View Full Version : Tami's Gear List PLEASE HELP!
Sunshine Tami Jo
03-01-2011, 22:50
30 days until I hit the trail, and here's my gear list along with weights. Please tell me what you think. This is, of course, before food and water.
Here's My Gear List; WARNING: Some hilarity may ensue
Okay, Folks! You are going to laugh when you read my gear list. And mind you, this is AFTER I culled a significant portion of my original gear (like the bear vault, the folding chair...yep, that one was kind of stupid, but it sure would have been nice, and in my defense, it was sold as a “backpacking” chair and weighs less than a pound), plus numerous other items. As you read this bear in mind that the items in italics are deemed luxuries, and will be removed from my pack. Also beware, because my toiletries list is pretty specific, and you may find it TMI. But hey, it’s the trail, and I need to be prepared!
TAMI’S INITIAL APPALACHIAN TRAIL GEAR LIST:
Backpack with camelback insert: Osprey Xenon 85 Women's Backpack; weight: 107 oz. combined
Trekking poles: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork Trekking Poles; weight: 18 oz.
pack rain cover: Sea to Summit; weight: 4.6 oz
TOTAL WEIGHT OF ABOVE: 129.6 oz. (8.1 lbs.)
SHELTER AND SLEEPING:
Tent: Tarptent Double Rainbow; weight: 30 oz.
Tyvek tent groundsheet; weight: 7.25 oz.
Tent poles and stakes; weight: 15 oz.
Sleeping Bag: Halo +25 in waterproof stuff sack; weight: 40.75 oz.
Sea to Summit Thermolite Reactor sleeping bag liner, 9 oz.
Sleeping pad: Thermarest Neo Air Mattress plus stuffsack; weight: 15 oz.
Blue foam roll; weight: 7 oz.
Sleep mask; weight: 1 oz.
SHELTER AND SLEEPING TOTAL WEIGHT: 125 oz. (7.81 lbs.)
FOOD AND HYDRATION:
Stove: Jetboil personal cooking system with pot support and stablizer kit; weight: 18 oz.
Butane/propane fuel canister; weight: 12.5 oz.
Spork; weight: .5 oz.
Water filter: Katadyn Hiker Pro Water Filter; weight: 14.5 oz.
1-liter Nalgene bottle; weight: 4.5 oz.
FOOD AND HYDRATION TOTAL WEIGHT: 50 oz. (3.125 lbs)
CLOTHING:
Underclothes:
4 pair Exoficio Antimicrobial underwear; weight: 4.5 oz total
2 sports bras; weight: 5 oz.
Base layer:
1 pair Stoic Merino wool leggings; weight: 14 oz.
1 pair Stoic Merino wool leggings; weight: 14 oz.
1 Merino Wool long-sleeved undershirts; weight: 14 oz.
1 Merino Wool long-sleeved undershirts; weight: 14 oz.
Mid Layer:
2 Exoficio tank tops; weight: 7 oz.
2 Columbia lightweight vented long-sleeve shirts; weight: 16 oz.
2 pair convertible pants; weight: 24.5 oz.
3 pair Smartwool socks; weight: 8 oz.
Outerwear:
MontBell Ultralight Thermawrap Insulated Parka; weight: 10.7 oz.
MontBell Ultralight Thermawrap Insulated Vest; weight: 5.2 oz.
rain pants; weight: 6.5 oz.
rain jacket; weight: 11.5 oz.
balaklava; weight: 2 oz.
hat; weight: 3 oz.
gloves: Manzella fleece; weight: 2 oz.
hiking boots; weight: 24.5 oz.
Croc’s Crostrail clogs for water crossings and camp shoes
Fleece neck scarf; weight: 3 oz.
CLOTHING TOTAL WEIGHT: 189.4 oz. (11.83 lbs.)
TOILETRIES AND MISC. PERSONAL ITEMS:
Personal Grooming:
toiletries case; weight: 3 oz.
Dr. Bronner's soap; weight: 4 oz.
deodorant; weight: 4 oz.
dental floss; weight: .5 oz.
toothbrush; weight: .5 oz.
toothpaste; weight: .75 oz.
Body Glide; weight: 2.5 oz.
Comb; weight: .5 oz.
Nail clippers and tweezers; weight: 1 oz.
Towel; weight: 1.5 oz.
Mirror; weight: 1 oz.
Panty liners; weight: 1.5 oz.
Toileting:
Freshette female urinary director (yep, it’ll let me pee like a boy so I don’t have to strip down and squat); weight: 1.25 oz.
toilet paper; weight: 7.75 oz.
hand sanitizer; weight: 2.5 oz.
Squirt bottle (don’t ask!); 1 oz.
Cat shovel; weight: 3 oz.
Wet wipes; weight: 4 oz.
TOILETRIES AND MISC. PERSONAL ITEMS TOTAL WEIGHT: 40.25 oz. (2.52 pounds)
TOOLS:
lantern to journal by: 4.5 oz., including 4 AAA batteries
headlamp; weight: 4 oz.
Leatherman tool; weight: 1.375
Duct tape (have a couple of yards on my trekking poles)
2 Bic lighters; weight: 2 oz.
waterproof matches as backup; weight: 1 oz.
50’ lengths of reflective paracord (rope); weight: 3.5 oz.
50’ length of reflective paracord (rope); weight: 3.5 oz.
Thermarest repair kit; weight: 1 oz.
TOOLS TOTAL WEIGHT: 20.875 oz. (1.3 pounds)
HEALTH AND SAFETY:
bare bones first-aid kit (I hope it’ll be enough!) plus blister kit and needles; weight: 7 oz.
whistle, compass and lip balm on a carabineer; weight: 1.5 oz.
SPOT device with batteries; weight: 8.5 oz.
Sunscreen; weight: 6 oz.
water treatment tablets (backup in case filter fails); weight: 1.5 oz.
Jungle Juice 100% DEET insect repellant; weight: 3 oz.
HEALTH AND SAFETY TOTAL WEIGHT: 27.5 oz (1.72 pounds)
TESSA’S GEAR:
leash, harness, and carabineer for attaching to my waist belt; weight: 3.625 oz.
collapsible bowl; weight: 2.8 oz.
dog food; weight: 16 oz.
shock collar (this is a last-resort device to use if she should get away from me and take off running after an animal or something, which she would definitely do if given the chance); weight: n/a because Tessa will be the one carrying it.
TESSA’S GEAR TOTAL WEIGHT: 22.425 oz. (1.4 pounds)
MISCELLANEOUS:
journal with pen; weight: 3 oz.
gorilla pod for camera; weight: 1.5 oz.
ear plugs; weight: <1 oz.
MP3 player and headphones; weight: 5 oz.
cell phone; weight: 4 oz.
Kindle in protective case; weight: 12.125 oz.
sunglasses; weight: 1.25 oz.
tiny Boggle game; weight: 1.5 oz.
laptop computer; weight: 28 oz.
camera with spare batteries, memory cards and pouch; weight: 9.5 oz.
2 bandanas; weight: 1.75 oz.
ID, credit cards, cash
Ziploc bags
maps/guidebooks: 8 oz.
dry sack with the following contents: 3 spare camera batteries; 2 spare lithium batteries; deck of playing cards; my prescription medication; Tessa’s heartworm and flea medication; Tessa’s shot record and health history; weight: about 13 oz.
MISCELLANEOUS TOTAL WEIGHT: 89.623 oz. (5.6 pounds)
Grand Total Weight: 694.67 oz. (43.42 pounds before food and water!!!!!! Oh my goodness something’s gotta go!!!!)
My "luxury" items weigh about 8.3 pounds, knocking my weight down to 35.12 pounds. Now I'm going to consult more knowledgeable hikers to learn what more I can cut, because I REALLY would like to bring my Kindle and my laptop if at all possible. So hiking friends, what would you cut? When the warmer weather comes my clothing will become much lighter (but will get heavy again in the north as fall approaches, of course.)
Due to the possible weather situations you will encounter I wouldn't want my laptop out in it for a long hike.
Chubbs4U
03-01-2011, 23:22
I wish you luck on your hike. I read some of your blog and Im very sorry for your loss. I feel for your family. I hope you accomplish everything you want to on the trail.
Blissful
03-01-2011, 23:22
You might get cold with your sleep system. 25 degree bag is pretty cold to start. Also your liner is very heavy. I use a silk liner.
Really consider deleting or changing the following (or you will be spending tons of $$ mailing stuff home at Neel Gap).
(PS I am a woman too your age!)
Exchange blue roll foam for a gossamer gear thin pad
Aqua mira for water filter system (you don't need a heavy system for the AT. And more than one hiker I saw had broken systems in a week or two)
Change Nalgene ot an Aqua fina bottle. Are you carrying any other water container? I also had a 3 liter playtpus (flat) for water gathering in camp (oops saw camelback insert)
You have WAY too many clothes!!!
This is all you need: (my list)
one convertible pant (hiking)
one long sleeve merino wool for hiking
one short sleeve shirt for hiking (if it gets warm)
one sports bra
2 pair hiking underwear (use pantiliners) and one pair of cotton for night
3-4 pairs of hiking socks
one mid weight long sleeve shirt for sleep
one mid weight polartec fleece top if it gets really cold
one midweight pants for camp /sleep
one down jacket to start, then switch to mid weight for summer
pair of gloves
mid weight hat
rain jacket
rain pants to start
Other stuff to leave home -
Deodorant (really not needed!)
toiletry case (just use a ziploc bag)
comb, sleep mask
use one small swiss army knife with four gadgets on it - leave leatherman tool and nail clippers at home, scissors on the knife work fine
leave home mirror, freshette (its a pain to keep clean, use etc - you'll learn how to pee pretty quick!), cat shovel, lantern (your headlamp works fine to read / journhal by), thermarest repair kit, laptop(!!), batteries (in town frequently), playing cards unless they are really small
Your boots are really heavy. :( Ilove my trail runners. But you need to get your pack weight down first.
Only need map and guidebook pages for section you are in. Maildrop the others.
You can put dog meds etc in a mail drop and apply in towns. Dog should be trained not to run away on a scent beforehand so shock collar is not needed. Or she must be leashed at all times anyway. I assume the dog is also carrying her own gear. ?
BitBucket
03-01-2011, 23:33
I'll take a shot at helping you lighten the load....I'd say ditch the following and save around 18-20 pounds...
Osprey Xenon 85 Women's Backpack; (go with something considerably smaller after leaving all the following at home)
Sea to Summit Thermolite Reactor sleeping bag liner, 9 oz.
Blue foam roll; weight: 7 oz.
Sleep mask; weight: 1 oz.
pair Exoficio Antimicrobial underwear; weight: 4.5 oz total (drop a pair)
sports bras; weight: 5 oz. (ditch one)
1 pair Stoic Merino wool leggings; weight: 14 oz. (Drop a pair)
1 Merino Wool long-sleeved undershirts; weight: 14 oz.(ditch one)
Exoficio tank tops; weight: 7 oz. (ditch one)
Columbia lightweight vented long-sleeve shirts; weight: 16 oz. (ditch one)
pair convertible pants; weight: 24.5 oz. (ditch one pair)
MontBell Ultralight Thermawrap Insulated Parka; weight: 10.7 oz.
MontBell Ultralight Thermawrap Insulated Vest; weight: 5.2 oz.
Fleece neck scarf; weight: 3 oz.
deodorant; weight: 4 oz.
Towel; weight: 1.5 oz.
Mirror; weight: 1 oz.
