- Time of past OR future Camino
- Frances 15,16,18
VdlP 23, Invierno 23, Fisterra 23
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I really like your video, thanks for sharing.
Might challenge me into doing one myself... never done one and my accent might be not as nice, but you never know
As you seem rather weight concious, some thoughts:
- i plan on carrying a foam roller as well. i got my lightest one as a giveaway from my insurance company. it weighs in at 30g
- the fleece is rather heavy. i use an Arcteryx Atom LT, which is likely warmer and will manage some light rain. 375g. You can get even lighter options, like "grid fleece" hoodies. I personally dont like them, but you could shave 100-200g there without losing functionality.
- minor item: gloves. Mine cost 1,50€ and weigh around 25g. I carry them for the same purpose as you do. (Decathlon brand)
- Using 3 pair of socks aswell. I use the coolmesh 2 from wrightsocks, they are 2 layers already. pair weighs 35g
- You might swap the immodium for active coal tablets. They might not work as fast, but serve the same purpose.
- My powerbank has the sole purpose to "jump start" my phone if it is empty for whatever reason in an unexpected situation. Also a gift from some insurance and weighs 70g. I would take a lighter one if i could find it. Since my new Pixel 5 is rather amazing with battery life, i might leave it at home alltogether
- Sleeping bag and liner. Yes, i done the same. Now i will take a extremely light down bag (240g) with a full zipper. If too warm, open zipper (if very warm: use as blanket), if too cold, put on cloths. But thats geared more towards the warmer half of the year.
- I bet i'll get flak for it: i carry some wet wipes, but i dont carry toilet paper. Always check first, if there is none, check the ladies room. Chances are higher there.
- The umbrella is something i conside as well. For exactly the same reasons
- Also a big fan of drysacks, but there are lighter options than the stuff you are using. Look at Sea2Summit Ultrasil.
- Wallet: Its not available year-round but "Urban Ultralight Butterfly Wallet" does not weigh more than your ziplock bag and is way prettier. You'll have to put the coins somewhere else though. (I have been using mine for the camino and ever since i got back)
- Well, the backpack. I find i dont need a frame, so i can save another 500g and change on that.
edit: that spa slippers are just brilliant, i'll have a look into them
Great feedback and ideas @Anhalter ! I'm going to drop my extra light t shirt and under wear for sleeping in, and just use next days clothes I think. I've also found a few lighter options of some of my existing options.
Heading out today to get a 'vest' style fleece, that is half the weight of mine.
I know I'm probably a bit paranoid about weight, but I really feel an extra Kg on my tendons so it's good to reduce if I can. Maybe it's just in my head, but I 'don't think so.
Of course planning to be 20+ kgs lighter on my next Camino will make a huge difference. Can't wait to see how it impacts my day 'on the road'.
Packing is so much fun
If you are in the market for a longsleeve: The one i am using is the Travel 100 Merino from Decathlon, 163g but not that warm. There is also the "Capilene Light" from Patagonia, which is shy above 100g. Might not be perfect for you, but checking them out wont cost anything.
I am still biased about a vest. I feel the lack of insulation for the arms charming on one hand, but a problem on the other. If i wanted to get the most warmth out of the gramm, i would go for a lightweight down jacket. Theres plenty options between 200g-300g, but they dont breathe well and dont like rain. Thats the main reason i went with the slightly heavier synthetic jacket.
Maybe the Micro Puff from Patagonia might be something for you. But its a bit pricy.Yes, I get that about vests, I'm looking at a light down jacket too.
But on balance I think I'll go with the vest.
My shirts,that I love, are Featherweight Merino from Icebreaker. 190 g each.
Think again, please. Or at least try doing it at home for a few days before making a decision. You can sleep in your day clothes. You can also omit soap, deodorant etc. The fact that you can doesn’t mean you should.I'm going to drop my extra light t shirt and under wear for sleeping in, and just use next days clothes I think.
Think again, please. Or at least try doing it at home for a few days before making a decision. You can sleep in your day clothes. You can also omit soap, deodorant etc. The fact that you can doesn’t mean you should.
Revel in your new found light(er) weight body and cut yourself some slack.
I’ll watch your video later - in the meantime have you removed all labels from everything, cut off every extraneous buckle and gadget from your rucsack and shortened all straps, strings etc to the maximum length actually needed?
Aren't we allways, refining our packing list?Still refining my packing list
Aren't we allways, refining our packing list?
My congrats on the production of this lucid, explanatory video.
It is always helpful, no matter our level of experience, to see things from another's perspective.
Good fun too....so thanks for that.
