On the Apallachian Trail, you recommend this four pound synthetic sleeping bag? a 2.5 kilogram pack? ceramic backpacking jackets? ufo-like headlamp? and thin-soled hiking shoes? I'm sorry but maybe there is a place for that stuff, but not on a real hiking trip.

Instead, try a 1 lb goose down Marmot Atom sleeping bag, a sixmoondesigns.com Essence or Comet or at 1 lb., some 20 gram small LED button cell lights from gossamergear.com, and Rockport hiking boots off eBay. You'll be a lot better served.

I love to camp and hike so this will keep me thinking about getting some new gear. They should have included a tent and camp stove though

I love to camp and hike so this will keep me thinking about getting some new gear. They should have included a tent and camp stove though

I used to go backpacking a couple weekends a month for about 3 years, and even went on a couple 150+ mile treks. I used an external frame, a heavy (but fast) water pump, some $50 nylon sleeping bag, a 3 man tent, non-cotton (but relatively inexpensive) clothes, and dehydrated meals. People spend way too much money on this fancy equiptment that isn't necessary. Cutting weight is important, but I bet they could market a $50 toothbrush with holes drilled in it and some idiot would buy it. If you only bring the essentials and dress smart, there is no need for a $400 jacket or $350 flashlight. (By the way, a 2 hour charge on a flashlight wouldn't serve you very long....and why is it rechargeable anyways)