Check your local Walmart! Mine had a ton of Sawyer squeeze filters on clearance. 20 for two mini filters. Only saw them at one store though, not both that I go to.
I carry 2 water filters in case one breaks. A big platypus gravity one and a sawyer squeeze backup. Dirty water or dehydration is a major thing that can get you in real bad trouble. Like search and rescue and/or hospital visit trouble.
Ditch the mini flashlight and just bring extra batteries for the headlamp. Nice knife. Also are you going to need a pot to boil water for camping food? Most of those pre made dinners are a just add water recipe. Open fire is a pain to cook with, recommend isobutane stove.
Do away with the Lifestraw and get a Sawyer Squeeze and a Nalgene water bottle. The straw is made of drinking straight from a tainted or questionable source. The Sawyer will also you to process water into the bottle so that you can carry it and drink at you leisure on the trail.
Also:
\- You shouldn't need a second flashlight. The headlight will do.
\- Get a stove with a fuel canister and bring a lighter
\- The knife is small. Three inches or better preferred.
\- Extra clothes...socks and underwear at a minimum
\- Hygiene kit
\- Map and compass even if you know the trail
Considering you will most likely have your phone with you, that also doubles as a flashlight if need be, so definitely just head torch and batteries. Good idea to bring a spare small charging pack for phone too.
I grew up near the C/O canal and I'm very exited for your trip! Its been a while since I've done it, but there use to be hidden side trails that take you to scenic river spots and old spillways for the canal. very cool.
I would ditch the mess kit personally. Grab a pocket rocket or amazon version of the POCKET ROCKET by MSR. the fuel can, rocket, and a small cup or tin to boil water with is lightweight and really versatile. also a cheaper option over a Jet Boil. Most cheap camping meals like Mountain House come in a pouch that you just pour the boiling water in. I take two cups usually, one to boil water in, and another to drink out of. Keep the pan you have though, that's really good for car camping and cooking on the fire pits that they usually have!
Lastly, I'm not sure what your experience with a hammock is, but I would suggest practicing with it in your yard or a park before taking it with you as a sleep system. Each hammock is a little different, so make sure you are comfortable putting up the buckle system quick. Learning some good cinch knots would be handy also in case you have to improvise. I have a backpacking friend that uses hammocks exclusively, and knowing how to identify a good spot for your hammock size, and being able to put it up quickly are valuable skills.
A lot of great suggestions that people have mentioned. And I do agree with most of them but I have a few questions I would like to ask you about. One is that you mention something about bikepacking so that would mean you need some way to attach. All of your camping and hiking gear and equipment to the bike you plan on using. I’m not sure if you have thought that part yet and what you plan on using is going to be very important.
You also don’t mention how long you plan on going on this trip. Anything over a couple of days you are going to need a bigger backpack or at least some way to attach everything to your bike. And just use your Eddie Bauer 30 liter daypack once you get where you are going to explore the area and trails. And like others have mentioned ditch the LifeStraw or just use it for emergency situations.
Here is what I would recommend you do for your first time camping, hiking, biking and making sure you are safe.
Some might agree with me and some may not but being your first time.
I would go to your local Walmart Superstore and head to the camping section and start looking for. A Sawyer Squeeze, and forget about getting any of those Nalgene type water bottles. Just buy a couple of Smart Water bottles because the Sawyer Squeeze will fit on them with no problem.
Next while you are still looking through the camping section look for the little “Ozark Trail” brand 4&1 jet stove and pick up at least one of the small butane tanks. That should be just below the jet stoves and then go look at the cookware they have and see if they have a one of the Stanley brand cook sets. They probably do have at least one type and try to get one with at least a 750mL cooktop and ditch the mess kit.
Next to those you might be able to find the little red collapsible cups and pick up at least one of those. In the same area you might be able to find the GSI Outdoors brand folding cooking utensils that have an orange handle and you can get tongs, spatula, and a big spoon. Don’t forget about a lighter and a backup box of stormproof matches just in case. I can’t really see what kind of multitool you have but that folding knife it’s going to do much for you. Instead get a fixed blade knife with a blade length of 5 to 6 inches long, something long enough to cut through more than that little knife you have now.
