Purchases for hiking

I’m thinking of buying a small backpack. I don’t have one for day hikes – BF has 2 of them, but neither have water bladder holders, and I don’t like having the bladder just sitting in the main compartment with all my other things. And also, they don’t have any structure to them … so while they’re great for shoving in our main backpacks and using them for summit days, they’re not comfortable for day hikes.

I’d also like one that I can also use for our day excursions on the Alaskan cruise (5 weeks away!!!).

There’s one I’ve been eyeing. It’s $35, so not too expensive. But it’s still a brand name that I trust. I’m going to think about it for a day or two to see if I really need/want it.

Also I’m going to have to buy some Moleskin. I’ve been getting blisters in the worst way. Blisters on top of blisters. I really want to buy new boots, but the only ones that really felt comfortable (I have problem feet) costs just over $500. :( BF said they’d last me at least 10 years and I wouldn’t have to buy another pair because they’d be good for hiking and mountaineering, and apparently that’s what you have to pay if you want really good quality mountaineering boots.