So I hiked to the top of Pikes Peak about a month ago and now have the desire to do some mountain hiking and camping for 2 or 3 nights. I have a high dollar backpack, water filter, and hiking boots from REI and now I'll need a few other things. I'm thinking a 2 person tent if I bring a female friend along, sleeping pad, stove, cook ware, possibly something to sit on around the fire, etc. Any suggestions?
Getting into backpacking tent camping?
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All as light as possible and don’t forget knives and flashlights and a small hatchet if you want a fire and can have one there.
Oh yea, a folding shovel is handy for, how should I say, necessary things.
Oh yea, a folding shovel is handy for, how should I say, necessary things.
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Hell yeah, it's a blast and often quite rewarding. I do a fair bit of it out here in CO.
I'll give you a rundown of the gear you asked about.
Tent: I've used a bunch, the one I settled on is the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2. I found eventually that having two doors and a freestanding setup was worth the weight penalty over something like the fly creek. The Nemo Hornet 2 is also a good call. Please note that two person tents can fit two people, but you will be very cosy. General rule is if you actually plan on spending lots of time with two people in the tent, get a three person model.
Stove: Jetboil! I like the minimo, but the flash or really any model are good. This is really only going to get used for boiling water, either for dehydrated meals, pasta, or coffee, but that's mostly what you're going to use backpacking anyways.
Sleeping Pad: There are lots out there depending on your budget, I'm often a side sleeper so I double up with a thermalite pro-lite plus, which isn't very pricey, and a foam "z pad". That said, this will be the most personal of the choices in my mind, so go to your local REI and test out a bunch, then do a quick search on the one you like in your budget to confirm it has a reputation for durability. Also, if you wanna cheap out on this, go to your REI's Garage Sale section and look for leaky pads. Confirm the leak isn't in the valve, then buy it cheap, take it home, submerge it in the bathtub to find any leaks and patch them. That's been my go to anytime I or a friend need one.
Cookware: Entirely personal, most of what I use the pouch or bag it comes in will be the plate I use. I like a long fork to get into the dehydrated meal pouches, I'd just grab whatever one I find cheap at walmart.
Sitting: Take the Z pad if you bring it, or buy one and chop it to a small section better for sitting (think something like this, but you don't need to pay $20 https://www.rei.com/product/186714/nemo-chipper-reclaimed-closed-cell-foam-seat-pad)
Other stuff: If you're planning to go back to CO, often you'll need a bear can. They're all pretty much the same, but go for a can over a bag as much of our cool camping is above the treeline. You'll also want to make sure you've got a decent headlamp, first aid kit, and poop kit (shovel, TP, baby wipes).
Also noticed no mention of a sleeping bag, so if you need one of those two spend a little money and get yourself a good one, 20 degree or better preferably. Down vs synthetic is an ongoing argument, but if you're a sidesleeper like me the synthetic Nemo Forte 20 is hard to beat and way comfier than a traditional mummy bag.
Just remember, weight is your enemy and it does all add up, as the "ounces become pounds, pounds become pain" saying goes.
I'll give you a rundown of the gear you asked about.
Tent: I've used a bunch, the one I settled on is the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2. I found eventually that having two doors and a freestanding setup was worth the weight penalty over something like the fly creek. The Nemo Hornet 2 is also a good call. Please note that two person tents can fit two people, but you will be very cosy. General rule is if you actually plan on spending lots of time with two people in the tent, get a three person model.
Stove: Jetboil! I like the minimo, but the flash or really any model are good. This is really only going to get used for boiling water, either for dehydrated meals, pasta, or coffee, but that's mostly what you're going to use backpacking anyways.
Sleeping Pad: There are lots out there depending on your budget, I'm often a side sleeper so I double up with a thermalite pro-lite plus, which isn't very pricey, and a foam "z pad". That said, this will be the most personal of the choices in my mind, so go to your local REI and test out a bunch, then do a quick search on the one you like in your budget to confirm it has a reputation for durability. Also, if you wanna cheap out on this, go to your REI's Garage Sale section and look for leaky pads. Confirm the leak isn't in the valve, then buy it cheap, take it home, submerge it in the bathtub to find any leaks and patch them. That's been my go to anytime I or a friend need one.