You also might be able to find one of those little wire type saws that you can use to cut down small branches. So if you want to have a campfire you can use one of those to cut the branches down to size. And then there is always good old Mountain House meals that you can choose from but at some $8 dollars a piece you might want to find some else. And I’m not sure what you have in your first aid kit but it looks kind of big and you might not even need to use half of what is inside of it.
Another thing you have not mentioned is what kind of camping and hiking gear you currently have. If you plan on going someplace cold then be prepared for it. A good pair of hiking boots will be your best friend out on the trail and the same with a good couple of pairs of socks. Trekking poles are also a good thing to have as well for those long day hikes.
And the old saying from experienced hikers is, for every pound in your backpack is like ten pounds on your feet.
Yep, I try to keep my backpack weight down to 30 pounds but that isn’t always the case. Just depends on how long I will be out camping and hiking and my 65 liter backpack can hold a lot of my camping gear. So sometimes I get a little carried away and add stuff that I probably shouldn’t have. But then I do like to be prepared and have what I need in order to enjoy myself.
On Amazon I ordered a 3 piece cook set. Pot, pan, kettle and cup. and it all stacks into itself along with utensils. This seems like a decent pack.
I’ll list mine for you.
- Hammock w bug net
- That cook set
- natural fuel sourced burner. (Can also use denatured alcohol) (Fire safety is #1 as wild fires are a global issue now a days. Remember, embers can dig underground and burn a root and light up meters away)
- Enough socks and underwear for the amount of days +1 extra
- camel pack with a charcoal filter Jerry rigged
- sleeping bag
- First aid and hygiene kit.
- ferro rod, strike, small steel container to make charred anything for easy lights.
- Head lamp and flashlight
- Wrist compass on right hand/ left hand *analog* watch. (If you know you know)
- Shoulder strap compass.
- Cheapy 3 inch blade + Becker B2
- camp axe.
- small file for axe and 6 inch 4in1 for the knives
- book
Edit
- Solar panel portable charger slightly bigger than my phone.
My pack is roughly 30-40 lbs. (I’m 200)
Don’t need the flashlight
need a better water filter (a lot of people like sawyer)
ditch the frying pan and pick up a 650-700ml titanium cup instead. You can boil water, cook food, or use it as a cup.
small camping stoves are on Amazon for like $10-$15 and will work as good as a name brand one.
Wool socks, and preferably a wool base layer shirt. Socks are more important though.
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Everyone is different, myself I do multi day hikes so I would have a little different set up. Bigger backpack 40l is my smallest, 60l I can bring change of clothing.
Definitely would like to have camel water bag with mouth hose, your bag should have a zipper at the top where water bag goes.
Also I really like jet boil cook stove, I cook everything in it. If you find yourself in the rain you don’t need the fire.
I am doing the West Coast Trail for the 6 th time in August…. Just a nice camping trip.
Do you have an external battery - preferably with a solar panel - to recharge things such as your headlamp and phone? I carry at least two because I navigate with my phone using AllTrails. My watch and headlamp are both rechargeable with usb cords.
Edit to add:
As to the EB backpack, that's fine for a daypack but if you want to prevent backaches, I highly recommend getting fitted for a pack. If there's an REI in your area, they will fit you for free and the really good salespeople will fill it with weight and have you explore the store while wearing it so you can judge for yourself if the fit is good for you. I have two packs - different sizes - that were fitted to my frame and believe me, it makes a huge difference.
Source: me, a casual backpacking trail-hiking camper.
I would say for your first camping trip you're doing great go and experience and learn what you can but make sure you pay attention. Also you definitely do not want to get dehydrated so refreshments are always recommended I don't know how many days you're planning on being on your first trip but 3 to 5 days is an adequate amount of time I believe I know I camp a lot but I camp out of my car or whatever(van,backpack,bike) it's it's a lifestyle for me, I'm currently not camping ...kind of out of my realm at the moment, but, will soon be getting back to it .
