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chrisstratton
senior member (54)senior membersenior member
  
08/10/2021 10:27AM  
Just got back from a 5 day trip. WAAAAAY too heavy for an old guy. I'd like to hear suggestions for the "ideal" lightweight gear and food pack for solo camping in the summer. I'll get started:

ALPS Mountaineering Taurus Outfitter 2 tent
ALPS Mountaineering Ready Cot Lite (or ?? Helinox?)
Thermarest NeoAir® Topo™ Luxe Sleeping Pad or similar
Polyester Sleeping Bag Liner (or two? - could I skip the sleeping bag???)
Katadyn Hiker Microfilter PLUS sterilizing tablets located elsewhere in pack (spare)
Jetboil Zip Camping Stove Cooking System, Carbon or similar
two small cansiters of fuel
3 disposable lighters (had one die after one day use), plus some white phosphorous type matches
2 each 1 liter nalgene drinking bottles
4 l collapsible bucket or similar
Spoon and Spork - titanium, long handled
Swiss army or other knife
100 or 200 feet of paracord
lightweight slingshot

first aid - vaseline, bandages, epsom salt (to soak infected wounds), ibuprofen, tweezers, alcohol
headlamp - or two?
extra set of readers or sunglasses with readers at bottom
sunblock cream
picaridin or deet spray
2 ounces of dawn or other dishsoap

Electronics:
GPS or GAIA APP with route and maps preloaded onto TWO phones in separate waterproof cases
5 liter, clear dry-bag for camera gear, double protection for GPS/Phone
20k amp battery bank plus multi-USB/Lightning cable
pre-marked map
Rx100 zoom lens camera or Olympus TG, plus batteries
Insta360 One X2, plus extra batteries and carbon extension
flex clamp goose neck mount

Food:
One freeze dried packet/person/day (each usually feeds two)
Oatmeal packets
variety of mixed, dried fruits
various beef jerky
variety of Sweet/Salty trail mix packets
freeze dried coffee packets/hot choc/spiced sider

Clothing (treat with permethrin before going):
2 pair underwear
2 pair poly socks (think)
1 pair mid-weight wool socks
NRS ATB Neoprene Kayak Shoes
Sturdy, closed toe sandals (Keen?)
1 pair NAVISKIN Men's 5 inch Running Shorts Quick Dry
1 pair Columbia Men's Silver Ridge Convertible Pants
1 (extra) pair polyester boxers
water resistant, insulated bicycle jacket
2 pair long sleeve polyester shirts
widebrim hat
head netting (mosquito)

Variety of sizes and numbers of sturdy, closeable bags

 
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08/10/2021 11:31AM  
I'll take a shot, remember it's my opinion only.
First 4 items are overkill or heavy. You can save substantial size and weight here.
Next 3 are fine.
"drinking bottles, collapsible bucket" lighter bladder/bags and existing cook pot save weight.

The rest is debatable and adaptable with experience.

My personal info. 69 years 11 months old, over weight and short, been canoe tripping with a main pack and day pack double portaging. Large pack averages 28 pounds small pack 18 pounds.
My load a few years ago, includes a book or 2 to read and a FlexLite chair, all food and fuel needed for 10+ days.

butthead
 
chrisstratton
senior member (54)senior membersenior member
  
08/10/2021 12:13PM  
Yes - I forgot the chair!
For me - the cot is a must have. What for tent, or are you using a hammock?
 
08/10/2021 12:22PM  
I need to work on lightening my load too. That's pretty impressive BH!
 
SevenofNine
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08/10/2021 12:28PM  
I would work on reducing the tent and sleeping bag weight. Tarptent makes a bunch of light weight tents. I have a Double Rainbow and adding up the weights I get around 40 ounces give or take. You could consider a quilt in place of the bag but a down bag or quilt rated for summer should cut weight.

If you can do without the cot then that should help as well. I'm guessing you bring it because you need it. Otherwise can't your cot pull double duty as a chair?

Why are you bringing two phones? A phone with a map should suffice.
 
PabloKabo
distinguished member (121)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
08/10/2021 12:43PM  
The electronics and backup battery have got to be a lot of weight. Can you simplify and reduce, or eliminate some of that?

Part of getting away is...getting away.
 
08/10/2021 01:09PM  
Ummm, what's the slingshot for?
 
08/10/2021 01:13PM  
Hi, Chris-

Another old guy who's been working on the problem for a while now. It's been a gradual process over the years. First some questions:

Just how heavy was " WAAAAAY too heavy" ? Do you know how much the pack(s) weighed? Were you double portaging or attempting to single? Were you solo?

