Some times you buy cheap gear and replace it over and over again until you get gear that works.
But other times cheap gear works just fine.
In addition, there is a lot to be said for not spending a lot on gear until you know whether or not backpacking is something you enjoy.
My sister spent 27 years at scout camps as a climbing instructor. Turns out she has tolerance for an hour of backpacking before she is bored to tears with it.
Luckily she spent $0.00 before she discovers this.
On the other hand a few years ago I followed a guy who spent a lot of money on gear. He didn’t make it out of his driveway.
Even better, some cheap gear works well. BRS stoves for example. 15% of the price of the big names. They use fuel faster. So, over six months of use they can turn out more expensive. But for you to try out that type of stove, not a bad price.
If you aren’t sure that type of stove will work for you, or if you are even into cooking while backpacking or backpacking at all? A great product.
Home Depot sells fleece gloves that working men use. I’ve bought excellent ones for less than $10.
For tents? Until you decide you really want to pay $400-$800 for a tent you might look at Lanshan. Sturdy. About $100. The guy who didn’t make it out of his driveway would have been better off with one. The same for the 20% or so who drop off the trail in the first thirty miles.
Any way. Yes. Sometimes expensive gear is the way to go. We own some. But sometimes cheap gear is great.
Otherwise, getting ready. We have someone to house sit and cat sit. I got briefly hospitalized with pneumonia but rest and antibiotics are working.
Excited for March 14th.