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Gear up for springtime adventures

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Holly Kays photo

Equipped with a school backpack, which was jerry-rigged with bungee cords to attach half of a tent and a 1980s-era sleeping bag of questionable warmth, I wore sporting jeans, sneakers, a long-sleeve tee and a cotton hoodie. I was ready to go spring camping—or so I thought. Soon after I left the trailhead on my first backpacking trip at Grayson Highlands State Park, the rain started and the temperature dropped. A long, cold night gave way to a cold, foggy morning. 

Suffice it to say, my experience left much to be desired—namely, better gear. With unpredictable weather conditions, springtime adventures necessitate smart packing. Rob Gasbarro, co-owner of Outdoor 76 in Franklin, North Carolina, offers the following advice on the gear to bring as you head out this spring:

Comfortable footwear and a good pack: Unlike most other pieces of outdoors equipment, packs and boots are difficult to buy based on editorials and advertisements. The choice is subject to the individual’s preference and body type, Gasbarro said, so it’s essential to find the right fit at an outfitter.

 “Backpacks and shoes are the two most personal pieces of gear that will affect essentially how much fun you have—and that’s why we all do this,” Gasbarro said. 

Reliable shelter: Look for a solid three-season tent with plenty of space that also keeps the rain and wind out. A higher price tag usually means a smaller, lighter tent, but for people who are willing to carry a little extra bulk, less expensive models can do the job. 

Hammocks remain another popular shelter solution, but Gasbarro advises against cold-weather hammocking, which can be gear-intensive. “Personally, I don’t bring my hammock until the low temperatures are about 45 or 50 degrees,” Gasbarro said. 

Warm, dry layers: Spring hikers should come prepared for both summer- and winter-like weather. Layers of moisture-wicking synthetic or merino wool products—never cotton—are the way to go. 

“The old adage ‘cotton kills’ is very true,” Gasbarro said.

Wear a base layer, an insulating mid-layer and a waterproof outer shell, which can be anything from a basic, bulky raincoat to a $400 Gortex shell. And always take a breather if you catch yourself sweating in cold weather, Gasbarro said, because sweat can quickly turn to cold moisture on the skin. 

Food, water and a way to prepare them: For an overnight, this could be as simple as granola bars, trail mix and bottled water. But for longer adventures, Gasbarro emphasizes nutrition. 

“Even a two- or three-day hike can be as    demanding on your body as running a marathon, so staying properly hydrated and nourished is important,” Gasbarro said.

Pack healthy, high-calorie food—dehydrated whole ingredient meals are one way to go—and a way to cook it. Options range from lightweight alcohol-burning stoves to ones that burn compressed gas. 

Also, be sure to research whether water will be available along the trail. If you plan to fill up along the way, Gasbarro said, be sure to pack some method of water purification, such as a mechanical filter or an  ultraviolet light wand. Giardia will ruin any camping trip. 

A sleeping bag and mat: Gasbarro recommends looking for a bag with an  adequate temperature rating and a mat that provides insulation, packs up small and sets up easily. For the Smokies, a 30-degree lined sleeping bag is ideal, and Gasbarro recommends a mat weighing in the range of 16 to 22 ounces. 

Fillers: Bring quality hiking socks, a hat, gloves, a basic first aid kit, a map and compass, a light source, a pocketknife and a fire starter.

The right stuff

Here are Rob Gasbarro’s picks for his favorite gear that 2015 has to offer:

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