>>2659729I have some opinions and suggestions.
>for gear check at start of programUse the cheapest shit you can possibly get, which may be trash bags.
>Base layer, insulating layerConsider milsurp.
>CompassBuy a good one used but make sure it still works before you rely on it. A UTM grid reader on the base plate is good to have.
>MapsConsider printing USGS topos at an office store. However if the school sells their own GIS maps w/ UTM grid it will likely be better labeled.
>SocksSpend money here. The suggested total quantity of sets (3) is barely good for a week, if you have space take more.
>Sleeping bag and padsSpend money here, don't buy a used sleeping bag. Look for a compression sack with crossed webbing that wraps completely around both ends of the sack, like seaLite or sea-to-summit. Look for a high R-value on the pads.
>BackpackBuy a good one used. Torso adjustment is required. Some packs have removable tops that can be used as butt packs, which is nice when you want to drop the weight.
>pad to sit on for emergency useI just sit on my pack, but you'll get chewed out for lacking anything outside the optional items block.
>Smart phone / GPSIf you're even just in some hills you don't need this, you'll be able to locate yourself by terrain.
>ShovelConsider a military surplus e-tool, it's worth its weight when you gotta dig. A plastic trowel is not sufficient when the time has come and you absolutely must have a hole to shit in, I don't care what the instructor says.
>CookwareA 16oz potcup that nests over a 1L is sufficient for the water required by a single mountain house meal. Be cheap here.
>Water purifying tabletsWater treatment is not optional. This could be in the group gear, but you will need enough water treatment in your group to resupply up to 8 liters of water per person per day. However, you are in cold weather and are expecting ice and snow, so maybe you can melt your water instead of treating it, but weather is unreliable.
