Proper planning helps avoid heavy loads
When I first started as an Assistance Scout Master (ASM) with our Troop, there wasn’t a strong emphasis on backpacking. Backpacking was one of many events the boys participated in; some Scouts embraced backpacking while others dreaded it.
Not that there wasn’t an interest in backpacking, there simply was not an emphasis on decentralized, self-sufficient camping.
Recently, however, a few enthusiastic leaders among the Troop surfaced which has seemed to kick-start the backpacking program into a higher gear.
In the last few months, over 25 Boy Scouts have gone on at least one of the backpack trips I’ve led and show interest of going again. Out of the 25 boys, at least half of the group want to explore ways to reduce their pack base weight responsively. There are about five adults that show interest in backpacking again, and are actively looking for ways to be more efficient, lightweight and compact.
What is the reason for the revived interest? I think it the knowledge of doing more with less.
Is less always better?
Before each trip I lead, I give boys and their parents an opportunity to refine their gear list. They each download a basic checklist, and bring their gear and clothing to the shakedown. Using the Patrol and E.D.G.E. method, I allow the more experienced Scouts to conduct the basic shakedown, while we ASMs shadow nearby.
A Scouter helping a Scout sort through the essentials
They point out to the less experienced backpackers how they can cut gear weight, i.e., eliminating that third or fourth T-shirt, the extra pair of underwear, the multilevel metal mess kit, the pillow, the plush toy, etc.
But less may not always be better…
In the ultralight community, there is a term they call stupid light. These are lightweight zealots, often inexperienced, who cut out gear that is potentially vital to their safety.
The goal is to be safe, comfortable and to have fun. If that means their pack has a 30 pound base weight (not including food, water and fuel), and they feel they need every piece of gear to be safe and comfortable, then that is their choice. Although, there is an argument against heavy packs on growing boys….
The shakedowns are meant to be fun and informative; they are often eye-opening for the parents. Both the parents and the Scouts learn how little they really need in order to be safe and comfortable in the backcoutry. They are amazed at the weight and volume-saving tips and tricks; especially when it involves saving money!
Most every parent that attends pulls me aside and shares how much they appreciate the shakedown. I have found that most parents of Scouts are relieved at how uncomplicated a gear list can be.
Without question, everyone walks away with a better understanding of what “Less is Better” is all about.
In conclusion, based on my experience, less is truly better, as long as the gear you bring is appropriate for the trip you have planned. Make sure you have gear items available that will sustain you in the event of an emergency. Most of all, plan your trip well before you leave.
Remember, the Boy Scout Motto is Be Prepared, not just be equipped.
–jt