New list

Dan

One technique I've used to trim my gear list and weight is to compare it side by side with lists from others on BPL for similar conditions. Here's a sample comparing your list with a list posted recently by Sam Haroldson.

Do this a few times and trends emerge as well as acceptance of UL techniques. It really helps you see what can be left out and what can be lightened.

Hope this helps.

-Lance

UL backpacking is as much about leaving behind unnecessary items and getting items that serve multiple functions, as it is about lightweight gear. Your list clearly has room to improve in both areas.

A lot of folks talk about the "big three" (probably more accurately the big four)- shelter, sleeping bag (and pad) and pack- as these usually yield the most dramatic drops in weight.

I think that's good advice posted above, peruse the community gear lists- they run the gamut from sub 5 lbs to 20+ lbs for base weights.

Also you don't list when/where you'll be hiking, nor any brands/models for your gear- sometimes a 6 lb tent is necessary ie a windy, mountain winter environment, sometimes a 6 lb tent is unnecessary :)

Dan, you would be cutting back on the clothes for overnight or three day ventures, no? It seems like you might lose some weight getting rid of redundant items… /shrug

Dan,

What you have is a traditional list for backpacking. In order to drop your pack weight you need to rethink some of your packing decisions. Going lighter really is a learned skill. There are many experts and article here on BPL that can help you along the way.

I started out with a list much like yours. Each year I would try a new item or technique to get the weight down. In August I went out with 8 days of food (including a bear canister) with 25 total lbs. For a 3 day trip I can start out with no more than 15 lbs. It really makes backpacking much more enjoyable, and in the opinion of most, much safer.

I started with my shelter, then my sleeping bag, and then my pack, cooking system, etc. It is a process. If you hike in the Sierras learning these techniques will really enhance your backpacking experience.

Yours is a fine traditional backpacking list. Go for some weekend hikes, make note of what you liked and what you didn't, and what you used and what you didn't, and then make the appropriate changes. Getting from traditional to light to ultralight takes time and experience, and I don't think it's a good idea to rush the process.

I am repeating what is already stated.

You list is a TRADITIONAL backpacking list, and this is a LIGHWEIGHT backpacking fourm. So, there is not much anyone can do.

Do not be intimidated. I take total beginners out with a base weight UNDER 10 pounds, it's a lot easier than you think! I disagree with Ken above – I encourage you to RUSH the process!!!

Please – Review the links below:
http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/backpacking_light_101.html

http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/gearchecklists.html

one of the best lists I've seen. I spent the $$$ (and a great deal of help from an UL junky dad) already, but this would've been great to start with:

I wish I could find the member's name to give the cred

Jamie Shortt built the list.
His website is lytW8.com

And you can find him here sometimes as well.