t he s implest s olution to maximize comfort on the trail tony ronco comfort packing

The Simplest

Solution

To Maximize Comfort on the Trail

Tony Ronco

Comfort Comfort PackingPacking

what do you really what do you really need need ??

Purpose of PresentationPurpose of Presentation

• Introduce Trail Comfort Principles & Concepts - Comfort Packing

– As a means to that end :

• Introduce Light Weight (& Ultra-light) Principles & Concepts

• Encourage you to use only what is actually useful– Not what the Outdoor Industry ad campaigns would like you to want

• Recognize self-serving Outdoor Industry hype / fear baiting

• Show the benefits of pursuing simplicity – do more with less

• Outline the advantages of this approach:

Comfort, Safety, Convenience, & Durability

Presentation is Targeting Presentation is Targeting Who?Who?

Whoever may not have full physical or economic access to backpacking

Younger Scouts who may not be big enough or physically mature enough to carry traditional backpacking loads

Older Scouts who may not be physically fit enough to carry traditional backpacking loads

Older Scouters who may not be physically capable of or fit enough to carry traditional backpacking loads

Scouts or Scouters who may not have the economic resources to buy expensive traditional backpacking gear

Anybody who wants to be more comfortable on the trail

It’s about increasing It’s about increasing accessibilityaccessibility It’s about increasing It’s about increasing accessibilityaccessibility

Some DefinitionsSome Definitions

BaseBase WeightWeight – The weight of your backpack without your food, water & fuel

CarryCarry WeightWeight – The weight of your backpack with your food, water & fuel

• Base Weight Skin-Out – The weight of all your stuff without your food, water & fuel.

• Carry weight Skin-Out – The weight of all your stuff with your food, water & fuel.

Just Fad? Just Fad?

This is from July 1982…This is from July 1982…This is from July 1982…This is from July 1982…

Chuck Kennedy & Fred Williams had 5.7 lb Base weight Chuck Kennedy & Fred Williams had 5.7 lb Base weight Chuck Kennedy & Fred Williams had 5.7 lb Base weight Chuck Kennedy & Fred Williams had 5.7 lb Base weight

Humor aside, does this ever happen ?

Later in Life … that youth becomes …

The The 33 Rules of a Lightweight Rules of a Lightweight ApproachApproach

1. KISS

KKeep IIt SSuper SSimple

2. KISS


3. KISS


Even the 3 Rules of Lightweight Hiking are KISSEven the 3 Rules of Lightweight Hiking are KISSEven the 3 Rules of Lightweight Hiking are KISSEven the 3 Rules of Lightweight Hiking are KISS

The The 33 Rules of a Lightweight Rules of a Lightweight ApproachApproach

1. KISS


2. ALL

Always Live Light

3. CSI

CContinuously SSimplify & IImprove

For those who love acronyms! For those who love acronyms! For those who love acronyms! For those who love acronyms!

QQuotesuotes that reflect thethat reflect the KISS KISS approachapproach

• Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing left to add, but when there is nothing left to remove. — Antoine de Saint-Exupery

• Things should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler. — Albert Einstein

• Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.— Leonardo DaVinci

• The more you know, the less you need. – Yvon Chouinard

• The whole reason for going lightweight is to be more comfortable, not less.– Fred Williams

Focused on Gear? or Focused on the True Essentials?

WHY ?WHY ?

Lightweight ? Lightweight ?

Benefits of Lightweight Benefits of Lightweight HikingHiking

With less effort, you can:• Be more Comfortable on the trail• Be Safer• Go Further • Go Faster

In addition, you can:• Increase access to Backpacking Activities for more people• Spend less money on equipment & food• Have more time & energy to enjoy the outdoors when you‘re

outdoors• Continue backpacking as you get older• Backpack with Kids

Advantages of a Lightweight Advantages of a Lightweight ApproachApproach

• COMFORT

• SAFETY

• CONVENIENCE

• GEAR DURABILITY

Most of our Most of our BBackpackingackpacking T Timeime is is Doing Doing WhatWhat??

• Hiking on the Trail

• Sleeping

• Camp Duties & Activities

Time defines our CTime defines our Comfort omfort PPrioritiesriorities

Time defines our CTime defines our Comfort omfort PPrioritiesriorities

So, you packed for ‘just in case’ …Just in case you wanted to avoid having fun?”

Who’s enjoying more Trail Comfort?