Cat shovel; weight: 3 oz.
lantern to journal by: 4.5 oz., including 4 AAA batteries (use headlamp)
50’ lengths of reflective paracord (rope); weight: 3.5 oz. (ditch one)
SPOT device with batteries; weight: 8.5 oz.
Sunscreen; weight: 6 oz. (get a smaller bottle)
Jungle Juice 100% DEET insect repellant; weight: 3 oz. (won't need starting out)
TESSA’S GEAR: (leave the dog at home, sorry)
leash, harness, and carabineer for attaching to my waist belt; weight: 3.625 oz.
collapsible bowl; weight: 2.8 oz.
dog food; weight: 16 oz.
shock collar (this is a last-resort device to use if she should get away from me and take off running after an animal or something, which she would definitely do if given the chance); weight: n/a because Tessa will be the one carrying it.
TESSA’S GEAR TOTAL WEIGHT: 22.425 oz. (1.4 pounds)
gorilla pod for camera; weight: 1.5 oz.
MP3 player and headphones; weight: 5 oz.(put music on cell phone)
Kindle in protective case; weight: 12.125 oz
tiny Boggle game; weight: 1.5 oz.
laptop computer; weight: 28 oz.
camera with spare batteries, memory cards and pouch; weight: 9.5 oz.
bandanas; weight: 1.75 oz. (ditch one)
ID, credit cards, cash (carry D/L 1 credit card, <$20 cash)
deck of playing cards;
Tessa’s heartworm and flea medication;
Tessa’s shot record and health history; weight: about 13 oz.
Delta-Dawn
03-01-2011, 23:34
I'd say if you really want your laptop, bounce it along for town stops. Use your smartphone on the trail for quick blog or Trail journal updates, the laptop when in town. This is what I plan on doing. Actually, I plan on bouncing a lot of the things I won't need often, like the dog meds (only need once a month), the extra clothes and more of the toiletries. :)
Maybe also drop the deodorant except for town. It won't matter after a few days anyway. ;)
Where is the shock collar for you??? What if you take off after a cute hiker??? I'm just sayin' ;)
You've got to be kidding hauling around all those clothes. Consider your clothes a UNIFORM and carry just your uniform and nothing else.
A laptop and a kindle? Are you going backpacking or just hanging at the coffeehouse?
I suggest you set off with that load. You'll discover your priorities real quick.
Code: 1=OK
2=Not needed
3=Trade for.....
4=Put it in a box and send it to a place up the trail and when you get there either pack it or send it back home.
TAMI’S INITIAL APPALACHIAN TRAIL GEAR LIST:
Backpack with camelback C3-when it gets yucky trade for a platy probably lighter
insert: Osprey Xenon 85 C3-too big, aim for no more than 48-60 oz Women's Backpack; weight: 107 oz. combined
Trekking poles: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork Trekking Poles; weight: 18 oz.
pack rain cover: Sea to Summit; weight: 4.6 oz
TOTAL WEIGHT OF ABOVE: 129.6 oz. (8.1 lbs.)
SHELTER AND SLEEPING:
Tent: Tarptent Double Rainbow; weight: 30 oz. C1-room for Tessa
Tyvek tent groundsheet; weight: 7.25 oz.
Tent poles and stakes; weight: 15 oz.
Sleeping Bag: Halo +25 in waterproof stuff sack; weight: 40.75 oz. C3-too heavy for what you get
Sea to Summit Thermolite Reactor sleeping bag liner, 9 oz. C1-I like mine, Tessa might need it too
Sleeping pad: Thermarest Neo Air Mattress plus stuffsack; weight: 15 oz.
Blue foam roll; weight: 7 oz. C1-Tessa's?
Sleep mask; weight: 1 oz. C2
SHELTER AND SLEEPING TOTAL WEIGHT: 125 oz. (7.81 lbs.)
FOOD AND HYDRATION:
Stove: Jetboil personal cooking system with pot support and stablizer kit; weight: 18 oz.
Butane/propane fuel canister; weight: 12.5 oz.
Spork; weight: .5 oz.
Water filter: Katadyn Hiker Pro Water Filter; weight: 14.5 oz. C4-too much trouble when it might freeze, aqua mira for you, Tessa will be ok
1-liter Nalgene bottle; weight: 4.5 oz. C3-any plastic bottle will do along with your other bag
FOOD AND HYDRATION TOTAL WEIGHT: 50 oz. (3.125 lbs)
CLOTHING:
Underclothes:
4 pair Exoficio Antimicrobial underwear; weight: 4.5 oz total
2 sports bras; weight: 5 oz.
Base layer:
1 pair Stoic Merino wool leggings; weight: 14 oz. C4
1 pair Stoic Merino wool leggings; weight: 14 oz.C3-anything lighter?
1 Merino Wool long-sleeved undershirts; weight: 14 oz.C1
1 Merino Wool long-sleeved undershirts; weight: 14 oz.C4
Mid Layer:
2 Exoficio tank tops; weight: 7 oz.
2 Columbia lightweight vented long-sleeve shirts; weight: 16 oz.C3-trade one for a tee shirt
2 pair convertible pants; weight: 24.5 oz.C2-one is enough
3 pair Smartwool socks; weight: 8 oz.
Outerwear:
MontBell Ultralight Thermawrap Insulated Parka; weight: 10.7 oz.
MontBell Ultralight Thermawrap Insulated Vest; weight: 5.2 oz.
rain pants; weight: 6.5 oz.
rain jacket; weight: 11.5 oz.
balaklava; weight: 2 oz.
hat; weight: 3 oz.
gloves: Manzella fleece; weight: 2 oz.
hiking boots; weight: 24.5 oz.
Croc’s Crostrail clogs for water crossings and camp shoes
Fleece neck scarf; weight: 3 oz.
CLOTHING TOTAL WEIGHT: 189.4 oz. (11.83 lbs.)
TOILETRIES AND MISC. PERSONAL ITEMS:
Personal Grooming:
toiletries case; weight: 3 oz. C4
Dr. Bronner's soap; weight: 4 oz. C3-one oz is probably enough to carry
deodorant; weight: 4 oz C3-Take a small piece wraped in cotton and ditch the container.
dental floss; weight: .5 oz.
toothbrush; weight: .5 oz.
toothpaste; weight: .75 oz.
Body Glide; weight: 2.5 oz.
Comb; weight: .5 oz.
Nail clippers and tweezers; weight: 1 oz.
Towel; weight: 1.5 oz.
Mirror; weight: 1 oz.
Panty liners; weight: 1.5 oz.
Toileting:
Freshette female urinary director (yep, it’ll let me pee like a boy so I don’t have to strip down and squat); weight: 1.25 oz.C1-but keeping these things clean is a hassel
toilet paper; weight: 7.75 oz. C3-try those little kleenex packs, about one a day, handy water resistant wraping, put one in your pocket each morning
hand sanitizer; weight: 2.5 oz.
Squirt bottle (don’t ask!); 1 oz.
Cat shovel; weight: 3 oz. C3-an MSR snow stake should do even for Tessa
Wet wipes; weight: 4 oz.
TOILETRIES AND MISC. PERSONAL ITEMS TOTAL WEIGHT: 40.25 oz. (2.52 pounds)
TOOLS:
lantern to journal by: 4.5 oz., including 4 AAA batteries C4-you will be asleep
headlamp; weight: 4 oz.
Leatherman tool; weight: 1.375
Duct tape (have a couple of yards on my trekking poles) I don't know why people do this-Why lift it with your arms when you could wrap some around a straw and put it in your repair kit where it is protected from the elements and you lift it with your legs, IMHO.
2 Bic lighters; weight: 2 oz.
waterproof matches as backup; weight: 1 oz.
50’ lengths of reflective paracord (rope); weight: 3.5 oz. C1
50’ length of reflective paracord (rope); weight: 3.5 oz. C2
Thermarest repair kit; weight: 1 oz. C3-With a dog, I would carry a zrest as a repair kit.
TOOLS TOTAL WEIGHT: 20.875 oz. (1.3 pounds)
HEALTH AND SAFETY:
bare bones first-aid kit (I hope it’ll be enough!) plus blister kit and needles; weight: 7 oz.
whistle, compass and lip balm on a carabineer; weight: 1.5 oz.
SPOT device with batteries; weight: 8.5 oz. C4
Sunscreen; weight: 6 oz.
water treatment tablets (backup in case filter fails); weight: 1.5 oz.
Jungle Juice 100% DEET insect repellant; weight: 3 oz. C4
HEALTH AND SAFETY TOTAL WEIGHT: 27.5 oz (1.72 pounds)
TESSA’S GEAR:
leash, harness, and carabineer for attaching to my waist belt; weight: 3.625 oz.
collapsible bowl; weight: 2.8 oz.
dog food; weight: 16 oz.C3-Be sure to take some treats and talk to your vet about some high calorie supplements like sled dogs get
shock collar (this is a last-resort device to use if she should get away from me and take off running after an animal or something, which she would definitely do if given the chance); weight: n/a because Tessa will be the one carrying it.
TESSA’S GEAR TOTAL WEIGHT: 22.425 oz. (1.4 pounds)
MISCELLANEOUS:
journal with pen; weight: 3 oz.
gorilla pod for camera; weight: 1.5 oz.
ear plugs; weight: <1 oz.
MP3 player and headphones; weight: 5 oz. C4
cell phone; weight: 4 oz.
Kindle in protective case; weight: 12.125 oz.C4
sunglasses; weight: 1.25 oz.
tiny Boggle game; weight: 1.5 oz.C4
laptop computer; weight: 28 oz.C2
camera with spare batteries, memory cards and pouch; weight: 9.5 oz.
2 bandanas; weight: 1.75 oz. C1
ID, credit cards, cash
Ziploc bags
maps/guidebooks: 8 oz.
dry sack with the following contents: 3 spare camera batteries C4; 2 spare lithium batteries C4; deck of playing cards C4; my prescription medication; Tessa’s heartworm and flea medication; Tessa’s shot record and health history; weight: about 13 oz.
MISCELLANEOUS TOTAL WEIGHT: 89.623 oz. (5.6 pounds)
Grand Total Weight: 694.67 oz. (43.42 pounds before food and water!!!!!! Oh my goodness something’s gotta go!!!!)
My "luxury" items weigh about 8.3 pounds, knocking my weight down to 35.12 pounds. Now I'm going to consult more knowledgeable hikers to learn what more I can cut, because I REALLY would like to bring my Kindle and my laptop if at all possible. So hiking friends, what would you cut? When the warmer weather comes my clothing will become much lighter (but will get heavy again in the north as fall approaches, of course.)
If there is anything you think you could do without for a few days, put it in a box and send it to the first town or mail drop on the trail--the lighter your pack is to start with the happier you will be. If you found that you missed having something then you can take it along, if not send it up just a bit farther until you decide for sure--you might as well let the postman carry it for you, for a while anyway.
Have fun!
Sunshine Tami Jo
03-02-2011, 02:10
Grayfox, you obviously spent some time in truly looking at my list and considering it, and for that I thank you. I thank ALL of you who have responded, in fact. I hope that, when I leave the trail, I will have learned a great deal and can help others as you are helping me.
http://www.shutterbugtami.blogspot.com
Sunshine Tami Jo
03-02-2011, 02:37
And Blissful too...TY.
Turtle Feet
03-02-2011, 08:31
Hi Tamijo! You'll be a couple of weeks behind me, but I'm hoping we get a chance to meet somewhere along the way. I've got a gear list posted on my postholer journal, give you an idea anyway of some weight-saving options. I weighed my pack last night, with food & water included - 25.5lbs.