Regards
Gerard
@Robo
Thanks. I appreciate the weights given for everything. I am now wondering why I carry a charger which holds four charges, only needed for my phone. I have decided to listen to your post again, write down all items that I also use, compare weights, and consider replacing items which I can get in a lighter weight or in smaller quantities. Unfortunately, I am allergic to down, so I only take a down bag for walks in the mountains, accompanied by lots of antihistamine tablets so I can sleep at night. And I have different priorities from yourself: underwear and deodorant, for example. But, for those items which we both take there are some possibile changes to decrease the weight of what I carry, a priority for a long-distance hiker. Thanks again.
Oooh what type of sleeping bag is that, where did you get it.- Sleeping bag and liner. Yes, i done the same. Now i will take a extremely light down bag (240g) with a full zipper.
Oooh what type of sleeping bag is that, where did you get it.
Would you call it a "down waistcoat"?What you youth across the water call a vest is a waistcoat in the UK.
Seriously a string vest makes a great base layer in winter. https://www.nordiclife.co.uk/collec...oducts/brynje-super-thermo-t-shirt-with-inlay
Or a giletWould you call it a "down waistcoat"?
Great video, thanks, Robo
Is there a link to your system?
@Robo
As you will be walking the Vdlp, I have been remembering my own experience on the VdlP with replacing toiletries and other substances which I had used up. Much of the time, I was walking in a rural area, with shops often some distance apart. One purchase remains in my mind: going into the town shop in a small town, looking for toothpaste, which I was entirely out of. The only available tube was huge: as I remember, at least 100 ml. I did not want to do without toothpaste or to squeeze most of it out, so I bought it and used it for the rest of my camino, and for the next few months, at home. You may find yourself in the same situation with your small container of Vaseline, and with other toiletries, etc. that you want to have for use. How are you planning to manage this?
Thanks for that thorough list - it isn't far off my own. I bought a €3 normal umbrella in Burgos and tied it to my pack straps to shade me from the blistering sun in Sept 18, and for Christmas I treated myself to the Euroschirm with the longer handle and the fixings, to protect from the sun and rain. It is not the lightest of things, but from now on I shall tell myself that it will be saving me carrying (even) more water! When do you think Mr Bean will forgive you?
Yes, the water system - you say there's a link - PThe water system? I'll do a video for next week.
You can carry, or buy, pretty much what you want on the Frances, but the longer and less walked the route is the less choice you have. This is not a huge issue, but things that you take for granted may be only available in sizes, or brands, or alternative products when you run out. This is one of the minor ways that it may be necessary to either take larger amounts of personal products or accept that you may not be able to buy what you have always taken for granted. I dislike perfumed products and sometimes respond allergically to strong perfume, for example, but I have been in places in Spain where skin care products seemed to be always perfumed. The simple choice is to either take more of some personal or skin care product or accept that when your tiny amount of whatever runs out you must make do with what you can find, in whatever quantities it is sold in. Not generally a big deal, unless you have lots of allergies.@Albertagirl regarding consumales/toiletries i prefer to start with a rather small amount and buy replacements along the way. On my CF that was never an issue, especially since those things don't empty from one day to another.
This has the advantage that on your first days, when your body is still adapting to the new stress, you do not carry overly much. If you have to replace some 25ml with a 100ml 3 weeks in, i guess it won't matter as much.
I really like your video, thanks for sharing.
Might challenge me into doing one myself... never done one and my accent might be not as nice, but you never know
As you seem rather weight concious, some thoughts:
- i plan on carrying a foam roller as well. i got my lightest one as a giveaway from my insurance company. it weighs in at 30g
- the fleece is rather heavy. i use an Arcteryx Atom LT, which is likely warmer and will manage some light rain. 375g. You can get even lighter options, like "grid fleece" hoodies. I personally dont like them, but you could shave 100-200g there without losing functionality.
- minor item: gloves. Mine cost 1,50€ and weigh around 25g. I carry them for the same purpose as you do. (Decathlon brand)
- Using 3 pair of socks aswell. I use the coolmesh 2 from wrightsocks, they are 2 layers already. pair weighs 35g
- You might swap the immodium for active coal tablets. They might not work as fast, but serve the same purpose.
- My powerbank has the sole purpose to "jump start" my phone if it is empty for whatever reason in an unexpected situation. Also a gift from some insurance and weighs 70g. I would take a lighter one if i could find it. Since my new Pixel 5 is rather amazing with battery life, i might leave it at home alltogether
- Sleeping bag and liner. Yes, i done the same. Now i will take a extremely light down bag (240g) with a full zipper. If too warm, open zipper (if very warm: use as blanket), if too cold, put on cloths. But thats geared more towards the warmer half of the year.
- I bet i'll get flak for it: i carry some wet wipes, but i dont carry toilet paper. Always check first, if there is none, check the ladies room. Chances are higher there.
- The umbrella is something i conside as well. For exactly the same reasons
- Also a big fan of drysacks, but there are lighter options than the stuff you are using. Look at Sea2Summit Ultrasil.
