Becoming bound ( sometimes literally) to the limitations or conversely vastness of a central pack unit keeps us from thinking outside the box, er ruck. I have a german army daypack. Theres a poncho, Anorak and/or coat and sleeping pad lashed to the top, 9'x9' nylon sil tarp with premade lines and stakes protecting my chart(s) in the inside pocket. The twin side pockets hold water bottles. The slots formed by these pockets secure a Wetterling axe and small shovel. Spare clothing ( wool socks, Dachstein mittens, Balaclava, thermals, wool shirt ,trousers) takes up a goodly portion of the lower main. I have a large billy with my food, cup,spoon, matches and stove. A second Billy holds minimum toiletries and first aid. Now, on my person at all times I carry my whistle, signal mirror, torch, compass, firesteel, knife and diamond hone. I don't want to lose these essentials. My BIG, BULKY Wiggy sleeping bag in it's stuff sack is rigged with a shoulder strap and LOTS of paracord stuffed inside. On the other arm I have my hiking staff . I'm not Hienrich Harrer scaling the Himalayas or Rambo running through some 3rd world movie set with a M60 and 600 rounds. If I do have to traverse a bit of rough terrain that paracord allows me to go first and then belay my bag etc. afterwards. Unless I am specifically going on some major adventure demanding a single big unit for motility, the flexibility of looking like an overburdened dustbin is much easier.
ack:
) do you pack it in your jacket for insulation? :?: :rolmao: :biggthump
