DaretoBeaWildflower.com
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Forget the Poncho: Do yourself a favor and opt for a seam-sealed, rain jacket and a pack cover.
Use a Mens Sleeping Bag if You're Tall and Run Warm: Men's sleeping bags are longer, so if you are a tall woman, opt for one. But get one rated for colder temps if you don't run warm.
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Get Fitted for a Backpack: Just because you are a size Medium in tops DOES NOT mean you need a Medium pack. Packs go off of torso length.
Get Fitted for a Hiking Shoe/Boot: Your trail foot size is larger than your standard size. Opt for a size larger than your everyday shoe and get properly fitted.
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Invest in Proper Base Layers: These will make all of the difference. Do you research and get quality base layers in order to not freeze your ass off.
Get a Full Length Sleeping Pad: My very first sleeping pad was a 3/4 length pad which means it stopped at around my knees. It was not only uncomfortable, it was freezing not having that insulation down by my feet!
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Invest in Hiking Poles: They are not just for "old people". They will save your joints and make your hike much more enjoyable.