77 K Keyseys to to CComfortomfort in the Back in the Back CountryCountry

1. Knowledge

2. Physical Conditioning

3. Light carrying weight

4. Happy feet

5. Warmth when you need it

6. Nutritious meals

7. Quality night’s sleep

77 K Keyseys to to CComfortomfort in the Back in the Back CountryCountry

1. Knowledge

2. Physical Conditioning

3. Light carrying weight

4. Happy feet

5. Warmth when you need it

6. Nutritious meals

7. Quality night’s sleep

Your Foundational Base# 1 & 2

Your Desired Outcomes # 3 – 7

A Light Carrying Weight supports to all of the 7 Keys to Comfort A Light Carrying Weight supports to all of the 7 Keys to Comfort

Comfort of Lightweight Comfort of Lightweight HikingHiking

1. Knowledge• NOTE: Lots of equipment is not the same OR a substitute for lots of

experience

2. Physical Conditioning • NOTE: The extra weight (from your pack) you‘re carrying is not extra muscle

3. Light carrying weight • Have a backpacking base weight the same as a traditional daypack weight

4. Happy feet• Lighter loads allow lighter, more comfortable, more breathable shoes

5. Warmth when you need it• Lighter weight warmth allows efficient & more flexible layering to conditions.

6. Nutritious meals • Lighter weight meals need to be calorie & nutritionally dense.

7. Quality night’s sleep• Lighter weight doesn’t mean you need to compromise on sleeping comfort


• COMFORT

• SAFETY

• CONVENIENCE

• GEAR DURABILITY

Keys to SafetyKeys to SafetySafety is an interplay between mental and physical

attributes

1. Mental– Knowledge !

• Classroom, workshops, books• Experience

– Judgment !• Effectively Applying your Knowledge & Experience

2. Physical– Conditioning

– Balance

“I think maybe we’re off the trail”

Safety means there’s No Substitute for Knowledge & JudgmentSafety means there’s No Substitute for Knowledge & Judgment

Safety of Lightweight Safety of Lightweight HikingHikingMentalMental

• A Lot of Equipment is NOT EQUAL to A Lot of Experience

– Never confuse the two, they are completely separate

– There is no substitute for knowledge & experienceThere is no substitute for knowledge & experience

• Physical Fatigue & Exhaustion Mental Fatigue Poor Judgment

– A lightweight pack is less physically demanding than carrying a heavy traditional pack

– Accidents are caused more by bad judgment than bad equipment

Safety of Lightweight Safety of Lightweight HikingHikingPhysicalPhysical

• A lightweight pack loads your cardiovascular system less than a heavy traditional pack– The weight you instantly gain (from carrying your pack), is not extra muscle.

• Balance is easier to maintain with a light pack– Keeping in balance is an art of compensating when you’re out of balance

• A natural result of backpacking is a higher center of gravity than normal

• With a heavier the pack:

– It is harder to compensate when you’re out of balance,

» Therefore it increases your chance of a fall,

» Falling = Increased chance of scrapes, a sprained ankle or worst

• A heavy pack compounds the logistical issues of dealing with injuries

• Any additional first aid in a heavy pack is unlikely to compensate for the disadvantages of a that heavy pack .

Another Way to avoid Safety Issues from Physical Fatigue

Back Support : CHECK

Weight Transfer to Hips : CHECK

Knee support : CHECK

Ankle support : CHECK

Power Assist : CHECK

Ready to Carry Heavy Pack CHECK


• COMFORT

• SAFETY

• CONVENIENCE

• GEAR DURABILITY

Keys to CKeys to Convenienceonvenience

• Organization

• Easy Access

• Quick transitions

Trail Convenience of Saving Effort & Time – Trail Convenience of Saving Effort & Time – Not Not the Convenience of Home the Convenience of Home

CConvenience of Lightweight onvenience of Lightweight HikingHiking

• Organization – Less stuff Easier to organize Less effort do it

• Easy Access– Smaller kit size more possibilities for easy access locations

– Access Don’t have to put your pack down to get to things in it.

– Within hands reach Small pack = everything is within reach• Even the bottom of the pack

• A Big Traditional Pack needs lots of zippers to have that kind of accessibility

• Quick transitions – Simple Fast & Efficient Camp set-up & take down, Snacking, Meal

prep


• COMFORT

• SAFETY

• CONVENIENCE

• GEAR DURABILITY

• Durability = Reliability of Use

• Durability depends on how your equipment is used.

