What backpacking gear is ideal?

Question

I'm looking to get into some heavy duty backpacking and was wondering what type of gear would be ideal. I am mainly looking at footwear and backpacks.

First, footwear. Which would be ideal? I see a lot of the brands have actual "backpacking" boots, which seem to be quite nice sturdy boots. Would these be best, or would I be better served with something a little lighter and cooler? I will most likely be hitting some warmer areas.

As far as a backpack, I am just more curious about the size. I see that there are a ton of different sizes, and I'm thinking 80 litres as I intend to take some pretty long trips, would this be overkill?

Answer 1

Go with a smaller backpack. You'll realize that all you need really is a sleeping bag, a tarp and some raingear. A good idea would be to get an emergency blanket. Its a metallic plastic blanket that folds up to size of a deck of cards but it reflects 90% of your body heat back in. Really good if all your stuff gets wet and you're cold.
As for shoes/boots just go with the ones your usually wear. I bought the most expensive pair of hiking boots I could find and I've never had more problems with my feet in my life. I was walking from Toronto to Vancouver though with is a pretty big hike. However, I walked from San Diego to the Canadian border once in dollar store running shoes and never had any feet problems. I've been told that foot powder or cornstrach in your shoes is a good idea for long walks because it helps dry out some of the moisture and that helps prevent blisters. the best boots I've ever ahd in my life are Doc Martens. They hurt a lot while you break them in but after that they last forever and are really comfortable.
As for backpacks, don't get the one's with the metal frame. the frame helps distribute weight a bit but its a lot nicer to have something soft against your back. The frame also holds the weight out from your body making it a bit harder to carry.

Answer 2

I spent 3 weeks in Europe using an 80 litre backpack. I had plenty of room for everything that I packed. Just make sure to get one that has a lot of padding. Don't skimp on a cheap one. Buy one that is durable and will last a long time. As for footware, just wear what you find comfortable and shoes/boots that won't give you blisters if you are walking a lot. Krocs seem to be a big fad right now. You might take a pair with you if you intend to get into water at some point so you don't ruin your good shoes/boots. I prefer shoes myself but it is a personal preference. Hope this helps!

Answer 3

don't be discouraged by skill of the "it rather is a poncho" comments. there is definitely a functionally important distinction between a poncho and a cape (the cape opens on the front and so could properly be thrown over the shoulders, mutually as the poncho could desire to be pulled excessive), and that i in my view think of a cape could be very clever and greater gentle. I recommend which you layout it to fold right into a small pouch that could properly be worn on the belt; in any different case, you will nevertheless could desire to take off your %. to get it out. i'm a hunter quite than a backpacker as such, yet there's a definite volume of trekking interior the direction of the woods in touch in my chosen pursuit. What i decide for is a rubber boot (greater advantageous for heady scent administration) with the help of a trekking boot, which will greater healthful a woman with vast, muscular calves. (i could like to assert it fairly is from all that stalking interior the direction of the woods, yet vast calves basically run in my kinfolk.) Boots that are the the appropriate option length for my ft are consistently too slender on the calf. i would be unable to even pull them on! are you able to safeguard that for me, please?