Backpacking Newbs

[BossHawg]

Hey guys and gals,

My wife and I have started getting into the backpacking realm together. I used to hike the Ouachita Mountains a few times a year in the Arkansas stretch, but am now living in TN. This past weekend, I took my wife on her first backpacking trip and she liked it, but it was a completed disaster! She refused to spend much money on essentials so we cut a few corners you just dont cut. Started pouring on us about a hour and a half into the trip and everything got soaked! Needless to say, she is ready to spend a little money on some better equipment. Our first purchase is going to be a hammock setup. It is time to ditch the tent! I can't stand carrying the thing, and they aren't that comfortable. I have hammock camped a few times and definitely prefer it! I am hoping to learn a ton from you guys as we embark on our journey!

BossHawg

[MAD777]

Welcome to hammocks and to backpacking! There's nothing like a hammock after a few miles on the trail.
Actually, there's nothing like a hammock - period!

[laxdad]

Welcome! You will find most people here share your feelings about ground dwelling. I always survived camping due to lack of sleep. Now I look forward to sleeping in the hammock! Good luck researching!

[Shug]

Whoooooo Buddies)))))) Hammocks changed the way I backpack, for the better.
Carry forth,
Shug

[SQWERL]

Welcome from just southeast of ya!

[hikehunter]

Lison to "Shug" watch his videos...go to your local BSA Troops, Most likly they have not been curupted this fast.....There are a few things u need to think of first.
1. Is this an 1 to 2 time a year event
2. will we be camping 1 night or more than 3 nights on any trip.

Went it comes to back packs.....go to a supply house like REI and find out your measuments for a pack.
then you will know the size you need to fit for comfort.
remember this is a fun thing not a painful thing....

when you know what fits you ...you can look at what works for you....
foot wear should be in the top 5 of your list.
the more your feet hurt the faster you get mad and quit...
comfort level is on the same plane as $$$$$$$

not always....remember you get what you pay for........."Wal-Mart $ = Walmart comfort.

Just Like cars you can get a "Yugo" or a "Cadalac"

[Charliev]

You are on the right track with hammocks with backpacking. If you don't have a bunch of money you can get a fair lightweight sleep sys with a walmart ozark trails 30* bag and a CCF pad. Diy 1.1 ripstop hammock or table cloth hammock. Walmart sheers diy bug net, whoopie sling and strap suspension. Get a tarp large enough to pitch both hammocks underneath. There you have a good starter light sleep sys. Hate to keep pushing walmart but they have some really light weight wicking shirts and underwear reasonable and comfortable. Sports academy running shoes and fishing pants, reasonable, comfortable, very light weight. Golite jam 50 pack 30oz. $109
Very good pack for the money.
Got my base weight around 12 lbs and knocked 4 lbs off wearing items. Hammock gear is the cheapest way to go lightweight backpacking. Just my opinion of course. Plus so much fun and comfort.

[Chris183]

welcome from NJ. My wife and I are also backpacking, camping, and hammock newbs. Kudos for jumping right in.

[kayak4water]

Hey,

Check the main forum index for "hangs" in your region. You can go as a ground camper and "ride" the gear that others have bought or made. No rush on buying anything, unless you of course have a membership at REI where returns are really easy. I hope to attend a hang in my area soon. Read on and hang!

PS I just spent my first overnight hang in my front yard, mostly comfy in my DIY kit [one cold spot from a loose underquilt(?)]. I awoke at dawn to see bats snagging their breakfast overhead! So cool!

I've backpacked as a ground camper only, most recently using just a six ounce 7' x 10' tarp and 5 oz ground sheet. My DIY gear is very light compared to store bought.

[grannypat]

Welcome! You'll find lots of good info. here. I second attending a group hang to check out gear and meet some great people. You might send a private message to Neo to see when the next one is planned to happen. I think he organizes some in your area, though it might be getting too hot for some people. There is also a donor member section here which contains off-topic, kitchen & knives & backpacking forums.