My first thought was the same as butthead's - the shelter/sleep system can lose a lot of weight. I couldn't get a handle on how much the bag weighs but assuming a few pounds, it's almost 2 1/2 X the weight of my late 3-season setup. My sleep/shelter system plus a 10' x 12' CCS tarp weighs less than 10 lbs. That includes a 15 degree bag, all stakes, guylines, stuff sacks, etc.

Other ways to lose weight like not taking stuff are cheap. One of the things I stopped taking was too much food. Food comes to about 1 lb. a day for me, requires little fuel or equipment.

To be honest, besides the shelter/sleep system, it didn't seem to be over the top. There was a good bit of camera and electronics gear and maybe some savings there, but seems like something important for you . . . ? But no fishing gear, so maybe that's a trade-off.

For a 5-day trip late summer, early Sept. I'd be around 40 lbs. not including the canoe gear and things I wear.



 
08/10/2021 01:49PM  
Tent! Tarptent was suggested and I'll second that. You should be able to get a tent under 2 pounds for some $$$, or under 3 for some $.

Ditch the cot, or if there is some reason you absolutely have to have it, get the lighter helinox (3+ lb delta to the ALPS). If this is a "sleep is super important to me" thing I'd still just get a cushier pad & leave the cot. Frankly, the Topo Luxe is that. See if you can live without the cot.

Those two changes could yield 10+ lbs right off the get-go.

I use an Enlightened Equipment 40 degree quilt that weighs 14 oz. You don't mention your bag/quilt, but there's usually weight to be shed here.

Pack? Again, not mentioned...but if you go light you don't need a 5 pound Granite Gear Superior One. You can find a two pound pack that will serve nicely.

Clothing and food look fine.

I would also consider ditching the jetboil for a lighter canister stove in the 1-3 oz range (pocket rocket, BRS or ?).

Here's a link to what mine looks like ready-to-go:
Rigged for Singles
 
HappyHuskies
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08/10/2021 03:08PM  
Packing is such a personal thing and is highly dependent on what you want to do during your trip. and the folks that have already chimed in have very dialed in kits and have given great advice. Not sure I can add much, but I'll try.

With that said, when folks want to drop weight I think the first place to start is by removing duplicate gear and stuff that you might take "just in case". For example do you need two GPS's/phones? Can you get by with one less shirt? Do you routinely use two fuel canisters on a 5 day trip? I get that fuel canisters can leak and electronics can fail, just saying that "belt and suspenders" packing adds weight and eliminating them costs nothing.

Good luck. I find the process of refining my pack loadout to be fun and hope you enjoy it too. You've got a terrific base to work from, so it should not be too hard.
 
THEGrandRapids
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08/10/2021 03:10PM  
I'd like to mention another dynamic. and that's weight per pack/ portage trip.....

I can see why some like the single portage, but I think the double portage is the best experience (as you get to enjoy the woods, not just the water). So if you do plan to cut weight, make it so the portage is manageable.

For example, If you can carry 60 pounds a portage leg, and double portage with a canoe that is 45, then pack 2x 30 pound bags and 1 15 pound bag, plus canoe. The first few trips I made, I realized I ended up going back an extra portage leg to carry very little weight.

I realized I needed to do this as I now triple portage while my spouse single portages with our two toddlers. Only way we can do it and to prevent a quadruple portage, I need to make sure each leg is feasible, plus carrying a 30 pound toddler on my shoulders if he gets tired.

Whether you want to single, double or triple portage, you are the only one to decide, but be efficient with each load. You will either shave off a few items to fit it in fewer loads, or realize you can take luxuries by adding a portage leg. and it is still manageable.
 
08/10/2021 03:17PM  
chrisstratton: "Yes - I forgot the chair!
For me - the cot is a must have. What for tent, or are you using a hammock?"



A solo Big Sky International Chinook or a BA Flycreek UL 2 Platinum. Either weigh in around 2 pounds. Sleep gear is a BA Horsethief and an Exped UL 5 Short mattress, which weigh a total of 4-6 pounds, depending on option taken.

butthead
 
chrisstratton
senior member (54)senior membersenior member
  
08/10/2021 03:45PM  
PabloKabo: "The electronics and backup battery have got to be a lot of weight.
"
Well - part of getting away for me is time for photography.
 
chrisstratton
senior member (54)senior membersenior member
  
08/10/2021 03:48PM  
SevenofNine: " Why are you bringing two phones? A phone with a map should suffice."