TThe he KKey to Durabilityey to Durability

Lightweight gear is inherently Lightweight gear is inherently more durablemore durable && more foolproofmore foolproof

than its heavier traditional backpacking than its heavier traditional backpacking counterpartcounterpart..

Lightweight gear is inherently Lightweight gear is inherently more durablemore durable && more foolproofmore foolproof

than its heavier traditional backpacking than its heavier traditional backpacking counterpartcounterpart..

Simpler = Less things can go wrong Simpler = Less things can go wrong

Durability of Lightweight Durability of Lightweight GearGear

Because of it’s simplicity, most lightweight gear is inherently more durable & more foolproof than its heavier traditional backpacking counterpart.

Example -

Lightweight alcohol / esbit stoves are more reliable & foolproof than a gas or canister stove• No pumps to fail in an alcohol / esbit stove, • No valves to fail in an alcohol / esbit stove• No nozzle jets to clog. in an alcohol / esbit stove• In fact alcohol / esbit stoves have no moving parts to break at all.• Alcohol / esbit stoves are simpler, lighter and much cheaper in cost than a gas or canister

stove.



Because of it’s simplicity, most lightweight gear is inherently more durable & more foolproof than its heavier traditional backpacking counterparts.

Example -

Closed cell foam pads are more reliable than an inflated pad• Closed cell foam pads can’t fail because of a puncture or abraded fabric

• Closed cell foam pads can’t fail because of a faulty air valve.

• Closed cell form pads are simpler, lighter and much cheaper in cost than an inflated pad



Because of it’s simplicity, most lightweight gear is inherently more durable & more foolproof than its heavier traditional backpacking counterpart

Example - A tarp is more reliable than a tent • There are no zippers to snag or jam• There are no zipper sliders to break or need repair• If a pole breaks, tarps can still be pitched, while most tents would be in serious trouble • Tarps and canopies can be pitched over protruding rocks / plants without disturbing them.• Tarps are simpler, lighter and cheaper in cost than comparable tents

A tarp-tent is more reliable than a tent • There is a reduced number of zippers to snag or jam• There is a reduced number of zipper sliders to break or need repair• All major components are attached – can’t be lost or misplaced• If a pole breaks, tarp-tent can still be pitched, while most tents would be in serious trouble • Tarp tents tend to be simpler, lighter and cheaper in cost than comparable tents


Picking a Campsite / Shelter Picking a Campsite / Shelter LocationLocation

200 feet200 feet ( about 75 steps) away from -

• Water SourcesWater Sources– Creeks, Rivers, Lakes, Springs

• The TrailThe Trail– Follow LNT practices. Try not to be seen – Reduce visual impact

• Other campsitesOther campsites– Follow LNT practices. Be Considerate of Other Visitors – Reduce visual impact

We all know this already We all know this already

4 W’s of picking a Shelter of picking a Shelter LocationLocation

WWater –• Avoid drainage paths, rain gathering ground depressions, etc.

• As LNT impact allows, set up on duff

WWind –• Avoid the wind by setting up behind wind breaks or picking a wind sheltered area

whenever possible

WWildlife –• Avoid game trails, ant mounts, ground squirrel holes, etc.

WWidow Makers – • Avoid setting up under heavy overhanging tree limbs

We need to practice this too !We need to practice this too !


Because of it’s simplicity, most lightweight gear is inherently more durable & more foolproof than its heavier traditional backpacking counterpart

Example -

A sleeping quilt is more reliable than a sleeping bag• There are no zippers to snag or jam

• There are no zipper sliders to break or need repair

• Sleeping quilts are simpler, lighter and cheaper in cost than comparable sleeping bags


Saving on Sleeping System Saving on Sleeping System WeightWeight

Simple Ways to Save on Sleeping System Weight (& Cost)

• Avoid carrying extra insulation that is ineffective.– Ineffective Insulation?

• Yeah, the stuff that flattens out underneath you when you sleep on it - does not help insulate you.

• Avoid Zippers – they’re heavy & a potential failure pt.– Ventilation can be achieved without zippers

• Open Ventilation – Opening your sleeping system to let cool off

• Closed Ventilation – Closing your sleeping system to warm up

• Address why you need to ventilate – Controlling the amount of insulation you are utilizing

Sleep System - Quilt Sleep System - Quilt techniquetechnique

Ventilate if warm Wrap up tight if cold

Bed Roll or Burrito methodfor controlling temperature comfort

hey, there aren’t any zippers to hassle with …hey, there aren’t any zippers to hassle with …hey, there aren’t any zippers to hassle with …hey, there aren’t any zippers to hassle with …

TThe Durability of he Durability of Lightweight PackLightweight Pack

If you have an expen$ ive traditional pack, you probably are:

• Not dropping your pack on the rocks

• Not dragging your pack over rocks or gravel

• Not plopping down on your pack as a seat

• Not being careless with your pack if your bushwacking

If you are not doing this already, then you are going to have to change

You don’t have to “baby” it, Just take care of it.

