Beginners Backpacking DISCUSSION for July 12 th trip

Feel free to ask any questions on this discussion. This discussion and subsequent event is intended for folks that have NO OR MINIMAL EXPERIENCE
Those who actively participate in the discussion will be prioritized for the trip in July, possibly Jennie lake

Believe or not the first time I tried backpacking in college I hated it. I borrowed all my gear from the recreation department. My gear was heavy and uncomfortable. The weather was hot. It wasn't until I moved to Seattle that I gave it another try. Now I want to go all the time.
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Backpacking is the next step up from day-hiking. Backpacking allows you to see things that are impossible otherwise. There's nothing better than waking to the sunrise or opening up your tent door to see the stars. Backpacking is an immersive experience.

People may have barriers (real or perceived ) to taking the next step from being a day-hiker to a backpacker. These might include:

1. Not knowing what equipment "gear" to bring
2. Cost of equipment
3. Safety concerns, e.g. bears, bugs, injuries, how will I call for help if need be.
4. Medical problems: e.g., neck, shoulder, knee, foot pain

Hopefully from this discussion, and beginner backpack trip, we can eliminate or minimize some of these barriers.