I've definitely grabbed a lot of tips here on lightweight. Still searching for the right tent....i've narrowed down a few tarptents that I am looking at. Right now with food and water I think...without having a scale in the house that my weight is around 25-30 lbs. Last year I carried a 50lb pack into virginia

My average used to be about 40 lbs...which I learned from my father...who still carries 40 lbs on every trip he takes...with his external frame pack....we are working on it though.

Not that I could not carry 40, 50, or even a 60 lb pack if I needed to. But as someone said before...you'll enjoy the day so much more with less weight. Alky stove is a great way to lose a pound and generally lighter clothes. No cotton flannel pants combo god those are heavy when wet.

NO HATCHETS. NO BOWSAWS. NO GLASS BOTTLES. NO 2 LB BAG OF WHITE RICE. NO 2 LB BAG OF LINGUINI!!!!!

Just a few polite suggestions