- Wallet: Its not available year-round but "Urban Ultralight Butterfly Wallet" does not weigh more than your ziplock bag and is way prettier. You'll have to put the coins somewhere else though. (I have been using mine for the camino and ever since i got back)
- Well, the backpack. I find i dont need a frame, so i can save another 500g and change on that.
edit: that spa slippers are just brilliant, i'll have a look into them
Which sleeping bag is 240 gm? Please do tell.I really like your video, thanks for sharing.
Might challenge me into doing one myself... never done one and my accent might be not as nice, but you never know
As you seem rather weight concious, some thoughts:
- i plan on carrying a foam roller as well. i got my lightest one as a giveaway from my insurance company. it weighs in at 30g
- the fleece is rather heavy. i use an Arcteryx Atom LT, which is likely warmer and will manage some light rain. 375g. You can get even lighter options, like "grid fleece" hoodies. I personally dont like them, but you could shave 100-200g there without losing functionality.
- minor item: gloves. Mine cost 1,50€ and weigh around 25g. I carry them for the same purpose as you do. (Decathlon brand)
- Using 3 pair of socks aswell. I use the coolmesh 2 from wrightsocks, they are 2 layers already. pair weighs 35g
- You might swap the immodium for active coal tablets. They might not work as fast, but serve the same purpose.
- My powerbank has the sole purpose to "jump start" my phone if it is empty for whatever reason in an unexpected situation. Also a gift from some insurance and weighs 70g. I would take a lighter one if i could find it. Since my new Pixel 5 is rather amazing with battery life, i might leave it at home alltogether
- Sleeping bag and liner. Yes, i done the same. Now i will take a extremely light down bag (240g) with a full zipper. If too warm, open zipper (if very warm: use as blanket), if too cold, put on cloths. But thats geared more towards the warmer half of the year.
- I bet i'll get flak for it: i carry some wet wipes, but i dont carry toilet paper. Always check first, if there is none, check the ladies room. Chances are higher there.
- The umbrella is something i conside as well. For exactly the same reasons
- Also a big fan of drysacks, but there are lighter options than the stuff you are using. Look at Sea2Summit Ultrasil.
- Wallet: Its not available year-round but "Urban Ultralight Butterfly Wallet" does not weigh more than your ziplock bag and is way prettier. You'll have to put the coins somewhere else though. (I have been using mine for the camino and ever since i got back)
- Well, the backpack. I find i dont need a frame, so i can save another 500g and change on that.
edit: that spa slippers are just brilliant, i'll have a look into them
Which sleeping bag is 240 gm? Please do tell.
You should probably post this as a new thread, arn?I've read many responses as to what's in your pack...when you start out. My question is "What did you find in your pack, that was unexpected, when you got home?" In my case, it was a piece of cheese and a dirty sock. Not sure which smelled worse.
Ah, that's a link to the packing list.Yes, the water system - you say there's a link - P
A 'survival blanket' (the kind that is wrapped around marathon runners after a race - looks like silver foil) weighs almost nothing and turns a cold shivering body toasty warm on those frigid nights.
I just bought one. Will let you know how many chicks I hatch.Ladies glow, gentlemen perspire, horses sweat and anyone sleeping under a survival blanket sweats their arse off.
or so my grandmother used to say.
Honestly, they’re more useless than you could imagine. In a genuine survival situation they’re better than nothing - one would keep you alive. Not because it’ll keep you warm or dry, but because you’ll be so focussed on remonstrating with whoever recommended it to you that the cold, wet and dark night will just fly-by. If you’ve kept the receipt, you’ve still got an option.I just bought one. Will let you know how many chicks I hatch.
LOL & thank you! Yes, I still have the receipt and when I visit Bethesda next month will be near an REI to return. I was looking forward to the crinkly sounds blocking out the snoring.Honestly, they’re more useless than you could imagine. In a genuine survival situation they’re better than nothing - one would keep you alive. Not because it’ll keep you warm or dry, but because you’ll be so focussed on remonstrating with whoever recommended it to you that the cold, wet and dark night will just fly-by. If you’ve kept the receipt, you’ve still got an option.
@Marbe2...done! Thank youYou should probably post this as a new thread, arn?
I agree. A key to survival in the cold is keeping your core (chest cavity area) warm. Everything else is expendable. A simple trash bag, cut out at the head and arms becomes a “lifesaver”. It weighs nothing, when worn over, even a cotton shirt ( not recommended for hiking) your body temperature will dry it and it reduces stress in tenuous situations. Oh, did I mention it's dirt cheap? Eat your receipts out survival purchasers.Ladies glow, gentlemen perspire, horses sweat and anyone sleeping under a survival blanket sweats their arse off.
or so my grandmother used to say.
I like your video Rob. My thoughts are that it will serve as a terrific reference for beginners and gives good food for thought to those who are experienced walkers. Thank you for your efforts.