Would love to learn more about the tent you mentioned. Two phones? Well - w/out one, I would perhaps still be stuck out there - since I fell in with my spare not 10 minutes on the water, lol!! The Gaia GPS app was a lifesaver.
 
chrisstratton
senior member (54)senior membersenior member
  
08/10/2021 03:50PM  
unshavenman: "Ummm, what's the slingshot for?"
For slinging the bear hang line. Not really necessary, but ...
 
chrisstratton
senior member (54)senior membersenior member
  
08/10/2021 03:52PM  
boonie: "
Just how heavy was " WAAAAAY too heavy" ? Do you know how much the pack(s) weighed? Were you double portaging or attempting to single?
"


I had signed up for a high end, ultra lightweight outfit. They sent me with TWO Kondos packs! perhaps total of ?80 ? lbs, counting even more camera gear. For example - they tried to include 48oz of cooking oil, a cutting board, an insulated bag, 12 oz of cheese spread, 12 ounces of parkay margarine, a complete bbq grill set, complete roll of paper towels, a dish towel, 1 lb of summer sausage, a complete box of crackers ....................

So - no - I was not single or double portaging, but triple.
 
08/10/2021 03:53PM  
Don't skip on the sleeping bag. The liner is what you can skip on. I'm also not as much of a fan of the bucket. Unless you have a nice one, they tend to be bulky and heavy.

The heaviest items I see are the Alps products and the electronics. I know you like your photography, but that is a lot of electronics. 2 phones and 2 cameras? With the cameras on the phones, that's 4 cameras. The new smart phones have nicer cameras with wide angle and zoom so you could have 1 device replace those 4. I think you could cut down on the electronics a lot without missing much. Down sizing the battery would help too. Electronics might not feel heavy at first but it adds up. All that combined is probably 5-10lbs, maybe more depending on the waterproof cases. If you want to cut weight, this is where you start.

Are you planning a group trip or a solo? I'd find a lighter tent and if you can't find a lighter cot, get a smaller and lighter pad. You don't need as nice of a pad on a cot. So something like the Klymit pad should work well. That or try a hammock.
 
chrisstratton
senior member (54)senior membersenior member
  
08/10/2021 04:56PM  
A1t2o: "Are you planning a group trip or a solo? I "

This was a solo trip - with triple portaging, which was crazy. I'd love to see specific recommendations for pads (Klymit?). Hammocks - I've never rested well in one as I'm a tall, side-sleeper. Perhaps a GPS PLUS a cell phone would be enough. The Perent River is really tortuous (serpentine?) - having the GAIA app was a God-send. I'm a photographer - one of the points of going out is to document the trip.
 
SevenofNine
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08/10/2021 05:08PM  
chrisstratton: "
SevenofNine: " Why are you bringing two phones? A phone with a map should suffice."



Would love to learn more about the tent you mentioned. Two phones? Well - w/out one, I would perhaps still be stuck out there - since I fell in with my spare not 10 minutes on the water, lol!! The Gaia GPS app was a lifesaver. "


Look up Tarptent tents specifically their Double rainbow. You can buy a one man version of this as well to save more weight. I like the additional space so I bought the double.

I suggest you learn how read a map if you are not familiar with doing so. I know a GPS must make it a lot easier but map reading skills are important. Also I would keep your phone in a plastic bag when not using it.

Lastly a lot of people don’t consider the weight they carry every day. Imagine dropping 10lbs of body weight. Something to think about.

I wish you luck.
 
HappyHuskies
distinguished member (418)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
08/10/2021 05:16PM  
If I'm reading you right, a lot of the gear you used this trip was from an outfitter? If this is correct and you'll be starting from a clean slate, rather than replacing things that makes a difference. Just checking to see if I have this right before making any specific gear suggestions.

It would also be nice to know if you have any price ranges you're trying to stay within. For a lot of gear I'm a big fan of buying used rather than new. There is a lot of lightly used ultralight gear to be had for far less than new.
 
chrisstratton
senior member (54)senior membersenior member
  
08/10/2021 05:27PM  
HappyHuskies: "If I'm reading you right, a lot of the gear you used this trip was from an outfitter? "

Everything but the clothing and camera stuff was from the outfitter. So, yes, please! No - I don't have a budget in mind, and yes - used gear is fine w/ me :) just so it is good/workable.
 
HappyHuskies
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08/10/2021 05:28PM  
One more question and then I'll pass on a few of my recommendations, with the understanding that what works for me will not necessarily be everyone'x cup of tea. So, any idea just how light you want to go? You can get pretty crazy with this. I know I try to do one BWCA trip a year where I try to hit SUL (base pack weight without food, fuel, and water of less than 5 pounds) pack weights. I don't recommend this, but mention it to let you know you can get pretty nuts about these things.
 
chrisstratton
senior member (54)senior membersenior member
  
08/10/2021 05:31PM  
A1t2o: The liner is what you can skip on. ."

Honestly - thinking of a liner INSTEAD of a sleeping bag.
 
chrisstratton
senior member (54)senior membersenior member
  
08/10/2021 05:33PM  
HappyHuskies: " So, any idea just how light you want to go? "

Assuming about 4 lbs of camera gear/electronics/etc- 25 to 30 pounds (including food) would be great. I'm okay with double portaging - but triple portaging on my route was just punishment.

