re: ***Official Hiking/Camping Thread***

1) Gregory is probably my favorite backpack company, with Osprey a close second. The hard padding just helps with support. You'll need that support if you have a heavy pack.

2) If it's hot, some type of mesh hat. I'll wear my Columbia fishing hat.

3) You can pack in a folding chair, but those are usually around 5 lbs, so it just depends on what type of weight you want to carry. I have a roll-up chair. It is not as comfortable as a folding chair, but it's only 1 lb, and it's small. It's better than nothing.

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1. I tried out a bunch of packs, but I found Gregory to have the most comfortable...tried an Osprey and an REI pack and thought they were uncomfortable on my lower back...both seem to have harder padding in the back area. Maybe their design makes that area more breathable, but I didn't care for how it felt...is this common issue with some packs?

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Go with comfort. Gregory is a good brand, and while they are often a little on the heavy side you probably won't be counting ounces for this trip.

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2. What type of hats do people normally wear?

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Depends on level of sun. You could wear a full brim if you're planning on being exposed to the sun. If worried about heat then a mesh ball cap is all you need.
I use this cap for day (Mountain Hardwear makes some good mesh ones too):

and this by night ($12):

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3. Do you bring special chairs to use when are sitting around camp?

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If you don't want to sit on the ground:

If counting ounces I would recommend getting a thermarest z-lite and cutting out a small section. It works well as a seat by day on hard surfaces and a pillow by night.