As I was debating with myself about adding my two cents, it occurred to me that, first and foremost, experienced walkers - be they pilgrims or backpackers on through hikes - know what they want to bring, have developed a 'system' of how to use what they bring, and there is really no notion of what is 'better or worse' in terms of contents in a backpack. A case in point: you like your water bottle system, and I prefer a water reservoir/bladder. The accomplish the same thing, are equally easy to deal with and fill, but it is how we choose to interact with those two systems which define our preferences.
In my mind, it is less about what one decides to carry, it is about IF what is carried is fully utilized, and if that item choice gives you a good weight-to-cost ratio. There are some choices that help with the adage that ounces equal pounds, and pounds equal pain.
Novices are different. They do not know what they do not know. So this type of thread, and your video, are exceedingly helpful in drilling down to essentials. It helps whittle away the beginner's 'packing your fears' dilemma, which helps to reduce the weight carried.
What is the difference in how an experienced walker packs and a newbie/novice: One packs with fear and what-ifs; the other packs with knowledge and experience.
For clothing, as an example. For temperature ranges from 28F (-2c) to blazing hot, my clothes closet in my pack weighs about 3.7 pounds (1.72kg) and takes up very little space. My knowledge - shared by many here - on how to layer, and with what fabric materials to have in my clothing, keeps me from needing a backpack full of clothes weighing 10 pounds or more.
And that knowledge and experience carries over into each and every gear choice made. As novices gain knowledge, their burden gets lighter and their enjoyment grows.
Gear and clothing choices do not have to be expensive, either. A Camino-only backpack only needs to last as long as a Camino walk. That means that lesser quality materials and construction are just fine. Find the least expensive gear that gives you the comfort and usability you want. And nowadays, inexpensive gear that is lighter in weight does not need to equal junk which will fall apart after a week of walking.
Technological innovations in materials and manufacturing may inform us of changes which we may decide to make. An example are down garments. Nowadays down jackets, sleeping quilts, vests, etc are treated with a hydrophobic compound. It adds no weight, no smell, no chemical negatives.
What it does do is allow me to use down in a manner that I wouldn't use it decades ago when I first started backpacking and climbing. I can take my down sleeping quilt, throw it in a lake, and the water does not saturate and collapse the down. It remains just as insulative as ever. Of course the fabric nylon shell is wet and needs to dry out, but the down simply sheds the water.
That made me trade in my polartec for down with my vest and puffy. New synthetics like my Nano Air jacket is pretty light for a synthetic, but not as light as an 800 fill down.
When I return to the Camino, this is my packing list. This is what is in the backpack. Note that this is a base weight measurement which does NOT include water or snacks. If backpacking, my base weight increases by about 3.8 pounds (1.7 kg), which adds my tent, mattress, and cooking gear, and a few other ancillaries for wilderness travel.
This is also for 3-season use from the middle of spring thru middle fall. Increasing extremes from cold weather would change what goes into my 'house'.
I attempted to add the weight measurements in grams, but I think there is a discrepancy of being 'light' by 400+/- grams during my attempts at converting the sums.
View attachment 93881
And that knowledge and experience carries over into each and every gear choice made. As novices gain knowledge, their burden gets lighter and their enjoyment grows.
A 'survival blanket' (the kind that is wrapped around marathon runners after a race - looks like silver foil) weighs almost nothing and turns a cold shivering body toasty warm on those frigid nights.
Without you guys generously sharing knowledge;i wouldn't have a scooby!
Thank you
Woody
Hi Dave,I like your video Rob. My thoughts are that it will serve as a terrific reference for beginners and gives good food for thought to those who are experienced walkers. Thank you for your efforts.
As I was debating with myself about adding my two cents, it occurred to me that, first and foremost, experienced walkers - be they pilgrims or backpackers on through hikes - know what they want to bring, have developed a 'system' of how to use what they bring, and there is really no notion of what is 'better or worse' in terms of contents in a backpack. A case in point: you like your water bottle system, and I prefer a water reservoir/bladder. The accomplish the same thing, are equally easy to deal with and fill, but it is how we choose to interact with those two systems which define our preferences.
In my mind, it is less about what one decides to carry, it is about IF what is carried is fully utilized, and if that item choice gives you a good weight-to-cost ratio. There are some choices that help with the adage that ounces equal pounds, and pounds equal pain.
Novices are different. They do not know what they do not know. So this type of thread, and your video, are exceedingly helpful in drilling down to essentials. It helps whittle away the beginner's 'packing your fears' dilemma, which helps to reduce the weight carried.
What is the difference in how an experienced walker packs and a newbie/novice: One packs with fear and what-ifs; the other packs with knowledge and experience.
For clothing, as an example. For temperature ranges from 28F (-2c) to blazing hot, my clothes closet in my pack weighs about 3.7 pounds (1.72kg) and takes up very little space. My knowledge - shared by many here - on how to layer, and with what fabric materials to have in my clothing, keeps me from needing a backpack full of clothes weighing 10 pounds or more.
