Equipment I can afford?

[Sky King]

okay couldn't resist showing off our hennessy hammocks. I love, love mine except when there aren't any trees but most of the time we can find something to hang them on.

[out_spokin']

+ 1 for the Big Agnes. I now bring mine on trips where otherwise I'd be sleeping on a couch or pullout, even with a car or plane trip, because it's more comfortable than bad beds and really packable. Might be out of your price range, but definitely best value for the dollar. Otherwise I'd say definitely look to borrow or rent. I wouldn't go without something - important for comfort, keeping your bag away from dirt/dew, etc.

[Tri Girl]

If you check eBay you can get a Big Agnes for rather cheap.
It's where I got ours. Paid $45 for each. For what it is- it's a GREAT bargain!!

[Hartmame]

The Nashbar Panniers price went up $10, I'll try to wait for another sale. I don't need them right away I have at least 2 months. I'd like to do some training rides with a loaded bike before it is time to go though.

[Hartmame]

Didn't even know that I knew any hikers but in a passing conversation about trying a 5 day trip across the state I learned that I do know someone with hiking & light weight camping gear! Maybe doing this trip will work out after all.

[Tri Girl]

Didn't even know that I knew any hikers but in a passing conversation about trying a 5 day trip across the state I learned that I do know someone with hiking & light weight camping gear! Maybe doing this trip will work out after all.

That's great to hear!!! Borrowing equipment before plunking down the cash all at once is always great!

[Catrin]

That's great to hear!!! Borrowing equipment before plunking down the cash all at once is always great!

I did this last year, some good friends loaned me camping equipment a couple of times so I could see if I liked it before having to put down a lot of money on camping stuff...it was a very nice way to do it and it really helped me develop and idea what I wanted.