I'm leaving home later today to make my way toward the airport. I'm actually staying with some family for the next 10 days, then set foot on Springer on the 13th.
Hope to see you out there....
tf
Llama Legs
03-02-2011, 08:51
bring a big giant roll of postage stamps, because you'll be mailing most of that stuff home when you get to Mountain Crossings. I'm not trying to be harsh - but you'll be miserable unless you cut over half that gear weight...or more.
Hi tamijo,
I'm from Austin as well. I will be starting the approach on the 15th of March. I'm in no hurry whatsoever so there is a good chance our paths might cross. I hope I get to meet you and your girl Tessa. I lost my pup just over a month ago. But he's still with me in spirit.
I'm new to the whole gear thing as well so I doubt you want my advice but if you would like you can view what I'm taking. My 2011 Gear List (http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/showthread.php?t=69102).
Good luck with the planning.
Fortis
bigcranky
03-02-2011, 11:19
Sent you a PM with some suggestions.
Snowleopard
03-02-2011, 12:07
Lots of good advice by the others here.
If there is anything you think you could do without for a few days, put it in a box and send it to the first town or mail drop on the trail--the lighter your pack is to start with the happier you will be. If you found that you missed having something then you can take it along, if not send it up just a bit farther until you decide for sure--you might as well let the postman carry it for you, for a while anyway.
Have fun!
This is excellent advice for everyone!
You have sleeping bag, heavy liner, thermawrap jacket and thermawrap vest. Even if those who think your sleeping bag is not warm enough are right, drop the liner. You should be warm enough with your jacket, balaclava and long underwear on inside the bag. On the coldest night, you want to wear all your dry clothes.
Stuff sack for sleeping bag: you don't want your bag compressed -- it'll lose loft over time.
Consider a big plastic trash bag lining your pack to keep everything dry. Drop pack cover. If you can, buy a smaller lighter pack.
Will the neoair mattress survive the dog's claws?? You probably don't need a full length mattress, use extra clothes as a pillow with no mattress under your head.
I'm loath to suggest that you add anything else since, in my opinion, you're overloaded as is, but I always suggest that earplugs are necessary if you plan on staying even once in a shelter or hostel and expect to sleep. This will come as a shock, but there are quite a few who snore like chainsaws.
I agree with most of Greyfox's recommendations, but I also definitely agree with sbhikes -- carry all of that stuff from Amicalola to Neels and you'll quickly find out what your priorities are.
I'm 6', 210 lbs, do distance running as a serious hobby and consider myself in good shape, but I'd wanna go home to Jesus if I had to haul around your pack.
All that said, I look forward to following your hike -- good luck and enjoy every step!
Edited to say: well, duh, you ARE packing ear plugs. Nevermind!
Sassafras Lass
03-02-2011, 14:57
Hey, we're driving down to GA in 24 days, glad to see you're bringing a dog!
You've had some great advice so far. The only thing I would add (and what I'm personally struggling with) is to limit the items that don't serve more than 1 purpose; the easiest way to pack on the pounds is to carry stuff that cannot serve a dual purpose.
Here is how I would reconfigure your pack if I were carrying it:
Backpack with camelback insert: Osprey Xenon 85 Women's Backpack; weight: 107 oz. combined
85 is pretty large, not to mention quite heavy - if you were hiking in the Yukon away from civilization, I would stick with it. Otherwise, see if you can find another pack that fits just as well but with less ci and isn't any more than, say, 3 1/2 lbs.
Tent: Tarptent Double Rainbow; weight: 30 oz.
Tyvek tent groundsheet; weight: 7.25 oz.
Great tent, it's what hubby and I are bringing. Don't know that the groundsheet is necessary, many people don't use them and it's easy enough to keep your floor dry and clean if you just use a little common sense in choosing your tentsite.
Sleeping Bag: Halo +25 in waterproof stuff sack; weight: 40.75 oz.
Heavy for a 25F, is it synthetic? I would definitely advise going down, for warmth as much as weight savings. See if you can trade up for a 15F or 20F bag that is closer to 2 lbs, preferably 800 fill.
Blue foam roll; weight: 7 oz.
Leave it, you won't need it.
Stove: Jetboil personal cooking system with pot support and stablizer kit; weight: 18 oz.
Heavy dinner set, you could go alchol pop can stove (1/2 oz.) or even an MSR Pocket Rocket (3 oz.)
1-liter Nalgene bottle; weight: 4.5 oz.
The Nalgene is closer to 6 oz., I believe - go with a Gatorade bottle, still has a wide mouth and won't leach chemicals, only about 2 oz.
4 pair Exoficio Antimicrobial underwear; weight: 4.5 oz total
Bring 1 pair only. Trust me.
2 sports bras; weight: 5 oz.
Bring 1 only. Trust me.
2 Exoficio tank tops; weight: 7 oz.
Bring 1 only. Trust me.
2 Columbia lightweight vented long-sleeve shirts; weight: 16 oz.
Bring 1 only. Trust me.
2 pair convertible pants; weight: 24.5 oz.
Bring 1 pair only. Trust me.
3 pair Smartwool socks; weight: 8 oz.
Agree - your feet keep you going, pamper them and keep them as dry as possible. But each pair is only around 2 oz., so that's more like 6 oz.
MontBell Ultralight Thermawrap Insulated Parka; weight: 10.7 oz.
MontBell Ultralight Thermawrap Insulated Vest; weight: 5.2 oz.
Bring 1 only. Trust me.
balaklava; weight: 2 oz.
I LOVE my balaclava, one of the best pieces of gear I own. Does yours block wind sufficiently?
Fleece neck scarf; weight: 3 oz.
Don't need - you have a balaclava and a hat.
Personal Grooming:
toiletries case; weight: 3 oz.
Dr. Bronner's soap; weight: 4 oz.
deodorant; weight: 4 oz.
dental floss; weight: .5 oz.
toothbrush; weight: .5 oz.
toothpaste; weight: .75 oz.
Body Glide; weight: 2.5 oz.
Comb; weight: .5 oz.
Nail clippers and tweezers; weight: 1 oz.
Towel; weight: 1.5 oz.
Mirror; weight: 1 oz.
Panty liners; weight: 1.5 oz.
Toileting:
Freshette female urinary director (yep, it’ll let me pee like a boy so I don’t have to strip down and squat); weight: 1.25 oz.
toilet paper; weight: 7.75 oz.
hand sanitizer; weight: 2.5 oz.
Squirt bottle (don’t ask!); 1 oz.
Cat shovel; weight: 3 oz.
Wet wipes; weight: 4 oz.
You could pick up a combo mirror/brush for additional weight savings. Everything is travel-sized, I assume?
lantern to journal by: 4.5 oz., including 4 AAA batteries
Don't need - you have a head lamp, and if it's a good one you can soften the beam (and turn it red) to make it easier on the eyes for reading.
2 Bic lighters; weight: 2 oz.
waterproof matches as backup; weight: 1 oz.
Only 1 lighter. Consider a firesteel instead of matches.
MISCELLANEOUS:
journal with pen; weight: 3 oz.
gorilla pod for camera; weight: 1.5 oz.
ear plugs; weight: <1 oz.
MP3 player and headphones; weight: 5 oz.
cell phone; weight: 4 oz.
Kindle in protective case; weight: 12.125 oz.
sunglasses; weight: 1.25 oz.
tiny Boggle game; weight: 1.5 oz.
laptop computer; weight: 28 oz.
camera with spare batteries, memory cards and pouch; weight: 9.5 oz.
2 bandanas; weight: 1.75 oz.
ID, credit cards, cash
Ziploc bags
maps/guidebooks: 8 oz.
dry sack with the following contents: 3 spare camera batteries; 2 spare lithium batteries; deck of playing cards; my prescription medication; Tessa’s heartworm and flea medication; Tessa’s shot record and health history; weight: about 13 oz.
A lot of technology, but that's a personal decision.
Consider what's necessary, and what's simply desired. Follow my suggestions and keep your Misc. wanted, then see how you feel at Neel's Gap. :)
Rocket Jones
03-02-2011, 15:13
If you must have the laptop, there's a Kindle reader for it. Is it too late to consider a small netbook like an eeepc?
I recommend you read this web site (read every link), Tamijo (and anybody else). It will help you get your priorities in order:
http://www.spiriteaglehome.com/THP_top.html
jacquelineanngrant
03-02-2011, 19:29
Hi! I too am a female hiker in my forties and an experienced thru-hiker. I would suggest that you leave the laptop. Leave the cat shovel, you won't need it. Most hikers end up sending rain pants home as well. I carry lightweight snowpants for cold wet weather(they don't make me sweat like the rain pants). You also might want to get a warmer sleeping bag. I am a cold sleeper so I use a zero bag and a thermolite liner.
mountain squid
03-02-2011, 20:58
Very, very thorough list. Some observations:
clothing - will you ever wear everything at the same time, if not you're probably carrying too much
dr Bs is very sudsy - 4 oz is probably too much
leave deodorant
check pack's sternum strap buckle - I believe that is a whistle
1 lighter is enough
is dog carrying own gear?
You've already received alot of good advice, so I didn't scrutinize too much. About luxury items - you've got alot - you should carefully scrutinize them. Consider leaving most behind until you are accustomed to walking all day, every day. Remember, you are going on a hiking trip and not a camping trip (happy to see you already ditched the camp chair:D). In the beginning you will likely find yourself too tired to play boggle or cards or fumble with a computer or kindle, etc. Not to mention all the hikers you will be meeting. You will be busy talking gear with them . . . (Italicized luxury items - what does "removed from your pack mean?" - that you are NOT taking them or that you are having the dog carry them?!?)
If you are unable to reduce some weight, you will probably, as Llama Legs suggests, be mailing alot of stuff home at Neels Gap (I see it every year).
Another thing about your pack. Consider removing the top lid. If you do not take the lid, it will force you to make everything else fit in the main body, which will also force you to carefully consider the importance of each item.
Good Luck and Have Fun!!
See you on the trail,
mt squid
some observations (http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/showthread.php?t=14493)
such good advice so far - not sure why I should add more - but respectfully, it seems like you are a little scared of this and by packing all of this crazy stuff it makes you feel safer about the trip - like the dog's medical records!, a laptop! - this is crazy stuff! - my first aid kit is a roll of coaches tape and some antiseptic, a needle and thread - I keep it with my toilet kit which is a toothbrush cut in half and some tooth powder and a 1/3 piece of a bar of dr, bronners in a zip lock. Work on your THINKING about the trip and it will help you pack - the goal is not to bring everything you might need - bringing your entire life to the trail - the goal is to carry only things that are essential for warmth, dryness, and food - then add a tiny bit of "luxury - that's really the point. If you have time to do a few weekend trips, it will really help you out - sounds like you are pretty new at this ........ with a lot of respect and sincere wishes for good luck ....
oh - if you want to write and read to lantern light, do this: take your full nalgene bottle and equip it with a tiny piece of thread for hanging it. Stretch your headlamp over the bottle end-to-end with the light shining inward toward the water - now you have a nalgene lantern and lava lamp. Very important skill ........
30 days until I hit the trail, and here's my gear list along with weights. Please tell me what you think. This is, of course, before food and water.
