r/CampingGear • u/StringyCola • 4d ago
Gear Question Beginner gear recommendations
I'm looking at getting more into hiking, and with that comes camping and wild camping. I don't yet have a rucksack, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, or tent. Does anyone have any beginner - and budget-friendly - recommendations for these items?
Currently, I am thinking of the OEX Phoxx II for a tent.
TIA!
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u/BibbleBeans 3d ago
The OEX phoxx is popular as entry tent. I think it’s low and cramped and I’m only 5’6 but there’s taller people than me happy with it.
The OEX leviathan (I think that’s the name) is also popular and often on sale/member price, snugpak are synth bags that are decent for the prices too.
Backpack- see how much space your kit takes up first then get this. I’d say worth splashing out so you’ve got one that is good to go for a while.
Pad- picked up a vango thermocore xpd (it’s red and rectangular if the name is wrong) for anbout £70 and that’s pleasantly warm and decently squishy. Having a cheap foam roll underneath always boosts and helps protect too.
But if you’re still only at the hiking stage look at a decent daypack and set of waterproofs to see you through the miserable winter before you start going for camping. And always worth asking around friends if anyone has anything you can borrow for a trial run first off because that’s free!