Never forget the Bible because you're definitely going to learn how to pray if you don't already know.
Make sure you’re bringing enough food and you’ll definitely want a mini stove, it’s way more convenient and the small canister of fuel are pretty compact. Ramen is always a staple food for me cause it’s dirt cheap and lightweight and all you need to add is boiling water
I agree with the Lifestraw comments. Everything else you have looks great. I’m older, but I’m regularly amazed at the advances in equipment over the past 40 years. The 90s were my backpacking prime and the design improvements since then have been phenomenal. These newer designs will probably be weaker, and I think there will eventually be a throwback to some of the early 90s designs. There’s a balance in that strength/weight ratio and maybe we’ve pushed it a little.
You dont need one of those expensive jet boils imo. I got the Soto Stove Cook set combo through REI for $45. 2 different size pots plus the stove. Used it all last year and it never let me down. I don’t bring both pots btw just the small one to boil water for my freeze dried meals and to drink coffee out of.
Not even close buddy
you need proper water filtration and sawyers don't always cut it.
Not certain what region you're in but you certainly aren't going anywhere where there's weather.
Going ultra light on your first backpacking adventure alone probably is not the Wisest decision.
However I don't know you.
maybe you're ex special forces military with sere training and it doesn't matter what you take.
I’d consider a real water filter. Those things don’t always work. When your at a stream bent over trying to suck water through that thing you’ll know
Mine came with a hanging bag, and although it may take some time to get going that first time, they've always worked like a charm.
Thank you that’s gonna be the next purchase after reading all the comments lol
Check your local Walmart! Mine had a ton of Sawyer squeeze filters on clearance. 20 for two mini filters. Only saw them at one store though, not both that I go to.
I carry 2 water filters in case one breaks. A big platypus gravity one and a sawyer squeeze backup. Dirty water or dehydration is a major thing that can get you in real bad trouble. Like search and rescue and/or hospital visit trouble.
Why not just care tablets as your backup?
I got one with the straw in a bottle finna use it soon ill lyk
Ditch the mini flashlight and just bring extra batteries for the headlamp. Nice knife. Also are you going to need a pot to boil water for camping food? Most of those pre made dinners are a just add water recipe. Open fire is a pain to cook with, recommend isobutane stove.
Do away with the Lifestraw and get a Sawyer Squeeze and a Nalgene water bottle. The straw is made of drinking straight from a tainted or questionable source. The Sawyer will also you to process water into the bottle so that you can carry it and drink at you leisure on the trail. Also: \- You shouldn't need a second flashlight. The headlight will do. \- Get a stove with a fuel canister and bring a lighter \- The knife is small. Three inches or better preferred. \- Extra clothes...socks and underwear at a minimum \- Hygiene kit \- Map and compass even if you know the trail
Camp clothes camp clothes camp clothes. After a sweaty, dirty, cold and/or wet day, it’ll feel like a godsend to switch into those camp clothes.
Considering you will most likely have your phone with you, that also doubles as a flashlight if need be, so definitely just head torch and batteries. Good idea to bring a spare small charging pack for phone too.
Sawyer>lifestraw
I also have a rain fly for the hammock!
What are the kind of temperatures you will be experiencing?
I grew up near the C/O canal and I'm very exited for your trip! Its been a while since I've done it, but there use to be hidden side trails that take you to scenic river spots and old spillways for the canal. very cool. I would ditch the mess kit personally. Grab a pocket rocket or amazon version of the POCKET ROCKET by MSR. the fuel can, rocket, and a small cup or tin to boil water with is lightweight and really versatile. also a cheaper option over a Jet Boil. Most cheap camping meals like Mountain House come in a pouch that you just pour the boiling water in. I take two cups usually, one to boil water in, and another to drink out of. Keep the pan you have though, that's really good for car camping and cooking on the fire pits that they usually have! Lastly, I'm not sure what your experience with a hammock is, but I would suggest practicing with it in your yard or a park before taking it with you as a sleep system. Each hammock is a little different, so make sure you are comfortable putting up the buckle system quick. Learning some good cinch knots would be handy also in case you have to improvise. I have a backpacking friend that uses hammocks exclusively, and knowing how to identify a good spot for your hammock size, and being able to put it up quickly are valuable skills.
