The Basics

 The Basics

I put some information resources for absolute beginners below. 

http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpacking-beginners.html

http://www.backpacker.com/skills/first-aid/backpacking-basics/

Unfortunately, however many experienced backpackers you speak too is however many different answers you'll get on what gear to pack. In addition to these list, id like to list some lesson I learned, typically by trial and error.

 Test your gear- Before you go out and NEED your gear test it. Go on a day-hike or just an overnight with your pack, boots, tent, sleeping bag or pad.

 Keep it light and small- Try to avoid bulky or heavy items, the same goes for food. You don't have to buy expensive freeze dried meals though. Raymen noodles, mac and cheese, tuna pouches, peanut butter, and oatmeal are all good examples. 

Water is life-  You can go at least a week without food, some people can go much longer, but nobody can last long without water. In the event you end up without drinkable water but still have food, DO NOT EAT. Eating will dehydrate you faster without continuing to consume water.

Get a good pack- My first time out I thought it was ridiculous to spend money  a backpack. However, there is a lot that goes into the design and distirbution of weight in these packs. Its hard to appreciate the need until you've hiked 20 or more miles with just 30 pounds on your back. 

More money does not mean better quality- Do research on the products, especially before an expensive purchase. As an example, sleeping pads. you can pay upwards of two hundred dollars on an inflatable sleeping pad. It may be good, but a cheap foam sleeping pad is hard to beat. the only down side is foam is bulkier. You can simply roll it up and attach it to the outside of your pack. 

Head lamps are great - They range greatly in features and prices but you should get one. In general head lamps are lighter, more convient, better on batteries, and often brighter than traditional flashlights. Plus, you still have both hands free. You can even geat a cheap one from a hardware store.

Bring parachute 550 cord - Para-cord or 550 cord is light weight, compact, supports a lot of weight, and is very useful on the trails. You can use it to hang your bag or trash, dry clothes, to make shelter, improved first aid just to name a couple uses. You can find it lots of places and its cheap. 

Start off small - Your first trip out probably shouldn't be more than twenty miles. A good place to test gear or go on a simple trip is the abandoned PA turnpike.