And that knowledge and experience carries over into each and every gear choice made. As novices gain knowledge, their burden gets lighter and their enjoyment grows.
Gear and clothing choices do not have to be expensive, either. A Camino-only backpack only needs to last as long as a Camino walk. That means that lesser quality materials and construction are just fine. Find the least expensive gear that gives you the comfort and usability you want. And nowadays, inexpensive gear that is lighter in weight does not need to equal junk which will fall apart after a week of walking.
Technological innovations in materials and manufacturing may inform us of changes which we may decide to make. An example are down garments. Nowadays down jackets, sleeping quilts, vests, etc are treated with a hydrophobic compound. It adds no weight, no smell, no chemical negatives.
What it does do is allow me to use down in a manner that I wouldn't use it decades ago when I first started backpacking and climbing. I can take my down sleeping quilt, throw it in a lake, and the water does not saturate and collapse the down. It remains just as insulative as ever. Of course the fabric nylon shell is wet and needs to dry out, but the down simply sheds the water.
That made me trade in my polartec for down with my vest and puffy. New synthetics like my Nano Air jacket is pretty light for a synthetic, but not as light as an 800 fill down.
When I return to the Camino, this is my packing list. This is what is in the backpack. Note that this is a base weight measurement which does NOT include water or snacks. If backpacking, my base weight increases by about 3.8 pounds (1.7 kg), which adds my tent, mattress, and cooking gear, and a few other ancillaries for wilderness travel.
This is also for 3-season use from the middle of spring thru middle fall. Increasing extremes from cold weather would change what goes into my 'house'.
I attempted to add the weight measurements in grams, but I think there is a discrepancy of being 'light' by 400+/- grams during my attempts at converting the sums.
View attachment 93881
Hi Dave,
I read your post withgreat interest and joy! We and I am so happy you are able to post again.
Are all down jackets now treated to prevent water damage, or should we look for a specific label on the down products?
What type wearable warnng lights do your use and do they clip or strap on?
Coninued prayer......
Though I do have a headlamp (for early departures) I use reflective straps attached to the back of my pack. Can be seen well down the road.Hi Dave,
I read your post with great interest and joy! We and I am so happy you are able to post again.
Are all down jackets now treated to prevent water damage, or should we look for a specific label on the down products?
What type of wearable warnng lights do your use and do they clip or strap on?
Coninued prayer......
@davebugg The grams of your backpack seem off. 511gr does not correspond to 2lbs 2oz.
Personally, i don't like your list that much. There are many points that are good, but some items seem excessivly heavy in comparison to beeing extremly UL on other parts. (like 200g for water carrying items vs saving weight on deodorant).
But of course, if it works for you, thats perfectly fine
Thanks - I have a system using collapsible bottles and my daughter's hairbands, but not nearly as good as yours & I'd like to copy itAh, that's a link to the packing list.
I'll do a video at the weekend about the water system.
Though I do have a headlamp (for early departures) I use reflective straps attached to the back of my pack. Can be seen well down the road.
Stupidlight - my new favorite word!Light, ultralight, hyperlight, stupidlight. . .
...Light, ultralight, hyperlight, stupidlight. . . none of that really means a thing - in and of itself - without the context of user comfort, fit, and usability. And I suppose we should add 'budget' as well.
Let me add that I do not consider my list to be THE list of all lists. It is just one post among several others who have offered their real world examples. I am certain that your gear list would be a positive addition to this thread.
I use a headlamp rechargeable with USB chord so it is very light...no need for batteries and 800 lumens. Cheap and holding up well so far. I also carry a second back up light so when we leave very early...just in case. But when on a road I am looking for something lite. I have used taped strips but not sure how far away they can be seen.
More than 70% of cyclist vs. vehicle collisions and fatalities happen between 6 and 11pm.
Thanks for this information. Most of the time we are not on busy roads in Spain before dawn. And another factor is that many Spanish folks are not driving before first light.
- The chance of being struck and killed as a pedestrian increases 1,100% after dark.
- National Safety Council
More than 70% of cyclist vs. vehicle collisions and fatalities happen between 6 and 11pm.- In recent years, the number of pedestrian fatalities in the United States has increased 27% from 2007 to 2016, while at the same time, all other traffic deaths decreased by 14 percent. Pedestrians now account for a larger proportion of traffic fatalities than they have in the past 33 years. GHSA Pedestrian Traffic Fatalities by State, 2017
- They can be seen as far back as the illumination can detect. Some wear a vest, others added to the torso. It's the movement of the strip that attracts the attention of the driver.
I did not intend to imply that your list was "wrong" and did not understand it as to be "the" list
I just looked at some things, and from my, ! personal !, point of view some things don't make sense. But of course they can make perfect sense in your "usage szenario".
