[pct-l] Some Gear Questions

[Jim & Jane Moody]

Chris, 

Here's my thoughts on your questions, except for the Spot.  I didn't carry one, and others have already discussed it. 



Sleeping bag - I used a 25* Western Mountaineering down bag in 2010 and 2011 (and at Mt Ned's Snow School).  It kept me plenty warm, but remember that a bag is only PART of your sleep system.  Other components are sleeping pads, air mattress, silk liner, tent or tarp, extra clothes to sleep in, etc.  How warm you stay depends on a lot more than just the bag itself. 



In 2012 I carried a WM 45* bag, partly to save weight and partly because I knew I wouldn't be out in very cold temps, snow pack, etc.  It was smaller, and the zipper didn't go below my waist, but it was certainly lighter, by about 1.5 lbs.  



I used a Steripen on a few practice hikes but have switched entirely to chemical treatments (Aqua Mira and Micropur).  No experience with the Camelback UV device. 



Food - I didn't try to get all my calories in the main meal; many hikers carry a lot a snacks with high calories, fat, et al.  Candy bars, gorp, peanut butter, protein bars, etc. can keep you going from meal to meal.  If you're not planning to carry fat (butter, olive oil, etc.) you should consider it.  A very good way to add calories and flavor to a "blah" meal.  I bought packets of mayo and olive oil fro m local restaurants, to carry and to ship to myself in mail drops.  You can get those online also, but you might not want a full case. 

Good luck, 

Mango 

>>Good evening ladies and gents: 
>>I had a few questions about some gear on PCt this year 

First I currently have a old north face cats meow 20* bag,..it's pretty heavy and looking for a really really lite one but not a quilt...all suggestions ate welcome 

Secondly...I have that new camelback uv filter...claims about 200 filters between charges...obviously does not filter taste like a charcoal filter ...thoughts? Bad idea? 

Any secrets to high calorie jetboil foods?  I will be needed around 4,000 5,000 possibly?  Having troubles meal planning even with malto mix suggestions? 

Lastly what are the thoughts on a Spot locator?  Around $200 to get going...is is a necessity out there an if so are you carrying one??? 

Thanks for your thoughts 
  
Chris Foley aka UBSeRiOuS. :)