My first backpacking trip was in my early 20s and i made nearly every beginner mistake possible. My pack weighed around 55 lbs for a 2-night trip because i packed for every “what if” scenario. I carried 4 liters of water on a trail that had reliable streams every few miles, packed three changes of clothes, a heavy sleeping bag rated far below the expected temperatures and enough food for twice the length of the trip.
The funny part is that I probably used less than 60% of what I carried. After hiking about 12 miles on the first day my shoulders and hips were screaming and I spent more time adjusting my pack than enjoying the scenery.
That trip taught me a lesson I still follow today: every item should justify its weight. On my recent trips, my total pack weight is less than half of what I carried on that first adventure and I enjoy the miles far more. Looking back, the mistakes were part of the learning process and I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything.