Heres my list, i am not sure if i did forget something and please don't kill me for my 5-minute translation
edit: With my toiletries there is a bit of guessing involved. I dont have some items at the moment to weigh them. Some might weigh less, some more. I think total should be more or less correct.
edit2: Trekking Poles are 2 Pieces 158g each.
edit3: forgot my wallet (35-40g filled) and my daypack (45g). Also am strongly considering taking an umbrella mainly for sun reasons (100-200g).
Hi all !
I don' t know if this will help anyone especially Marbe2 who asked the question!!
I brought these of Amazon in December they had very good reviews!
Lightweight (19 grams each) 3 light setting(strobe and static);waterproof ,clip or strap.
If i can see um from a distance; they are pretty good.
Also battery life is up to 100 hours per battery so with spares should last a Camino.
Mods not sure if you can show all the info below so feel free to modify.
Woody
The Bonfus is a huge way up regarding comfort from my GG Murmur that i was using for my 2019 CFThe Bonfus Iterus model backpack is similar, though a bit lighter, than my Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Windrider that I used as an approach pack back in 2011. Great backpacks, although, even at ultralight loads, my back now prefers to have at least a minimal internal frame or frame sheet to handle the transference of the load to the hip belt.
I figure the powerbank is only if you are unable to charge your phone one evening for some reason. Or if you do something stupid like put the phone in your pocket with the flashlight on. Therefore it doesn't need to be any bigger than to charge the phone once. More capacity than that can add weight in a hurry.So the powerbank I'm planning on weighs just 66 gms.
It is 3,350 mAh. Lipstick sized.
I have another which is 5,200 mAH but it's double the weight at 125 gms.
Not sure I need that much capacity......
The Bonfus is a huge way up regarding comfort from my GG Murmur that i was using for my 2019 CF
I understand your argument for a framed pack, but i would not want to carry a bulky pack. And framed packs around the 25-30L mark are hard to find (well, there are options, but they are usually lacking features like a front mesh, daisy chain or are ridiculously heavy for the size)
The HMG 2400 models are a fair bit bigger than the Iterus. Had the chance to get my hands on both of them.
If i was to go with a frame, the ZPacks Arc (Blast, Scout, not sure which it was exactly) really looked a lot better made than what one might expect by all the bad reviews they get online. But that one would have cost at least double for me due to taxes and shipping.
I don't. I also don't bother to weigh each item, unless I'm trying to decide between two options. I just put everything in my pack and weigh it altogether.So does stuff you carry in your pockets count? I carry my wallet, phone, pocketknife, and flashlight in my pockets every day. So should they be counted in my pack weight?
So does stuff you carry in your pockets count? I carry my wallet, phone, pocketknife, and flashlight in my pockets every day. So should they be counted in my pack weight?
The HMG 2400 models are a fair bit bigger than the Iterus.
The Bonfus is a huge way up regarding comfort from my GG Murmur that i was using for my 2019 CF
The short answer is no. The more comprehensive answer breaks the weight measurements into three broad categories
Standard Definitions for Backpack Load Measurements
1. Base Weight is the weight of the backpack and non-consumable contents. This is all equipment and clothing you carry in the backpack for the conditions expected during a backpacking trip. It does not include consumables like food, water, and fuel; those are not included in the base weight because they are variable.
As an example, for backpacking during during the three non-winter seasons, my base weight is the same since my backpacking trips occur between 7 and 12,000 feet (2140 to 3660 meters). My clothing and gear cover the potential weather extremes for all three seasons.
2. Total Pack Weight includes the base weight plus the weight of food and fuel and water carried between resupply points. For example, my base weight on my Pacific Crest Trail and Colorado Trail thru-hikes was about 14 pounds. Tent, sleeping quilt, mattress, clothing, cooking gear, empty water bladder, etc. With a 7 day supply of food and fuel, the total weight increased my load to about 22 - 23 pounds. Of course, each day that weight decreased as the consumables were depleted.
3. Total Skin Out Weight includes the TOTAL starting backpack weight, plus the clothing one is wearing plus anything being carried in worn clothing. It would even include what you just ate for breakfast. As with Total Pack Weight, it is a variable measurement: as consumables are used up, the weight goes down.
Out of all the above definitions, for a Camino, base weight is going to be the most important planning factor. The amount of food carried is minimal compared to backpacking in the wild, and water is constantly consumed and not a big, static load. And unless one is carrying cooking gear, fuel for stoves, as a consumable, is nonexistent.
Skin out weight measurements are a bit of a quandry. The mechanics of carrying a backpack are different than how weight is carried at the body. Center of gravity, forces on the shoulders and hips are not the same. It is why body weight loss is not a direct exchange with backpack weight. In other words, losing 10 pounds of weight does not make up for 10 pounds of gear in a backpack.
However, total skin out weight does add to musculoskelatal impacts to joints and feet, so losing ten pounds, or carrying less in pockets, will have a positive affect overall.
