The Seize backpack was the choice from Coleman. It offers lots of room (4300 ci) and enough pockets for easy access to equipment. Wayne went with a Kelty, Greg with a Jansport from Wal-Mart, and David had an old pack which was still functional.
Greg and I went with the Oryx II tent. It is a two-man tent with lots of leg room. The width is just barely wide enough for two, but I like the fact that I can sleep with my legs stretched out. Very comfortable. David got a one-man tent from Gary Olen. He said it was just big enough for him and his sleeping bag but comfortable.Our other tents came from Wal-Mart.
Kenny and I split the cost of an Apex II stove. It comes with a 22 oz. fuel bottle and can boil 3 qts. of water in 10-15 min. . We thought it would save time in the mornings using the stove vs. starting a fire. David likes and Esbit stove. It uses little fuel tablets, is very lightweight, and reliable.
I chose the Summit 15 Sleeping bag. It is excellent for fall and winter camping. Our other bags are from Gary Olen and Wal-Mart. I will go further into these when I get more info.
The cooksets we use vary from BSA to Wal-Mart. All are good equipment as long as they are taken care of.
2.5 gal. collapsable water jug
1 hatchet
2 fold-up saws
1 8' x 10' tarp
1 8' x 10' ground tarp
1 shovel/pick
water purifications tablets
We use the water jug for community water. After treating it with tablets, it is than used to cook our meals, use for coffee or hot choclate.
The hatchet and saws are for firewood. Do not buy a folding saw from Lowe's. The one I had did not last the first day!
The tarp is because out of 6 trips, it has rained on us 4 times! Mostly at night but it's nice to be dry!
The ground tarp is for those nights lounging around the fire after supper. Nice and clean and dry!
And last of all, the shovel/pick is for the fire pit and latrine.
All these items are not necessary to bring. These are items we like to bring for our comfort.
