Packing for a backpacking trip is similar to going on vacation, but you have to weigh and measure the value of every item you bring because EVERYTHING is going on your back.

A lot of times I “customize” items by cutting off extraneous bits and pieces here and there to subtract weight. Most items are multi-purpose, some are just essential (like your wallet so they can identify your dead corpse, money etc.), and I do have a few luxury items (my GPS, pot cozy etc.,).

Packing is almost as fun as the trip (except when you do it three in the morning the night before).

I’ll be carrying a 25lb pack this weekend. That’s pretty good considering it includes all of my winter gear, and fully loaded with food and water. Obviously food will disappear as I hike. I can reduce the water load as I get into areas with good water sources.

The weight will go down in the summer as I lose clothing, and slackpack some sections.