TAMI’S INITIAL APPALACHIAN TRAIL GEAR LIST:
Backpack with camelback insert: Osprey Xenon 85 Women's Backpack; weight: 107 oz. combined
Seriously 107 ounces? You don't need a camelback "insert" you just need a water bladder that should weight like 2-3 ounces. 85 liters is way too big.
Trekking poles: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork Trekking Poles; weight: 18 oz.
pack rain cover: Sea to [/FONT][/COLOR]Summit[/SIZE]; weight: 4.6 oz
Ditch this. You've got dry sacks for everything you could have. Completely useless.
TOTAL WEIGHT OF ABOVE: 129.6 oz. (8.1 lbs.)
SHELTER AND SLEEPING:
Tent: Tarptent Double Rainbow; weight: 30 oz.
Tyvek tent groundsheet; weight: 7.25 oz.
Tent poles and stakes; weight: 15 oz.
Sleeping Bag: Halo +25 in waterproof stuff sack; weight: 40.75 oz.
Sea to Summit Thermolite Reactor sleeping bag liner, 9 oz.
Sleeping pad: Thermarest Neo Air Mattress plus stuffsack; weight: 15 oz.
Blue foam roll; weight: 7 oz.
Sleep mask; weight: 1 oz.
SHELTER AND SLEEPING TOTAL WEIGHT: 125 oz. (7.81 lbs.)
Ditch the 7 ounce blue foam roll. If you really want a foam pad with the air mattress get a gossamer gear one that weighs a few ounces.
FOOD AND HYDRATION:
Stove: Jetboil personal cooking system with pot support and stablizer kit; weight: 18 oz.
Butane/propane fuel canister; weight: 12.5 oz.
Spork; weight: .5 oz.
Water filter: Katadyn Hiker Pro Water Filter; weight: 14.5 oz.
1-liter Nalgene bottle; weight: 4.5 oz.
FOOD AND HYDRATION TOTAL WEIGHT: 50 oz. (3.125 lbs)
Seriously get rid of the filter. It will break a week into the hike and before then you'll be getting cross contamination from the intake and outtake tubes anyway.
CLOTHING:
Underclothes:
4 pair Exoficio Antimicrobial underwear; weight: 4.5 oz total
2 sports bras; weight: 5 oz.
Base layer:
1 pair Stoic Merino wool leggings; weight: 14 oz.
1 pair Stoic Merino wool leggings; weight: 14 oz.
1 Merino Wool long-sleeved undershirts; weight: 14 oz.
1 Merino Wool long-sleeved undershirts; weight: 14 oz.
Mid Layer:
2 Exoficio tank tops; weight: 7 oz.
2 Columbia lightweight vented long-sleeve shirts; weight: 16 oz.
2 pair convertible pants; weight: 24.5 oz.
3 pair Smartwool socks; weight: 8 oz.
Outerwear:
MontBell Ultralight Thermawrap Insulated Parka; weight: 10.7 oz.
MontBell Ultralight Thermawrap Insulated Vest; weight: 5.2 oz.
rain pants; weight: 6.5 oz.
rain jacket; weight: 11.5 oz.
balaklava; weight: 2 oz.
hat; weight: 3 oz.
gloves: Manzella fleece; weight: 2 oz.
hiking boots; weight: 24.5 oz.
Croc’s Crostrail clogs for water crossings and camp shoes
Fleece neck scarf; weight: 3 oz.
CLOTHING TOTAL WEIGHT: 189.4 oz. (11.83 lbs.)
Screw that. Take one pair of pants. One shirt. One fleece. One jacket. One hat. One rain jacket. etc. etc. You're going to smell. Get over it.
TOILETRIES AND MISC. PERSONAL ITEMS:
Personal Grooming:
toiletries case; weight: 3 oz.
Dr. Bronner's soap; weight: 4 oz.
deodorant; weight: 4 oz.
dental floss; weight: .5 oz.
toothbrush; weight: .5 oz.
toothpaste; weight: .75 oz.
Body Glide; weight: 2.5 oz.
Comb; weight: .5 oz.
Nail clippers and tweezers; weight: 1 oz.
Towel; weight: 1.5 oz.
Mirror; weight: 1 oz.
Panty liners; weight: 1.5 oz.
Toileting:
Freshette female urinary director (yep, it’ll let me pee like a boy so I don’t have to strip down and squat); weight: 1.25 oz.
toilet paper; weight: 7.75 oz.
hand sanitizer; weight: 2.5 oz.
Squirt bottle (don’t ask!); 1 oz.
Cat shovel; weight: 3 oz.
Wet wipes; weight: 4 oz.
TOILETRIES AND MISC. PERSONAL ITEMS TOTAL WEIGHT: 40.25 oz. (2.52 pounds)
A mirror? No. Deodorant? No. You'll look like ****. You'll smell like ****. Sometimes you'll be sitting around and say to yourself. "I think I have my own feces on my hands." And you just won't care. Leave all that ego and BS behind.
TOOLS:
lantern to journal by: 4.5 oz., including 4 AAA batteries
headlamp; weight: 4 oz.
Leatherman tool; weight: 1.375
Duct tape (have a couple of yards on my trekking poles)
2 Bic lighters; weight: 2 oz.
waterproof matches as backup; weight: 1 oz.
50’ lengths of reflective paracord (rope); weight: 3.5 oz.
50’ length of reflective paracord (rope); weight: 3.5 oz.
Thermarest repair kit; weight: 1 oz.
TOOLS TOTAL WEIGHT: 20.875 oz. (1.3 pounds)
HEALTH AND SAFETY:
bare bones first-aid kit (I hope it’ll be enough!) plus blister kit and needles; weight: 7 oz.
whistle, compass and lip balm on a carabineer; weight: 1.5 oz.
SPOT device with batteries; weight: 8.5 oz.
Sunscreen; weight: 6 oz.
water treatment tablets (backup in case filter fails); weight: 1.5 oz.
Jungle Juice 100% DEET insect repellant; weight: 3 oz.
HEALTH AND SAFETY TOTAL WEIGHT: 27.5 oz (1.72 pounds)
TESSA’S GEAR:
leash, harness, and carabineer for attaching to my waist belt; weight: 3.625 oz.
collapsible bowl; weight: 2.8 oz.
dog food; weight: 16 oz.
shock collar (this is a last-resort device to use if she should get away from me and take off running after an animal or something, which she would definitely do if given the chance); weight: n/a because Tessa will be the one carrying it.
TESSA’S GEAR TOTAL WEIGHT: 22.425 oz. (1.4 pounds)
MISCELLANEOUS:
journal with pen; weight: 3 oz.
gorilla pod for camera; weight: 1.5 oz.
ear plugs; weight: <1 oz.
MP3 player and headphones; weight: 5 oz.
cell phone; weight: 4 oz.
Kindle in protective case; weight: 12.125 oz.
sunglasses; weight: 1.25 oz.
tiny Boggle game; weight: 1.5 oz.
laptop computer; weight: 28 oz.
camera with spare batteries, memory cards and pouch; weight: 9.5 oz.
2 bandanas; weight: 1.75 oz.
ID, credit cards, cash
Ziploc bags
maps/guidebooks: 8 oz.
dry sack with the following contents: 3 spare camera batteries; 2 spare lithium batteries; deck of playing cards; my prescription medication; Tessa’s heartworm and flea medication; Tessa’s shot record and health history; weight: about 13 oz.
MISCELLANEOUS TOTAL WEIGHT: 89.623 oz. (5.6 pounds)
Laptop? Are you kidding? If you're taking a Kindle take the guidebooks on it and just carry a couple of pages for on the trail.
Grand Total Weight: 694.67 oz. (43.42 pounds before food and water!!!!!! Oh my goodness something’s gotta go!!!!)
My "luxury" items weigh about 8.3 pounds, knocking my weight down to 35.12 pounds. Now I'm going to consult more knowledgeable hikers to learn what more I can cut, because I REALLY would like to bring my Kindle and my laptop if at all possible. So hiking friends, what would you cut? When the warmer weather comes my clothing will become much lighter (but will get heavy again in the north as fall approaches, of course.)
I'm going to edit your list in a different post. The heaviest thing you're carrying is your inability to let go.
TAMI’S INITIAL APPALACHIAN TRAIL GEAR LIST:
Backpack with camelback insert: Osprey Xenon 85 Women's Backpack; weight: 107 oz. combined GET A BACKPACK THAT DOESN'T WEIGH OVER 5 POUNDS!
Trekking poles: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork Trekking Poles; weight: 18 oz.
TOTAL WEIGHT OF ABOVE: 125 oz. different backpack 78 ounces...
SHELTER AND SLEEPING:
Tent: Tarptent Double Rainbow; weight: 30 oz.
Tyvek tent groundsheet; weight: 7.25 oz.
Tent poles and stakes; weight: 15 oz.
Sleeping Bag: Halo +25 in waterproof stuff sack; weight: 40.75 oz.
Sleeping pad: Thermarest Neo Air Mattress plus stuffsack; weight: 15 oz.
[/SIZE][SIZE=3]SHELTER AND SLEEPING TOTAL WEIGHT: 108 ounces
FOOD AND HYDRATION:
ALCOHOL STOVE OR A LIGHTWEIGHT CANISTER STOVE AN TI POT.
Spork; weight: .5 oz.
1-liter Nalgene bottle; weight: 4.5 oz.
FOOD AND HYDRATION TOTAL WEIGHT: 50 oz. (3.125 lbs)
CLOTHING:
Underclothes:
2 pair Exoficio Antimicrobial underwear; weight: 4.5 oz total
1 sports bras; weight: 5 oz.
Base layer:
1 pair Stoic Merino wool leggings; weight: 14 oz.
1 Merino Wool long-sleeved undershirts; weight: 14 oz.
1 Columbia lightweight vented long-sleeve shirts; weight: 16 oz.
1 pair convertible pants; weight: 24.5 oz.
3 pair Smartwool socks; weight: 8 oz.
Outerwear:
MontBell Ultralight Thermawrap Insulated Parka; weight: 10.7 oz.
rain pants; weight: 6.5 oz.
rain jacket; weight: 11.5 oz.
hat; weight: 3 oz.
gloves: Manzella fleece; weight: 2 oz.
hiking boots; weight: 24.5 oz.
TOILETRIES AND MISC. PERSONAL ITEMS:
Personal Grooming:
dental floss; weight: .5 oz.
toothbrush; weight: .5 oz.
toothpaste; weight: .75 oz.
Body Glide; weight: 2.5 oz.
Comb; weight: .5 oz.
Nail clippers and tweezers; weight: 1 oz.
Towel; weight: 1.5 oz.
Panty liners; weight: 1.5 oz.
Toileting:
Freshette female urinary director (yep, it’ll let me pee like a boy so I don’t have to strip down and squat); weight: 1.25 oz.
toilet paper; weight: 7.75 oz.
hand sanitizer; weight: 2.5 oz.
Squirt bottle (don’t ask!); 1 oz.
Wet wipes; weight: 4 oz.
TOOLS:
headlamp; weight: 4 oz.
Duct tape (have a couple of yards on my trekking poles)
1 Bic lighters; weight: 2 oz.
waterproof matches as backup; weight: 1 oz.
50’ lengths of reflective paracord (rope); weight: 3.5 oz.
Thermarest repair kit; weight: 1 oz.
HEALTH AND SAFETY:
bare bones first-aid kit (I hope it’ll be enough!) plus blister kit and needles; weight: 7 oz. THIS ISN'T BARE BONES.
SPOT device with batteries; weight: 8.5 oz.
