Yes, but I suspect it depends on the experience, etc of the leaders - and of course you try telling teenagers anything...
There should be an 'options' demo/talk, as Podcast Bob suggested, but who is going to do it?Experience might also help with the cheapest and easiest ways to lighten up. Since I took advantage of the Millets Podsac offer (still going, and there is a headsup on the Resources thread for POdsac's own website deals - great for drybags, etc, even if your not about to go on DoE!), I get their 'offer' emails. Some actually arn't that bad, and they had a 20% off DoE kit this weekend. Lots of Vango, and Lifesystems, including a small washbag for £22 http://www.millets.co.uk/s:duke/?search=duke and a Ti bowl for the same amount (which I notice has vanished from the website). £44 would go some way towards a nicer smaller sleeping bag. And Lifeventure 15L drybag for £12 when they are knocking out the Podsac 15L Ultralite drybag for £4.50 - thats taking the p....
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I think they do have workshops, but of course we are back to 'what does the kitlist say'? and 'how much?' And of course they are not going to diss Vango, etc, and certainly not say you should buy from another store.
Perhaps if there is a local independent store, perhaps they could have a chance to talk as well, to give a different perspective.
