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When it comes to lightweight backpacking, why is cost so often the factor that weighs down a would-be hiker or torments an outdoorsperson looking for replacement gear? Space-age fabrics and titanium everything do loads to lessen your weight, but do an even better job lightening your pocketbook.

There are ways to skirt the cost, but they aren't always the most efficient. Searching for end-of-season sales might save a few dollars, but puts you at the mercy of the stuff no one wanted for the season that just ended. Making your own gear is preferable, but tough when it comes to fashioning your own backpack, sleeping bag, or tent (if you want one).

I rolled this problem around in my head one day when getting ready for a weekend hike. I was making my food list when it dawned on me: where does everyone go for the cheapest stuff they can find?

Of course: Wal-Mart!

After my epiphany, I set over to Wally World (and to their online store) to see if $100 would outfit me for a good, lightweight hike. I focused on four things: a pack, a tent, a sleeping bag, and a sleeping pad. Those are usually the most expensive items a lightweight hiker needs on each trip (food, mess, and clothing/footwear are all much more subjective in my opinion).

My mission: outfit myself with these four pieces of equipment for $100 or less.

ARTICLE OUTLINE

  • Introduction
  • Method
  • Initial Findings
  • Comparisons
    • Bag: Stansport "Willow" Internal Frame Backpack 75L
    • Tent: Wenzel Starlight Backpacker Tent
    • Sleeping Bag: Ozark Trail 3lb Sleeping Bag
    • Sleeping Pad: Wenzel 71x24 inch (180x61 cm) Sleeping Pad
  • Results
    • Total Weight: 10 lb / 4.5 kg
    • Total Cost: $78
  • Wal-Mart Backpacking Gear

# WORDS: 1730
# PHOTOS: 5

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