If you have a light to ultra-light pack, you generally:• Can’t drop your pack on the rocks• Can’t drag your pack over rocks• Can’t plop down on your pack using it as a seat• Can’t be careless with your pack if your bushwacking

Attributes Attributes of a Lightweight of a Lightweight ApproachApproach

• Focus on Being Comfortable ! … unencumbered by your gear – Lighter, Simpler Gear & Less of it

• Do More with Less attitude– “The more you know, the less you need” - Yvon Chouinard

• KISS system / logistics– The Simplest Solution & Efficiency Rule the Day

• Spirit of Self-Sufficiency– Thinks things through for ones self. Not dependent on store bought

solutions

• Quick & Easy Transitions– Rest / Scenery stops– Snacking– Preparing meals– Setting up / Taking down camp

TheThe Goals Goals of a Lightweight of a Lightweight ApproachApproach

• Be Comfortable !

• Have fun !

• Enjoy the outdoors !– When you’re out on a trek, have more time & energy to

actually enjoy the experience of the outdoors

• Backpacking as unencumbered as day hiking

Backpacking as Comfortable as Backpacking as Comfortable as Day HikingDay Hiking

TOP THREE STRATEGIES ON HOW :

3. Have someone (or something) carry your stuff for you.– Have a pack animal do it (human or otherwise) … volunteers?– Slack pack (support crew or cache)

2. Get to a level of physical conditioning so the weight does not matter– Who are we kidding ?? … It always matters– Not an accessible solution for the majority of the people

• Do you know how race horses are handicapped? – they add carrying weight– Are you as strong as a horse?

1. Lighten your load to roughly the equivalent of a traditional daypack

BINGO ! Lightweight Backpacking

Be Lightweight ? Be Lightweight ?

HOW ? HOW ?

Be Lightweight ? HBe Lightweight ? HOWOW??

REDUCE –

• Reduce Weight – Obvious! Focus first on the “Big 3” for the “most return on your

efforts – the biggest bang”

• Reduce the Amount you carry – Do More with Less

• Reduce Complexity – Your kit so advanced, it’s simple - KISS

• Reduce Size – Smaller is lighter, less bulky & more nimble

REUSE -

• Reuse your gear multiple ways for multiple uses

– A great way to reduce the amount you carry

REFINE –

• Refine your systems by simplifying for the better = KISS

– The Tool – A Scale. Weigh everything– The Approach – KISS method – Keep It Super Simple

Less Weight: Feel Great !

Base Weight You are Base Weight You are CarryingCarrying

BackpackBackpackSleeping SystemSleeping System

ShelterShelter

AccessoriesToiletry KitFirst Aid Kit

Camera

Clothes Clothes Cooking KitCooking Kit

Sleeping PadSleeping PadHH220 Treatment0 Treatment

Clothes Clothes Cooking KitCooking Kit

Sleeping PadSleeping PadHH220 Treatment0 Treatment

#1

PPoint of oint of RReferenceeference

ReduceReduceLighter Gear, Less of It, Simpler & Smaller

• Reduce Weight– Chose lighter weight stuff – focus on the “Big 3” first

• Reduce the Amount – Chose to carry less stuff - Having Less is an Advantage – Reduce redundancy– Less things you carry, the lighter your load

• Reduce Complexity– KISS - Keep it Super Simple – chose simpler gear lighter

gear

• Reduce Size– Smaller stuff is both lighter and easier to pack

The Weight Savings on the Big Three Alone = 5 to 14 lbsThe Weight Savings on the Big Three Alone = 5 to 14 lbs

Reduce –Reduce – Weight / Size / ComplexityWeight / Size / Complexity

ITEM Traditional ApproachTraditional Approach Reduce SolutionReduce Solution

BackpackBackpack 4 – 7 pounds 1 – 2 pounds

FeaturesTop Lid, Heavy Frame, Lots of Zippers,

Lots of Doo-Dads. Simple

ShelterShelter 4 – 7 pounds 1 – 2 pounds

FeaturesDouble Canopy, Lots of Tailoring, Lots of

Curved Poles, & Lots Zippers Simple

Sleeping systemSleeping system 3 – 4 pounds 1 – 2 pounds

FeaturesZippers, Lots of Tailoring, Flatten out

insulation under you Simple

Pair of ShoesPair of Shoes 1.8 – 3 pounds 14 oz. – 1 ¼ pounds

FeaturesNot very breathable, Lots of Leather,

Heavy Soles Simple and very breathable.

