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Get trail-ready for Spring, Summer, and Fall with our comprehensive three-season gear checklist.

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Backpacker's Gadget Guide 2009
READERS COMMENTS
Tooth brush and paste?
Posted: Feb 28, 2010 Obie
This is a pretty good basic list, but like all equipment lists, you alter it to fit you needs or location. I agree with Sean S. Better to use a GPS as a backup - rely instead on a map and compass. Also, I live in Alaska and always use a tent. Mosquitos up here have no mercy...
Posted: Feb 27, 2010 Diver
Following "compass or GPS (and map)" is a very BAD Idea - It should say "compass, map, and the ability to use them PROPERLY, GPS Optional" - Please don't bet your life on electronics!
Posted: Nov 17, 2009 Sean S
The list is a general guide line, not a bible and everybody has their own taste to what is or is not nesessary so adapt to ur personal hiking style.
Posted: Aug 09, 2009 Birra Nulu
honestly, if you use this list verbatim, then it might be a good idea to re-evaluate your goals. While it is a good "starting point", tweak, add, remove as you feel necessary. I live in canada, and believe me, up high in the mountains at night, I've got a shelter. be it a bivy sac, or my tent, but I've got a shelter
Posted: Jul 24, 2009 rendog
I think they meant that the "waterproof" was optional in the hiking boots. Hardly anyone hikes barefoot! I just got of the AT and one day the shelter was full, it was July 17th (when one would think it should be hot)and it got down into the mid 40's at night in Maine. I was quite cold in my hammock. We just use a lexan cup and a lexan spoon. No other utensils and not an insulated cup.
Posted: Jul 20, 2009 karen
I think they meant that the "waterproof" was optional in the hiking boots. Hardly anyone hikes barefoot! I just got of the AT and one day the shelter was full, it was July 17th (when one would think it should be hot)and it got down into the mid 40's at night in Maine. I was quite cold in my hammock. We just use a lexan cup and a lexan spoon. No other utensils and not an insulated cup.
Posted: Jul 20, 2009 karen
And duct tape
Posted: Jul 14, 2009 Timothy
No, hahahaha it says 3 season sleeping bag.
Posted: Jul 08, 2009 JOsh
Welcome to Montana, Spend a few days in the Bear Tooth Range at 8000 - 11000ft and you will want a tent. Hammock's are nice if there are trees to hang them on.
Posted: Jul 03, 2009 Luke
I agree that going tentless is nice when you can, but good luck with that in mosquito country!
Posted: Jun 06, 2009 D.J
I agree that going tentless is nice when you can, but good luck with that in mosquito country!
Posted: Jun 06, 2009 D.J
While not all need a tent everyone should have some form of shelter and no shelter is listed.
Posted: May 09, 2009 Roger
Yeah, what's wrong with pitching a tent?
Posted: Apr 27, 2009 Pressluck
If you look right after t.p, you'll see trowel. A trowel is a lightweight hand shovel. Just in case you didnt know.
Posted: Apr 18, 2009 BigBallJay
A shovel would be a courteous piece of gear too. No on likes to see TP.
Posted: Apr 07, 2009 Elrond
32 oz. water bottles (filter, tablets, or drops)
Doesn't that cover filter?
Posted: Apr 06, 2009 Jonny Balls
Unless you're used to drinking Mexican tap water, I would suggest a water filter system too.
Posted: Apr 05, 2009 Cody
It would also be smart to carry some type of first aid kit just in case of injuries along the trail.
Posted: Mar 20, 2009 damnskippy
I use a US issue jungle hammock w/canopy + mosquito netting. Light weight, comfortable(never sleep on the ground) and sheds all but the worst rain. Wouldn't recommend it for winter, but absolutely wonderful for spring/summer/fall.
Posted: Jan 12, 2009 Jay
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