Quote Originally Posted by newToThrough View Post
Do you bring a balaclava on summer hikes? I wouldn't think to bring a balaclava if the temperature is over zero Farenheit, usually. For head warmth, I was just going to bring one of those headband/earmuff thingies. And as far as a warm jacket goes, I was planning on a fleece vest, fleece zip-up, and windbreaker/rain jacket. Am I doing this wrong? I only have about $250 to spend on gear, including sleeping, tent, rain clothes, and warm jacket. I think I have almost everything else, including a food budget for the trip.

When you are cold, wet, and borderline hypothermic, you will want WAY more insulation than you think you need right now.
If your insulation is marginal, it can take hours to warm up when you are cold and chilled.
If your insulation is a bit overkill, it is much much quicker.

I have a down hood I use with my quilt, only usually when temps are below 30. But when you are cold and chilled at 45F, its a furnace for my head. Worth the weight even if I dont think I need it.