RE: needing gear
I didn't need much when I went as a packer. 3 pairs of underwear. One pair of socks for each day. Rain gear (save room by buying quiet waterproof pants and jacket so you don't need to pack rain gear in addition to other outerwear), waterproof boots with STIFF soles (like vibram), sleeping bag, a couple of shirts to layer with, and a survival kit. You'll also want a good backpack.
I picked up everything for cheap from places like sierra trading post (sierratradingpost.com). I got gore-tex boots for $20, a silent 10x gore-tex jacket for $60, and silent waterproof pants for $30. I took a button-up wool shirt from home along with one or two other shirts and my minimalist survival kit. I borrowed a pack and sleeping bag once I got to Anchorage. I literally fit everything I needed for 2 weeks in the wilderness in one carry-on bag. In doing so, I eliminated the posibility of ruining my trip because of lost luggage.
No doubt I'm missing a few things from my list. But I'm sure others will let you know everything else you need.
Have fun and good luck!