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If optimum minimalism is the goal:
The ultralight gear has improved so much, you might as well be more comfortable and use high quality ultralight gear, instead of relying solely on the minimum of advertised rescue gear. I would still use some of the same items, except I would substitute a JRB High Sierra Snivler down quilt and the extra small NeoAir air mattress, because they pack small. I would still bring the Ti-Goat Raven Omni Bivy because it is lightweight and compressible to pack to small volume, it has re-treatable DWR protective surface, it has a no-see-um net option, and it would provide bivy shelter from wind and rain. Many of the tarp shelters designed recently may be more comfortable, however, in a terrific storm, a bivy or a well-prepared snow cave will provide a more certain shelter. I regard my tarp shelters and tents as refined luxury, not one of the essentials of shelter. Of course, I like all of my lightweight luxurious shelters. They provide a camping-out experience that is more enjoyable. My tarp shelter or one of my other lightweight shelters, are available as an option. I have this minimalist pack packed with shelf-stable lightweight backpacking food inside ready-to-go in my vehicle, and so, if I see a pretty spot from the road, I have the freedom to park and walk away from my car in an unfamiliar place reasonably well-prepared for an overnight if I get injured or stranded or lost in bad weather. By this means, especially having compass and a terrain map like a topographic map or a map showing the land features, I am free to explore woods, small lakes, waterfalls, and other scenic places.
For canoe or kayak:
For kayaking, I have kayak appropriate clothing consisting of dry-jacket and 4-way stretch lined neoprene bottoms, a lined neoprene cap and I use Warmers gloves or pogies to protect my hands, in addition, of course, my Type III kayak rescue life vest, helmet, paddle leash, safety line, safety strobe and dive knife. I like Pearl Izumi AmFIB Tight for the chance of cold water immersion on hot days on the water, and Patagonia's rated Wetsuits perform as advertised. I would rather rely on a full dry suit and separate insulating layers for the coldest temperatures.
For canoe or kayak camping, if trees are convenient, I have tried a hammock sleep system, starting with a relatively inexpensive Grand Trunk UL Travel hammock and I plan to add the JRB Mt Washington 3 Convertible underquilt system one piece at a time. I am considering that the JRB Rocky Mountain Snivler down quilt may be dual-purpose as a hammock underquilt, as well as, a down quilt in a bivy. I would not use a hammock system for all backpacking. I am saying, I am not convinced hammocks are more lightweight and warmer. In fact, I am convinced hammocks allow cold air and air movement all around you, requiring more insulation, more gear, and more layers and more systems for protection from the elements. That said, a hammock system does have a place in my gear for kayaking rocky shores with trees and for rough terrain. Nevertheless, my Grand Trunk UL Travel hammock slightly modified with the Opie whoopieslings hammock suspension is carried every trip because this hammock may also serve as a tarp for an outside food preparation area. I have also recently taken up bicycle touring, again: I don't need to pack as much gear, now, and I can pack much more food. I often take a hammock, because I bicycle only in the most pleasant weather. If it rains, I have a poncho tarp.
Continued
copyright © 2012 Connie Dodson. All Rights Reserved.
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