[theclearspot]

Im planning a 2week long distance hike in Ireland this summer. I will probably stay at B and Bs along the way but will have to wild camp sometimes. What sort of gear do I need? As you can see im not overly experienced in this , but I dont think I need to worry about Mountain Lions Maybe a few Banshees!

[wildgrow]

I started a list, but what do you really need? Names and model numbers or something more generalized?

I used to backpack a lot and was always current on gear development. What about $ - is it an object or not?

Need some company?

[theclearspot]

Originally Posted by wildgrow

I started a list, but what do you really need? Names and model numbers or something more generalized?

I used to backpack a lot and was always current on gear development. What about $ - is it an object or not?

Need some company?

Hi wildgrow, yeah just looking for a list of items really I cant seem to find a definitive list anywhere , theres a couple of decent walkers forums in the UK, but a lot of stuff seems for mountaineers aswell............im prob lookin at mid-range prices im not a millionaire ......hey get yourself over for the hike...would be super cool to meet a few ICMAGERS but maybe we should be headin to Nepal if you know what I mean.....

[wildgrow]

Sorry bro outta town for the night. Ill list the obvious too - whats obvious to me might not be to you.

lightweight tent, temp. appropriate sleeping bag, all your toiletries, biodegradable soap (Dr Bronners - used from washing dishes to brushing teeth), stove (I imagine white gas is available most anywhere. Check though. Canister stoves rock but fuel might not be available. It can be mailed ahead, but there are specifics to that you can get from the PO), cup/ pot/ spork (maybe a bowl too - I don't use 1 - make coffee then food), raingear, extra socks, good footwear (waterproof or not is up to your comfort level), sleeping pad (comfort and insulation), warm clothing (for some reason people don't think its cold in the middle of the night in summer). Theres more, im so way out of practice.

[ArtificialSleep]

I think wildgrow has the essentials listed. I would emphasize good (worn in) boots, because it sucks big time if your feet get sore/tired. A few pairs of comfy and thick hiking socks is also a good "investment".

If you are going alone (or at least not wanting to share a tent with a special somebody), you might want to look into hammocks. A good hammock system (hammock + raincover/tarp) for one person tends to be lighter and cheaper. You can sleep anywhere where there are trees basically - don't need to worry about even ground etc. Although a sleeping pad is very useful there as well.

Last but no least - a good book is of utmost importance.

What's your previous hiking/camping experience?

[theclearspot]

Originally Posted by ArtificialSleep

I think wildgrow has the essentials listed. I would emphasize good (worn in) boots, because it sucks big time if your feet get sore/tired. A few pairs of comfy and thick hiking socks is also a good "investment".

If you are going alone (or at least not wanting to share a tent with a special somebody), you might want to look into hammocks. A good hammock system (hammock + raincover/tarp) for one person tends to be lighter and cheaper. You can sleep anywhere where there are trees basically - don't need to worry about even ground etc. Although a sleeping pad is very useful there as well.

Last but no least - a good book is of utmost importance.

What's your previous hiking/camping experience?

thanks for tips.Ive done a reasonable amount of walking, im not fit enough for huge hikes but can do a few hours a day.Ive got a good pair of walkin boots but no proper clothes....i always end up too hot or too cold.need to get those breathable fabric tshirts and fleeces and a proper walkin jacket for summer months. Im hopeless with Camping.

[wildgrow]

Yes, breathable wicking gear is a must IMO. Check out Campmor online. Great discount/ discontinued pricing. Another good one is Sierra Trading Post. I really like the Duofold brand, but it runs small so order a size larger if you do. Starter makes good shirts too and theyre cheap.

Artificial Sleep - I made the mistake of wearing brand new Garmonts on a AT trip, horrible. Not to mention, They got soaked in a downpour, never dried out and I kept getting sand in them. I had anklets of blisters on blisters, all popped and torn to bleeding. And that wasn't my worst trip!
True on the hammock. Ive got a Hennessy and I love it. Sucks if rain has you pinned down though, no real room for fidgeting.

[festerous]

You can add a good compass and some trash bags to the list. Trash bags make great rain wear and have a ton of other uses in the back country.

[wildgrow]

Originally Posted by festerous

You can add a good compass and some trash bags to the list. Trash bags make great rain wear and have a ton of other uses in the back country.

Good point. Great for lining your pack, sitting on wet ground, really stinky clothing, etc.

EDIT: A really good pocket knife will see you through.

[wildgrow]

Toilet paper! You don't want to rub some unknown leaves on your sensitive parts.