Sunscreen; weight: 6 oz. PUT A FEW OUNCES IN A SMALL BOTTLE
water treatment tablets (NO BACKUP THIS IS WHAT YOU USE); weight: 1.5 oz.
TESSA’S GEAR:
leash, harness, and carabineer for attaching to my waist belt; weight: 3.625 oz.
collapsible bowl; weight: 2.8 oz.
dog food; weight: 16 oz.
shock collar (this is a last-resort device to use if she should get away from me and take off running after an animal or something, which she would definitely do if given the chance); weight: n/a because Tessa will be the one carrying it.
TESSA’S GEAR TOTAL WEIGHT: 22.425 oz. (1.4 pounds)
MISCELLANEOUS:
journal with pen; weight: 3 oz.
ear plugs; weight: <1 oz.
MP3 player and headphones; weight: 5 oz.
cell phone; weight: 4 oz.
Kindle in protective case; weight: 12.125 oz.sunglasses; weight: 1.25 oz.
camera with spare batteries, memory cards and pouch; weight: 9.5 oz.
2 bandanas; weight: 1.75 oz.
ID, credit cards, cash
Ziploc bags
dry sack with the following contents: 3 spare camera batteries; 2 spare lithium batteries; my prescription medication; Tessa’s heartworm and flea medication; Tessa’s shot record and health history; weight: about 13 oz.
Even with the Double Rainbow it's amazing that you're carrying a tarptent and a NeoAir and somehow weigh in this much. I wouldn't measure my poles or my shoes in my weight. Just commit to not carrying things. It's not difficult.
MP3 player and headphones; weight: 5 oz.
cell phone; weight: 4 oz.
Kindle in protective case; weight: 12.125 oz.
...
tiny Boggle game; weight: 1.5 oz.
laptop computer; weight: 28 oz.
camera with spare batteries, memory cards and pouch; weight: 9.5 oz.
these 6 items could maybe be reduced to just one of them with the right device?
Blissful
03-02-2011, 22:43
Someone suggested leaving the blue foam pad at home. I disagree. I would bring some kind of pad to put under the neoair. Its only good to 30 degrees or so. I used a gossamer gear one myself as it is much lighter. With only a 25 degree bag, its calling it close as it is.
I was a bit doubtful about the various weights posted, given a Double Rainbow (I assume tarptent.com product) listed at 30 oz. The double rainbow is listed at 41 oz according to the online product spec sheets. But then I saw that the tent pole and stakes were broken out as separate weight items. FWIW, I don't understand the need for a two-person tent --- okay, for the dog, I guess. Never mind.
I do suggest that you carefully read the various threads about the pro's and con's of bringing a dog on a thru-hike (search this site).
Blue foam pad: yes, consider looking at Gossamer Gear products to lighten up, and if possible include in your order a 1/8" thinlight pad; put that under the neo-air, every morning take care when rolling it up to brush off any debris so no pokey's get embedded. Doing that my neo-air lasted the whole AT last year.
TheChop said,
"Sometimes you'll be sitting around and say to yourself. "I think I have my own feces on my hands."
Maybe I've been doing it wrong, but on two thru-hikes I don't recall ever sitting around and wondering if I had feces on my hands. Well, there was that one time as I was coming down with something giardia-like, but ... I've been trying to repress that memory. :-)
Seriously, "I think I have my own feces on my hands" ?? I don't get that one. Dirty and smelly, yes, but there are some limits here.
I do agree with the consensus that there's a lot of weight savings to be had here. I suggest that this might be a bit iterative. Cut down where it makes sense to you, then find a place with reasonably low elevation and do a multi-day shake-down hike as soon as you can with exactly the gear mix you plan to take. Take careful notes of what you actually *need* if you're mostly walking all day and spending relatively minimal time in camp. Then thin your load some more. Lather, rinse, repeat, until you're down to minimal gains.
Then when you walk into Neel's Gap, ask one of their "already thru-hiked" experienced staff to go over all your gear and make suggestions.
My 2 cents, anyway, and indeed, have a great time!
If you must have the laptop, there's a Kindle reader for it. Is it too late to consider a small netbook like an eeepc?
Assuming her laptop weight is correct it weighs less then an EEE. The smallest 7 inch eees come in at around ~32oz.
I guess what is bugging me and why I keep returning to this thread is that I wonder why you are doing this hike? I mean, you have cards and Boggle, Kindle, music, phone, computer. Are you planning to hike? Are you planning to listen to the birds and the wind? Do you have any desire to be present in the moment in the wilderness? To be present to the other people and the magic of the trail? Or do you really want to distract yourself all the time?
And about all the other gear, you really have to look at a backpack trip as completely different from home. At home you probably have a different outfit on every day. On a backpack trip you don't. It's not a fashion show. Your clothing is only a tool. When you are building something you don't have a new hammer for every day. You use the same one over and over until it breaks.
Also, at home you have a separate item for every task. You probably have a jacket for warmth, one for windy days, one for rain, one for when it's not that cold, one for when you are going out. On the trail the jacket for rain and a jacket for warmth will serve all those functions. It is like that for all your gear. If your spoon can spread peanut butter (and it can) you don't bring a butter knife. If your pot can be eaten out of, you don't bring a bowl. If your bandana can adorn your head, wash your feet, dry your dishes, stop your bleeding, you don't bring an extra scarf, washcloth, towel, major first-aid supplies, etc.
Also, when it comes to the quantity of hygiene or similar stuff you bring, you bring just enough to get by. Just enough to get you to the next town. You might have to collect little tiny containers so you can have small enough bottles.
A shakedown hike may help you, but I really think you need someone to go through your pack and demonstrate all this. I also think you need to ask yourself why you are afraid of silence and having nothing to do. Honestly, you will find, without all the distractions, that every minute on the trail is so jam-packed with interesting things you will rarely be bored.
TheChop said,
Maybe I've been doing it wrong, but on two thru-hikes I don't recall ever sitting around and wondering if I had feces on my hands. Well, there was that one time as I was coming down with something giardia-like, but ... I've been trying to repress that memory. :-)
Seriously, "I think I have my own feces on my hands" ?? I don't get that one. Dirty and smelly, yes, but there are some limits here.
Wet naps help but I think there's a limit. I was talking residue not chunks or anything like that.
nice post sb hikes - I keep returning to this thread too - sort of worrying about this gal - I wouldn't ever suggest someone not thru-hike that wants to, but her list sounds like "I really don't want to do this" or "I really don't get this" - I hope she shakes herself down really good.
Turtle Feet
03-03-2011, 22:44
nice post sb hikes - I keep returning to this thread too - sort of worrying about this gal - I wouldn't ever suggest someone not thru-hike that wants to, but her list sounds like "I really don't want to do this" or "I really don't get this" - I hope she shakes herself down really good.
Really? I didn't get that feel at all. She'll prioritize at Neels and go from there...
tf
aaronthebugbuffet
03-03-2011, 23:09
Can you lay all your stuff out and take a photo of it? The list looks huge and I just can't wrap my head around all that stuff.
hope you are right Turtle Feet - I want the best for everyone, but the dog's medical records, come-on - this is a person that is super sure something something will go wrong - something is ALWAYS going wrong - I twist my ankles every time I hike and they hurt when I do it, but I keep going - this gal will stop and wrap them with a box of plaster of paris that she carries with her, it will rain and her hair will be a mess and her panties will get in a wad and this will be her excuse to quit - why can't she squat to pee - most gals do - hell, some guys do too - I know that I'm being silly, but it is true - either she pares it down, re-evaluates what a NEED means, or she'll be DONE at Neels if she makes it that far. - sorry to be so blunt and frank.
maybe she should carry her home mortgage records, her car and house keys on a little brass chain, the garage door opener, her grandmother's diary, a family history, a chess set, a wool blanket to wrap her feet in, bedroom slippers, an alarm clock in a leather case, a tiny ice-chest with ice, 1 small glass bottle of milk, an easter egg coloring kit, a fruitcake or two to give to folks along the way, and the cat, a cat blanket, the cat food, a cat chain, and the cat's medical records .......
aaronthebugbuffet
03-03-2011, 23:37
maybe she should carry her home mortgage records, her car and house keys on a little brass chain, the garage door opener, her grandmother's diary, a family history, a chess set, a wool blanket to wrap her feet in, bedroom slippers, an alarm clock in a leather case, a tiny ice-chest with ice, 1 small glass bottle of milk, an easter egg coloring kit, a fruitcake or two to give to folks along the way, and the cat, a cat blanket, the cat food, a cat chain, and the cat's medical records .......
I see you are in GA. Maybe you could hike with her for a week and help.
I'll be glad to - as a matter of fact, I'm going to private message her now - I didn't mean to make fun (well, sort of) but I'd like anyone who really wants to do this to have a fighting chance and right now, she doesn't seem to. I did meet some ex-scout types with axes and saws and old time canteen water bottles covered in canvas - 50 pound packs I bet that had done 900 miles southbound to SNP in '08 - anything is possible, I suppose.
Audiorob
03-04-2011, 00:27
After you loose all of the useless stuff, consider a Gossamer Gear G4 backpack.
$125, 4400 cubic inch capacity and 16.5 Ounces.
You know what I find rediculous. Is that some are not criticizeing with alternatives methods and advise. But it seems more of I've done this, I've done that!! Who is anyone to question why someone wants to hike the trail..The purpose is to help with advise and constructive criticism. Add your knowledge to help..
The dogs medical records didn't get to me, but the laundry list of distractions did. I'm as addicted to the computer as anybody, but c'mon! A laptop? On a thru-hike? What do you plan to do with it? Look at spreadsheets? No way. Leave that sucker home, and turn off the phone and listen and soak in all the beautiful nature around you. When else will you get 6 months to do that?
I go out in nature to get away from all that crap, to reset myself to something closer to my wild state. I believe if you come home from a thru-hike and don't feel culture shock, if you can't sleep in your bed because it's too soft and warm and it's too noisy because you can hear the refrigerator and a car going by 5 miles away, if you can't stand to watch television because it's all so insane and you miss the trees and the wind and the sound of the birds that became your friends...If you don't come home feeling like that and instead you have memories of tweets and facebooks and your favorite band and yammering to your friends on the phone all day, and playing silly board games why did you go? Why not go on a cruise instead?
Hobbs - I suck at spelling too. I've offered to shuttle her to the trail and help her re-pack - I make fun of everybody including myself because it's fun - when I thru-hiked I carried the most stupid stuff imaginable - I had a leather jacket as a rain-coat for crying out loud.
Sunshine Tami Jo
03-04-2011, 00:33
Hi! I too am a female hiker in my forties and an experienced thru-hiker. I would suggest that you leave the laptop. Leave the cat shovel, you won't need it. Most hikers end up sending rain pants home as well. I carry lightweight snowpants for cold wet weather(they don't make me sweat like the rain pants). You also might want to get a warmer sleeping bag. I am a cold sleeper so I use a zero bag and a thermolite liner.
Ditched the rainpants and got a ULA rain skirt. Far more practical and saved several ounces.
Sunshine Tami Jo
03-04-2011, 00:40
[QUOTE=sbhikes;1123461]The dogs medical records didn't get to me, but the laundry list of distractions did. I'm as addicted to the computer as anybody, but c'mon! A laptop? On a thru-hike? What do you plan to do with it? Look at spreadsheets? No way. Leave that sucker home, and turn off the phone and listen and soak in all the beautiful nature around you. When else will you get 6 months to do that?
