I thought this was helpful. https://youtu.be/Rd5QJyF9kfc
My friend group has never backpacked before. We've camped but the way we do it, I'd argue is well beyond glamping - so no real experience.
I've compiled a list of some things I mostly have or plan to get.
https://lighterpack.com/r/mabuvg
My friend has always wanted to hike Kilimanjaro and I talked him into hiking something else to test ourselves - so we postponed a year. I've planned out some routes to prepare us a bit so we're good there.
Regardless I'm building out my first kit from scratch no experience just a shit ton of research. I'm willing to spend where it's worth but only if I think it's truly justified. i.e. Arc'teryx always seems too pricy in comparison to the competition. Feels like 70% more price for 15% more quality.
I understand everyone's take is figure out your gear first, then the bag. A few things not listed that I plan on getting is sawyer squeeze, poo trowel, stove, bear bag, and any other obvious ones I might be missing off the top of my head. Headlamp... Battery back, inreach...
That being said, I'm roughly in the final stages and can't decide on a bag. My research points toward GG Mariposa for comfort and size but it seems like it gets stupid sweaty on the back so I'd like to explore better ventilated options.
Aside from Mariposa, zpacks arc haul 60L seems nice since I think it's got the trampoline back, nice large mesh front, and just good design. My concern with the kakwa 55 is that it looks like it'll just turn into an uncomfortable tube on my back. Open to suggestions. I pretty much have the clothes just none of the other big purchases. Just window shopped those. Any help appreciated!
I thought this was helpful. https://youtu.be/Rd5QJyF9kfc
Quick comment on you clothing: if you want to go ultralight: one hiking shirt, one sleepshirt (or sleep in your hiking shirt in a dry climate). No other extra's. Underwear same, one on your body, one extra. Wash when needed and dry it on your pack during the day.
You should build out your lighterpack with everything you need. Given what you have, you will probably get more applicable advice in r/lightweight vs here. The items you are missing could easily add 4-6 lbs to your base weight. You shouldn’t have multiple of clothing items, you do need weatherproof and/or warm clothing items. The x-dome is a lightweight tent, but heavy for a UL kit. Regarding the pack, I have a Mariposa and I love it for trips where I need to carry a lot of stuff (eg snow camping trips). It is not comfortable over 35 lbs and it gets marginal over 30 lbs, so you need to dial in your weight first.
Packs are so personal to your body type, it's very hard to say what will work for any one person. Like take the GG Mariposa, which I have. I've never even thought about any sweat issues with it. But maybe I don't sweat as much as some others might? How would I know? All I know is, it works for me. And while it's not a cool new design or material, it's a pretty good pack. Not the most durable, but very functional, and not too expensive. Capacity, weight, and material are really the only things you can "study" to narrow things down.
Be curious what you find for UL bags that have airflow. Main reason I’ve kept my exos 58 is the frame on the backside allows a good 1/2” of airflow through the back. I’m a sweaty guy as well.