Clearly it doesn’t matter - so long as one defines the terms. Personally, I set out my packing list ‘skin out’ - I allow the contents of my stomach to be the ‘+e’ at the end of the equation!
I walk in spring and autumn and could be in shorts and a singlet one day and full waterproofs and thermal layers the next. That was precisely the case in late 2015. The assumption as to what I’ll be wearing vs carrying would change my calculated pack weight by 25%.
What still defeats me is rucksack weight. I use an Osprey Kestrel 38, which is rather bigger than I need - but I’ve got a long back, wide shoulders, cannot abide frameless sacks and want a decent hip-belt. It’s 1500g as made; 1450g after some cutting and pruning
Dave,
I’m spending lockdown with an electronic spring balance, spreadsheet and a craft-knife literally shaving grammes off my ‘skin-out’ weight. I’ve done some work on my ‘skin-in’ weight also!
I’m post some of my success stories when I get time.
I figure the powerbank is only if you are unable to charge your phone one evening for some reason. Or if you do something stupid like put the phone in your pocket with the flashlight on. Therefore it doesn't need to be any bigger than to charge the phone once. More capacity than that can add weight in a hurry.
Stuff that really makes it hard to get a good weight is a pain if you are trying to get an accurate weight, even if you have the stuff. Even if I have my scale, some stuff is so light that I cannot use imperial weights, I have to use grams, and then convert to Imperial. And even then, if I put all those little bits and dabs of stuff together on the scale, the weight is different than when weighed separately.
Yes that battery con trick is truly annoying. I have thought for a while that the company that goes back to consumer replaceable batteries would be on a winner.Yes I agree. Really only need 1 charge.
My phone sadly doesn't last a full day as I take a lot of video, use the gps etc etc.
My old phone (samsung Note 3) was great. pull off the back and throw in the spare battery!
Progress? Now I have to carry a power bank
That question piqued my curiosity. I came to Australia in 1970, and the currency had already successfully gone metric - in 1965 I think. I recall that SI units were already being successfully introduced. But it was chaos back in Britain. I returned on holiday after the Pound was decimalised, and I remember being mystified by the pence being ubiquitously referred to as the “pee”, and still is. Nobody seemed to be aware how Monty Python that sounded. It’s difficult to imagine an American pricing something at 45 see, or whatever.Just an observation. When did ounces become decimalised?
I am happy to add a new word to my vocabulary! Thank you.Or a gilet
Yes that battery con trick is truly annoying. I have thought for a while that the company that goes back to consumer replaceable batteries would be on a winner.
Just an observation. When did ounces become decimalised?
I grew up with pounds and ounces as a kid.
Recipes were like 3 1/4 ounces. Not 3.25
My solution has been to take a Sandisk, which about twice the size of thumb drive.I doubt many phones will have enough internal memory to shoot 4k video on a 40 day Camino
And who wants to be always trying to 'conserve' space in case you run out?
Move to cloud storage?
Try uploading 128 GB to the cloud at Cafe and Albergue wifi spots!
Whilst you 'hog' all the bandwidth...... !
The latest Samsung phone (and iPhones) no longer take extra memory cards.
So I'm grabbing one of last year's models before they run out of stock.
No more Samsungs or iPhones for me after that sadly.
Sorry. bit of a rant.
Don't you love product improvements?
My solution has been to take a Sandisk, which about twice the size of thumb drive.
Mine is an older model 64gig I think. Seems to weigh only 30-40g on my inadequate analogue kitchen scale!I'll definitely check that out!Do you have a link? The ones I can see are 145 gms?
So as well as my phone, I'll carry extra external memory, and extra external power, because the darned phone no longer has those features built in!
I was just going to mention the disappearing headphone jack when I saw that Robo posted:Yes that battery con trick is truly annoying. I have thought for a while that the company that goes back to consumer replaceable batteries would be on a winner.
Many no longer have the 3.5 mm headphone jack. Essential when using an external mic. So now you have to use an adapter to plug the mice into the charging port......
But even more frustrating, many no longer have the ability to add a micro SD memory card!
Mine is an older model 64gig I think. Seems to weigh only 30-40g on my inadequate analogue kitchen scale!
Check it out in a shop before you buy. Not all phones work with external memory systems as I found out when I had a Samsung. I now have a cheap Huawei, superior interface to support external flash drive , jack plug socket, way better camera and space for memory cards. (Honor10), sadly it has a fixed battery and cannot make a decent cup of tea. Oh and probably if I get lost then maybe a kind hearted Chinese "listener" will realise and notify the relevant authorities.I see they have a card reader. That might work. And just carry a couple of SD cards.
Plenty cheap waterproof cases around, not least zip locks.One reason for the elimination of removable batteries, headphone jacks, and SD card slots is to make the phones more waterproof.
Great job!Still refining my packing list.
For newbie Pilgrims this might be of some value. (at least get you thinking)
Every item fits in a 34 litre pack with room to spare.
