[pct-l] pct questions...???

[frtripi <frtripi@zeus.kern.org>]

I have followed with interest,for the past 2 months, all of your expert
opinions on a variety of equipment, particularly tents and backpacks.
Several different manufacturers have appeared as preferred choices and,
unfortunately, I have not recognized any of them. I am familiar with the
NorthFace, Osprey and Kelty brands, would any of you care to offer an
opinion as to your personal experience with those brands, with respect
to quality and dollar value?
I have only seen a passing reference made to bear resistant food
containers, are they a must and what is the likelyhood of a bear
sighting and/or encounter?
Has anyone ever kept track of what, in general, out of pocket expenses
have been on a thru-hike, not counting equipment replacement,if
necessary.
Are credit card and checkbook adequate forms of currency?
Has any one ever traveled with with an ultralight electronic notebook
or some other electronic equipment with e-mail capability?
Has any one had the desire or opportunity to test a cellular phone
throught the entire hike?
What would be the average number of hikers one would encounter on a
thru-hike?
Those are some of the questions that come to mind at this time. I look
forward to hearing from you. frank.
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