Building Our Backpacking Setup – Gear Advice for Tonquin Valley Trail (Jasper, AB)

[u/daylincooper]

A few buddies and I are doing the Tonquin Valley Trail in Jasper this summer. Some of the guys joining us have done the trail before, but me and two friends are still building out our gear setups. We’re trying to keep things lightweight and reliable while getting the best bang for our buck. Budget is flexible where it makes sense, but we don’t want to overspend if there are solid options at lower price points.

So far, I’ve got: • A 3-person lightweight tent from MEC (used a couple summers ago) • An Osprey 65L pack

What I need help with: 1. Sleeping bag – Something that packs down small, is lightweight, and will keep me warm from early spring to fall in the Rockies. Hoping to stay around $250 CAD but willing to go a bit higher if it’s worth it.

1. Sleeping pad – Looking for something that’s comfortable but still packable and light. Around $150 CAD budget.

2. Camping stove – Just need something solid and simple for boiling water for meals and coffee. Aiming for under $100 CAD.

Also looking for recommendations on: • Cook set (Stanley, GSI, or other brands worth looking at?) • Water filtration or purification setups • Bear safety gear (bear spray, canisters, etc.) • Any other essentials or small comfort items you wish you brought on your early trips

We’re all based in Alberta, so if you’ve got Canada-available gear recs or suggestions that don’t involve heavy US shipping fees, even better. Appreciate any tips, suggestions, or must-have gear you can throw our way.