Is this a good start for camping gear?

Hello everyone, I’m planning to purchase a 3L water bladder and a small camping cookware set for a total of $33 USD. I’m wondering if these are good choices or if I should consider other brands. If I go ahead with the purchase, they will be delivered tomorrow, which means I could head out for a short 2-day trip to test all my gear soon. Any advice would be appreciated!

That seems quite basic for a pack. It might fit the bladder but not much else, and the quality is probably low.

Pace said:
That seems quite basic for a pack. It might fit the bladder but not much else, and the quality is probably low.

I have the same one and it’s been fantastic for me. It fits more than you’d think and it’s perfect for rock climbing.

I wouldn’t recommend those items.

How do you plan to carry a cook kit and food along with a hydration pack?

Max said:
How do you plan to carry a cook kit and food along with a hydration pack?

I’m planning to camp in the Rocky Mountains. I already have a tent, tarp, backpack, light, stove, first aid kit, and sleeping gear. I just need a water bladder to avoid carrying bottles and a small cooking set for meals.

@Hale
I suggest investing in a good quality bladder to avoid issues with leaks or unpleasant tastes. It’s worth spending a bit more on something reliable.

Terry said:
@Hale
I suggest investing in a good quality bladder to avoid issues with leaks or unpleasant tastes. It’s worth spending a bit more on something reliable.

It’s challenging to find variety in my area, and importing can be costly. I’m limited to what’s available locally.

@Hale
Consider buying when you reach the States.

@Hale
Check out REI or similar stores if you’re visiting the U.S.

Brady said:
@Hale
Check out REI or similar stores if you’re visiting the U.S.

Are there American stores in the UAE?

Brady said:
@Hale
Check out REI or similar stores if you’re visiting the U.S.

No, unfortunately.

Hale said:

Brady said:
@Hale
Check out REI or similar stores if you’re visiting the U.S.

No, unfortunately.

Check out Tactical Trading on Sheikh Zayed Road, they have a good selection.

@Sayer
Thanks a lot, I’ve been looking for a store like that!

Hale said:
@Sayer
Thanks a lot, I’ve been looking for a store like that!

Also try Decathlon and Adventure HQ, they have a range of options.

Terry said:
@Hale
I suggest investing in a good quality bladder to avoid issues with leaks or unpleasant tastes. It’s worth spending a bit more on something reliable.

Have you tried CamelBak or Osprey? They usually have a plasticky taste initially.

@Hale
You might want to wait and shop at an REI store in Colorado instead.

Bliss said:
@Hale
You might want to wait and shop at an REI store in Colorado instead.

I’m in the UAE, so that’s not an option for me.

Hale said:

Bliss said:
@Hale
You might want to wait and shop at an REI store in Colorado instead.

I’m in the UAE, so that’s not an option for me.

He means to shop right before you go camping.

@Hale
You only really need a small pot if you’re just boiling water for freeze-dried meals. And don’t forget, water bottles are often just as good as a bladder.