Lately I’ve been talking to a number of guests who are planning their very first visit to the Adirondacks. I love introducing people to the area and recommend hiking, paddling and cycling as great activities. Since not everyone lives near mountains, a first-time ADK trip sometimes involves investing in some gear. But there’s really no reason to invest in expensive gear unless or until you’re going to be using it on a more regular basis. With that in mind, I’ve put together a list of top budget gear recommendations for newbies.

• Rain jacket: It rains frequently in the Adirondacks — spring, summer and fall — and it’s common to experience a passing afternoon shower while out hiking or canoes. If you already own a rain jacket, you’re set. If not, Frogg Toggs makes a super cheap rain jacket for men and women, as well as kids.

• Non-cotton shirt: As the saying goes, cotton kills. When it gets wet from rain or sweat, it holds the water and keeps you cold. Not good in the mountains. I wear thin merino wool shirts, which work great even in the summer and are also odor resistant (bonus!). They can get pricey, but you can pick up a cheaper knock-off brand when you’re starting out. Women’s merino and men’s. If you’re skeptical about a wool shirt, at least get a non-cotton quick-dry shirt like this one for women, and this for men. There are also long-sleeve versions of all these shirts.

• Non-cotton pants: Whatever you do, please don’t try to wear jeans hiking or paddling. I see it at least once every year, and it’s just sad (because… cotton kills). There are lots of expensive hiking pants on the market, but I also have these and these shorts, both of which are good deals. For men, try these or these shorts.

• Non-cotton underwear: Same thing as above. Additionally, if you go on a long hike in cotton underwear you’re more likely to get chafing. No fun. Look for the same fabrics as listed for shirts — thin merino or a sports tech fabric that wicks moisture.

• Non-cotton socks: I cannot find any budget socks. They’re just stupid expensive. So, all I can say is that Darn Tough Socks makes excellent socks AND will replace your socks with a new, free pair if and when they get holes or wear out.

• Fleece top: Even in the summertime, it’s gets cool at night. We always have a fleece handy. You probably already own a fleece, but if not you might pick up a light fleece like this one for men or women.

• Footwear: Whether you prefer hiking boots, trail runners or regular athletic shoes, it’s up to you. Don’t try to wear sandals hiking. Eric wears boots with ankle support and I am dedicated to trail runners. If you’re only planning one hike on your trip, you can get away with a regular pair of athletic shoes that you already have, as long as they have good grippy tread. Don’t let lack of boots be a barrier. For canoeing, you’ll want a shoe that you don’t mind getting wet — not flip flops, which can be dangerous on slippery rocks. You can either wear a pair of athletic shoes, boat shoes or tevas that you already own, or pick up an inexpensive wet shoe like this one.

• Puffy: This is completely optional, but if you’re coming to the Adirondacks in the spring, fall or winter, you might want to bring a puffy jacket. Lightweight down jackets have a lot of benefits, but are way more expensive. So for a first time buyer, I’d recommend a cheap nylon/polyester puffy like this one for men or this one for women. Or you can wear a ski jacket or warm coat that you already own.

Also check out these older posts that round out good packing lists for spring, summer and fall, and winter. And more options for rain jackets here.

For gear — even things like hiking poles — here’s my list of ADK outfitters where you can rent gear and equipment once you get there.