TGO Challenge 2012 – Kit List

Richard,

Pretty complete looking kit. If you want to get lighter you might want switch out the stove for an alcohol stove, maybe drop the water filter for A.M.or get a Sawyer squeeze filter. Other things- drop the trowel and use a stick, and I'd just use a compactor bag for a pack liner instead of a pack cover.

JJ

Some good advice there thanks JJ, my thoughts on what you said ..

Alky stove vs Jetboil –

The JB is quite a lump but I feel over the two weeks that gas will be lighter and more efficient compared to alky. I do prefer alky for weekend and short trips but over the longer period then gas wins for me. Ideally I wanted to take my Bushbuddy Ultra and Mini Atomic stove combination but I think it's going to be too wet for that unfortunately.

Filters –

I'm still in two minds whether to take a filter at all, plenty of folk keep telling me I won't need it and they're probably right. I'm not too much of a gram weenie though to be honest, light is good but not the ultimate aim for me, I'll probably decide on the day I leave :)

Toilet trowel –

I've slightly modified the design now and it's more on a par with the MSR groundhog

Pack liner –

Compactor bag is already in there, may drop the pack cover though

Thanks for your comments JJ, much appreciated buddy

Post it up and we'll offer some comment.

Can you give some detail and context about the TGO. I have a feeling that it's some kind of race or time trial across the UK, but I'm sure that's not the whole story.

Rod

I see what you're saying Rod but it's probably in a better format on my blog than just a long list of words and numbers on here.

I'll try and write a list up before I go if I get chance, it starts next week though so it might be more of a review on my return.

The TGO is non-competitive, it's more about the social aspect and building good relations with fellow hikers. Most of the entrants are twice our age but it should still be a good experience.

Philip W. at http://www.sectionhiker.com has compiled a lot of information about the TGO, including reviews of what gear worked for him on his 2010 TGO hike. Use the search feature on his site, for "TGO".

Kit list looks good. I can't think of any changes/recommendations. I do have a question about your pack though. Just wondering if you modified your CDT to lighten it up? I have the same pack and it weighs in at 594 grams.

Hey Scott,

The only mods I've made is to remove the foam back panel and trim the straps down to suit my needs, I did pick up my CDT used off another forum though so I wonder if they've been snipping too.

Thanks for the comments everybody, I'm giving some consideration to the warm layers now, I'm thinking about switching the Fireball top for my OR Transcendent hoody instead. We've gone into another cold and wet spell over here with night time temps around 3*C at our mid crossing point.

Thanks for that Steven

I've come across his site before with various searches but not checked in for a while, thanks

Hi Richard,

Very comprehensive list mate :-)

Unfortuntaley I suffer from the Cold when stopped (run hot when moving) so would end carrying a much warmer bag and insulated clothing.

I see you are using a Montane Fireball, it is a very tastey bit of kit.

Cheers,

Stephen

Nice kit. I would try to reduce the number and weight of the stuff sacks and plastic bags you carry.