Lighten' Up!

This is the time of year I’m “chopping at the bit” to get on a trail, somewhere, anywhere! Please let that snow melt so I can get out there! The last few years my emphasis has been on reducing pack weight any way I can. Now is the time for checking equipment and clothing, replacing what your checkbook will allow and reviewing everything with a critical eye toward how it will ultimately feel on your back.

Want to lighten’ up your backpack without spending lots of money? My favorite way of cutting weight always gets a few snickers. Yes, I am one of those who cut tags, shorten shoe laces, trim edges from maps, repackage food items, cut extra straps off backpacks and any other equipment, repackage toothpaste and yes, cut my toothbrush in half. OK, I know---funny stuff! But! I can go out on a six day backpack with food, equipment, clothing and water for a mere twenty-six pounds!

Give it a try one of these rainy spring days when you can’t be out tromping the trails. Start with your backpack. Those of your who hike with a lid have an instant advantage for weight reduction, unstrap that lid and lose an immediate 6-12 oz, amazing. I know, lids are good for organizing but think of how much better it will feel to lose the weight. Next, look at straps, get rid of all that are not used and shorten others to the proper length for use. Now, on to the contents! All tags on equipment and clothing can go, completely useless. Repackage everything from food stuff to Band-Aids, packaging often weighs more than the item. Think of dental floss---huge package and the floss itself weighs nothing. If you’re doing a 5 day hike do you really need that whole tube of toothpaste? Yes, I know it’s a travel size but just for kicks squeeze the amount you would use in 5 days into a zip lock and then weigh the two. Why carry ANY extra? That extra, if you want to carry it, could be chocolate! Last, take a look at what you wear. Any extra stuff hanging off? How about that draw string in your elastic waist short? Not needed if the elastic works. How about those shorts? Do they have a medal zipper? Could you trade them for a lighter pair of pull on shorts without the hardware? Try to look at everything you carry, use or wear in a different way, looking at weight and function. You’ll be surprised at what you see. I hope you save all that you cut off, un-package and trade. Put it all together and weigh to see what a favor you have done for yourself.

Spend a little time this season lightening up! Your back will like it and as the weight decreases your enjoyment will increase. A few websites that I enjoy checking out are; www.backpacking.net , www.bellaonline.com (a website for women) and www.ultralight-hiking.com. If you prefer to hold your reading material in your hands two excellent books are Backpacking: A Woman’s Guide by Adrienne Hall and Beyond Backpacking: Ray Jardines Guide to Lightweight Hiking by Ray Jardine.

See your lighter self on the trail! Jan