Cookware: Entirely personal, most of what I use the pouch or bag it comes in will be the plate I use. I like a long fork to get into the dehydrated meal pouches, I'd just grab whatever one I find cheap at walmart.
Sitting: Take the Z pad if you bring it, or buy one and chop it to a small section better for sitting (think something like this, but you don't need to pay $20 https://www.rei.com/product/186714/nemo-chipper-reclaimed-closed-cell-foam-seat-pad)
Other stuff: If you're planning to go back to CO, often you'll need a bear can. They're all pretty much the same, but go for a can over a bag as much of our cool camping is above the treeline. You'll also want to make sure you've got a decent headlamp, first aid kit, and poop kit (shovel, TP, baby wipes).
Also noticed no mention of a sleeping bag, so if you need one of those two spend a little money and get yourself a good one, 20 degree or better preferably. Down vs synthetic is an ongoing argument, but if you're a sidesleeper like me the synthetic Nemo Forte 20 is hard to beat and way comfier than a traditional mummy bag.
Just remember, weight is your enemy and it does all add up, as the "ounces become pounds, pounds become pain" saying goes.
Pack light. Lighter stuff can be pricey, but it's worth its (lack of) weight in gold. I haven't backpacked in years. If I ever go again, the back the pack goes on in will be attached to four hooves and a long pair of ears.
If you’re heading up high pay attention to the forecast and be prepared for snow.some small things you’ll need: bic lighter,tp is a good fire starter and take a small flashlight and knife
Edit: if your budget allows invest in some hi tech clothing. I’ve mostly used cotton,but if you get wet and it’s below 55° and/or windy,you can become hypothermic in a hurry
Take your cell.you may have reception,but don’t count on it
If you need a fire on top of snow build it on top of a layer of green pine boughs-works great.
Edit: if your budget allows invest in some hi tech clothing. I’ve mostly used cotton,but if you get wet and it’s below 55° and/or windy,you can become hypothermic in a hurry
Take your cell.you may have reception,but don’t count on it
If you need a fire on top of snow build it on top of a layer of green pine boughs-works great.
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This, even if it's NOT in the forecast.
Have fun, Farmer. I enjoy following your adventures so hope that you'll let us know how the camping goes for ya.
Best of luck!
Best of luck!
cballman
Member
I will go against the Mummy bag. I found out a few years ago there was no such thing as a "Fat Mummy". I cant sleep on the ground anymore but I still love going on outings with the scouts that I have been around for a few years.
Just remember lighter is better.Instead of hatchet or saw and campfire while hiking think backpack stove.Almost ready to retire now my plan had been to start backpacking again. My knees are shot can walk uphill but going downhill is difficult.Before you take any long trips take a lot of short ones.You will learn what you use and what you don’t need to carry.Enjoy yourself backpacking is a lot of fun.
bigwheelzip
Absent Comrade
It's been a few years since we needed more camping gear, but the folks at Campmor in NJ have been a good source in the past.
Camping Equipment, Hiking, Outdoor Gear and Clothing at campmor.com
– Campmor
Camping Equipment, Hiking, Outdoor Gear and Clothing at campmor.com
– Campmor
I am a big time backpacker. Lighter is always better, but can be expensive. However, don't sacrifice basic comforts for weight, especially a backpacking chair. Comfort in camp makes the trip that much more enjoyable.
Pack:I have several Osprey packs of varying sizes. For 1-4 days I bring my Exos 38. About 2 pounds
Bag: Marmot Plasma 20 1.4 lbs
Pad: Klymit Static V 1.25 lbs
Tent: Big Agnes Fly Creek UL1 1.25 lbs
I recommend the UL2, a lot more room for an extra few ounces.
Chair: Helinox 1 lb
Stove: $10 Chinese stove off eBay- few ounces
600 ml titanium pot and titanium spork
That covers the big items. Lots written on the subject.
For 2-3 days my pack weighs around 18lbs, less H2O.
Pack:I have several Osprey packs of varying sizes. For 1-4 days I bring my Exos 38. About 2 pounds
Bag: Marmot Plasma 20 1.4 lbs
Pad: Klymit Static V 1.25 lbs
Tent: Big Agnes Fly Creek UL1 1.25 lbs
I recommend the UL2, a lot more room for an extra few ounces.
