It was all new for us We spent ages trying to find out what equipment we need to buy for the South America travel trip. Since we haven't done any backpacking before, neither proper hiking, we didn't have anything at all. I think I can divide the stuff we got to few sections: Equipment Things like backpack (rucksack), sleeping bag, tent, sleeping mat, stove, etc. I think we started with the rucksack. Based on various blogs and reviews, we went to try one of them on. Osprey. Well known brand, apparently excellent quality stuff. I didn't find them comfortable around my neck area, but my wife chose one. I then went to see Deuter and Lowe Alpine and decided for the latter. Rucksack size. Some of my friends recommend 80 litres, some of the others 60 litres. Internet and blog posts said less is better. But for how experienced travellers? I have almost none experience to start with. So we both went for 65 litres extensible to 75 litres. Osprey Ariel 65 for her and Lowe Alpi
South America trip for pure beginners. Argentina, Patagonia, Chile, Bolivia, Peru.