FoodFood 2 – 3 pounds per Day 1 ¼ – 1 ½ pounds per Day

Features Elaborate, Cooking IntensiveSimple –

Calorie & Nutritionally Dense

The Reduce Solution weights are typical target weightstarget weightsThe Reduce Solution weights are typical target weightstarget weights

Isn’t Lightweight More Isn’t Lightweight More Expensive?Expensive?

• Can be … but most of the time: NO !

Be Careful of Products that Market Hype “ UUltraltra--LLiteite”Be Careful of Products that Market Hype “ UUltraltra--LLiteite”

CCanan Broken Clock tell the Right Broken Clock tell the Right

Time Time ? ?

Yes! Exactly twice a dayYes! Exactly twice a daySo a broken clock is right some of the time

but is wrong most of the time.

“I never imagined I needed to buy so much stuff,just to sleep under the stars”

Do More with Less: UseDo More with Less: Use only what is actuallyonly what is actually useful. useful.

Don’t I Need to Buy Expensive Ti Don’t I Need to Buy Expensive Ti Gear ?Gear ?

1st let’s consider these facts:

• Aluminum – Specific Gravity = 2.64

– Density = 2.7g/cm3

• Titanium – Specific Gravity = 4.506

– Density = 4.95g/cm3

Does that answer the question?Does that answer the question?

Where Do I Get Affordable Where Do I Get Affordable Gear Gear ??

1. 1. Modify existing gear to be lighterModify existing gear to be lighter– Home surgeryHome surgery works wonders for making your gear lighter & simpler, without

spending any money

2. 2. Make your own lightweight gearMake your own lightweight gear– Make it yourselfMake it yourself, Thru-Hiker.com and QuestOutfitters.com are just two of the many

on-line sources for making your own gear. Making it yourself will reward you with a sense of pride & independence when using your gear.

3. 3. Buy your equipment usedBuy your equipment used – Thrift Stores, Swap Meets, e-Bay, Craigsliist, BPL swap gear forum, etcThrift Stores, Swap Meets, e-Bay, Craigsliist, BPL swap gear forum, etc. – Used rental gear salesUsed rental gear sales such as at Adventure 16 or REI (among others). A variation

of this approach for new gear but “last year’s model”, are the “end of season” sales.

4. 4. Discount storesDiscount stores – Any place where a good deal can be foundAny place where a good deal can be found. Examples include on-line stores

such as Campmor.com, CampingMAXX.com, or Serra Trading Post’s scout store (www.stp.me/scouts) or for a traditional brick & mortar store – Wal Mart,.

– These sources are just four of the possibilities, there are many others!

Light Gear is Simpler & Less CostlyLight Gear is Simpler & Less CostlyLight Gear is Simpler & Less CostlyLight Gear is Simpler & Less CostlyA Scout is ThriftyA Scout is ThriftyA Scout is ThriftyA Scout is Thrifty

One of the Big Three

Don’t I Need to Buy Expensive Don’t I Need to Buy Expensive Backpack Backpack ??

Affordable Creatively Simple SolutionAffordable Creatively Simple Solution• Outdoor Products, Arrowhead 9.0 Backpack $ 30, 30 oz

(Home Surgery to simplify)• Make it Yourself Rucksack Backpack $ 38, 14 oz• Everest Deluxe Hiking Backpack $ 50, 35 oz

(Home Surgery to simplify)

Typical Commercial Lightweight OfferingsTypical Commercial Lightweight Offerings• Gossamer Gear Mariposa Backpack - $165, 21 oz.• Granite Gear Vapor Trail Backpack - $170, 37 oz.• Gregory Z-55 Backpack - $200, 47 oz.

EXPENSIVEEXPENSIVE Commercial Offerings Commercial Offerings (If you want to spend a lot of (If you want to spend a lot of $$$$))• Osprey Exos-58 Backpack - $220, 40 oz.• Cilogear NWD Worksack 60 Backpack (without 16 oz frame system) $750, 40 oz

Simpler, Lighter Gear costs lessSimpler, Lighter Gear costs lessSimpler, Lighter Gear costs lessSimpler, Lighter Gear costs less


Don’t I Need to Buy Expensive Sleeping Don’t I Need to Buy Expensive Sleeping System System ??

