Packing Lists

For first time buyers or even seasoned pros, it can sometimes be tricky to determine what equipment is needed for your specific adventure. What is listed below is only meant to help you get started. Whichever store you decide to do your shopping at, make sure that you have a knowledgeable salesperson. If you feel as though they do not know what they are talking about, you are probably right. Please feel free to contact the Program Manager if you have any questions. It is important that the participant actually go to an outdoor or camping store to try on the gear and get advice from the knowledgeable sales associates, you can then go online at search for the best prices.

Stores

Moosejaw, REI, and Campmor websites do not offer a discount specifically for Camp Echo, but often have merchandise that is disounted or on sale. Check the bottom of this page for local partnerships and discounts.

Clothing

Remember that layering clothing helps keep you warm and cuts down on the amount of clothing needed. For example: lightweight long underwear, a loose fitting wool or fleece jacket, and rain gear will keep you warm in the mountain cold. Cotton is discouraged because it will lose almost all of its insulating value when it gets wet and will remain wet and heavy for extended periods of time.

Sleeping Bags

Choose a lightweight, synthetic or down filled bag that is rated 20 degrees or lower. Types of synthetic material to look for include:Quallofil, Hollofil, Polarguard. Cotton-filled bags are too heavy and bulky (they do not pack down small enough).

Rain Coats

Don’t underestimate the importance of staying dry! A lightweight, sturdy rain jacket and pants are best. Expensive Gore-Tex is not necessary but thin plastic does not endure the rigors of trip use. Coated nylon or rubberized coats will work well. Do not bring ponchos. Consider rain gear that is also wind proof (as stated on the tag).

Hiking Backpacks

A good backpack will offer many years of travel enjoyment! Be sure to have your pack adjusted to your body and try it on with weight in it. It needs to be big enough to carry your own gear as well as a portion of the group’s equipment. The pack can either be an internal or external frame – the size of the pack you should carry depends on your height and weight, but should be no larger than 5500 cubic inches. Trailblazers do not need a pack with much much more than 3500-4800 cubic inches. Female participants should consider buying a pack that is specifically designed for women.

Hiking Boots

Boots should be waterproof and fit while wearing a pair of wool socks and sock liners. They should be suitable for all terrain, while carrying a 50 lb pack. Choose high quality boots to ensure they can withstand the wear and tear of your trip. The boot you select must also offer ankle support. Also, purchasing insoles will greatly increase the comfort and cushion of your boots.

Choosing a Bike

When choosing a tour bike, you should stay away from ultra light racing frames. These types of bikes do not have the required features for touring (i.e. ability to handle a back rack plus panniers nor are they durable enough to handle the abuse inherent to the trip.) Most 10-speed bikes are suitable for touring, but when choosing between a 10-speed bike and a mountain bike, give careful consideration to what use you will have for the bike after the trip is over. 10-speed bikes are not suitable for off-roading. However, both types are suitable for Echo trips. If you are planning on using a fat tire bike (like a mountain bike), you may want to consider buying slick tires (most fat tire bikes come with thick, knobby tires. Thinner tires that have little or no knobs, known as slicks can easily replace the knobby ones). Handlebars should be taped or padded. Your seat is very important, it’s your main contact point with the bike. A padded seat is good, but too much padding is uncomfortable to ride with.