Packing for the Smokies

[STICK]

So, my son and I are heading out in the morning to head to the Smokies. We will be hiking for three days. So, today I decided to pack our packs. I took some pics of the process and then decided to make a video of the things that I will be packing.

So, I posted the pics and the video on my blog, and it can be seen here:

http://stick13.wordpress.com/

I will consider any advice if anyone has any to give (that is sensible.) I will say that I am not trying to go real light weight since I am carrying most everything. My son has his pack with his bag, pad, pillow, rain gear, and maybe a few other little things.

Thanks.

[Lone Wolf]

i watched the vid. you prolly got too much stuff but you're only goin' for a few days. i say go with what you got and learn from it. all the experts will come on and tell you to add or subtract this or that. i know more than them. have fun with your son :)

[SassyWindsor]

I agree with LW. Just don't over do it in the summer heat.

[STICK]

If it were just me by myself, a lot of that would be cut out. And believe it or not, I have already cut a lot out from what I started with! This size pack is much nicer than what I used last September.

I am hoping that the temps won't be too bad once we get going. I read that there has never been a recorded temp higher then 80 on top of LeConte. I know LeConte is a little higher than where we will be, but thats ok. We are going to take our time, and enjoy the scenery.

Thanks for checking out the video too.

[Lone Wolf]

y'all will do just fine

[Marta]

Have a great time! Don't be tempted to leave your warm clothing at home. A little rain, a little wind, and you'll be very glad you've got a jacket.

[STICK]

Actually for our sleep clothes we have long sleeve synthetic shirts so we can wear those in conjunction with our rain jackets if it gets cool and we need a little more. I don't have a insulating layer packed though.Maybe I should throw in a fleece for him just in case?

[Appalachian Tater]

Yes, you need a light insulation layer for your son, maybe throw in another long-sleeve synthetic shirt (he can wear them in layers) and a knit cap instead of a fleece. If it gets really cold you can always get in your sleeping bags.

Also make sure you have sunscreen for him and that he stays well-hydrated.

And have fun!

[TIDE-HSV]

It's always a balance between weight and comfort (and convenience). The only way to find your personal level is to do it and find your own point of balance...

[Marta]

Yeah, I would bring a light fleece for him, and a warm hat. It can be cold at night and first thing in the morning, especially if it rains, and there's wind.

I left my fleece at home a few weekends ago because the forecast called for warm, dry weather. Mistake. At 5500', where we camped our first night, I could have used it. Obviously I survived, but I won't be repeating that mistake again anytime soon.

I took my fleece with me to the Grayson Highlands last weekend, where I used it quite a bit, since it was cool and rainy most of the time. Meanwhile back home, not that far away, it was in the high 90s all weekend.