Suggestions needed

**FeO2** · 06-14-2008, 20:10

Hi All,

I am hiking the AT through The Whites in August (Vt to Me). I'll be using my HH. I don't want to bring my EMS Mountain Light 20, I want to reduce weight and volume.

What should I bring for warmth at night? I know that it can get chilly at altitude, and probably muggy at the bases.

I was thinking about a fleece blanket, but I'm not convinced it'll keep me warm...
I've looked at down quilts, but they are a little pricey.... about as much as a full sleeping bag.

What do you suggest??

Thanks!!!

**FanaticFringer** · 06-14-2008, 20:21

Something like this would work. www.sportsmansguide.com/net/cb/cb.aspx?a=129749
You could add thermals if more warmth is needed.

**Narwhalin** · 06-14-2008, 20:28

If you know how to sew, or know anyone who does, a synthetic quilt can be made very easily and cheaply. It is a very easy project; you could probably convince someone to do the sewing for practically nothing. It will cost about $50 or less depending on what shell fabric you want to use.

However, at $25, I would go with the sportsman's guide one suggested. Very reasonable weight for the cost there.

**Dutch** · 06-14-2008, 20:31

I thru'd in 2003. I hit VT on Aug 07 finishing on September 17th. I used a very thin fleece bag that weighs .9 pound. My only bottom insolation was a 3/4 z-rest. I had a mid weight top and bottom patagonia long johns plus a long sleeve shirt for chilly nights. At Hanover I had my Marmot 15 Helium bag mailed to me that I used more or less as a quilt. I used that bag the rest of the way. I don't remember any issues with staying warm. I hope that helps.

**Ramblinrev** · 06-14-2008, 20:54

I have one of those sportmens guide mods to an underquilt. It is really nice. With a little practice I should be able to stuff it attached into my homemade snakeskins. I just push it out of my way getting into and out of the HH. I made a similar mod of a $9.98 +35 F Wally World bag. It don't compress down as far but it is rated colder than the +50 for the Sportsman Gude. The WW bag will go on my daughter's skeeter beeter.

**Coffee** · 06-15-2008, 16:45

It was freezing last year when I was southbound through there. Bring plenty of insulation. Think fall gear.

**Annie** · 06-15-2008, 17:11

How much weight would you say you folks are carrying on that through hike?

And how many miles/kilometers is it?

**2Questions** · 06-15-2008, 18:19

I'm curious what bottom insulation you will be using. For me, the bottom insulation is more of an issue than the top. Have you considered some kind of weathershield with the ability to insert a 1/4" pad?