[Philmont]: Pack Weight

I don't want to beat this to death, however (always one of those isn't
there?), I have always felt the subject of pack weight was overdone. Now, I have
never taken more than a strenuous trek (the boys voted for activities rather
than long hikes) and have never cared (to a point) what my pack weighed. I
always felt that if I took what I learned that I needed, it would take care of
itself. On 2 treks, when I was the odd person, I carried a full tent. Last trek
I spoiled myself by buying a lighter, and better, sleeping bag, and tent. In
2003 I came in at my lightest weigh of my 6 treks. 65 pounds. 4 days of food
and 3 quarts of water. I had a scout at 63. Neither of us had a problem,
and even at age 50, and weighing 225, I did not hold back my crew and did not
feel my pack was too heavy. Did I wish it was lighter? OF COURSE! But I felt
like I needed to carry what I was carrying. My first trek was ALL RAIN and
cold too! I vowed that I would never be caught off guard by that on any other
trek. Did I wear all my clothes? No. Did I need all my warm clothes? Yes,
this time. Mt Phillips was brisk!
I am not saying to carry a heavy pack. I'm saying that it need not be big
concern to everyone.

Like my pappy used to say (and this list is a prime example): Listen to all
the advise you can get. Then do what YOU think is right.

Wish I was going in '04. Trying to win the lottery in '05!!!

YiP X 6
IWTGBTP!!!!
Bruce

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Received on Wed Nov 26 11:40:10 2003