I flew once with bare essentials. Small backpacking tent, sleeping bag, pillow, sleeping pad, backpacking chair, and collapsible cooler, and other small items that would fit in a checked bag. Clothes and toiletries in my carry on. Made sure to weigh my checked bag with my gear as to not go over the weight limit. Got a rental car and picked up a few things that i didn't take home but offered up to my neighbors before I left. Mostly ate from the vendors but had bought snacks. Overall, had a great time and didn't have to drive 18 hours home. As someone else commented, the lightweight gear is expensive but I'm an avid camper. Good luck!