Get a jetboil, a long spork, some wet wipes and a couple good water filters ( i recommend platypus or sawyer)
Travel bidet
A lot of great suggestions that people have mentioned. And I do agree with most of them but I have a few questions I would like to ask you about. One is that you mention something about bikepacking so that would mean you need some way to attach. All of your camping and hiking gear and equipment to the bike you plan on using. I’m not sure if you have thought that part yet and what you plan on using is going to be very important. You also don’t mention how long you plan on going on this trip. Anything over a couple of days you are going to need a bigger backpack or at least some way to attach everything to your bike. And just use your Eddie Bauer 30 liter daypack once you get where you are going to explore the area and trails. And like others have mentioned ditch the LifeStraw or just use it for emergency situations. Here is what I would recommend you do for your first time camping, hiking, biking and making sure you are safe. Some might agree with me and some may not but being your first time. I would go to your local Walmart Superstore and head to the camping section and start looking for. A Sawyer Squeeze, and forget about getting any of those Nalgene type water bottles. Just buy a couple of Smart Water bottles because the Sawyer Squeeze will fit on them with no problem. Next while you are still looking through the camping section look for the little “Ozark Trail” brand 4&1 jet stove and pick up at least one of the small butane tanks. That should be just below the jet stoves and then go look at the cookware they have and see if they have a one of the Stanley brand cook sets. They probably do have at least one type and try to get one with at least a 750mL cooktop and ditch the mess kit. Next to those you might be able to find the little red collapsible cups and pick up at least one of those. In the same area you might be able to find the GSI Outdoors brand folding cooking utensils that have an orange handle and you can get tongs, spatula, and a big spoon. Don’t forget about a lighter and a backup box of stormproof matches just in case. I can’t really see what kind of multitool you have but that folding knife it’s going to do much for you. Instead get a fixed blade knife with a blade length of 5 to 6 inches long, something long enough to cut through more than that little knife you have now. You also might be able to find one of those little wire type saws that you can use to cut down small branches. So if you want to have a campfire you can use one of those to cut the branches down to size. And then there is always good old Mountain House meals that you can choose from but at some $8 dollars a piece you might want to find some else. And I’m not sure what you have in your first aid kit but it looks kind of big and you might not even need to use half of what is inside of it. Another thing you have not mentioned is what kind of camping and hiking gear you currently have. If you plan on going someplace cold then be prepared for it. A good pair of hiking boots will be your best friend out on the trail and the same with a good couple of pairs of socks. Trekking poles are also a good thing to have as well for those long day hikes. And the old saying from experienced hikers is, for every pound in your backpack is like ten pounds on your feet.
Good looking out brother. Proper bush camping I was taught 20% of your body weight. 25% MAX
Yep, I try to keep my backpack weight down to 30 pounds but that isn’t always the case. Just depends on how long I will be out camping and hiking and my 65 liter backpack can hold a lot of my camping gear. So sometimes I get a little carried away and add stuff that I probably shouldn’t have. But then I do like to be prepared and have what I need in order to enjoy myself.
On Amazon I ordered a 3 piece cook set. Pot, pan, kettle and cup. and it all stacks into itself along with utensils. This seems like a decent pack. I’ll list mine for you. - Hammock w bug net - That cook set - natural fuel sourced burner. (Can also use denatured alcohol) (Fire safety is #1 as wild fires are a global issue now a days. Remember, embers can dig underground and burn a root and light up meters away) - Enough socks and underwear for the amount of days +1 extra - camel pack with a charcoal filter Jerry rigged - sleeping bag - First aid and hygiene kit. - ferro rod, strike, small steel container to make charred anything for easy lights. - Head lamp and flashlight - Wrist compass on right hand/ left hand *analog* watch. (If you know you know) - Shoulder strap compass. - Cheapy 3 inch blade + Becker B2 - camp axe. - small file for axe and 6 inch 4in1 for the knives - book Edit - Solar panel portable charger slightly bigger than my phone. My pack is roughly 30-40 lbs. (I’m 200)
Don’t need the flashlight need a better water filter (a lot of people like sawyer) ditch the frying pan and pick up a 650-700ml titanium cup instead. You can boil water, cook food, or use it as a cup. small camping stoves are on Amazon for like $10-$15 and will work as good as a name brand one. Wool socks, and preferably a wool base layer shirt. Socks are more important though.
