight nylon clothing. What you’re wearing and one change, that’s it! Two or three pair of hiking socks (I like light hikers with the Wildcats.) A lightweight fleece, some lightweight long underwear (to sleep in) and, in the early spring and late fall, a bubble down jacket. Cost varies.
Rain gear (very important): Jacket: Outdoor Research Helium II, Pants: No pants, ULA rain kilt. Cost $300.
Misc items (keep it light) include a basic first aid kit, toiletries, camp soap, etc.
If you follow these instructions your base weight (before food and fuel) will come in at around 15 pounds. Your pack weight will max out at around 20-25 for you and 25-30 lbs for your husband. This will make for an enjoyable trip.
Good luck!