Affordable Creatively Simple SolutionAffordable Creatively Simple Solution• HITEC 30 degree Sleeping Bag / Quilt $ 15, 36 oz

(On Sale with Home Surgery to simplify)

• Eureka Silver City 30 Sleeping Bag / Quilt $ 65, 24 oz

(with Home Surgery to simplify)

• Make it Yourself 30 degree Sleeping Quilt $ 48, 20 oz (Climashield insulation – no quilting)

Typical Commercial Lightweight OfferingsTypical Commercial Lightweight Offerings• Mountain Laurel Designs 30 Sleeping Quilt - $180, 18 oz.• Thermarest Haven (down) 20 Sleeping Top Bag - $209, 22 oz

EXPENSIVEEXPENSIVE Commercial Offerings Commercial Offerings (If you want to spend a lot of (If you want to spend a lot of $$$$))• Marmot Hydrogen 30 Sleeping Bag $359, 27 oz• Marmot Plasma 30 Sleeping Bag $419, 22 oz


A sub-component of the Big Three

Don’t I Need to Buy Expensive Sleeping Don’t I Need to Buy Expensive Sleeping System PadSystem Pad??

Affordable Creatively Simple SolutionAffordable Creatively Simple Solution• Thrift Store blue closed cell foam pad $ 5, 3.4 oz

(cut down to GG torso size)

Typical Commercial Lightweight OfferingsTypical Commercial Lightweight Offerings• Gossamer Gear NightLight pad (closed cell foam pad) - $ 16, 3.5 oz.

(torso length)

EXPENSIVEEXPENSIVE Commercial Offerings Commercial Offerings (If you want to spend a lot of (If you want to spend a lot of $$$$))• Therm-a-Rest NeoAir (inflated pad) $140, 9.1 oz

(small),



Don’t I Need to Buy Expensive Don’t I Need to Buy Expensive Shelter Shelter ??

Affordable Creatively Simple SolutionAffordable Creatively Simple Solution• Campmor 8x10 Sil-nylon tarp Shelter - $ 80, 13 oz ,• Homemade 8x10 Sil-nylon tarp Shelter - $ 48, 12 oz ,

Typical Commercial Lightweight OfferingsTypical Commercial Lightweight Offerings• Gossamer Gear Sil-Twinn tarp (2) Shelter - $ 140, 10.5 oz ,• Black Diamond Beta-Light (2) Shelter - $ 180, 24 oz ,• TarpTent Squal 2 Shelter - $ 230, 34 oz.

EXPENSIVEEXPENSIVE Commercial Offerings Commercial Offerings (If you want to spend a lot of (If you want to spend a lot of $$$$))• MSR Hubba-Hubba 2 Shelter - $300, 51 oz ,• Big Agnes Fly Creek UL2 Shelter - $350, 42 oz ,• Brooks Range Rocket (2) Shelter - $550, 36 oz ,• Hyperlite Mountain Gear Echo 2 Shelter - $620, 28 oz ,


TheThe BEST of The BESTBEST of The BEST Lightweight Equipment Lightweight Equipment

CriteriaCriteria

LIGHTWEIGHT - Weigh next to nothing

PACK SMALL- Be small enough to disappear in your pack

RELIABLE - For all practical matters, never wear out

SIMPLE – Easy to Use - No time wasted

AFFORDABLE - Cost next to nothing

This stuff we want !This stuff we want !This stuff we want !This stuff we want !

Stuff Stuff not not taken … taken …

LIGHTWEIGHT - Weigh next to nothing

– It can not weigh you down … you’re not carrying it PACK SMALL- Be small enough to disappear in your pack

– It’s not there … so your backpacking kit stays small RELIABLE - For all practical matters, never wear out

– Can’t wear out if it’s not being used SIMPLE – Easy to Use - No time wasted

– Simplicity rules the day AFFORDABLE - Cost next to nothing

– No money needed: If you don’t use it, you don’t have to buy it,

… … closeclose as you can get to the as you can get to the MMiracle iracle EEquipmentquipment idealideal… … closeclose as you can get to the as you can get to the MMiracle iracle EEquipmentquipment idealideal

