Over the years I’ve wanted to have some sort of an ongoing gear list for my backpacking and hiking excursions. A list would help me remember the gear I’ve used – was it good, bad, or somewhere in between? Also, others have asked about my gear favorites and I haven’t had a way to share my thoughts and comments. Therefore, the following list is for me personally (as a gear journal of sorts) and it may help others make wise choices in gear purchases for their own hiking or backpacking trips. Feel free to comment! (NOTE: although not many of the following links are affiliate links, the ones marked with an *asterisk* are affiliate links).
SLEEP SYTEMS:
Tent: I use a Six Moons Design “Lunar Solo” for most of my hikes. It’s a great lightweight trekking pole single wall tent. The big negative for me is that it’s almost too small for my six foot frame.
When my wife and I backpack together, we’ve been using a Marmot Tungsten 2P Ultralight. We love this tent! At around 3.6 pounds it’s not the lightest one out there, but it’s gotten us through some storms and winds on various trails. And there is enough space for the both of us. Sadly, I don’t think they make this tent anymore. When ours finally breaks, I’ll be sad!
Quilt/Sleeping Bag: My first experience with down was a Kelty 20 degree down sleeping bag. It was fine, but slightly bulky. I now use a Hammock Gear 20 degree quilt – the economy burrow (tall/wide). It’s super light, it packs down well, and it’s gotten me through some nights in the 20 degree range!
Stay tuned for more…