I'm planning for my second (and longer) trip to Roan Mountain/Carvers Gap and needed opinions/advice on my gear. I've read the forums quite a lot to educate myself on proper gear, etc. But when you are broke, you have to make do with what you can afford.
Last year when I went the first time, I bought an Ascend D2400 Daypack and it was very uncomfortable. I couldn't get it to sit right, the padding hurt my lower back, and the straps dug into my shoulders the entire time and I was almost constantly in pain. So now I'm out $60 and need a new one.
Right now I am looking at the
Teton Sports Explorer 4000. 4000 cubic inch capacity, 5lbs. This is the cheapest, best reviewed pack I could find. The reviews for the other lines of Teton packs said they were really small and wouldn't fit someone over 6ft. The explorer 4000 reviews say it is pretty big. I'm 6'2" 210lbs.
If you know of a better one or have one to sell, please let me know.
Sleeping bag is a cheap walmart one rated at 50 degrees. Probably 3-4lbs.
Tent is an Ozark Trail 2 person Junior Scout Dome Tent. It's a little small but it was the best for the price. I fit pretty good if I curl up a little..lol
In total, base weight with all supplies (no food or water) comes to 12lbs. With the new pack, 15lbs. From my reading of the forums, this seems to be a pretty good weight. Food and water (quite a few spots to find water on the trail so I'm only taking four 16oz bottles) included should bring that up to no more than 22-23lbs.
Any comments and suggestions are welcome.
Thanks