New Tramper, looking for gear list?

For overnighters (in addition to your day stuff) don't forget: Stove Pot Mug Spork Small scourer pad to wash utensils Mattress, tent (if camping) Sleeping bag Head torch (should carry this anyway), spare batteries Basic first aid kit incl sunscreen + bug repellent PLB Warm, dry layer for evenings Bog roll (v. important :-)) Toothbrush + paste Small biodegradable soap if you like a wash at the end of the day Small microfibre towel (see above, also good to dry your hair if wet) Plastic ziplock bag to put rubbish in (squash with your foot, seal zip, keeps rubbish compressed) Something to read if you're that way inclined I've probably forgotten something - I'm sure like most of us you'll start out carrying way too much, then quickly whittle your gear list down to a level you're comfortable with. Have fun out there!

welcome mate. heres a start, any further questions then just ask http://tramper.nz/15811/beginners-guide-to-your-first-time-out/ http://www.backpacker.com/skills/gear-checklists/ http://www.outdoorgearlab.com/a/11070/How-to-Layer-Clothing-for-Each-Season

Thanks guys, I'll peruse these over the next few weeks. Fortunately I've bought most of the expensive stuff already. I tend to look around on trademe for useful stuff when I have spare cash. Bought some really nice Stoney Creek Back Country boots the other day, they were on special for $200. They feel like the best boots I've ever had! I have a inflatable mattress, one of those 2 inch jobbies. Given it's summer I was planning on just using a small tarp as ground sheet and a larger one for cover, would that suffice for sleeping shelter up here in the north do you think? Also is boiling creek water good enough for drinking? or should I just bring heaps of my own/buy some purification tablets? (Tablets seem expensive) Also what is a PLB? *EDIT* Oh, Personal Locator Beacon. WOW those are expensive! Oh toilet paper I would have forgotten that, I also wonder, is it ok to leave the toilet paper behind or are you expected to take it back out with you? lol

tarp will depend on the weather, its size and how you pitch it, getting a bivy bag to cover your sleeping bad will ensure any rain getting underneath it wont get you wet. you wont necessarily have to have a bivy bag , but take the weather forecast with a grain of salt.

Good idea, plug the Bivvy bag could double as a dry pack for inside my pack?

pack liners get damaged over time, you dont want your bivy bag being used as a pack liner. you want a breathable bivy bag material, not a plastic bag,

Further good ideas hah. Didn't think about pots, gas burners etc wearing it down.

We all have our favorite gear, and it does vary depending on your weight / "lite" philosophy. Ulitmately youre going to try some gear out and see which ones you use and which ones you dont. It doesnt take many trips to settle on your stock of preferred gear. Enjoy the process, and, have fun out there.

so dont start buying expensive gear unless you're pretty certain you're going to stick with the items...