Lightweight Packing

My first trip just about killed me. I had the wrong gear, the wrong food, and the wrong shoes. I didn't eat enough on the trail, and had to wear sandals for a week before the blisters on my heals hardened. And I'd thought I was an experienced hiker!

Two weeks after that adventurous trip we all piled into Katie's living room and got the "shake down" from her father. Talk about light weight -- his base pack weighed less than my purse! I will never sew my own pack or punch holes in my sleeping pad to reduce the weight by an ounce; but I have become much better at packing what I need, and leaving behind what I don't.

Here is my base packing list:
*I will be wearing zip off pants, shirt, sports bra and synthetic undies, liner socks, hiking socks, and boots, possibly a hat
-sleeping bag (w/stuff sack for later use as pillow)
-sleeping pad
-rain jacket
-extra pants and hiking shirt
-one more layer (in case it's colder than I think it will be! Can't tell you how many times I've been glad of that extra long sleeved t-shirt or fleece)
-extra pair of socks (wear one, air one)
-toiletries (don't forget TP!)
-first aid kit and knife
-flashlight
-dinner bowl, spoon
-water bladder
-nalgene water bottle
-two bandannas

On longer trips I will take a pair of camp shoes (flip flops) to give my feet a rest. Also depending on the length and weather of the trip, I may bring sunscreen and bug repellent.

My husband and I eat and sleep together on the trail, so we usually split the food, stove, and tent.

The rule is one luxury item, i.e., something you don't need. It can be your harmonica, a travel pillow, a coffee press, small journal, etc. I actually bring two luxury items, but my camera and my Bible are both smaller than average, and I use both of them.

Many packing lists include a rain cover for your pack, but I prefer to put my stuff in plastic bags. Not only does it keep them dry, but I don't have to fish for my toiletries one by one in the bottom of the pack. And it's cheaper. :)

And that's the essentials! I'm always looking for ways to condense my packing list. If it doesn't get used, it doesn't go anymore. Best of all is when an item has multiple uses (the stuff sack/pillow, or the ever useful spork). Unfortunately, there's not much left for me to cut out. Reducing from here means buying expensive lightweight equipment. Hmmm. Time to start saving!
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