Ok everyone...I decided to take your advice and go for it..now what?
Of course I haven't bought any gear yet because I just decided to go.
Anyway I want to carry 25 lbs or less! that is my goal and thats what I want to do. I am a minimalist at heart anyway so to me less is more. I need freedom I can't be burdened by tons of heavy gear. I thought id ask here for advanced hikers advice to keep me from wasting money on needless gear that I just going to part with later.
here is what I need information on.
1. Footwear
2. Pack
3. Sleeping bag
4. Shelter
5. Stove/heat
Footwear :
This is what I am most concerned with because I have flat feet. I need footwear that is going to give me support and also be light. I am looking for something with ankle support becaue I can turn my feet all the way around backwards without discomfort.
Pack :
Light and Simple! I have a wilderness trail pack I bought back in my boyscout days, but its heavy and has too many pockets and other uneaded dividers and separators straps and trappings. I want something with one large pocket and maybe 3 outside ones like an Army ALICE pack only light wieght. Not sure what sort of suspension system I want, my old pack is internal frame and it always seemed ok. I want a pack that wont allow me to carry to much gear.
Sleeping bag:
Since I plan on starting in Maine and leaving no later than June 1st I think something in the 40 degree range would be fine. Being light again is the key..I looked at some keltys today and they look pretty good but I hear Wiggy's are the S**T.
Shelter:
Something to keep off some rain and most of the bugs..I was considering a small fly and a mosquito bar perhaps. Again as the above trend light weight is very important.
Stove/Heat:
For this I was thinking of carrying Trioxane fuel and a canteen cup stove...its very light and there is no liquid or gas fuel to worry about..also if you can make a spark you can light it. Also its dirty cheap at army surplus stores.
Rain gear is another concern if its rainy like last year...I was thinking something goretex for sure.. I hate rubberized rain gear.
I am looking for any tips or gear list that you migth Have I am going to get what I think I need then get rid of half of it.
Thanks everyone
Brother in Arms