First backpack trip 34lb pack.

**Raul Perez** · 07-06-2011, 14:14

When I first started out I had a 60lbs pack for a 5 day hike. With research and changing gear it got down to 30lbs for the same type of trip a year later. Now for a similar trip for 5 days I topped off at 24lbs most of it was food and water. After each trip I reflect on what I used, what I didnt, and what I could do better next time.

When I'm faced with 1,000' inclines and declines on the Appalachian Trail I used to view them with disgust... now only mild annoyances.

check out my hiking 101 series located in my signature. I will give you some ideas on how to lighten up when you start venturing into UL Status.

**SpaceCadet** · 07-07-2011, 06:51

My first backpacking trip my pack weighed 40lbs. But 15lbs of it was climbing gear. On a side note, here's a picture of me wearing a 80lb portable satellite dish that the Army uses to send us public affairs material.

**Bradley** · 07-07-2011, 07:27

Originally Posted by 3club

. . . But many ignore the best improvement they could make towards those goals.
They concentrate on pack weight more than personal body weight.
. . .

WoW . . . do I ever agree . . .

I thought I was 15 lbs over . . .

but I have lost 50 lbs since Christmas and feel GREAT . . .
I also trimed my pack from 50 lbs to about 35 lbs . . .

I may be the guy floating up those hills . . .

I myself am badly out of shape, and I know that I would enjoy my hikes (and life in general) better if I would exercise more

Exercise is great but won't do it alone . . .

It is all about what you eat . . .

**KerMegan** · 07-07-2011, 07:43

again I must invoke the 80/20 rule- 80% nutrition (what you put in) and 20% exercise(how you work it off)
even the bodybuilders admit workouts alone will not do you much good if your fuel (food!) is terrible...

**KerMegan** · 07-07-2011, 07:46

again I must invoke the 80/20 rule- 80% nutrition (what you put in) and 20% exercise(how you work it off)
even the bodybuilders admit workouts alone will not do you much good if your fuel (food!) is terrible...