Hi guys,
I recently committed to a 3 day backpacking/camping trip with 2 of my brother in laws. I do not own any gear outside of a camelback. I am just looking for advice on where to start/what to possibly purchase.
I will not need to purchase the tent, cooking stuff, or anything like that as my BIL already has that. I will basically just need my personal items such as a backpack/sleeping bad/food/etc…
Just some info about myself if it helps: I am 6’3" and around 230lbs. In very good physical shape. Not worried about packing lots of weight. When looking at sleeping bags and backpacks, I just don’t know about the backpack volume Vs. size of sleeping bags for a proper fit and all that.
Any advice is appreciated. Thanks!
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First, I’d look for rentals. Many places paused them during COVID, but many have resumed. Check local outdoor gear stores and university clubs, or ask your brother-in-law if his friends could lend gear.
At 6’3", I’m on the edge of regular vs. long-length sleeping bags and pads. Regulars work, but longs are more comfortable.
You didn’t mention a sleeping pad, which is crucial. Cheap corrugated foam ones are a great start.
For pack size, nicer gear packs smaller and lighter, but starting out, go one size larger than you think, especially since you’re fit and not worried about weight. Ask your brother-in-law for specific advice based on their setup.
For sleeping bags, synthetic ones are cheaper and warm when wet but heavier and bulkier than down.
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Thank you! Very good advice and makes a ton of sense.
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Something not talked about enough - especially when sleep systems come up.
Comfort and Extreme ratings of sleeping bags, R values of sleeping pads, etc
How likely are you to camp when overnight temps are expected to get below freezing? If the answer is “very unlikely, because I only camp between Memorial Day and Labor Day: you don’t need to spend a lot. A 40F down bag and low R value pad can be had for about $150 brand new.
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If others are going to provide the tent and cooking gear, you should focus on getting a pack and a sleep system. As others have mentioned renting from REI or a similar place is a good first step.
You are a larger guy, like me, so for your sleeping pad I can heartily recommend the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Extreme Cold-Weather Insulated Sleeping Pad. It’s not the cheapest or the lightest pad out there, but it is without question the most comfortable. I’m a side sleeper and with thinner pads my hip is basically pressing into the ground, which is both cold and uncomfortable. With the Ether Light my body is completely supported.
As a big guy I also prefer quilts over sleeping bags. You may be able to rent a sleeping bag for this first outing, in which case I recommend you experiment with opening up the bag and using it as a quilt, rather than trying to zip it closed. The portion of the bag that is underneath you does little or nothing to retain heat — that’s what your sleeping pad is for.
Best of luck to you and I hope you have a great trip.