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Step 1
Happy backpackers are those that stay dry, so wear synthetic or wool-based layers that are designed to insulate while wicking moisture away from your skin. Do not wear cotton. Mild temperatures might require a few layers while cold or winter climates require several layers such as two sets of base layers, a fleece upper layer, insulated pants, a fleece or down vest, a compressible insulated jacket (down works best) and shell layers such as a waterproof hooded jacket and pants.
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Step 2
The longer the trip and heavier the pack load, the sturdier and heavier the boots you will need. Consider tread, height and lacing of the boot and the material it is made of. If you're going on a days-long trip and carrying a 40-pound pack, choose nylon or leather high-top hiking boots made with waterproof materials. Gaiters are multipurpose and aren't just for snow but help keep out dirt, mud and moisture in any season and keep your legs warm on a brisk morning.
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Step 3
When trying on packs, load them up with items from the store. Internal frame packs are more streamlined and integrate compressibility options. The torso should match your body and the straps should be comfortable. According to Alan and Mike's Really Cool Backpackin' Book, A well-fitting pack places most of the weight on your hips and only about 20 percent of the weight on your shoulders when the hip belt is tightened. You may want a midsize three-season pack of 3,000 cubic inches or more and another larger pack of at least 4,500 cubic inches for winter trips.
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Step 4
One of the most useful tools among all outdoorsman is a light source. Besides lighters for your stove, multiple LED headlamps are the best. Look for adjustability and water resistance. Some headlamps have a battery life of up to 180 hours in moderate temperatures; a nice feature if you read at night. Tents range in size from one-man to eight-man expedition tents. Two-wall tents breathe better. Easy set-up, strong zippers and fewer poles are good attributes. Light weight bivouac sacks are compressible and do the trick for a single person. Tarps are another option. The best sleeping bags are lightweight and compressible while providing optimal warmth. Down is the best choice. Closed-cell foam sleeping pads are fine but inflatable ones pack smaller.
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Step 5
White gas or liquid fuel stoves work for any length trip, have less of an impact on the environment than lighting a campfire and are faster. Consider if a stove has a fuel cartridge, its weight and stability, how it operates and which kind of fuels it can take. Cook sets need not be fancy; a standard set includes two nesting pots, pot grips, and one set of utensils. To stay hydrated go with a reusable water bottle such as a Nalgene or stainless steel Kleen Kanteen plus a hydration pack worn on the back.
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Step 6
Everyone needs to eat and your backpacking kitchen becomes mighty important at the end of a long trail day. White gas or liquid fuel stoves work well for any length trip, have less of an impact on the environment than lighting a campfire and are faster. MSR makes stoves for every kind of expedition and are known to be reliable in the field of backpacking. Things you will want to consider when in the gear shop looking at stoves are: whether or not it has a fuel cartridge, the weight and stability, how it operates and which kind of fuels it is capable of using. Cooking sets need not be fancy, a standard set includes two nesting pots, pot grips, and one set of utensils. If you are into gourmet backpacking meals you may wish to include a small fry pan, spatula and serving spoon and a spice kit. Last but not least always carry a reusable water bottle such as a Nalgene or a Kleen Kanteen stainless steel water bottle. Hydration packs worn on the back are also an option.
