What does a dumb city boy like me need to know before my first

Bring a big knife

stop and set up camp an hour earlier than you think you need to.

every noob makes the same mistake of "wanting to get just another mile in" and waiting until twilight to start setting up camp, and ends up working in the dark--a huge pain in the ass and a waste of battery life.

>>798976
Got a gear list?

>>798989
50 liter pack
1 man tent and foot print
Sleeping bag
Probably a workout mat for a pad unless I decide it's unweildy.
Cheapo primus camp stove
1 mug
1 pot
1 spork
40 oz water bottle
Sawyer mini
Map, compass
Lighter, ferro rod
Mylar blanket
Knife
Head lamp
Flashlight

That's about it for the main stuff? Probably just underwear, socks, and a shirt for a change of clothes. Dry snacks, dehydrated meal and hot chocolate for comfort. Instant coffee, sun screen, bug juice. Packable windbreaker/rain jacket. I think that's all.

Small mice and other varmints make much more noise than you'd expect. This is especially noticeable while solo camping. Keep this in mind and don't let the sounds of the forest freak you out too much.

>>798995 just make sure you have enough food & water for an extra 48 hours in case something goes wrong

>>798995
You are really going to want something as a sleeping pad, even if the workout mat doesn't work for you.

It's not about padding for comfort, it's about body heat. You want something with a decent R-value between you and the cold damp ground.

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>>798995
seems like you've got it. Have fun and report back when ur done OP.