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Message: [QUOTE="DavidsRetired, post: 189728"] Hi CISSA69, thank you for your response and advice. I’ll try to quickly address some of your concerns and/or options. The reason I use/bring 3-sets of footwear is this: The sandals, I use for the shower and lounging around. Please note, that these sandals are extremely light and in some cases actually lighter than flip-flops, so the weight is negligible. - The Running shoes are for walking around town in the evenings and for after my trip, where I have a week’s holiday in Holland to see friends. Again, note that these are very hi-tech running shoes that weigh only slightly more than the sandals, yet provide the support I require for walking as well as the laced feature, which I prefer over sandals while in public places. - My actual walking boots, are as light as some of the walking shoes on the market, yet provide far better support for my back overall. They are incredibly comfortable and great for keeping my feet dry while jumping in puddles along the route – especially in April/May. As for the bin liner (garbage bag); this is an old low key habit, which I’ve used forever now and has never failed me. As I don’t pull the liner out of my pack, a clear bag would make no difference. However, I do pack all my kit inside the main compartment in compression bags, and organised in two groups. 1-bag for cloths and the 2nd for toiletries, towels and such. Therefore, in this manner, I can simply open my main compartment, grab the appropriate labelled bag, and off I go. My gloves, although thin, are waterproof and seem to be adequate. I walk around in -2 to 0-degree Celsius weather all the time without gloves, so I should be fine. Besides, I always have my American Army Gloves (Pockets) :D (old army joke). In regards to a sweatband, I used (and will use) a Microfiber Buff/Neck Gaiter on my last Camino, which was great around my neck, but could easily be brought-up around my ears and head if required. I normally only wear my Sweater, which is light and breathable, but also warm enough for those cooler mornings. Nevertheless, I always bring along my Arcteryx Atom LT Hoody Insulated Jacket, for those colder days. This jacket is brilliant, as it rolls into a small ball and weighs nothing at all – it still amazes me. It’s only meant for very light rain, but it’s primary purposes is to block the wind, and keep me warm. Additionally, it’s extremely breathable, and simply a joy to wear and manage. Yes, a poncho is always up for debate, but I chose this one, as it covers both my pack and me. Although, I’m not worried about the contents of my pack becoming wet, I do not like a wet outer pack, nor the water which runs between the pack and a jacket while raining. Therefore, for these issues, the Altus, Atmospheric Rain Poncho met my needs well. In regards to waterproof pants, you’ll note in my list that I have Arcteryx Pants (Weather Resistant). When I purchased these pants, I was told you could literally jump in a lake, come out dry, so I went home, and stood in the shower for 10-minutes, with the water streaming directly on the pants. I came out dry :D I carry 3 x socks, which works well for me, but do agree that socks and warm/dry feet are essential for good foot care. With 3-socks, I am always ensured to have at least one clean and dry pair at all times. Last year, I found that some days the socks would not always dry completely by the morning, so was grateful for that 3rd pair to wear. As for the muddy boots, I carry a small thin brush in a Ziploc bag, which allows me to clean my boots each evening and works well. For light, if required, I have a very small pencil flashlight, which is incredibly bright. However, I have rarely used this, and only if I require something out of my pack in the late evenings, so not to disturb others. If I’m walking without sufficient sunlight, as I do in the early mornings, I always allow my eyes to adjust and I’m fine with this. My breakfast routine does not require a bowl of any sorts, as I normally head out the door with an apple and a pocket full of mixed nuts. This is more than plenty for me, and will stop for a light lunch and rather enjoy a nice meal out in a quiet atmosphere. I do apologise for my lengthy reply, but wished to ensure I addressed your concerns and/or suggestions. Again, thanks for the reply. Cheers, Dave [/QUOTE]