Quote from nathanu on August 26, 2022, 4:48 pm

Excellent questions and I'll give it my best shot.

• Difference between backpacking and hiking.  I believe that you've hit the nail on the head.  I've always thought of hiking as something that you just get out for the day and do.  Whether your planning a 3 hour or a 3 day adventure, I think that a pack with the 10 Essentials is a good plan but I think that the difference between backpacking and hiking is if you're staying the night.
• Is the same gear used for both?  I think that clothing and such is probably the same but, for a hike, I don't know that you'd be taking a shelter and sleeping bag so the backpack for backpacking would likely need to be bigger than a small pack to take for a hiking adventure.
• Should you get the backpack first?  This is 100% up to you but I'm going to recommend against it.  Look around to see what you're going to be doing (hiking or backpacking) and what you'll need to carry.  Then, shop around and buy that stuff.  Once you have what you'll be taking with you, get a backpack that can comfortably carry it all.  One very cool thing that you can do at REI is just pack everything up and go there and let them help you pick a pack.  Put all of your stuff in it and walk around the store to see how it feels before you spend the money.
• What should you look for and what are some good ones?  Look for one that carries what you need and that's comfortable on your back and in your budget.  I have an REI Trail 25 and a Gregory Inertia 24 Hydration pack that I alternate between for hikes and a Gregory Paragon 58 and an Osprey Atmos 65AG for backpacking trips.  It's kindof a tossup for the day hike packs but I'm definitely more fond of the Osprey for backpacking.

Quote from Rob6 on August 26, 2022, 5:29 pm

Hi @flipflop.

First, to try and answer your question about the differences between hiking and backpacking.  While there are sure to be differing opinions, I think you pretty much nailed it.  At least in my opinion.  Hiking is typically no more than a day-long adventure, and backpacking multi-day.

If you are just starting out, I would suggest finding some good trails nearby to you and get a feel for what it's like to walk several miles over uneven terrain.  Find some scenic overlooks to sit and have a snack.  Go to a local state on national park and try some car camping.  If you find all these activities enjoyable and want to do more, hike longer.  Camp longer and then once you've gotten a better feel for it, then try an extended backpacking trip.  Probably just an overnighter at first.

As for what gear to get first, there's nothing wrong with starting out with Wal-Mart grade stuff.  I think most all of us have started that way, and many of us probably still have some of that stuff as a part of our "kit".

What I would suggest NOT skimping on is footwear.  Good wool socks (even in the summer).  I'm a fan of Darn Tough, but SmartWool is good, and the REI Coop brand isn't bad either.  And then the all important shoe or boot.  And fit is paramount.  You should splurge for a quality brand with features important to you, but make sure they fit well under all conditions.  These are best bought in person rather than online so you can speak with an expert and try them on for fit.  I can tell you that I have some shoes and boots from the same manufacturer, in the same size, that fit differently.

For starters, I would just get a day pack in the 20-25L capacity, maybe a little larger depending on your plans and needs.  No need to go all out on a backpacking pack until you are comfortable with the activity.  I personally have several after years of trial and error and for different levels of activity.  My go-to day-hiking pack is an Osprey Stratos24.

And don't forget a water bottle and the 10 essentials.

I hope this helps.  Feel free to ask questions.

Quote from flipflop on August 26, 2022, 6:29 pm

@nathanu and @rob6 thank you both that was more information than I expected.  I really had not even thought of footwear or socks, so I definitely have a lot to learn.  Looks like its time for me to do some research.

Quote from Rob6 on August 26, 2022, 6:58 pm

Happy to help @flipflop.

The world of footwear options is a world unto itself.  There are loads of opinions, and for the most part, none of them are wrong.  There are proponents of non-waterproof trail runners because of their light weight and comfort.  Those folks feel it's best to let your feet get wet from dew and/or stream crossings because the non-WP shoes dry more quickly.  Some people like high or mid-height ankles, some like low.

The prevailing weather and trail conditions also are a major factor in your selection.  I live in Maryland where there is a lot of woodlands and waterways and wet conditions most of the year.  And we generally have 4 distinct seasons.

Personally, I prefer a mid or ankle height waterproof boot.  I currently wear a La Sportiva Nucleo in the colder months, and a Salomon X Ultra 4 in the warmer months.  And each is a different size, 1) because of the brand and style, and 2) to allow for the sock thickness I choose for the climate.

If you live in a more alpine region, or a more desert region, that will affect your selection.  Whatever style suits you best, just make sure it fits well with the type of socks you'll be wearing.

Good luck!

Quote from flipflop on November 3, 2022, 9:36 pm

I was able to pick up a "gently used" Osprey Atmos 65AG backpack.  I think its a little more than I need for now but I think I got a really good deal on it and Ive seen Osprey mentioned here before in good light.  I dont have any trips planned to use it yet but, when I do, I will let you know how I like it.