Here is a list of the packing items I believe are tried and true. All things are subjective, but I hope this list will save someone some unnecessary trial and error. Happy packing!
Saddle
Within our co op, we have tested nearly every saddle on the market. The consensus among our packers is the Decker design by Wes Holmquist. It is superior in every regard but weight. Currently the saddle is out of production, however Black Thunder Llama Gear has picked up the design and is producing a lightweight version.
Pannier
There are many panniers that will work. Panniers are like fly reels… their primary function is storage. I personally pack mostly Llama Connection and some custom proto type panniers, however again Black Thunder Llama Gear has created a very well thought out pannier line.
Halter
There are good and bad halters on the market. The important criteria are; box stitched junctions, heavy duty hardware and stiff webbing. My favorite is made by Sopris Unlimited. They also have a very intuitive sizing system and I use different colors to manage the different sizes.
Lead
There are many opinions on leads. I like a custom lead I make with a sliding Prussik knot. We also strongly believe in locking carabiners at the terminal ends.
Tent
In 2016 I partnered with Seek Outside and collaborated with them on an ultralight wall tent. For hunting or base camping, the Courthouse is luxury living in the backcountry. It is roomy, easy to pitch and weighs as much as the 4 season 2 person backpacking tent I used in the 90’s. For trekking or steep uneven ground, I use a tarp or a smaller tipi by Kifaru.
Stove
There are now more lightweight stove options then ever before. My favorite is the Four Dog Ultralight II titanium stove. The main advantage is it’s welded seal. All other stoves, that require assembly, leak air significantly. They are either raging hot or off. This stove can be stoked and dampered down for a long, slow burn.
Sleeping bag
After purchasing and/or demo-ing several of the newer sleeping bag styles, I still prefer my down Western Mountaineering mummy bag. Maybe someday I will find someone who has truly reinvented the wheel.
Sleeping pads
Again, I have been on the eternal search for the perfect pad. Recently, I have been using the Exped Megamat lite in the medium width and regular length. (this combo is not as common as other sizes and often must be ordered direct.) I really like the thickness and the quiet exterior. As I age, and my shoulders go down hill, the added thickness helps keep me comfortable at night. NOTE: as of 2024 this model is discontinued. However, it is still available 2nd hand.
Trail food
Hawk Vittles have been producing chef inspired meals for AP hikers for years. I came across HV by accident a while back and am now evangelical about them. If you are tired of the same old bland Mountain House, give the vittles a try. My favorites are: Sierra Spaghetti, Spicy sausage, Cowboy pasta, Moroccan stew, Lasagna, Shrimp Whimsy, and more… Note: This company was sold, relocated, and is slightly less than what it was. These days there are many improved options over Mountain House. Hawk Vittles is still our standard as much for the price point as the taste. Gastro Gnome would be my favorite if money is no object.
Chairs
The Helinox Sunset is our current favorite. It is light, easy to set up, and the high back and intergrated head rest are heavenly around a fire or relaxing after a long day’s hike.
Fuel Stove
Anyone who has suffered the dreaded toppling pot, boiling water dance as often as I, will appreciate this remote canister stove. It is wide enough to keep coffee and cooking pots stable while cooking. It is made by MSR. While I still have canister stoves and multifuel systems, my go to is this oldy but goody. The current model equivalent is the Windpro 2.
Water Filtration
I have switched primarily to gravity feed filtration. I have been using the Katadyn Base Camp for the past 6 or so seasons and love it. I also carry a UV Steripen and use it where water is already gin clear.
Pillow
Again, pillows are very personal. I have used inflatables, puffy jackets stuffed in pillow cases, rolled up wool jackets etc. However several years back I bought a nice latex pillow and sawed it into two travel size pillowettes. I zip a half pillow in a dust cover and bring a fresh pillow case on each trip. For very little room and weight, this hack raises the bar for pillow snobs. Like my wife.... :)
Cots
If you are going to spend a few nights in a base camp. The cot design by Luxury Lite is our go to. It packs down to the size of a large Nalgene and is easy to set up. Getting up off the ground is really nice as I age. Currently Thermorest has purchased the design, but I believe it is still essentially unchanged.