Reduce –Reduce –Carry Fewer ThingsCarry Fewer Things

Traditional ApproachTraditional Approach Reduce SolutionReduce Solution

Multiple pots & pans in your kitchen kit 1 pot kitchen kit

Multiple Shoes (hiking & camp shoes) 1 pair of shoes (light trail runners)

Multiple Pairs of Shorts 1 pair of hiking shorts

Multiple Pairs of Long Pants 1 pair of long pants

Multiple Hiking Shirts 1 hiking shirt

Multiple Changes of Underwear 1 pair

… … for clothes: for clothes: NO COTTONNO COTTON, only quick drying synthetics or wool, only quick drying synthetics or wool… … for clothes: for clothes: NO COTTONNO COTTON, only quick drying synthetics or wool, only quick drying synthetics or wool

Carry Fewer Things by reducing Carry Fewer Things by reducing redundancyredundancyCarry Fewer Things by reducing Carry Fewer Things by reducing redundancyredundancy

Reduce – Reduce – 11 item per Layer to Carry Fewer item per Layer to Carry Fewer

ThingsThings

EXAMPLES OF LAYERINGEXAMPLES OF LAYERING (Variables are your activity level, metabolism & the weather)

TOP LAYERING Warm ● A combo of hiking shirt and base layer top (or rain jacket) over it.

● A combo of hiking shirt, base layer top and rain jacket over it ● A combo of hiking shirt, insulation jacket over it.

● A combo of hiking shirt, base layer top and insulation jacket Warmest ● A combo of hiking shirt, base layer top, insulation jacket and rain jacket.

BOTTOM LAYERING Warm ● A combo of shorts and base layer bottoms (or rain pants) over them. ● A combo of shorts / hiking pants and base layer bottoms or rain pants over them ● A combo of shorts, base layer bottoms and rain pants.Warmest ● A combo of hiking pants, extra underwear briefs, base layer bottoms and rain

pants.

Reduce down to one item per layer: Reduce down to one item per layer: NO COTTONNO COTTONReduce down to one item per layer: Reduce down to one item per layer: NO COTTONNO COTTON

Stuff not taken …Stuff not taken …

QUESTION:

How can you maximize stuff not taken?

ANSWER:Re-use Re-use ! ! Re-use your gear multiple ways for Re-use your gear multiple ways for

multiple usesmultiple uses


REDUCE –






REUSE -



REFINE –



Reuse Reuse EExamples & Ideasxamples & Ideas

Multiple itemsMultiple itemsRe-Use SolutionRe-Use Solution – –

Item used Multiple Ways for Multiple UsesItem used Multiple Ways for Multiple Uses

Drinking Mug, Cooking Pot, Eating Bowl, Eating Plate

Re-use one pot/billy for used for all tasks

Long pants, wind pants, rain pants Re-use rain-pants for all tasks

Rain Jacket, wind jacket, outer shell Re-use rain jacket for all tasks

Sleeping pad, sitting pad, backpack frame sheet

Re-use sleeping pad for all tasks

Hiking poles, shelter poles Re-use hiking poles for both uses

Ground cloth, shelter floor Re-use ground cloth for both uses

Eating Utensils: Spoon, ForkRe-use one item for both – spork or a foon

Rain gear, shelter Re-use one item for both - poncho tarp

A Few Ideas for: Re-using itemsRe-using items multiple ways for multiple uses multiple ways for multiple usesA Few Ideas for: Re-using itemsRe-using items multiple ways for multiple uses multiple ways for multiple uses


REDUCE –






REUSE -



REFINE –



RefineRefine

• THE TOOLS : A Scale Weigh Everything

• THE APPROACH : Use the KISS method – Look for the Simplest Solution

• No need to re-invent the wheel– Learn from others – be open minded

• Continuously Simplify & Improve – CSI– Refine your system to your needs

With an open mind, you’ll With an open mind, you’ll refinerefine your kit to be lighter your kit to be lighterWith an open mind, you’ll With an open mind, you’ll refinerefine your kit to be lighter your kit to be lighter

Comparison of Hiking Comparison of Hiking StylesStyles

? ?

Comparison of Hiking Comparison of Hiking StylesStyles

Traditional BackpackingLightweight Lightweight BackpackingBackpacking

Labor with 40+ extra pounds

(that instant weight gain is not from added muscle).

Your personal Stairmaster in the back country

Stroll along like you are on a traditional day hike (almost).