My one and only reason is so I can blog on the trail. That's it. Read my website and perhaps you'll understand http://shutterbugtami.blogspot.com/). I have several hundred people rooting for me at this point, and more every day. I know I sound foolish to those of you who are experienced hikers, which is why I have come to you seeking help. If it amuses you to riducule too, so be it, as long as you teach me while you're at it. I can take what you dish out, no sweat. Just know this: I am one of the most stubborn people you will ever meet, and I will prove you wrong about me. I may ditch a lot of gear along the way, but not my resolve. I will hike at least 500 miles. That's my goal. And if, after that it still feels right, I'll keep going.
Blissful
03-04-2011, 00:40
Ditched the rainpants and got a ULA rain skirt. Far more practical and saved several ounces.
Well I disagree with that one, esp in cold weather and its raining out, could save you from hypothermia issues early in the hike. I'd ditch them by mid May though.
Hobbs - I suck at spelling too. I've offered to shuttle her to the trail and help her re-pack - I make fun of everybody including myself because it's fun - when I thru-hiked I carried the most stupid stuff imaginable - I had a leather jacket as a rain-coat for crying out loud.
yes Papa D. I am a terrible speller. I understand you make fun of your self. I make fun of myself as well..But there's a point where this person is asking for Knowledgible advice and it's seems to me like pass go only if you have a Club Card...
Sunshine Tami Jo
03-04-2011, 00:47
(Italicized luxury items - what does "removed from your pack mean?" - that you are NOT taking them or that you are having the dog carry them?!?)
Yes, removing them from my pack and leaving them.
Sunshine Tami Jo
03-04-2011, 00:51
it seems like you are a little scared of this and by packing all of this crazy stuff it makes you feel safer about the trip - like the dog's medical records!, a laptop! - this is crazy stuff! - my first ....
Not scared at all, just inexperienced. Dog's medical records are because it's required by law to provide proof of her innoculations, and I'll need those records in order to kennel her while I hike through RMNP. The laptop is so that I can blog on the trail. You can check it out here: http://shutterbugtami.blogspot.com/
Blissful
03-04-2011, 00:55
All of us started out with too much. I had a 7 lb pack to start my hike. I learned and I ditched it for something lighter. You learn as you go.
But I also believe too if you are going to post your list and begin it with a "disclaimer" that people will likely poke fun at it, then one must be prepared to reap the whirlwind, esp here on WB. If you cannot or will not change d/t personal reasons, then its probably better not to post the list. Go do the hike and find out for yourself what works and doesn't work.
I can tell you that a girl I followed a few years back went to thru hike because she lost a child. She went off trail in a few weeks because she was tired of being cold and being out there. You learn. There are reasons to be out there for a time (some may be emotional or loss or other things) and may not be apparent until you are actually there. It may not be to hike 2,000 miles. Maybe its only for a few weeks. But its a good journey to make, regardless.
I wish you well
Sunshine Tami Jo
03-04-2011, 01:01
Assuming her laptop weight is correct it weighs less then an EEE. The smallest 7 inch eees come in at around ~32oz.
Yep, 28 ounces including a spare battery and protective case. 20 ounces without it. Check it out.
http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10151&catalogId=10551&langId=-1&productId=8198552921665896694
That's the one I wanted to get for my thru but I couldn't get the $ for it. I got a http://www.nokiausa.com/find-products/mini-laptops/nokia-booklet-3g Barf is carrying it.
I recommend you read this web site (read every link), Tamijo (and anybody else). It will help you get your priorities in order:
http://www.spiriteaglehome.com/THP_top.html
I'm on the third page, and so far that is a great readup. It's going into my favorites folder.
Thank you.
Brad
Sunshine Tami Jo
03-04-2011, 01:53
All of us started out with too much. I had a 7 lb pack to start my hike. I learned and I ditched it for something lighter. You learn as you go.
But I also believe too if you are going to post your list and begin it with a "disclaimer" that people will likely poke fun at it, then one must be prepared to reap the whirlwind, esp here on WB. If you cannot or will not change d/t personal reasons, then its probably better not to post the list. Go do the hike and find out for yourself what works and doesn't work.
I can tell you that a girl I followed a few years back went to thru hike because she lost a child. She went off trail in a few weeks because she was tired of being cold and being out there. You learn. There are reasons to be out there for a time (some may be emotional or loss or other things) and may not be apparent until you are actually there. It may not be to hike 2,000 miles. Maybe its only for a few weeks. But its a good journey to make, regardless.
I wish you well
Thank you for your well wishes. Please note that I have and continue to take everone's suggestions under careful consideration, and I have shaved a significant amount of weight off of my pack, so it's certainly not true that I cannot or will not change due to personal reasons. And I think several of you failed to notice that I mentioned from the start that the italicized items are removed from my pack. And if I happen to disagree wih some of you on one or two of your suggestions, that doesn't mean I shouldn't post my list and ask for help. I have followed through with much of your advise, and I thank all of you who offered it, especially those who did so kindly. For those who were not quite so kind, I appreciate your input too, and I'm not letting your comments get to me. Just remember that you all were beginners once, too, and perhaps you had a friend or loved one to show you the way. I never did. I'm doing this on my own, figuring it out on my own, and doing the best I can. If you still want to ridicule me, I don't mind. Glad to amuse you. But I can promise you that, when I've paid my dues (and yes, I probably will mail a ton of stuff back at Neel's Gap, but maybe that's a newbie rite of passage), if ever I can help a fellow newbie hiker out, I will do so with good cheer. And furthermore, I promise you this: you have made me even more resolved to prove myself, to you as well as to myself. Sure I'll make mistakes along the way, but I'll do it with cheer and good grace. And just so you recognize me on the trail, I'll attach my Boggle game prominently on my pack, so be sure and say hello. It will be attached to the luggage tag with a photo of my deceased grandson (oops, there's another 2 ounces.) Maybe that'll be my trail name...Boggle. (BTW, the Boggle was picked up partly as a lark, but also partly because I'm a pretty social person, and I thought it might be fun on occasion to pass the time by playing a friendly game with a fellow hiker.)
Sunshine Tami Jo
03-04-2011, 02:30
That's the one I wanted to get for my thru but I couldn't get the $ for it. I got a http://www.nokiausa.com/find-products/mini-laptops/nokia-booklet-3g Barf is carrying it.
I'm so glad I'm not the only one who wants to carry a laptop. And my use is for nothing more than blogging, so my cheering section can follow me, for the love of my Aiden.http://shutterbugtami.smugmug.com/AidenmybelovedPeanut/The-Life-of-Aiden-8-13-09-to-2/IMG7609edited-1/1119703683_if2QQ-S.jpg
Instead of a laptop for blogging you can either wait and use the internet in town or else many blogs will let you send an email or a twitter to your blog to post to it. You could also send data to someone else who could post it for you. You can send short updates from the trail and then in town fill in with longer details. It's actually more interesting to readers to kind of leave them hanging until you are out of the wilderness.
Send short updates using a phone, is what I meant. Save the weight and use a phone and then use internet in town at the library or coffeehouse or wherever they have it.
Sassafras Lass
03-04-2011, 13:02
Tami,
I'm sorry for your loss and hope that you can find peace and solace on the trail.
As far as a few odds n' ends . . . .
* Fax (and verify) your dog's medical records to the establishments that will need them. Saves weight and eases your mind about keeping those documents spic n' span.
* See that you've shaved a few pounds, good to hear that. For everything not clothes, see if there is a comparable item that weighs less and will work just as well.
Looking forward to seeing your updated gear list! Isn't waiting the hardest??
I tried to post a comment on your blog page but it won't let me.
In regard to SPOT allowing your readers to keep up with where you are, I've found that a trailjournal does about the same thing. (www.trailjournals.com (http://www.trailjournals.com)) You might enjoy looking up and reading "Red Dane" and "Overflow" -- two women who each completed a thru and had a blast doing so. Most entries say where you started from (ex. Hawk Mt. Shelter), where you camped that night (say, Gooch Mt. Shelter), and the daily mileage (7.3). That information is good enough for all but the truly nutty.
Also, for safety reasons, quite a few female hikers don't want everyone with access to a computer knowing where they are and where they are likely to be. Some deliberately withhold journal entries until they are days past the place and date being posted.
I agree with sbhikes and others who are encouraging you to blog using something like your cell, or submitting updates on computers in towns or hostels, etc. Aside from the weight savings, I can't imagine a laptop sturdy enough to withstand the constant bumping, the humidity, the dirt -- too expensive and fragile to risk, in my opinion.
About your dog -- are you sure it has the physical capability to walk up/down mountains day in, day out? I'm sure it can run like the wind in your back yard and can handle mile-long walks in your neighborhood, but doing lots of miles everyday? Just be sure that you've given it some serious thought. Maybe PM some of the other dog hikers on WB to get their thoughts?
I wish you the best. I look forward to reading your blog entries!
stonedflea
03-05-2011, 17:54
to everyone ragging her for carrying the dog's medical records, shame on you. since dogs aren't allowed in the gsmnp or baxter, she'll need those for proof of vaccinations while she boards the dog as she hikes those sections.
but to the OP: i think you've greatly underestimated the amount of dog food you're going to need. my dogs each eat about half a pound of food a day just to maintain their healthy weights. my vizsla will need even more than that when she joins me on the trail this april. you might want to recheck the food figure you threw out there.
Sassafras Lass
03-06-2011, 10:40
you might want to recheck the food figure you threw out there.
That was my initial thought as well, but she's got a smaller dog, looks like a rat terrier mix. Just like us, it won't get the hiker hunger for a while.
My early posts hurt TJs feelings - I was pretty blunt about her carrying all of that stuff - I'm was really just trying to help her - I think (hope) she's cut the clothing and "personal stuff" in half or better, uses lap-tops in coffeehouses and hostels, ditches the "spot" - you are all making good suggestions - she's listening and working on it.
randyg45
03-06-2011, 12:56
Hi Tami. Thoughts, impressions, maybe an idea or two....
Go to Postholer and read some CDT and PCT gear lists. Go to the websites of people who make gear you're not familiar with.
I can't get past the pack. And I mean the weight and features, not so much the size. I carry a high-volume pack almost all the time and fill unused volume by leaving down (bag, sweater, whatever) uncompressed. But that pack, empty, weighs what mine weighs, full, in the summer; and lacks even one water bottle pocket, much less outside mesh pockets (two features I wouldn't go without on the AT). I'd suggest checking out zpacks and golite.
Shelter/sleeping. Consider starting SOBO in Harpers Ferry. Later. Milder weather (thinking Smokies), open snack bars. Eight pounds.... Drop the groundsheet. If you swap the raingear for a poncho you have your groundsheet back and still save up to half a pound. Can you consider a quilt? Jacksrbetter? I lust after one myself. Warmer, lighter, more versatile, far more comfortable. Instaed of the 7 oz pad underneath, check GG, as others have suggested, or use the Lowe's patio door wrap for a little puncture protection.
Food/Hyd. If you simply must treat water, consider Aqua Mira. I carry the stuff, never have used it; there was a time I might should have, 10+ years ago in YNP. My daughter was also drinking untreated water, and never got sick, so maybe it wasnt the water... NOBODY else would like my cooking setup. I carry a BushBuddy and an alky stove, maybe 3 oz. of HEET. I have never left resupply with less than 5 days worth of food (well, maybe on a 3-day trip lol), and use the BB on a regular basis. Free fuel, a tiny campfire at night. The alky stove is for tired nights, and the alky fuel serves as firestarter when I'm too lazy to do it right in wet woods.
