17 May 2006
A frequent question is, "What do you carry?"
This is a list, including a description and weight, of what I will be carrying at the start of my thru-hike. The composition of my load is vastly different from years past...about twenty pounds different, the result of better gear design and an evolved awareness of what I can and can't do without. Another Hannibal, the veteran of the Punic Wars, famously had elephants carry his loads while traversing mountains. Not having this luxury, I am motivated to keep my burden as light as practical.
Packed Gear
Six Moon Designs Essence Pack - 13oz
Pack Liner Bag - 1oz
3/4 length Z-rest Pad - 12oz
Western Mountaineering Highlite Sleeping Bag with Stuff Sack - 19.3oz
Silk Bag Liner - 5oz
Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape, Poncho/Tarp - 11oz
6 Aluminum Stakes - 2oz
Groundsheet - 1oz
Brasslite Alcohol Stove - 1.4oz
.85L Titanium Cook Pot - 4.5oz
Spoon, Lighter and Windscreen - 3oz
Fuel Bottle - 1.3oz
Ursack Food Bag - 6oz
2.4L Platypus Water Container - 1oz
Iodine Tablets/Water Treatment - 2oz
Hat - 1.5oz
Liner Gloves - 2oz
Sleeping Socks - 2oz
Mont-Bell Windshirt - 2.6oz
Feathered Friends Hyperion Jacket with Stuff Sack - 13oz
1 Pair Socks - 1oz
Toothpaste/Brush/Floss - 3 oz
Toilet Paper and Gel Alcohol - 3 oz
Medical Kit - 3oz
2 Photon LED Lights - 1oz
Compass - 1.2 oz
Documents (Cash, Cards, Guidebook, Maps, Contact Info) - 9oz
Journal and Pen - 3.5oz
Bug Headnet - .5oz
Bandana and Pack Towel - 1.5oz
Mini Leatherman Tool - 2oz
Emergency Whistle - .5oz
Total Packed: About 7.5 Lbs.
This does not include Food, Water and Fuel, which will vary on a daily basis.
Worn Gear
Trekking Poles - 11oz
Sun Hat - 3oz
Nylon Long Sleeve Shirt - 8oz
Nylon Pants - 10oz
Socks - 1oz
Underwear - 3oz
Sneakers - 32oz
Nikon L2 Camera and Case - 7oz (on hipbelt)
