When I first started backpacking………

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.

“Learning while “doing” is the best way to learn.”

I don’t agree with that statement at all. I’m a believer in doing your homework, and seeking advice from experts, then “doing.” Of course you still learn as you go, but you don’t start out hiking in jeans and  flip flops. As an occasional hike leader, I believe in bag checks too.

“Learning while “doing” is the best way to learn.”
Well, it does work and can be effective. That is for sure.
Always provided you survive the experience.
A bit like wearing jeans in the rain in the snow fields.

Cheers
PS: learning from other people’s mistakes also works very well, and may be less painful.

Ha, I am the youngest of 6 children. My sibs always thought that I was spoiled because I got away with a lot.  In my defense, I believed that I learned from my older sibs what I could get away with, and what get me into trouble.  Learn by doing, but learn from others!  My 2 cents.

Jon, I am the youngest of seven and my experience was virtually the same as yours.  My sibs thought I was spoiled too but I just watched and learned what NOT to do from my older siblings as they grew up in the tumultuous 60’s and early 70’s!  But getting back to backpacking, since no one else in my family enjoyed camping/hiking, much of what I learned was from the scouts and later on, from my own mistakes.