The clothes. OMG the clothes :>)) The adage is that if you cannot wear all of it at once you're carrying too much. Start later. At HF. Bring some silkweights to sleep in. Maybe some down socks (I get cold feet ) and the balaclava. Gloves/Vest. You're not going to get cold hiking; use rainwear or poncho to block wind if nec. One pant, blouse, bra. Two underwear, two maybe three socks tops (one washed/drying, one wearing, one backup if you have blisters starting change them and turn them inside out). I don't know your background, but unless you're a serious athlete you are setting yourself up not just for misery but injury. I have the scars...
Toiletries. Carry enough for hygiene. Not grooming. Dry out the wipes, at least; wet them as needed. Is that a full roll of TP? And two bandanas? I just carry a bandana... wash rinse repeat.
Tools. Leatherman weight correct? If it's not your only knife lose it. If you keep it lose the nail clippers. Lose the lantern and some of the firemaking stuff. Are you good at starting fires after a three day rain? If not, and you plan to cook on fire sometimes, bring some firestarter. (Dryer lint soaked in melted vaseline is my fave if no HEET).
Health etc. Lose the SPOT. It's a lot of weight to carry and a safety hazard. Thats a lot of sunscreen for someone planning to be cold and wear a hat and long-sleeved stuff.
Misc. Everyone has already chewed you up over this, but... it really does seem like you plan on needing a lot of distractions. If you have to have the computer... lose the rest of the electronic stuff save the camera and the phone. Its usually the children who have to be surrounded by music 24/7 (I'm almost 60, Tami)... but you can put an xm app on a smartphone anyway. Re evaluate your battery needs. Cards? get a minideck off ebay.
My overall impression is that you're pretty new to the all this and overly worried about the weather, and about boredom. Neither set of concerns will last long. The bounce box and shakedown suggestions were, I thought, excellent.
Don't overthink. Keep the overarch in mind. Remember that you can always put more stuff in that (humongous, heavy, ill-designed lol) pack later if you just don't think you're pulling your weight, but to start just leave it at home.
My early posts hurt TJs feelings - I was pretty blunt about her carrying all of that stuff - I'm was really just trying to help her - I think (hope) she's cut the clothing and "personal stuff" in half or better, uses lap-tops in coffeehouses and hostels, ditches the "spot" - you are all making good suggestions - she's listening and working on it.
Papa D you have offered to help her in her first few day's on the trail. It's just that it went a little astray at one point..I can see that your intentions are genuin and others as well trying to help;)
"Good Lord!" - Jester
Ok, this is what I'm gonna do for you. I'm about to drop your pack weight to about 30#. Ready? Here wo go.
1) Change packs. Your pack is way too big and way too heavy. Chang efrom the Ospery Xenon 85 to a ULA Catalyst. Weight savings of 51 oz.
2) Drop the tent poles. Use your trekkng poles to support your tarptent. Weight savings of at least 8 oz.
3) Drop the blue foam roll. This is redundant gear since you already have a sleeping pad. Weight savings of 7 oz.
4) Drop the Katadyn water filter. Use Aqua Mira Instead. Weight savings of 10 oz.
5) Drop the Nalgene. Get an empty Gatorade bottle or 1 liter Smartwater bottle. Weight savings of about 2 oz.
6) Drop two pairs of underwear. Weight savings of 2 oz.
7) Drop a bra. Weight savings of 2 oz.
8) Drop one tank top. Weigth savings of 3.5 oz.
9) Drop one long sleeve shirt. Weight savings of 8 oz.
10) Drop 1 pair convertible pants. Weight savings of 12 oz.
11) Drop the insulated vest. You've already got plenty to keep you warm with. Weight savings of 5.2 oz.
12) Drop the neck scarf. Weight savings of 3 oz.
13) Drop the deodorant. No one cares what you smell like. Weight savings of 4 oz.
14) Carry half a roll of toilet paper. Weight savings of about 4 oz.
15) Drop the cat shovel. Use your boot heel, trekking pole or a stick. Weight savings of 3 oz.
16) Drop the wet wipes. You already have soap and hand sanitizer. Weight savings of 4 oz.
17) Drop the lantern and batteries. You already have a headlamp. Weight savings of 4.5 oz.
18) Drop the extra lighter. You can get a new one to replace it with in town. Weight savings of 1 oz.
19) Lose the reflective paracord. Bear in mind it absorbs water, so will get heavier if it gets wet. Get 50' of 7/64" Amsteel or Spectra instead. Weight savings of about 2.5 oz.
20) Make the dog carry her own food and bowl. Weight savings of 18 oz.
21) Leave the Kindle behind. Weight savings of 12 oz.
22) Leave the laptop behind. It'll get broken, ruined by weather or both. Weight savings of 28 oz.
23) Change from the Jetboil to a Caldera Keg. Weight savings of 12 oz.
24) Drop the propane fuel, as you'll need alcohol for the Caldera Keg. Weight savings of about 4 oz.
I was nice and left a few things behind for luxury.
This should be a total weight savings of about 209 ounces or 13.1 pounds.
I know what you're thinking. You're welcome.
Revisiting this, let's add to it, shall we?
1) Drop the sleeping bag liner. Add a space blanket instead. Weight savings of 8 oz.
2) Leave behind a set of leggings and a merino top. Weight savings of 28 oz.
3) Drop the rain pants. Weight savings of 6.5 oz.
4) Drop the boots and chage to trail runners. New Balance 915's are great. Weight savings of 6 oz.
5) Drop the toileties case. Weight savings of 3 oz.
6) Los the Dr. Bronner's. No one cares what you smell like. Weight savings of 4 oz.
8) Have you considered a smartphone, such as an iPhone, Android, etc? This can serve for music, blogging, has a Kindle app and will save you a bit of weight and redundant gear.
Revisiting this, let's add to it, shall we?
1) Drop the sleeping bag liner. Add a space blanket instead. Weight savings of 8 oz.
2) Leave behind a set of leggings and a merino top. Weight savings of 28 oz.
3) Drop the rain pants. Weight savings of 6.5 oz.
4) Drop the boots and chage to trail runners. New Balance 915's are great. Weight savings of 6 oz.
5) Drop the toileties case. Weight savings of 3 oz.
6) Los the Dr. Bronner's. No one cares what you smell like. Weight savings of 4 oz.
8) Have you considered a smartphone, such as an iPhone, Android, etc? This can serve for music, blogging, has a Kindle app and will save you a bit of weight and redundant gear.Almost forgot, this is an additional 55.5 oz or 3.4 pounds of additional weight savings. Add this to my previous post and you've got a total of 254.5 oz or 16.5 pounds of weight savings. Good luck. ;)
stonedflea
03-06-2011, 22:53
That was my initial thought as well, but she's got a smaller dog, looks like a rat terrier mix. Just like us, it won't get the hiker hunger for a while.
even if she does have a smaller dog, there's no way possible that one pound of food is going to last that dog 4-5 days between resupply. besides, even if we humans don't get hiker hunger until well into the hike, that doesn't mean we're not consistently burning calories beyond our intake at the get-go. even if she was carrying the dog the whole way, it'd need more than a pound of food every four or five days.
Sunshine Tami Jo
03-07-2011, 11:20
You all are awesome. And I appreciate these constructive comments so much! You'll be happy to know that I have ditched the camelback pack liner for a couple of platypus water bottles. I have cut my clothing down to ONE tank top, ONE pair of leggings, ONE pair of convertible pants, ONE short-sleeve shirt, ONE long-sleeve shirt, ONE Merino wool undershirt, two pairs of underwear and three pairs of socks. I have ditched the down vest. Today I hope to talk to a fellow here in Austin who sells Gossamer Gear Ultralite backpacking gear. Yes, I think I'm going to ditch the heavy pack even though I really like it (it distributes the weight so comfortably) and go for this: http://gossamergear.com/packs/backpacks/mariposa-plus-ultralight-backpack.html. That's a huge weight savings. I'm ditching lots of small personal grooming things that add up to somewhat significant weight. (But oh how I hate to smell bad! I guess I'll get used to it, and smell like everyone else. I know you all think that's silly, and I guess I do too.) I ditched the playing cards. I'm still taking the MP3 player because I know from my running experience that it helps distract me when the going gets tough. I will not listen to music all the time...I love the sounds of birdcalls, the wind, my own footfalls, etc., but I also know that for me, music is an emotional pick-me-up when the going gets tough. The computer, alas, will be bounced along, maybe picked back up when I get stronger. I really want to continue my blogging from the trail, and those little hand-held devices just don't do it for me.
The Kindle is coming. I have to read, sorry. I can sort of justify it in that I downloaded a PDF version of the AT Thru-hikers Companion onto it, so I can ditch the companion in book form. I can always reevaluate along the way and mail stuff home, and I recognize that this is not only a possibility but a probability. I accept that.
I bought a tiny pack for the dog and she will carry her own food (2 pounds, not 1...I mistyped) and food bowl. She only eats about 1/4 pound of food a day currently, but I know her appetite will increase.
I'm not done making changes yet. I'm still looking and evaluating, and I have been going back and reading and rereading your suggestions. Thinking about ditching the Katahdin water treatment system.
Oh, I ditched the Jetboil system and got an alcohol stove and a titanium cookpot...so much lighter!
So now I'm having a yard sale on all the gear I've decided to switch out. The funny thing is, when I bought this gear I really thought I'd done my homework well and chose good stuff. Now I see that I didn't.
The Boggle game is coming with me as my own personal act of defiance! Maybe my trail name should be Boggle.
Thanks to all of you for your input and well-wishes. And PapaD, I'll be in touch again soon. I know you meant well and I was just too sensitive. I think it WOULD be funny, ironic, and wonderful if we were to become friends!
http://shutterbugtami.blogspot.com/
TJ I would say take all your gear and bring it with you. Frameless packs are quit different and he or she the rep can show you how to pack it efficently for you..This is the little thing they do to help a customer..you will make it. Keep that positive attitude and tessa happy on the trail to. Good luck..
Sunshine Tami Jo
03-07-2011, 12:01
TJ I would say take all your gear and bring it with you. Frameless packs are quit different and he or she the rep can show you how to pack it efficently for you..This is the little thing they do to help a customer..you will make it. Keep that positive attitude and tessa happy on the trail to. Good luck..
Thanks, Hobbs! And I took your advice on the stove. I bought a titanium pot and the Gram weenie pro.
http://www.end2endtrailsupply.com/Evernew__1331.html
I know this is a dumb question, but is the alcohol just the drugstore variety of alcohol, or is it a more concentrated form?
Raul Perez
03-07-2011, 12:02
Thanks, Hobbs! And I took your advice on the stove. I bought a titanium pot and the Gram weenie pro.
http://www.end2endtrailsupply.com/Evernew__1331.html
I know this is a dumb question, but is the alcohol just the drugstore variety of alcohol, or is it a more concentrated form?
go to your local hardware store and get denatured alcohol in the paint section.
You'll be golden then
go to your local hardware store and get denatured alcohol in the paint section.
You'll be golden then
Exactly like he said" You'll be golden". The other thing is if you end up hiking with other hikers. You could split the cost on the trail for Alcy for your stove..But practice with it so you know how much to use for a meal...Hope to run into you and everyone else on the trail.
swjohnsey
03-07-2011, 12:37
Or go to Walmart and get HEET in yellow bottle.
Rocket Jones
03-07-2011, 12:46
Or go to Walmart and get HEET in yellow bottle.
