Backpacking 101 The Gear Gauntlet

The Gear Gauntlet is a fun, interactive Backpacking class that teaches beginners what gear really matters—and what they can leave at home.
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Backpacking 101: The Gear Gauntlet

Buy Smart. Pack Smart. Start Smart.

Getting into backpacking shouldn't require thousands of dollars in gear—or a backpack stuffed with everything you might possibly need.

Backpacking 101: The Gear Gauntlet is a free, beginner-friendly and interactive introduction to choosing backpacking gear. Instead of sitting through a lecture, you'll work in teams, tackle fun gear challenges, defend some questionable packing choices, and figure out what deserves a place in your pack.

We'll focus on the seven critical gear decisions every new backpacker needs to make:

• Carry — Choosing your backpack
• Shelter — Tents, tarps and other options
• Sleep — Sleeping bags, quilts, pads and comfort
• Water — Carrying, filtering and treating water
• Navigation — Maps, compass, phone and backup navigation
• Clothing — Layers, rain protection and staying comfortable
• Cooking — Simple cooking systems without carrying the kitchen

Throughout the Gear Gauntlet, teams will be challenged to decide what to carry, what to leave behind and what could be replaced with a smarter option. Along the way, we'll discuss common beginner buying mistakes and the 20% of gear decisions that can make 80% of the difference in your backpacking experience.

And yes—there may be a rubber chicken involved. 🐔

Every participant leaves with a Tizo Beginner Backpacking Gear Guide containing the complete recommended gear list, so there's no need to memorize everything or take pages of notes.

This class is designed for people who are curious about backpacking but aren't sure where to begin. No previous backpacking experience is required.

Come ready to learn, laugh, meet potential trail partners and discover that getting started may be much simpler than you thought.

Less gear. More adventure.