I know...it's a broad topic and subjective to the poster but, I will ask anyway.

I am going to be going on a couple of backpacking trips with some friends this summer in NC. First trip is a short overnight of about 8 miles up and 8 miles back. The second trip will be a week long trip through Pisgah National Forest.

I am wondering what gear would be best to purchase and what to rent. Since I have never went backpacking before but I will probably go camping with my mountain bike buddies, I am sure some of the gear will transfer over.

I am think that a tent, sleeping bag and a sleeping mat would be the best choices for purchase. Leaving a backpack for rental.

The guys I am going on the hiking trip with have done it before so that will be nice. I am very fit 42 year old so I am sure I won't have too much trouble keeping up. My main concern is getting the stuff that I need without dropping a fortune on something that I might use once or twice a year.

Thanks in advance!