My next travel might be the Suwanee River - which might have much less portaging, but still - less is much more!
 
HappyHuskies
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08/10/2021 05:34PM  
I would be cautious about taking just a liner. It is tempting, but if weather turns a bit colder than you expect it can lead to a pretty miserable trip. On short trips where you can be pretty sure of the forecast it might be ok, but the longer the trip the less reliable the weather forecast. You can wear some extra clothing to supplement a liner or quilt or bag, but nice to be close to the warmth you need without supplementing things.

I believe in going as light as you can while still being safe and reasonably comfortable. You really can go too light to the point where you don't have the gear you need for basic safety.
 
HappyHuskies
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08/10/2021 05:39PM  
25 to 30 pounds including all consumables for a week long trip is very, very attainable and with quite a bit of comfort. Let me think about this for a few minutes and see what I can come up with that will hit this target without breaking the bank.

I also see you're located in Florida. I will change my opinion and say that I think a liner would be just fine for much of the year there. Here in northern Minnesota I'd be a lot more cautious, particularly in the spring and fall.
 
straighthairedcurly
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08/10/2021 05:42PM  
Since gear choices are highly personal, I will make a general suggestion to start by using lighterpack.com to track your exact gear weight as you research different options. This made all the difference for me as I worked toward eliminating one portage trip. You can create categories such as cooking gear, shelter, food, canoe gear, etc. Then start weighing your current items and entering items that you are researching.

The general rule of thumb is that you should start by eliminating unnecessary items, then decrease weight by improving your canoe, tent, and sleeping bag weight. I have never slept on a cot, does it require that you also have a sleeping pad, or can you skip that?

In my lightweight quest, I have also focused on simple just-add-boiling-water dinners and cold soak breakfasts (with occasional Ova-easy egg and hashbrown breakfasts). This significantly cuts down on fuel requirements. I hate eating out of a bag so I have one of these: 16 oz. cold soak jar I made a cozy for it out of double reflective bubble wrap (Reflectix) and aluminum duct tape.

My cook kit consists of stove, one fuel canister (more than enough for a week long solo), cold soak jar with cozy, a titanium spoon, a 750 mL Toaks titanium pot, a Toaks titanium wind screen, and a lighter. (When not in a fire ban, I actually use an alcohol stove made from a cat food can and a small Gatorade bottle with 8 oz. of alcohol).

Instead of Nalgene bottles, I carry 2 bottles from either Fiji water or Smartwater. Right there you save 3/4 lb. Nalgene bottles are heavy. Little things like this add up as you will see when you start to track on lighterpack website. I also cut weight by investing in an enlightened Equipment raincoat. Not only did it shave ounces, but it is my favorite raincoat of all time.

If you use a cot, make sure any tent you buy has the appropriate space/head room.

If you plan to bring a tarp, look at Cooke Custom Sewing. Their 1.1 oz. sil-nylon tarps (I use an 8x10 on a solo) are a lightweight way to have a hangout on rainy days.

Perusing ultralight backpacker videos and websites is a good place to do some research. Also keep an eye on the used gear forum on this site is a great way to source some wonderful gear. I got my Tarptent, canoe, and a lightweight down sleeping bag on this site.

Most of all, enjoy the journey. It is fun to keep making progress on lightening the load with your comfort still in mind.

 
HappyHuskies
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08/10/2021 05:56PM  
Ok, here are a few of the big 3 or 4 items that I like and I think would work well for you. These are just products that I've been happy with ... there are many other products that I have not tried that I'me sure would also fit the bill.

For a sleeping bag, I'd recommend a quilt. Lightweight and comfortable. My go to 3 season quilt is a Hammock Gear Burrow 20 F in wide. I've been using this quilt for over 10 years and it has held up well. I've use it down to 15 F. Mine has a couple of ounces of over stuff and a sewn footbox. It weighs 21 ounces on my scale. If trying to save a couple of bucks take a look at their economy line as well.

For summer I use a classic Zpacks bag. 40 F rating and weighs 12 ounces on my scale.

Sleeping pads? Since the 1980's I've always used Thermarests and been satisfied. Most of the time I use a Neo Air small that comes in around 8 ounces. I also have an Xtherm that I use for colder weather, but that is overkill for most of spring, summer and fall. Also weighs much more and takes up more space.

I do own a couple of Klymit pads. Nice pads for less money than the Thermarests, but I prefer the Thermarests.

Lots of folks on this board swear by Exped. I have no experience with them, but they get lots of love.

