>>403842+good luck OP. have fun! dont skimp on food. no fun being hungry inna woods.
the first couple times i ever went backpacking it was a learning experience in identifying the things did and didnt need to bring. most first time backpackers are prone to bring too much stuff or bring things they end up not using or not needing. the next trips they lighten, economize their load based upon the first experience. each adventure is test of trial and error in a way.
first time i went backpacking i brought a heavy shovel and axe, a giant full size lantern, all kinds of bulky heavy stuff i thought would be great to have. i learned the things i could personally get by without or found smaller lighter weight version of these things.
alot of things are "nice to have along" but it can ruin an otherwise great trip if your killing yourself carrying a 60 pound backpack up the moountain.
-pic related, while this is a great shovel and would be ok for "car camping". it is too bulky, heavy for most "backpacking" scenarios.