Chair: Helinox 1 lb
Stove: $10 Chinese stove off eBay- few ounces
600 ml titanium pot and titanium spork
That covers the big items. Lots written on the subject.
For 2-3 days my pack weighs around 18lbs, less H2O.
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Ivan the Butcher
Member
Stove: Jet Boil is above good. I prefer MSR multi fuel. ALWAYS have 3 sources of fire! A Bic lighter, lifeboat matches, and a spark stick were my standard fire tools.
Cook gear: Peak Titanium, cost plenty, weighs nothing!
Any quality flashlight works with good batteries, but a headlamp frees up the hands!
Sleeping pad: For use on ice or snow, closed cell foam pads stop heat wicking best, the green Army pad is rated among the best and is the cheapest!.
Sleeping bags. The technology is ever changing, buy the best possible! (my 35 year old bags are -10 and -15 and work great but are heavy by more modern standards at 4.5 and 5.5 pounds! If you plan an being frisky with a companion, I recommend Simi-mummy one left handed and one right handed, same brand and they will zip together. My wife's is a
Large Tall, mine is X-Large X-Tall. Size is weight and some cost, but being comfortable is a necessity!
Tent: Again tech is changing all the time, but a well made tent will last 15 to 20 years! Big Agnes is great quality. Again, size is weight. a two person is needed for one in wet weather!, If you are planning on two people, get a 3 person tent, or 2 person and make an equipment storage tarp! I have camped 3 men in a 3 person 3 season tent at -20 and high wind. The condensation soaked most everything! Same tent/-10 and wind with just wife and I was fine. Buy quality and upgrade every item you can, you cannot have seams that are over sealed! It is amazing what wind can do with heavy rain! Have angle stakes for soft soil, pins for hard soil and cords for rocks! (have used all 3 on same trip!)
Rain gear: be sure you can put it on without taking off you boots! Seal seams! I like Gore-tex, but there are other good systems. Have a rain cover for you pack, that fits over all the gear including sleep bag, pad, and tent. It doesn't need to breath, so you can cave one made from a poncho if need be.
At age 52, I went on a 2 day hike with my second son. it was the 20th anniversary of the first trip we did together. The first time I carried a 60 pound pack with gear for the family, the second time I had 22 pounds from the skin out, and thought I was going to explode my heart. I found that just because I once could, doesn't mean I still can!
Ivan
Cook gear: Peak Titanium, cost plenty, weighs nothing!
Any quality flashlight works with good batteries, but a headlamp frees up the hands!
Sleeping pad: For use on ice or snow, closed cell foam pads stop heat wicking best, the green Army pad is rated among the best and is the cheapest!.
Sleeping bags. The technology is ever changing, buy the best possible! (my 35 year old bags are -10 and -15 and work great but are heavy by more modern standards at 4.5 and 5.5 pounds! If you plan an being frisky with a companion, I recommend Simi-mummy one left handed and one right handed, same brand and they will zip together. My wife's is a
Large Tall, mine is X-Large X-Tall. Size is weight and some cost, but being comfortable is a necessity!
Tent: Again tech is changing all the time, but a well made tent will last 15 to 20 years! Big Agnes is great quality. Again, size is weight. a two person is needed for one in wet weather!, If you are planning on two people, get a 3 person tent, or 2 person and make an equipment storage tarp! I have camped 3 men in a 3 person 3 season tent at -20 and high wind. The condensation soaked most everything! Same tent/-10 and wind with just wife and I was fine. Buy quality and upgrade every item you can, you cannot have seams that are over sealed! It is amazing what wind can do with heavy rain! Have angle stakes for soft soil, pins for hard soil and cords for rocks! (have used all 3 on same trip!)
Rain gear: be sure you can put it on without taking off you boots! Seal seams! I like Gore-tex, but there are other good systems. Have a rain cover for you pack, that fits over all the gear including sleep bag, pad, and tent. It doesn't need to breath, so you can cave one made from a poncho if need be.
