There are quite a few schools of thought when it comes to loading your pack for a back country adventure. Personally, with my Army Infantry background, I consider myself a heavyweight. My pack usually weighs in at 45 lbs. but it has been north of 60 lbs. I do not recommend a 60 lb. pack as it is not fun at all to carry.

I have reduced my weight, to my 45 lb. comfort zone, in a few different ways. First, after trial and error, I realized that I don’t have to carry everything I own. If you’re going “Car Camping”, sure, take a lot of gear. On the other hand, carrying gear on your back makes you realize what you need and what you don’t. This being said, I have reduced the number of items I carry. Second, I have invested in some light weight gear. Most gear that is both light weight and high performance is going to cost quite a few dollars. Expect to pay a bit extra. Finally, you can modify gear to reduce the weight, i.e. cutting excess material from a spoon or toothbrush and taking only one change of clothes for a 4 day trip.

If I didn’t have a military background, my philosophy may be different. In the military, each soldier has a load plan / packing list that they must carry. The soldier has the option to add additional items to the load but at an added weight.

I carry what I need and use what I carry. In my opinion, you will have to decide what school of thought you side with. That said, only you will be able to decide that after a bit of trial and error. The first time you carry too much into the back country will be the last time. The first time you get to your site and get attacked by mosquitoes will be the last time you decide against the weight of a bug net. I don’t foresee being in the light weight class because I love gear. I love to use gear and I love the advantages it gives me in the woods.

Expect your load for Fall or Winter camping to be heavier than your spring and summer kit. The situation, climate and current conditions will also have a lot to do with your load plan. Before the trip, make a load plan, load your ruck and take a day hike with it. If it is too heavy, go back through it and remove some non- essentials. If you take your ruck our for a spin, it’s easy going and you want to take your favorite book and a 6 pack of beer, do it. My point is, don’t go out blind. Don’t get 7-10 miles out into the woods and realize that you’re in the most pain you’ve ever been in because of too much gear or a lack thereof.

If anyone is interested, below are a couple links to the tents that I have experience with.

MSR Hubba Hubba NX

Eureka Apex 2XT

Remember, even the average can have an awesome time in the back country.