Need lots of rest breaks because of fatigueBreak when you want to, not because of exhaustion

End up constantly focusing on your feetMore opportunity to look out & enjoy the scenery

Arrive at camp tired Arrive at camp with energy to spare

Very time consuming - Camp set up & tear down Quick transition – Both camp set up & tear down

Dread future trips … need to first forget about the suffering of your last trip

Look forward to future trips

Weight is hard on the body & knees . Minimizes the pounding effect on your body

Myths & Reality: Lightweight Myths & Reality: Lightweight PackingPacking

MYTH REALITYREALITYNot Comfortable

(to carry heavy weight)More Comfortable - Come on, you’re carrying much less weight while you are on the trail.

Compromises on Safety

It’s actually Safer

In terms of balance, risk, & well being

Better judgment is more likely when you are alert & energized than when you’re fatigued & bone tired.

Not Convenient

(doesn’t have lots of zippers & pockets)More Convenient (less stuff, simpler - better logistics, makes it easier to locate stuff in your pack & set up)

Gear is not DurableGear is inherently more Durable, but chose wisely – use wisely

Just a Fad It’s been around for over 25 years (actually much longer)

Really expensiveOverall, it’s much less expensive than traditional backpacking.

No luxuries, too utilitarianHave the exquisite & liberating luxury of being unencumbered by your stuff . .. But you can still take a

lightweight version of the few luxuries you actually use .

LLack of ack of KKnowledge nowledge == EExaggerated xaggerated FFearearLLack of ack of KKnowledge nowledge == EExaggerated xaggerated FFearear

The Simple SummaryThe Simple Summary

• Ultra-Comfortable

• Ultra-Light

• Ultra-Affordable

Carry a Light Weight

Carry a Light Heart

Carry Enlighten Judgment

Some More DefinitionsSome More Definitions

• Super Ultra-light - a base weight below 5 lbs

• Ultra-light – a base weight below 7 lbs.

• Lightweight – a base weight target of 8 lbs.

• Mid-weight - a base weight between 16 lbs - 20 lbs

• – a base weight greater than 20 lbs.

Things should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.

— Albert Einstein

We recommend aiming for, or starting at, the Lightweight Category

Carry WeightsCarry Weights

• Philmont recommends carrying a pack carry weight no more than 25% to 30% of your body weight.

• We recommend a pack weight targettarget * of 10% of 10% (or less )

– Ideally this is the carry weight

– As needed, start with this target as a base weight.

– Apply the 3 R’s (Reduce, Re-use, Refine)

– The more mature boys should target a base weight of 9 lbs or less

• Which will be much less than 10% of their body weight

– Don’t go over 20% for Carry Weight

– … avoid coming close to that – think 15% max for margin

* American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

Carry Weight TipsCarry Weight Tips

• TargetTarget of 10% of 10% (or less … especially for the more mature boys)

– Everyone practices the 3 R’s

– Use the patrol method

• Gear Distribution: by sub-system or component?

• All members will have to carry patrol items to be “fair”

– Be mindful of the weight of the distributed items.

• All members need to take a lightweight approach to be fair

• Express thanks & praise for those mature scouts helping make the patrol objective

– Be mindful of the Scouts’ fitness level

• Don’t use an overweight boy’s weight as a baseline for him

TTry out your systems/gear before ry out your systems/gear before your tripyour trip

• Backyard

• Park

• Then, once you’re familiar with your

systems & gear –

– Overnight weekend trips – “Shake down

cruise”

ExperienceExperienceFACT #1:

• A Lot of Equipment is NOT EQUAL to A Lot of Experience

– Never confuse the two, they are completely separate

FACT #2:

• A Lot of Equipment Need A Lot “How to Use it” Experience

– A Lot “How to Use it” Experience is NOT EQUAL to “Travel Safe in the Back Country”

Experience

FACT #3:

• Need Less Equipment Need More Experience

what do you really need ?what do you really need ?

Know How to

Walk the TalkWalk the Talk

beforebefore

Talking the TalkTalking the Talk

Lord Baden-Powell Quotes

“Success in training the boy depends largely on the Scoutmaster's own personal example.

“…There is no teaching to compare with example”

“A Scout is never taken by surprise; he knows exactly what to do when anything unexpected happens.”

“Scoutmasters need the capacity to enjoy the out-of-doors.”

Walking the TalkWalking the TalkWalking the TalkWalking the Talk

Questions ? Questions ?

??????

t he s implest s olution to maximize comfort on the trail tony ronco comfort packing

Documents

weight hap

definitionsbase weight

carry weight skin

water fuelcarry weight

lightweight approachkiss

backpacking time

water fuelbase weight

backpacking activities