LightBackpacking.com

Ken, an Eagle Scout and Scoutmaster from Raleigh, N.C., commented on my post about gear lists not necessarily preparing you for the backcountry.

He wrote that his Boy Scout training focuses on being prepared, but he has found himself trying to balance taking everything but the kitchen sink to taking a more common sense approach.

Part of what he writes at scoutcampfire.com:

As I prepare for a backpacking trek, I try to gather all the pertinent information. What is the normal weather patterns for the locale? What is the weather forecast? What types of wildlife may I encounter? How crowded are the trails? What are the options for campsites? etc, etc.

I use to carry anything I thought I might need and anything that one of the boys might need or forget. Now, I try to evaluate the possible need against the cost of the weight. I still want to be prepared, but I want to be prepared in under 25 pounds.

After each trip, I unload my pack, taking a good long hard look at what wasn’t used. That’s right, I evaluate everything I didn’t use. Most of the time that includes my First Aid kit. I will not omit a First Aid kit, but no longer carry enough bandages to wrap King Tut!!

My “mess kit” has been reduced to one pot, a bowl and spoon. I have learned that with a pocket knife and spoon, you can eat anything. I do still carry a mug for my tea/cider.

I have reduced the amount of clothing I take. But I still carry my rain gear and depending on altitude, season and location, my cold weather gear.

Common Sense!! That is the ticket for balancing Preparedness with Light Weight Backpacking. Of course, Common Sense is very uncommon.