Publications

Determining Pack Essentials

AMC Outdoors, April 2003

By Michael Lanza

Experienced hikers in the Northeast — knowing the reputation for severe weather in the region's mountains — often err on the side of safety when seeking a balance between going lighter and being prepared. That's good. But carrying what you simply won't need just doesn't make sense.

A Few Examples:
Even in the White Mountains — and certainly at lower elevations — summer days and nights are often mild and two-to three-day forecasts reliable. You can often ditch the rain jacket and pants (which are too hot to hike in) for a wide-brimmed waterproof hat and a soft shell or light wind shell — either of which will breathe better and dry faster than a waterproof-breathable jacket, and keep you warm in a summer rain. A large trash bag can serve as an emergency poncho.

For mild nights, cut your bed weight by at least half with a summer-weight sleeping bag and a three-quarter-length pad. If necessary, sleep in your extra clothing.

Don't forgo the first-aid kit. But so many people simply buy one sold commercially, open it once to give its contents a cursory check, then throw it into the pack without another thought — or even knowing what everything is used for. Scrutinize your kit's contents and keep only what you consider important, leaving items out based on knowledge derived through books or courses on Wilderness First Aid.

—Michael Lanza is the author of The Ultimate Guide to Backcountry Travel, from AMC Books.