Tents ... I've owned quite a few brands but in terms of lightweight 3 season tents I have been using Zpacks and Tarptent for the last decade +.

The Tarptent that I have is the Moment. I have the old single wall version. Extremely quick setup with one pole and two stakes. Off the top of my head I want to say it weight 38 ounces. The new version is double walled. Tarptent makes a lot of different tents and most are very well thought of.

My two go-to tents are both by Zpacks (which is based in your state of Florida). If bugs are not a problem I take a solo Hexamid without insect mesh. Weighs 9 ounces with ground cloth and stakes. If bugs are little more friendly I take a Hexamid Solo Plus. Probably twice as much floor space, has bug screen. Weighs 19 ounces with ground cloth and stakes. I bought both of these used.

Packs. Hard to say until you know how much volume you need. As for brands I'd look at CCS, Kondos, and Granite Gear for traditional style portage packs. I also frequently use packs that I use for backpacking. As long as they ride low enough that they don't interfere with the canoe when portaging I find then work fine and you might already have something that works. I will say that my backpacking packs are lighter that my portage packs, but not as tough.

There that gives you a place to start. You'll get many, many more ideas from others I'm sure. Lots and lots of good gear to choose from these days.

 
mjmkjun
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08/10/2021 07:12PM  
I know what you mean on the cot. It makes a big difference in quality sleep for those who otherwise would awake sore and aching joints/back. I won't go tent camping without my cot one. No, don't go without a sleep bag but maybe sell this one then invest in a more lightweight one?? A top quilt made for hammocks is a great alternative and so lightweight but it doesn't stop heat loss from underneath your body. Sudden temp drop--even if it's only for a night or two, and you will be regretting not bringing enough insulation. Sleeping fully clothed is not a comfortable alternative, IMO.
My favorite tent is Marmot Limelight 3p for my solos. I can fit the cot (wide version) and have room to spare for the other stuff I like to keep handy & near. It's 6 lb. 11 ozs max wt. so it's not the lightest tent you will consider. Think: '2 people and a small kid' roomy. I can change clothes comfortably in it, if need be. This is an older model. Don't know if the newer model compares equally.
 
Bjfinnegan
senior member (74)senior membersenior member
  
08/10/2021 07:19PM  
Luckily canoe camping is more forgiving than hiking, but I found a few hiker's videos helpful to develop a lightweight setup, without going ultralight:

https://lighterpack.com/r/t2lcw9

Watching Darwin On The Trail and Dan Becker via YouTube helped develop a trail tested range of what is out there. Also utilize Sierra.com, REI annual sales, and REI Outlet/Backcountry Outlet, and Dutchware. You should rarely need to pay full price for outdoor gear. Garagegrowngear.com is also great for cottage brands. Even Costco may surprise you with some Klymit stuff.

Consider these improvements:

- Around a 60L bag will keep you limited in weight.
- Lots of daylight in the BWCA with little use for multiple headlamps.
- ALPS is heavy. Stick with REI, MSR, Big Agnes, Sierra Designs, etc. 2p size is best for 1 person.
- No sign of a tarp. I'd consider essential vs trapped in my tent.
- Paracord is good enough and cheap, but you'll find it stretches terribly if using for hanging bags or tarps.
- Add compass. If solo, consider an InReach device + Phone instead of GPS unit.
- Drop the nalgenes for Smartwater bottles.
- Liners may have been an outfitter thing? 20 degree bag or quilt can handle most.
- Inflatable pillow instead of stuffed one.
- Cot is a luxury item and may require an insulating layer for warmth below.
- No need for a bucket or soap. Avoid dishes by only boiling water.
- GSI or Toaks pots for boiling. For solo, just need one to boil 2 cups of water for meals and coffee.
- Simple burner like BRS or MSR. Can include an ignitor to reduce your lighter count.
- Fuel can vary, but last trip we did 5 nights/4 guys on 2 medium IsoPro cans
- Sleeping bag - personal preference for all, but if you are tall don't skimp on length in bag or pad. It's easy to forget that if you are a stomach sleeper your feet extend longer. I enjoy the zipperless mummy bags to keep the pillow secure and sleeve attach to the pad.
- no slingshot.

On the plus side, you're doing pretty good on clothes and food. Just add a rain jacket and rain pants. Carry with your camera gear and snacks in a separate larger 10L rubberized dry bag for quick access. Paddle can be strapped to your pack if unable to lock into the canoe when portaging.
 
chrisstratton
senior member (54)senior membersenior member
  
08/10/2021 08:15PM  
HappyHuskies: " These are just products that I've been happy with "

Thanks so much. May I ask - where do you find good used gear?
 
08/10/2021 10:01PM  
chrisstratton: "
HappyHuskies: " These are just products that I've been happy with "

Thanks so much. May I ask - where do you find good used gear?"


