u/Fluffy_Syrup8088

Post:

Hey everyone,

I’m based in LA and have been slowly getting deeper into backpacking over the past year — mostly long day hikes at first, then a few overnight trips. I’m now at the point where I’m planning my first real stretch of multi-day trips in the Sierra Nevada this summer, and I’m trying to make sure my setup is actually dialed before I get out there.

The biggest gap in my gear right now is my sleep system for colder alpine nights, and I’d rather fix that properly than try to “make it work” with what I already have.

Right now I’m looking to round things out with:

• A 30°F (or colder) sleeping bag or quilt
• An insulated sleeping pad that can handle colder ground temps
• Any basic layering pieces people might have upgraded from (fleece, light insulation, shell)

I’m trying to keep things simple and reliable rather than overcomplicating the system this early on.

If anyone in the SoCal area has gear sitting around that they’re not using anymore, I’d be happy to buy it off you locally or come pick it up. Even slightly older gear is totally fine as long as it’s functional.

Also very open to advice if I’m missing something important here — I’m still learning and trying to build this the right way before heading into higher elevation terrain.

Appreciate any help or suggestions 🙏

Hey everyone,

I’m based in Los Angeles and have been getting deeper into hiking over the past year, mainly long day hikes and solo trips. Recently I’ve started moving into multi-day backpacking and planning trips into the Sierra Nevada this summer.

As I start spending more time at higher elevation and overnighting in colder conditions, I’m slowly trying to build out my gear the right way instead of rushing it.

Right now I’m focusing on my cold-weather sleep setup and layering system, since that’s the main gap for the trips I’m planning.

I’m looking for:

• 30°F (or similar) sleeping bag or quilt
• Insulated sleeping pad for colder ground temps
• Basic layering pieces (light jacket, fleece, shell if available)

I’m trying to keep things simple, safe, and gradually build up a setup that works for different conditions in the Sierra rather than overbuying at once.

If anyone in the LA area has gear they’ve upgraded from or isn’t using anymore, I’d be happy to buy it locally. Also open to advice if there are better budget-friendly setups I should be looking at instead.

Appreciate any help — this community has been really useful as I’ve been learning more about backpacking.

Hey everyone, i plan to hike and camp San Gorgonio and I’m missing a few essential cold-weather items.

If anyone has anything sitting unused, I’d really appreciate it:

- 30°F sleeping bag (or similar cold-rated bag)

- Insulated sleeping pad (for cold ground temps)

- Warm jacket or extra layering pieces (if available)

Happy to pick up locally and take care of whatever you’re willing to part with.

Even just pointing me toward affordable used gear is super helpful 🙏 (side note - I did post on buy not a thing group on Facebook, I’m posting here as a “just incase”!)?

Hey everyone,

I’m looking for recommendations for a reliable mechanic in the Los Angeles / North Hollywood area who’s good with transmissions and willing to work with someone on a budget.

I’m dealing with a weird issue on my car (2015 Chrysler 200):

- Car goes into what feels like limp mode (stuck in one gear, likely 4th)

- Sometimes jerks before it stalls

- It mainly happens when slowing down or stopping (especially after uphill driving or stop-and-go traffic)

- When it stalls, it restarts after a bit and drives normal for a while

- Check engine light comes and goes

From what I’ve researched, it might be torque converter / valve body / transmission control related, but I really just need a trustworthy shop to properly diagnose it before I get hit with a huge repair bill or someone jumps straight to “you need a new transmission.”

I’m not trying to avoid repairs—I just want an honest diagnosis and someone who can work with me financially if it turns out to be something serious.

If anyone has a shop or mechanic they trust (especially independent shops or specialists), I’d really appreciate it.

Thanks in advance. ?

Hi neighbors. my car (2015 Chrysler 200) stalls out specifically when I'm making turns or slowing down.

Im pretty low on cash right now so I can’t afford a mechanic. I’ve been trying to fix a loose battery terminal, but I think it might be something else. Is there anyone in the 91606 area with a code scanner or some mechanical knowledge who would be willing to take a 5-minute look at it with me? I can't offer much but a huge thank you