At age 52, I went on a 2 day hike with my second son. it was the 20th anniversary of the first trip we did together. The first time I carried a 60 pound pack with gear for the family, the second time I had 22 pounds from the skin out, and thought I was going to explode my heart. I found that just because I once could, doesn't mean I still can!
Ivan
My tent is rated for four I believe, but it’s really only big enough for me (with my cot) and my dog. Have fun with the quest!
Biggfoot44
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Warning ! Picky Semantics !
What the OP actually wrote was Mountain Hiking , AND Tent Camping . Most of the subsequent discussion has been on Backpacking .
Probably a good guess , but to be definitively on the same page , could OP clarify if he meant set up Tent Camp and then mountain hike with day pack , returning to camp at night , or hike thru the Mountains with ALL your stuff on your back ?
What the OP actually wrote was Mountain Hiking , AND Tent Camping . Most of the subsequent discussion has been on Backpacking .
Probably a good guess , but to be definitively on the same page , could OP clarify if he meant set up Tent Camp and then mountain hike with day pack , returning to camp at night , or hike thru the Mountains with ALL your stuff on your back ?
VaTom
Member
Don't forget first aid supplies. You may consider taking a wilderness first aid course if you don't have prior first aid training.
Before I retired I worked at a local college and was a volunteer with the Outdoor Adventures Program. All trip leaders were required to take the Wilderness First Aid course. You would be surprise at what can happen out there.
Be safe and have fun!
Before I retired I worked at a local college and was a volunteer with the Outdoor Adventures Program. All trip leaders were required to take the Wilderness First Aid course. You would be surprise at what can happen out there.
Be safe and have fun!
acco40
Member
I still have my Svea 123 that is 50 years old. Always reliable even in winter camping. I have used it on numerous backpacking trips, canoe trips, and winter cross-country trips. I recently purchased a Jetboil and they are great stoves that heat up water very quickly. I have since retired my SVEA 123.
(stock photo)
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(stock photo)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
As mentioned above, Campmor is a good source of products and advice.
So, page down to the bottom of their homepage to the column for "Expert Advice" and you'll find a camping list that may be helpful.
They often have good deals too. I've been a buyer.
So, page down to the bottom of their homepage to the column for "Expert Advice" and you'll find a camping list that may be helpful.
They often have good deals too. I've been a buyer.
kozmic
Member
We use the REI Dome SL3 (I think that's the name) We opted for a bit more (real life) room for the minimal added weight/packed size. It has held up well. Easy to set up and tear down and packs very well.
Don't skimp on a pad. Self inflating is always a bonus to get things started. Again, the trade off for size to weight isn't terrible. Get something that fits you and your needs. We have Nemo, but there are many very well executed pads out there.
I still use a 35 year old MSR Whisperlite stove. I change the gaskets occasionally. I'm interested in the wood burning pack stoves. Fuel cells are a pain. Cook wear and utensils are as stated above, a personal thing. Stacking stn. stl. cook wear and polycarbonate utensils seem to work best for us.
I've been a member of REI since 1992. I seldom need to go beyond them for my needs (clothing and footwear included).They recently put up a brick and mortar store in Rochester. They are a very good source for information, product selection and products at fair pricing. There is always high quality stuff in their "outlet". Those are often great deals. They also offer training classes at their stores ranging many outdoor topics.
Happy Trails!
Don't skimp on a pad. Self inflating is always a bonus to get things started. Again, the trade off for size to weight isn't terrible. Get something that fits you and your needs. We have Nemo, but there are many very well executed pads out there.
I still use a 35 year old MSR Whisperlite stove. I change the gaskets occasionally. I'm interested in the wood burning pack stoves. Fuel cells are a pain. Cook wear and utensils are as stated above, a personal thing. Stacking stn. stl. cook wear and polycarbonate utensils seem to work best for us.
I've been a member of REI since 1992. I seldom need to go beyond them for my needs (clothing and footwear included).They recently put up a brick and mortar store in Rochester. They are a very good source for information, product selection and products at fair pricing. There is always high quality stuff in their "outlet". Those are often great deals. They also offer training classes at their stores ranging many outdoor topics.
Happy Trails!
OP
Yes I meant to say carry everything on the pack and camp mostly in the mountains for a two or three day trip camping somewhere else each night.