Here, in the for-sale sub...and also on reddit - the ULGeartrade sub.
 
08/10/2021 10:35PM  
At least you left behind some of the outfitter items you didn't need ;) That explains a lot of it - when you are self-outfitted you can choose the gear that best fits your needs.

You can go lighter, ultralight (UL), super ultralight (SUL). I just tried to go lighter with the goal of double portaging, but longer trips. As others have said, it starts with knowing what everything weighs. And they do mean everything, including the end you cut off your toothbrush and the 7 sheets of leftover TP you didn't use :). Then you just leave things you don't need or really want - like you did with some of the outfitter stuff.

There really is a lot of good gear to choose from, but things I have and like are:
You asked about pads - I like my Thermarest NeoAir xTherm. It's light, compact, warm - 20 oz. for the long wide, 5.7 r-value. Sleeping bag is 15-degree, 2-lb. high quality down WM bag. Tent is a solo Enan - less than 3 1/2 lbs. with footprint and 8 MSR Groundhog stakes. Tarp is a CCS 10 x 12, 1.1 oz., with 6 stakes and lots of cordage, weighs 2 1/2 lbs. All that is about 9 lbs. I like my JetBoil Sol stove - compact, light, efficient. My kitchen is that system, a mug, a spoon, and a cozy for rehydrating dehydrated dinners. I no longer carry Nalgene's either - get yourself some Platypus bottles. I like a small gravity or squeeze system for water filtration. There are lots of options for all those items at various price points, weights, etc.



 
08/10/2021 10:45PM  
I would consider first your physical abilities and second your budget. Decide how much you can comfortably carry; for example, if you can do a 40# pack on a moderate 100 rod portage without undo strain then set that as your base pack weight, anything less is a bonus. Same idea for the canoe and associated water gear. This is double carry set-up.
My "ready to go " weight is 50 and 50, 50# total for ALL gear including food and the clothes on my back and 50# for canoe and ALL gear related to that. I did the Cross bay EP to Long Island Lake in one morning last Aug with this set up and I am older, shorter and heavier than Butthead but much better looking.
The top brands are generally the most expensive and if you can afford them then that is probably the best way to go but if your budget can't handle a 2 or $300 sleeping bag I bet you can find one for $79 that will do the trick, same goes for cooking gear, titanium is super light weight but real pricey, aluminum does the job for a fraction of the cost and only a little more weight. Lotsa options out there.
I have several expensive hobbies and need to indulge them all. I have never met or seen Ken (butthead) but am going to stick with my better looking statement.
 
Hammertime
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08/10/2021 11:37PM  
Would reorganizing how the gear is packed help you at all? If you want to get down to double portaging I would recommend a small pack to carry with the canoe (up to 20 pounds?) and a large pack for everything else (50 pounds?).

I would guess your kit weighs less than that so if you need to go lighter the question becomes are you willing to sacrifice things that provide benefits/comfort (cot, electronics) or pay significantly more to upgrade to lighter gear? Only you can decide if that is worth it.
 
chrisstratton
senior member (54)senior membersenior member
  
08/11/2021 07:00AM  
sns: "
chrisstratton: "


Here, in the for-sale sub...and also on reddit - the ULGeartrade sub."

Thank you!
 
08/11/2021 07:05AM  
SevenofNine: "I would work on reducing the tent and sleeping bag weight. Tarptent makes a bunch of light weight tents. I have a Double Rainbow and adding up the weights I get around 40 ounces give or take. You could consider a quilt in place of the bag but a down bag or quilt rated for summer should cut weight.


If you can do without the cot then that should help as well. I'm guessing you bring it because you need it. Otherwise can't your cot pull double duty as a chair?


Why are you bringing two phones? A phone with a map should suffice."


I'll piggyback on 7of9's suggestions if I may. I looked at my tent first because I thought it felt the heaviest whenever I'd pack/unpack my gear. There are lightweight tent pole options such as carbon fiber that will shave weight off of your tent weight. I looked for lightweight footprint options as well. Sleeping bag was next. I'm still saving up for that ultimate 1 pound, down-filled bag :)

There is also a 1lb helinox chair out there if you are willing to spend the money (as opposed to the nearly 2lb chair we all have). Cook kits can be shaved down to bare minimum with lighter weight stoves. I just lessened that burden by a 1 1/2 lbs by going to a 2.5oz stove with isobutane fuel. Check out those threads on this site.

I found a lightweight pair of closed-toed Keen sandals to replace my heavier Keen sandals that I was toted around the wilderness. I probably shaved a pound or more off of the load with that change-out.

1.1oz silnylon tarps will also weigh less compared to the poly tarps.