For the 'old hands' feel free to tell me what I don't need!
Or suggest alternatives.
For the Ladies, my wife Pat carries the exact same gear. (+ a couple of sports bras)
We look like twins!
Her stuff fits in a 24 litre pack...
Ooh, I love the ultralight butterfly wallet you mention! I just looked it up! Does it hold Euro notes well or is it sized for American bills only?I really like your video, thanks for sharing.
Might challenge me into doing one myself... never done one and my accent might be not as nice, but you never know
As you seem rather weight concious, some thoughts:
- i plan on carrying a foam roller as well. i got my lightest one as a giveaway from my insurance company. it weighs in at 30g
- the fleece is rather heavy. i use an Arcteryx Atom LT, which is likely warmer and will manage some light rain. 375g. You can get even lighter options, like "grid fleece" hoodies. I personally dont like them, but you could shave 100-200g there without losing functionality.
- minor item: gloves. Mine cost 1,50€ and weigh around 25g. I carry them for the same purpose as you do. (Decathlon brand)
- Using 3 pair of socks aswell. I use the coolmesh 2 from wrightsocks, they are 2 layers already. pair weighs 35g
- You might swap the immodium for active coal tablets. They might not work as fast, but serve the same purpose.
- My powerbank has the sole purpose to "jump start" my phone if it is empty for whatever reason in an unexpected situation. Also a gift from some insurance and weighs 70g. I would take a lighter one if i could find it. Since my new Pixel 5 is rather amazing with battery life, i might leave it at home alltogether
- Sleeping bag and liner. Yes, i done the same. Now i will take a extremely light down bag (240g) with a full zipper. If too warm, open zipper (if very warm: use as blanket), if too cold, put on cloths. But thats geared more towards the warmer half of the year.
- I bet i'll get flak for it: i carry some wet wipes, but i dont carry toilet paper. Always check first, if there is none, check the ladies room. Chances are higher there.
- The umbrella is something i conside as well. For exactly the same reasons
- Also a big fan of drysacks, but there are lighter options than the stuff you are using. Look at Sea2Summit Ultrasil.
- Wallet: Its not available year-round but "Urban Ultralight Butterfly Wallet" does not weigh more than your ziplock bag and is way prettier. You'll have to put the coins somewhere else though. (I have been using mine for the camino and ever since i got back)
- Well, the backpack. I find i dont need a frame, so i can save another 500g and change on that.
edit: that spa slippers are just brilliant, i'll have a look into them
I love Lighterpack!Great job!
I found this wonderful website, The Lighter Pack, where you can input the weight of all your individual items and then analyze what you’ve got and what needs to be pared down.
this is my list (although I never completely filled in all the weights!) for my Portuguese coastal Camino in 2019.
https://lighterpack.com/r/urk0wy
How do you like your sun shirt? I just bought one on sale, but it hasn't arrived yet. (And, it's a bit cool yet to try, since I am in the epic Texas freeze right now. 60 hours without power and overnight temp of zero degrees F . . . but made it through.)Good video - it shows all the basic items and functions, and explains the type of reasoning we all go through when refining our packing lists. Each person makes slightly different choices in the end. I hate to be cold and therefore I take an extra down vest (sleeveless) and an additional sun shirt for walking. It was good advice to test your sleeping clothes at home.
works perfectly with everyday EUR notes. Can't say for the 200, cause you never get them at the ATM, but everything up to 100 is fine.Ooh, I love the ultralight butterfly wallet you mention! I just looked it up! Does it hold Euro notes well or is it sized for American bills only?
Mine is a standard synthetic walking shirt - collar, buttoned, roll-up sleeves, pockets. I have a roomy size and wear it over a very light weight merino wool base layer - depending on the weather, I choose from a sleeveless tank top, t-shirt, or long-sleeved (or even a combination of these). The over shirt is very durable and protects the merino from abrasion due to my backpack, and as a synthetic fabric it even repels a very light sprinkle of rain. It washes and dries very quickly, so I don't get concerned with how dirty it might get - I treat it like an apron or work shirt.How do you like your sun shirt?
Dave,
I’m spending lockdown with an electronic spring balance, spreadsheet and a craft-knife literally shaving grammes off my ‘skin-out’ weight. I’ve done some work on my ‘skin-in’ weight also!
I’m post some of my success stories when I get time.
@Robo
I'm also a fan of foam rolling so I purchased a Tiger Tail Roadster for my last Camino - https://tigertailusa.com/product/the-roadster/
At 200g it won't save you any weight but it would save you some space.
Unfortunately, I never got to use it there since it was in a checked bag with my trekking poles that got lost when we changed planes in Dublin. The poles were easy to replace in Spain, but no such luck finding a small foam roller. I just ended up using a water bottle. My checked bag ended up making it home before I did, so I will try and bring it on the next Camino unless I can find something lighter.
Thanks for sharing the video!
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