JEFF SANDSTOE / The Bull
Backpack
The type of backpack you will need for your trip is depends on the amount of gear you are carrying, as well as the length of your trip. The basic rule of thumb is that all of your essential gear, including the pack back itself, should be less than 15 pounds.
For an overnight trip, a 35 – 45 ounce backpack will do. For a two night trip, a 50 – 55 ounce bag is suggested. Anything longer than two nights it is recommended to have a bag that is at least a 70 ounce.
For locations such as deserts a bigger bag is recommended in order to have more room for water.
The backpacks waist strap should rest just above the hip bones when clamped. The weight should be distributed throughout the upper body, with about 70% of the weight being carried by the hips and 30% by the shoulders.
Socks
A good pair of hiking socks is essential. Normal tube socks don’t add the level of protection that’s needed.
Socks remove moisture from the feet, which in turn, removes the threat of blisters on the foot. Socks protect you from cold weather and frostbite.
A nice pair of wool hiking socks are preferable as they dry significantly faster than regular socks.
Boots
Your feet are your only mode of transportation while backpacking. Having a pair of quality boots, along with a pair of good socks, is paramount.
The boots need to be well-fitted to the size and shape of your foot. The heel should not lift off of the sole of the shoe while walking and there should also be enough room so that your toes never touch the front of the boot.
Also, the right boot for the right job is very important. A heavy-weight boot is good for when carrying around a lot of weight and for short treks. But on long journeys the extra 4 ounces of the boot will add up to hundreds of extra weight in the end.
Sleeping bag
The sleeping bag you bring with you on your trip should be as light weight and portable as possible. In this respect, a down sleeping bag is preferred as it meets both of these requirements.
Also, a down sleeping bag also adds greater warmth than a regular sleeping bag. However, its benefits are negated if the sleeping bag becomes wet. Not only will it not provide any warmth at all but it will also take a long time to fully dry.
Most new sleeping bags are made to be used in conjunction with sleeping pads which provide both added comfort and extra warmth as well. These pads can be easily rolled up and stored in the backpack.
Compass
For obvious reasons, a compass is important so you know where you are going.
When traveling into an area you’ve never been to before, it’s fairly easy to get disoriented and lose your way. A compass will make sure you know where you are going and help keep you headed in the right direction.
When paired with a map of the area, traveling into unknown areas becomes a little less disheartening.
All information provided by Brian Nakagama, assistant manager of Adventure 16: Outdoor and Travel Outfitters , Tarzana, Calif.
(Photos by – ANIBAL ORTIZ / The Bull)