Have fun looking for lighter gear. It'll keep you busy for at least a winter or two!
 
HappyHuskies
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08/11/2021 07:37AM  
chrisstratton: "
HappyHuskies: " These are just products that I've been happy with "

Thanks so much. May I ask - where do you find good used gear?"


I've found most of my used gear in the swap section of BackpackingLight.Com BackpackingLight.com/gear-swap .

I've also picked up a piece or two on the for sale section of this forum.

Obviously this forum is better for paddling specific gear and Backpacking Light is focused on hiking, though there are plenty of folks who hang out there that paddle too.

 
08/11/2021 08:45AM  
If you are planning on solo trips, and use a cot, I would recommend a hammock. A hammock, tarp and quilt/under quilt will weigh much less than a tent, cot, sleeping pad, and sleeping bag. Without the tent and cot poles you are going to save a few pounds. The warbonnet might be a good option that feels similar to the cot.

I still say the electronics are excessive. If you want a GPS, then get one that can survive the trip. No need to double up on phones that aren't built for this. You know more about the cameras than I do, but multiple charging cables and backup batteries adds up. If there is any way to consolidate it to one charging system, I would recommend doing so to reduce the redundancies.

If you do use a tent and cot, the Klymit pad is one that I thought was a good light weight option but I was always concerned that they were too lightweight. Putting in on a cot would reduce the wear and tear though so I wouldn't worry as much about durability. Personally, I use the Exped and love it. You just need to be careful with it because you can pop the baffles. That's why I never sit on mine.

For shoes, I have my keen mid height boots for travel and ankle support and in camp I use my Crocs. I dislike Crocs for everything except camping and water use. You just can't beat the weight though.

I get the temptation to just use the liner instead of a big sleeping bag, but which one gives a better R-value per ounce? The liner is only lighter because it is scaled down that far. A down blanket would be a better option here if you think you don't need a full bag. A quilt is a better option, but they do get expensive.

You do need to be careful about going too lightweight. Super Ultra Lightweight also tends to mean paper thin and fragile. You won't get the same mileage out of them. Long term, most find it is better to get slightly heavier models, in most situations. The 1.1 ounce tarp from CCS is a clear example of how some gear can be lighter and stronger. Backpackers count ounces more than canoers and they tend to replace their gear more often as a result.
 
08/11/2021 01:39PM  
You can get just as light as a hammock and quits, with a tent and bag/pad combination. It's the cot that I would have trouble justifying.
My own combos for tent and sleeping gear vary from under 5 to a bit over 6 pounds. That may not be UL either as those weights includes, bag to hold it all, full tent gear, extra stakes, footprint, guy-lines. My sleeping gear includes a pillow, sleeping clothes, and hand pump for the mattress. I could lighten it up more if heeded.

butthead
 
08/11/2021 02:30PM  
butthead: "You can get just as light as a hammock and quits, with a tent and bag/pad combination. It's the cot that I would have trouble justifying.
My own combos for tent and sleeping gear vary from under 5 to a bit over 6 pounds. That may not be UL either as those weights includes, bag to hold it all, full tent gear, extra stakes, footprint, guy-lines. My sleeping gear includes a pillow, sleeping clothes, and hand pump for the mattress. I could lighten it up more if heeded.


butthead"


That was pretty much my point. By switching to a hammock, he could eliminate the cot and have a reasonably lightweight setup.
 
chrisstratton
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08/11/2021 02:34PM  
A1t2o: " hammock "
Nope-I've never been able to rest, much less sleep in a hammock. I'm too tall, and a side sleeper. Still - thank you! I'm willing to haul the 3#'s of helinox.
 
alpinebrule
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08/11/2021 04:22PM  
One area I see to lose some weight is the x2 phones w/ GPS and maps. Replace them with paper maps and compass, which you may already also have too but can't tell. Staying "found" isn't that difficult usually.

Second, weigh everything and balance the weight against need. Be aware of the difference between need and desire. You will be surprised how eliminating just a few items can shave pounds. Can you get by without some of the duplicates?

Lastly, might a solar charger allow you to eliminate some of the extra battery weight? I don't know how much sunlight they require so given multiple cloudy days are frequent not sure how practical that is, or expensive.

Dump the Epsom salts.

 
TipsyPaddler
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08/12/2021 06:29AM  
butthead: "You can get just as light as a hammock and quits, with a tent and bag/pad combination."


I found this to be true too. When I switched to a hammock set up the weight savings was negligible (<8 ounces) over a high quality, light tent, bag and pad combo. The better sleep quality and lack of back pain in the morning was what made me switch. But I acknowledge not everyone cares for hammocks either.

Ton of great advice in these in the earlier posts.

