Good hiking/bugout gear

Here is a thread for camping, hiking and bugout gear. Basically if you need to cover a distance on foot and want some way to carry as much as you reasonably can. As a twofer, most gear that's appropo to this thread will do great if you're interested in multiday hunting trips / hikes.

This morning I found an ebayer putting out ALICE packs. This one has the frame and according to the seller's feedback they are in good condition. For less than $41 including shipping I think its hard to beat - even the lower end, no-frame packs I see run into the $65 range typically.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Military-Army-su...item2c53166506

Water containers - I actually like the stainless steel / aluminum 750mL water containers. Worst-case you can boil it in the same container you're storing it (though of course don't rely solely on boiling if you don't have to.)

What else guys? I am planning on several extended hiking trips culminating in a 9-day coyote/mountain lion hunt on foot in Jan '11. Not to mention of course relevant bugout preparedness.

FireSteel Scout by Light My Fire- 3,000 strikes to light a fire. Just practice a bit first! Cotton balls smeared with vaseline help a bunch. $10 at Dick's.

YakTrax-preferably with the velcro strap for extra retention. Will save your butt up and down slippery slopes. $25 most places.

Toilet paper, double bagged. 'Nuff said.

Cheap, lightweight, compact lifesavers.

GOOD BOOTS! I've spent allot of time hiking, hunting, and camping and nothing wears you down worse than a pair of uncomfortable, nonsupporting boots. I really like most things Danner makes and they are durable.

Duct tape and paracord can be life savers as well. A good axe and light shovel will make many tasks easier.

Military gear will get you by, but if you are going to use it for multiple day hikes look into the commercial packs. I really like the Dana packs. Same thing for boots. Lowa, Vasque, Asolo, etc. Make sure they fit correctly for your foot shape and walking style, and break them in before using them on a hike.

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Originally Posted by SA Friday

Military gear will get you by, but if you are going to use it for multiple day hikes look into the commercial packs. I really like the Dana packs. Same thing for boots. Lowa, Vasque, Asolo, etc. Make sure they fit correctly for your foot shape and walking style, and break them in before using them on a hike.

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Keen makes some really comfortable stuff too, but i'm not to fond of thier styles.

You might want to check out Kifaru packs if it is going to be an extended backpacking trip. They make awesome stuff.

Adventure Medical Kit's Emergency Bivvy. $16 buck at REI.