Some backpackers are total gear-heads. They want the top-of-the-line, latest, most innovative equipment available. Until recently I hiked with an old, battered, clunky external frame and refused to carry a smartphone in the woods. I’ll take a $2 poncho over a $20 dollar pack cover any day. I don’t obsess over equipment. I am hardly a luddite or a miser. That said, taking the right gear is vital to a safe and enjoyable trip. The right gear varies for each individual.

For the curious, below is a comprehensive list and perhaps a dull description of the equipment we are to bring along. This list is sure to change as the trip progresses.

Matthew’s gear:

• 1 backpack ((Deuter brand) All right, I’m already being a hypocrite. I upgraded my external frame a year ago to this internal frame bag. It sits more comfortably than my old Kelty although I argue it is far less accessible. I could retrieve water bottles and maps without taking my Kelty off, unlike the Deuter. That is until I modified it by adding a small mesh pouch to the hip belt.)
• 1 two-person tent
• 1 sleeping bag
• 1 pair of trekking poles (think collapsible ski poles)
• 1 pair of hiking boots
• 1 $20 pack cover (hypocrite x2! I got it for free!)
• 1 headlamp
• 1 water-filter
• 1 three-liter water bladder
• 1 single-liter water bottle
• 1 backup water bladder (I get thirsty)
• 1 food bag
• 1 Tupperware container w/ spork (serves as a cup/bowl/plate)
• 1 pair of shorts
• 3 pairs of wool socks
• 1 t-shirt (synthetic)
• 1 t-shirt (cotton)
• 1 windbreaker/outershell
• 1 long-sleeve shirt
• 1 fleece
• 1 wool cap
• sunglasses
• hat
• trowel
• bathroom kit
• bundle of cord
• 1 pair of flip-flops
• notebook
• 2 pens
• 1 pencil
• 1 novel
• 1 ipod (This little piece of technology is controversial for us. We will address it in a later post) w/ earbuds

Lisa’s gear is mostly identical to what’s listed above save for a few notable exceptions.

• 1 Osprey brand backpack
• 1 smartphone w/ earbuds
• 1 pair of trailrunners (Heavy duty shoes lighter than boots but less durable)
• 1 pair of foot inserts. (If this was 1941 Lisa wouldn’t be allowed in the Army)
• 1 med kit
• 1 pair of long pants/shorts with dettachable leggings
• 2 bandanas
• 1 winter jacket (as opposed to my windbreaker.)

Also, FOOD: