In response to previous posts our crew was composed of 4 adults and 5 scouts. All of the scouts were 14 and most were of slight build. Although we had emphasized light gear for over a year, many of their packs ( with 6 days of food) exceeded the the recommendations for weight carried as % of body weight; hence, at times leaders carried more than their share.
Our tents varied greatly, but we did not carry any Phil tents. Most were in the 4 lb. range. I carried a MLD solomid (with a polycro floor velcroed to the perimeter netting; this worked very well at 19 oz. with stakes). We also had a lunar duo. My bag was a montbell ul #3, so my personal kit was very compact. Carried minimal clothes; cocoon hoody for insulation. As I said my personal kit was compact and ul, the volume of the food was what overwhelmed my Mariposa plus.
I have read Phil's good info on Philmont and found it quite helpful with preparing for our first trip to Philmont. I took note of their use of floor less tents (in spite of the official Philmont policy). With that in mind I velcroed the edges of my polycro ground sheet to the perimeter netting of my solomid before going to Philmont, just in case. I was glad I did because there was no way our ranger would allow us to use floor less tents. So it seems to depend on the ranger you have. Roll of the dice.
