[pct-l] Base Pack Weight

[Jim and_or Ginny Owen]

If you enjoy taking photos (and looking at them afterwards) bring the camera.  You will regret it if you don't.  

 

I'm an experienced backpacker, but not an ultralight hiker.  My base weight is between 15 and 20 lbs.  I'm fine with that.  I really have no desire to cut out much more than I have already done.  I am still willing to cut weight, if I can find low cost but effective substitutes for the gear I am already carrying.  I'm not willing to change my hiking style or give up the book, camera, etc. that contribute to my enjoyment of the experience.  I have certain luxuries I'm willing to carry (i.e. journal, novel, filter) because they make my hike more enjoyable.  Partly it's that for me long distance hiking is a lifestyle, and my lifestyle includes a certain level of enjoyment, not just tolerance of discomfort.  I am also not in a great hurry.  I don't need or want to do 30 mile days.  I like spending some time resting and relaxing at the end of the day.  But that's my way of hiking.  Yours may be different.  

 

To me, the difference between 15 and 20 base pounds isn't much, when it comes to carrying it on a long hike.  I've had a base weight that was much higher and it didn't stop me.  The real weight is food and water.  That I notice.  But I get used to that weight as well.   And it does have the advantage of being temporary.  The first day out of town I feel the heaviness. Two days later - no problem.  Start the day with a gallon of water - but by the end of the day, my pack is light - at least, until the next spring.  

 

As others have implied, you can bring your current set up on the trail and make changes as you go.  You aren't going to Mongolia.  Anything you don't need, you can always send home, or ahead in a drift box.  If you see another hiker with a piece of gear that you think much better, you can always purchase it on the trail via a phone call to an outfitter.  (e.g. My husband bought a new tent mid-hike on the AT.)  Or you can just make do with what you have.   

 

You can try putting out your gear list and asking for comments - but since every hiker has their own version of what is necessary that may not be of a lot of value for you.  If you haven't yet finalized your gear list though, and are willing to make substantive changes - it may be worth a shot.