Only thing that comes to mind not already covered is to consider how much your gear “organization system” weighs. I have a little “organizational OCD” and found the number of ditty bags, compression sacks, and other “bags within bags” inside my pack added some unnecessary weight. Similar with food packaging. I try to be thoughtful on keeping stuff easy to find, appropriately waterproofed, but also not having too many storage bags either.

Not big weight savings opportunity but once you make the big switches previously mentioned you might look at it.
 
08/12/2021 07:41AM  
chrisstratton: "
A1t2o: " hammock "
Nope-I've never been able to rest, much less sleep in a hammock. I'm too tall, and a side sleeper. Still - thank you! I'm willing to haul the 3#'s of helinox."


You may want to try a bridge-style hammock to see if that works for you. I also have not found traditional gathered-end hammocks to be comfortable; I bought a Warbonnet Ridgerunner, and sleep very well in it, including some side sleeping.
 
08/12/2021 08:30AM  
So this is my base gear for a week solo trip. Weighing just over 16lbs, of course that includes the GG Virgo pack weight. I do splurge with a Helinox zero chair and a book. The Inreach and first aid kit actually go in a small fanny type pack attached to my pedestal seat on my Advantage. There's a Tarptent Moment DW, Sea to Summit pad, Enlightened Equipment quilt, my camp clothes, ect ect. Not a fan of a hammock, tried it for 2 years and compared to the Tarptent no weight savings.
 
08/12/2021 09:01AM  
Blatz: "So this is my base gear for a week solo trip. Weighing just over 16lbs, of course that includes the GG Virgo pack weight. I do splurge with a Helinox zero chair and a book. The Inreach and first aid kit actually go in a small fanny type pack attached to my pedestal seat on my Advantage. There's a Tarptent Moment DW, Sea to Summit pad, Enlightened Equipment quilt, my camp clothes, ect ect. Not a fan of a hammock, tried it for 2 years and compared to the Tarptent no weight savings. "


Very similar to what I use for 4-5 days down to the Virga 26.
Big differences, BA Platinum Flycreek UL2 (think ProTrail but with a 3 pole frame) that I have at just under 2 pounds, and BA Horsethief Exped 5S air mattress combo around 3 pounds.
All but the Virga 26 bought used.

butthead
 
spud
member (37)member
  
08/13/2021 01:32PM  
I had posted a similar thread at the beginning of canoe season.. I think my big suggestion (which i had seen someone else post), is first get a list of the things you bring, and put a weight to them. It can be tedious to do, but I personally used it as something to do in the off-season that helped me to do something BWCA related while still in winter while im going stir crazy..
Assuming you'd replace or add things incrementally, you can then do a cost vs weight savings determination to see where you get the best cost/weight savings.. I've always found that personally where I get myself in trouble is right at the end when I add something that isn't on my list, "just in case".. All that adds up..
I agree with all on the tent.. i think that weighs almost 7.5lbs for a 2p.. My 2p MSR is shy of 3lbs and 4p is 6.5lbs..
Its an expensive game to get quality lightweight gear, so unless you are prepared to drop a lot of $$ all at once, a incremental approach has worked well for me where I upgrade one or 2 pieces per year...
 
ockycamper
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08/13/2021 08:29PM  
you have 12 lbs just in the cot, tent and pad. An ultralite backpacker hammock is 1 lb. A down underquilt is 18 oz. You can eliminate ten lbs right there.
 
ockycamper
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08/13/2021 08:34PM  
Most of us look to the items that don't get much bang for the "weight buck". You need to look at your sleep system and electronics. You can bring an excellent pocket camera that will rival large cameras in quality that will fit in a pocket. You can use a bridge hammock with an underquilt and sleep very comfortably on your side or stomach (I have a bridge hammock). With an underquilt and hammock you don't need the sleeping pad. A down top quilt will weight only 10-12 oz. I bring a Spot Messenger to replace the cell phone so I don't need the phone or backup batteries. Those areas could easily add up to 15-20 lbs or more.
 
08/13/2021 11:23PM  
From a tent standpoint I’d look at a Big Agnes Copper Spur in a 2 person. You’d be surprised though how tight that 2 is. Maybe consider the 3 person and you’d feel like you have a little room in the tent. Also the MSR Hubba Hubba which is a 2 person. I own the 2 person Hubba Hubba. Keep in mind though these ar backpacking tents and built with thinner fabrics to be lighter. They won’t be as durable so the reduction in weight has a trade off.

I’d bet with a good pad inflated not rock hard you would not need the cot. That is definitely something you should consider dropping. Cots also make you colder since air flows under them.

I’ve looked at the quilts but never felt like I’d like one. I realize it’s overkill but a 20 degree really good bag with room to move your legs is the way to go, if temps drop into the 40s you’ll still be comfortable.

Ryan
 
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