The Gear

Putting together my gear for this climb has probably been the most enjoyable part of preparing for this trip, other than the physical training which I will discuss in the next post.

I purchased most of my gear from two places: Big 5 Sporting Goods in San Luis Obispo, California, which had the best prices of the several places I price checked. I also went to a local Army Surplus store to get some hard to find items not available elsewhere, like glove shells, a "combat grade" waterproof bag for my sleeping bag, earplugs and a canteen cup.

Here is a list of gear specifically for Mt. Whitney that I pieced together from several sources, including rei.com:

Group Gear

Tents (3-season, 2-person)
Cooking gear
Stoves and fuel
Water filter
Trip leader first-aid kit
Any needed climbing gear, possibly to include ice axes, crampons, helmets, harnesses, ropes and hardware
Backpacking Gear
Backpack: Large internal frame (4000 - 5500 cu"). No external frame packs
Pack cover - waterproof
Sleeping bag (20º minimum)
Sleeping pad
Outerwear
Rain jacket and pants, lightweight waterproof and breathable
Clothing
Midweight fleece or wool sweater
Mid- or lightweight thermal top and bottom, synthetic or wool
Hiking pants, quick-drying, lightweight (zip-off legs are great)
Hiking shorts, quick-drying, lightweight
T-shirts, synthetic
Underwear
Hiking socks, 2 pairs
Liner socks, 2 pairs
Short, lightweight gators (recommended)
Clothing accessories
Sun hat with brim
Wool or fleece hat
Bandana
Lightweight wool or fleece gloves
Footwear
Hiking boots: heavy duty, waterproof, and well broken-in
Travel Accessories
Three 1-quart water bottles or hydration system equivalent
Headlamp with spare batteries and bulb
Bowl, spoon, travel mug with lid
Sunglasses and retainer strap
Sunblock and lip balm (unscented)
Personal medications
Insect repellent (small)
Toiletry kit: roll of toilet paper, toothbrush & trial-sized paste, pack towel (think light!)
Personal first aid kit, small and light
Favorite energy snacks and drinks
Optional Field Gear… think weight!
Trekking poles (highly recommended)
Camera and film, spare batteries
Pocket knife or multi-tool
Compass
Ear plugs