I think one of the ways in which I can tell that I'm excited for this trip is the countless hours that I've spent in the past few days researching gear to figure out what I would need on the trip. I finally decided to settle, here's what they are. Hopefully this can also give my squadmates a reference.
Gregory Baltoro 70. The backpack, probably the most essential part of the whole entire trip. I decided to get this particular model since it got the Backpacker editors choice award. They discontinued this model but I've read that it is still the best one they've made. Purchased on eBay for $172, which I consider a steal.
The North Face Equinox 35 Sleeping bag. I never really personally bought a sleeping bag myself, there was always one or two laying around the house that I could grab if I never needed it, but this trip requires me to invest in a well-made lightweight compact sleeping bag. So yeah I was pretty shocked when I saw the prices, I thought sleeping bags capped at like around $100 for a high end one. I was wrong 🙁 Only got this because TNF is a trusted brand and it was on sale. $109 at moosejaw
Kelty Salida 2. This trip is going to be IN TENTS!!!!!! Muahaha get it? It would be better if I told it to you in person. But yes, for this whole entire trip, we are going to be pitching our own tents! Though it doesn't have to be all outdoors, sometimes we will be provided with a roof over our head and pitch our tents indoors, just so that each of us can have our privacy. This particular tent I also consider a steal $95 backcountry.com.
Vibram Fivefingers KSO Trek -___- I'm never good at buying shoes, the only thing I got right were my pairs of Chucks. I just hope these really make up for their looks in their function. I'll fill you guys in on how they are once they arrive. $112. Mountain high outfitters.
Kukri machete. To chop down jungles, fight lions, and dispose of backstabbing spies. User vulnerable to explosions +50%. $25 Mann Co.
Petzl Tactikka Plus Headlamp. So we don't step in our own poo at night and to play Bang! in the dark. $39 backcountry.
Neoair sleeping pad. I didn't know sleeping pads were so expensive….$125 backcountry. Wish they had it in different colors, this yellow is just too freaking loud and obnoxious.
That's it for now. This stuff really put a dent on my wallet, but nonetheless, I got everything at a killer price, so I'm thankful for that. And just kidding, I didn't buy a machete, yet….
