Backpack
REI - How Much should your pack weigh - The lighter the better. Save lbs and ounces where you can.
Please take the time to adjust the backpack BEFORE we leave on the trip. Outside Magazine - Fit and Adjustment of pack
Foot Care - Taking care of your feet is important for enjoying a backpacking trip. The Backpacking Program Feature talks about using a thin liner sock inside a looser hiking sock, I agree. Shoe or boot? Most hikers agree a lighter shoe that can quickly dry is preferred to a heavy boot. It is important to take care of hot spots before they blister. I prefer Leukotape or duct tape to moleskin. Cut toenails straight across and not too short to prevent ingrown toenails.
Mosquitoes - They tend to be pretty active starting in June into early August. DEET bug repellants are best with the higher percentages working better. I use the 99%/100% DEET. Because I use so little there is no reason to bring much. In addition every original container I have used tends to leak I put some into a smaller container that seals well. A bug net is lightweight and effective.
See the Cooking Program feature for Food Ideas
Lightweight Backpacking Principles - Keeping your weight down will greatly add to your enjoyment of backpacking.
Your tent, sleeping bag, and backpack are called the Big Three, accounting for a larger percentage of the weight. Share a tent and share the weight. Don't bring too warm a sleeping bag, a 30-40 degree bag should be adequate in the summer. Down is lighter, but keep it dry! Reducing gear means you can reduce the size and beefiness(weight) of your backpack. Shaving weight in this area can be measured in pounds instead of ounces.
Eclipse single-person tent (2 lb 12 oz)
Don't bring too much food! Dehydrated meals are significantly lighter. You do want food you will enjoy eating as well. Do some research. For example: crackers or tortillas can be used with tuna/chicken creation pouches for a tasty no/cook option that is still fairly light. Throw away excess packaging, a plastic bag is lighter than the macaroni and cheese box.
Excess clothing is heavy. Shorts during the day, and a pair of pants at night. Plan to wear things multiple days.
Cooking systems vary greatly and can add a lot of weight. Pots, stoves, and fuel types and amounts are all places to reduce weight. Some do no-cook options exclusively. For others, a cooked meal is vital to their enjoyment. I have a Zip Stove that uses wood chips for fuel. Jet Boil stoves provide a popular efficient cooking system.
Nalgene bottles are indestructible but heavy. A favorite solution that many backpackers use to shave weight is Smart Water bottles combined with a Sawyer Mini water filter.
There are many solutions for going to the bathroom outdoors. If using toilet paper, bring only what you need in a zip lock. Pack trowels can be helpful but optional. Ultra-light backpackers will use a smooth rock. Then finish by cleaning with water, poring on hand and cleaning at the same time. (No toilet paper, no trowel.) No matter your method, clean your hands afterward!
Lightweight backpackers leave home niceties. Things like deodorant simply aren't needed.
Weigh your pack and gear.
One of the phrases often found in lightweight advice is, "You pack your fears." Fears lead to packing too much food, clothing, fuel, etc. Listen to people with experience and as you gain your own experience your fears will lighten along with your pack.
Reducing Costs:
2nd Hand, Savers, KSL Classifieds
Steep and Cheap Bargains (Filtered on 60% off Camp and Hike)
I have seen less expensive options at Smith and Edwards, and Recreation Outlet.
Liberty Mountain Outlet (Close by, small but sometimes has good deals)