Very important to remember YELLOW bottle. HEET also comes in red bottles, and the formula is different and doesn't work so good.
Snowleopard
03-07-2011, 13:02
T
I know this is a dumb question, but is the alcohol just the drugstore variety of alcohol, or is it a more concentrated form?
Not a dumb question at all! The usual drugstore alcohol (rubbing alcohol) is not usable. It's either isopropyl alcohol (burns dirty, don't use) or has too much water in it.
Use either denatured alcohol from hardware stores or HEET in yellow bottle (fuel line antifreeze) from gas stations, car parts stores, hardware stores, etc. Other HEET in other color bottles (isoHeet?) is not recommended. Pure ethanol works great too, but is expensive or unavailable (195 proof everclear).
You'll be much happier carrying less weight; your body will thank you.
mountain squid
03-07-2011, 18:18
It sounds like you have made a good effort to reduce your pack weight. That is good:). Your legs, knees, shoulders and back will be much appreciative. Hopefully, your reductions will help make your hike much more enjoyable.
Have you been able to reduce enough to possibly remove the top lid of your backpack?
If you ditch your Katahdin water treatment system, my vote would be for Aqua Mira. The 2 vials are good for treating 30 gl of water. Couple that with town water and you should get approx 30 days out of the 2 vials.
The denatured alcohol will be readily avail at most hostels along the trail. You can store it in a soda bottle and top off as required. I use a 20 oz Sprite because it is a different color than what I usually drink.
Once again . . . Good Luck and Have Fun!
See you on the trail,
mt squid
FritztheCat
03-07-2011, 18:40
Boggle (figured I'd help with the trail name) :D
I've been following your thread with interest. Sounds like you are getting some great advice and are following alot of terrific suggestions. I think your back and legs will really thank you for the weight reduction.
I'm starting on April 1st so if we run across each other, I'll gladly play a game or two with ya!
Great to see you really dialing in your gear choices. Better yet is to see how you have kept a great attitude instead of taking things personally.
I think you will be a good bet to complete your thru-hike.
Freedom Walker
03-07-2011, 20:07
So now I'm having a yard sale on all the gear I've decided to switch out. The funny thing is, when I bought this gear I really thought I'd done my homework well and chose good stuff. Now I see that I didn't.
Before you sell that old gear for yard sale prices, consider keeping it to use later on weekend trips to loan to friends who won't have anything. I have my stuff and the stuff i am willing to loan out.
No trail name
03-07-2011, 22:09
I have to agree with Freedom Walker... don't sell all your gear. Keep it. You may have a friend or relative want to hike a bit with you along the trail. Touche' you have gear to help them. What if you want to do a short Car Camping trip one day. All that heavy gear don't weigh anything in the trunk of your car!
Tamijo - from the looks of your latest post, it looks like you've really got it going - I see that you are going with an alcohol stove. I have a couple of homemade ones that I like - I use old el paso pepper cans , but they do take a little practice and are NOT for all weather conditions - that is why I suggested you start with a pocket rocket / titanium pot set-up for starters (it's more like real cooking) but if you like the alky, then go for it. I do hope you leave the water pump behind too - I have like 3 of those things - they are great for group use, weekend trips, camp-outs, etc. even out for a week they are ok and the water tastes good, but they also get clogged-up over time (even if you are careful and do the coffee filter trick on the pre-filter) - I think they also end up cross-contaminating unless you are painstakingly and exceedingly careful which is hard to do on a steep, mossy creek-bank somewhere. I bet you'd buy 8-10 inserts for that thing on a thru hike at $30(?) a pop. I'm excited for you and await your contact. I bet the kindle goes too (hehe) but I'm not complaining one bit - you are getting there in leaps and bounds!!!
I'm going to need to learn to play boggle I guess.
harryfred
03-08-2011, 00:28
There are cell phones out there that can be used for a mp3, FM radio, and a lot of games so I assume boggle, as well as being able to tweet over to your blog. And still be easy on you battery. Keeping a cell phone charged on the trail is getting easier every day. I have a Motorola Tundra
Sunshine Tami Jo
03-09-2011, 12:25
Guess what, everyone! I have my pack weight down to 22 pounds (minus food and water). Still heavy, I know, but a vast improvement over what I had before, no? I'm so psyched!!!!!!!! Now, this doesn't include my hiking poles and clothes I'll be wearing, which are weights I'll still be hauling...just not on my back. But I don't believe that folks add these to their pack weight anyway. I've made a vast improvement and still managed to hang on to my laptop and Kindle, even with the 22 pounds. You die-hard UL folks will still laugh at me, but I am happy with the progress I've made. And I can still mail stuff home or bounce it, if I find that I need to.
Thank you all for all of your help! I love the constructive comments! I hope to make many new friends along the trail!
Sunshine Tami Jo
03-09-2011, 12:27
I'm going to need to learn to play boggle I guess.
I'll win...watch.
Good job, Tamijo! Way to go!! I bet that pack feels lighter on your back. Good luck on the trail, best wishes for a successful thru-hike!
Got a revised gear list to post?
SwitchbackVT
03-09-2011, 12:40
Guess what, everyone! I have my pack weight down to 22 pounds (minus food and water).
Nice job Tami! That is a huge accomplishment going from your original gear list, you cut the weight in half! Way to go!
I don't mean this to sound patronizing or snide or anything negative, but FWIW, I predict that if you stay on trail that at some point --- likely before you get to Virginia --- you'll stop carrying that laptop. But it's something you can adjust in a trail town, just do go for the gear shakedown at Neel's Gap.
I think it's so very excellent how positive you are and willing to take feedback without ego getting in the way. Everyone adjusts their load at least to some degree after they've been hiking a while, and I expect you will too. Best wishes for a wonderful trip.
Sunshine Tami Jo
03-09-2011, 13:26
I love your signature, Hooch. Did you ever see the Farside cartoon with a similar theme? Two polar bears standing outside of an igloo, saying something to the effect, "I just love these things...crunchy on the outside, chewy on the inside." Sick, morbid, and totally hilarious. Long live Gary Larson.
Turtle Feet
03-09-2011, 14:08
One last thing (and then I'll shut up...hehe). Don't know what kind of phone you'll be carrying (or if you even are), but I picked up a portable keyboard for my phone, that I'll be using to blog on. Don't remember the weight off-hand but it's alot lighter than a laptop. It's called a "Freedom Pro" keyboard, found it on Amazon.
Hope you can catch up to me, I've always wanted to learn Boggle!
tf
Hope this helps--Good Luck
Colorado Trail Gear List-2
Big Three: Wt./Oz. Wt./Lbs.
· GG Vapor Trail Pack w/ lid- 40.0
o Pack Cover- 3.8
· Tent-TT Contrail- 26.7
o Ground Cloth- 5.5
o Stakes (10)- 3.5
o Stuff Sack- 2.2
· WM 15 Degree Down Bag 45.0.
o Stuff Sacks (2) 5.2
o Neo Air Mattress 16.0
o Suff Sack 0.5
Total Big Three: 148.4 9.28
Clothing (Carried)
· Mont Bell Dynamo Wind Pants- 3.0
· Marmot Mica Jacket- 7.0
· Marmot Dri-Climb Vest 6.0
· Mont Bell Down Camp Jacket 6.6
· Capaline Med-Weight Sleep Shirt- 7.5
· Capaline Mid-Weight Sleep Leggings- 6.6
· Sleep Socks (1)- 2.9
· Hiking Socks (X-tra-1)- 2.8
· Sock Liners (2)- 1.8
· UA Hiking Leggings- 6.7
· Camp Crocs-Not 0.0
· Fleece Hat (1)- 1.7
· Fleece Gloves- 3.1
· Glove Liners- 1.1
· Garbage Bag (39 gal.) Rain Shirt- 2.1
· Garbage Bag (39 gal.)Rain Skirt- 1.8
· Plastic Hand covers (3 pr.)- 0.5
· Extra Plastic Bags- 2.0
· Bandana (2) 2.4
· Running Hat- 2.0
· Stuff Sack- 1.5
Total Clothing Carried: 72.1 4.43
Hygiene/Medical/Emergency Wt./Oz. Wt./Lbs.
· Tooth Brush-Toothpaste 2.0
· Ultraight Mirror- 1.0
· First Aid Kit- 1.3
o Medical Tape-
o Gauze-1 Roll-
o 3 Band Aids-
o 3 Alcohol Wipes-
o Tweezer-
· Toilet Paper- 2.0
· Hand Sanitizer- 1.0
· Vitamin I- 2.0
· Medications- 3.0
· Sun Screen- 1.0
· Lip Balm- 0.5
· Sun Glasses- 3.0
· Duct Tape- 1.0
· Emergency Kit- 1.3
o Needle-Thread-
o Safety Pins (4)-
o Tent-Pad Repair Kit-
· Bic Lighter (1)- 0.4
· Waterproof Matches (1 Box)- 0.3
· Spare Batteries- 1.6
· Pen-Paper- 0.5
· Petzl Head Lamp/Batteries 3.0
· Trail Maps- 14.0
· Stuff Sack- 0.8
Total H/M/E: 22.9 1.43
Cook System:
· Soto Stove/Case 3.3
· Fuel (8 oz)- 8.1
· Cook Pot- 4.8
· Spoon- 0.6
· Stuff Sack (Stove)- 0.8
· Stuff Sack (Food)- 1.6
· Bear Rope- 2.3
· Towel- 0.7
· Pot Stabilizer- 1.0
· Bic Lighter 0.4
Total Cook System: 23.6 1.48
Water Treatment:
· Steri Pen W/Batteries- 4.6
· Chemical Tabs (2 Bottles)- 2.2
· Water Bottle (1)- 6.2
· Camel Back Bladder (100 oz) Military- 9.4
Total Water Treatment: 22.4 1.40
Clothes Worn:
· Ex Officio Long Sleeve Shirt- 7.1
· Running Shorts- 3.2
· Hiking Socks- 2.8
· Sock Liners- 0.9
· Hiking Poles-Leki- 19.4
· Hiking BootsMerell Moab GTX Mid- 34.0
· Camera Nikon Cool Pic w/Batteries 6.6
· Camera/Map Case- 3.5
· Reading Glasses (1)- 1.3
· Knife/Whistle/Compass- 1.4
· Watch/Chest Strap (Ht Rate Monitor)- 3.2
· Knee Braces- 6.1
· Pepper Spray (People!!!) 1.3
Total Clothes Worn: 90.8 5.68
Electronics:
· MP3/Headphones/Charger- 3.6
· Cell Phone/Charger- 4.2
Total Electronics: 7.8 0.49
Ditty Bag:
· Ditty Bag: 1.2
o Credit Cards (2)-
o Cash-
o Drivers License-
o Insurance Card-
o Phone Card-
o Extra Reading Glasses (1)- 1.3
o Emergency Numbers-
Total Ditty Bag: 2.5 0.16
Food/ Water:
Water Carried: 21.0
Food-5 Days-1.7lbs/day: 136.0
Total Food/Water: 157.0 9.81
Grand Totals:
Base Wt. In Pack: 301.7 18.86
Weight Worn: 90.8 5.68
Skin-Out Base Wt. 392.5 24.53
Total Base Weight: 458.7 28.67
(Pack+Food+Water)
Skin-Out Wt. Total: 549.5 34.34
(Base Pack/Worn/F-W)
22 pounds is a reasonable weight to start off with. It's easier to send stuff home than it is to get stuff sent to you. Enjoy