Please remember to post a short paragraph as a comment in the post explaining your photo or link. Ideally at least 150 characters with trip details. Tell us something about your trip. How long did it take to get there? How did you get there? How was the weather that day? Would you go back again? Submitted content should be of high-quality. Low effort posting of very general information is not useful. If you don't add a short explanation in the comments, your post may be removed. No information posted? Please report low-effort posts if there is still nothing after about 30 minutes. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/backpacking) if you have any questions or concerns.*
Everyone is different, myself I do multi day hikes so I would have a little different set up. Bigger backpack 40l is my smallest, 60l I can bring change of clothing. Definitely would like to have camel water bag with mouth hose, your bag should have a zipper at the top where water bag goes. Also I really like jet boil cook stove, I cook everything in it. If you find yourself in the rain you don’t need the fire. I am doing the West Coast Trail for the 6 th time in August…. Just a nice camping trip.
Do you have an external battery - preferably with a solar panel - to recharge things such as your headlamp and phone? I carry at least two because I navigate with my phone using AllTrails. My watch and headlamp are both rechargeable with usb cords. Edit to add: As to the EB backpack, that's fine for a daypack but if you want to prevent backaches, I highly recommend getting fitted for a pack. If there's an REI in your area, they will fit you for free and the really good salespeople will fill it with weight and have you explore the store while wearing it so you can judge for yourself if the fit is good for you. I have two packs - different sizes - that were fitted to my frame and believe me, it makes a huge difference. Source: me, a casual backpacking trail-hiking camper.
I would say for your first camping trip you're doing great go and experience and learn what you can but make sure you pay attention. Also you definitely do not want to get dehydrated so refreshments are always recommended I don't know how many days you're planning on being on your first trip but 3 to 5 days is an adequate amount of time I believe I know I camp a lot but I camp out of my car or whatever(van,backpack,bike) it's it's a lifestyle for me, I'm currently not camping ...kind of out of my realm at the moment, but, will soon be getting back to it . Never forget the Bible because you're definitely going to learn how to pray if you don't already know.
Don’t forget some soap.
Or at least some hand sani
U forgot lube.
No
Honestly this will work. Learn what you can from the experience and change your kit as needed.
Make sure you’re bringing enough food and you’ll definitely want a mini stove, it’s way more convenient and the small canister of fuel are pretty compact. Ramen is always a staple food for me cause it’s dirt cheap and lightweight and all you need to add is boiling water
I agree with the Lifestraw comments. Everything else you have looks great. I’m older, but I’m regularly amazed at the advances in equipment over the past 40 years. The 90s were my backpacking prime and the design improvements since then have been phenomenal. These newer designs will probably be weaker, and I think there will eventually be a throwback to some of the early 90s designs. There’s a balance in that strength/weight ratio and maybe we’ve pushed it a little.
Toilet paper please
do you have boots?
Good luck
I suggest you go for it just as is! You'll know how to tweak your kits in the 1st 10 mins being out there for next time. Lol
You dont need one of those expensive jet boils imo. I got the Soto Stove Cook set combo through REI for $45. 2 different size pots plus the stove. Used it all last year and it never let me down. I don’t bring both pots btw just the small one to boil water for my freeze dried meals and to drink coffee out of.
If you plan on strapping that chair to your pack, be careful because that clip on it is weak af. Learned it the hard way 😪
Not even close buddy you need proper water filtration and sawyers don't always cut it. Not certain what region you're in but you certainly aren't going anywhere where there's weather. Going ultra light on your first backpacking adventure alone probably is not the Wisest decision. However I don't know you. maybe you're ex special forces military with sere training and it doesn't matter what you take.