I hit 500 trail miles this summer and now I get why people obsess over gear weight

I wrapped up my season in the Sierra last weekend and my GPS watch said exactly 501.2 miles since May. That number hit me hard because I never thought I was that serious about backpacking. I used to carry a 45 pound pack full of comfort items like a camp chair and extra clothes. After 500 miles every ounce really does matter because your body just wears down over time. I swapped my old tent for a tarp setup and saved 3 pounds right there. Now I check every single item and ask if I actually need it because one heavy trip can ruin a whole weekend. Has anyone else had a specific mileage number change how you pack for trips?

2 comments

2 Comments

alex_taylor101mo ago

500 miles ago my pack weighed as much as a small yak.

burns.richard1mo ago

Honestly @alex_taylor10, a small yak would weigh more than 45 pounds so that joke doesn't quite land.