Fundamentals of Backpacking

WHAT EQUIPMENT WILL I NEED?

Tent:

Base your tent selection on the trips you have planned. Consider things like: (1) the kinds of wilderness areas you want to explore; (2) the times of year that you plan on using the tent; (3) the kinds of weather conditions you may encounter along the way; (4) the expected size of your trip groups; (5) how much space will you need in your tent. Mid-sized tents are designed for 2 to 3 people. Most are compact and light enough to be carried on solo trips, yet provide enough room for backpackers to share on multi-person journeys. Tents protect you from the elements (rain, wind, snow) and to keep you comfortable in varying temperatures. 3-season tents are designed to provide good ventilation and weather protection in a wide variety of weather conditions (usually everything but snow). The design or "shape" of a tent affects how sturdy it is, how roomy it is inside and how much it weighs. Lower profile tents are more cramped, but they're sturdier in harsh conditions.

Sleeping Bag:

The warmth or "comfort" rating of a sleeping bag tells you what temperatures the bag is designed to keep you comfortable in. It's easier to unzip your sleeping bag to cool down a little than it is to get up in the middle of the night and put on an extra layer of clothing when you're already freezing! Down bags are light and warm, but don't get them wet! Synthetic-insulation mummy bags tend to work best for backpacking. They�re warmer and stuff smaller.