Choosing any gear comes down to a balance between the ideal choice and what you can spend. I have spent a number of decades collecting gear, so I am now in a place where most of my gear is able to be the ideal choices, but that wasn't always the case. Even if you can't afford it, however, it helps to figure out the ideal choice because that will allow you to be clear on what you are looking for in your secondary-but-much-more-affordable options. (See the bottom of this page for ideas on getting reduced price gear.)

backpacking gear - Camelbak or similar

​I like to carry a camelback-type water reservoir because I can sip water as I go without thinking about it or having to stop and do anything. The only problem with this is that I have yet to find a backpack carried higher on the shoulders for equestrians. These, when full, tend to bump agains the back of the saddle. For this reason, I sometimes put the pack on the horn of the saddle and use it from there. Problem with this approach is that if I end up separated from the horse, I won't have my water or any other emergency gear I store in the camelbak's backpack.
I have had two different backpacks and this last purchase I did find one that sits a little higher up. It has room for some basic emergency gear, which I like, and works pretty well. However, I am still hoping to find another option for higher a sitting bag with room for a 3 Liter reservoir and a few other pieces of emergency gear.

How other brands i've used Stack Up

Other Brands of Reservoirs
​I've used a number of different brands of reservoirs and in general don't have a strong preference. I like the sturdiness of the Camelbak ones and the way they have a large opening which closes easily. But I don't have a strong enough preference to avoid buying one of the other brands if I came across one.
Tips on Purchasing Gear:
Gear doesn't have to be purchased new. There are lots of ways to reduce the cost of your gear and still get something close to the ideal. 
  1. ​Look on Craig's List for specific brands and models. Keep looking, as these things vary greatly over time. Look in other cities, especially cities known for their outdoor enthusiasts. Visiting Denver for Thanksgiving? Check there. Have a friend who lives in Portland? Check there and see if they would do the purchase for you.
  2. Look at REI's used gear page or their outlets. 
  3. Look at Cabella's Bargin Cave. 
  4. Look for older models of the gear you want. They may not have the traits you are after, but they might be close enough!

Got any other recommendations for people on where to find deals on gear? Tell us and we will add them to this page!
Click here to see my YouTube page of videos on how this trip is going every step of the way, including my preparations at home and my days on the trail.
Want to know more about who is on this trip? Me, my dog, my horses and any friends who happen to join me along the way...
Click here to see my YouTube page of videos on how this trip is going every step of the way, including my preparations at home and my days on the trail.