blue tarps are heavier than you think - mine of this size weigh about a kilo - so that's pretty
close. although I know there are different "grades" of them - some made of heavier materiel than others.




At least with kids, I think a trip through the average kids' dresser would probably reveal at least 50% of what would be suitable to bring (sometimes closer to 90). I also think any
"beginner" can be begun with good socks and their regular running shoes. After that they can buy a dedicated "trail runner" or boot. Yes it means the "beginner" trip should probably
be on-trail enough so that doing it in runners is ok for a newbie. but that covers a lot of trail hiking. Yes some will need to buy a shoe. I know I *have* picked up light hiking boots for my kid at the thrift store for $10 before, so it's possible, but likely not something to consistently count on - in availablility or quantity - whereas finding fleece, windbreakers,
and nylon clothing in normal size at such places is usually pretty easy as long as you don't
care about brand names - (although I know I've seen patagucci clothing in the thrift store!)

I used to regularly take my kids there before hunting season, and buy 'em a couple of layers
that fit them each year. Cheap enough I didn't have to worry about it and they only wore
it hunting.