"PMags" has several "Frugal Backpacker" lists, ranging from $290 to $400, here. It's surprising how many items are marked "free" because they are already in your closet, bathroom or kitchen!

There are other versions; I believe this Frugal Gearlist idea started with "Sergeant Rock." As Jim points out, many of us developed our own from necessity.

You may be able to do it for less by haunting thrift stores, want-ads and sales. Or borrowing.

Starting out in the back yard (yours or borrowed), as Jim did, or car-camping (if no back yard is to be had) is a good idea, so you have an easy way of escape if you foul up. Be sure to do some of your practice camps in bad weather so you learn how to stay warm and dry. Many of us have had to do this the hard way.