Most everything these days including food and fuel is JIT shipping. While in the old days individuals would keep up with the shipping and scheduling, loss of computers and Internet would severely cripple our distribution system. The infrastructure and knowledgebase required to get it done...
I always carry a lightweight water filter but would not want to use it unless I'm in N GA where the water is less suspect. If you are near a city I would carry more water. Filter or not, there is still some water I wouldn't want to drink unless I had to. My packs all have a pouch for a large...
That's why I asked. Because you talked about the bag and wide strap to distribute load it sounded like it was for longer trips. But I used to be a die hard backpacker and it's just way more weight than I would ever consider carrying. That, plus I was trying to figure out where the rest of...
I'm not sure I understand the purpose of your mess kit. Is it just for day hikes where you can have a nice meal before heading back to the car or is what you would keep in the truck for those fishing and car camping trips?
Backpacker magazine gear guide is a always a good place to go for reviews and side by side specs so you can compare features and weight. http://www.backpacker.com/gear/ So is REI if you have a store nearby. I've found that Sierra Designs always seems to make a good value tent that are among...
Tent or tarp. Single-wall construction will save weight but condensation can be an issue if you don't setup and use properly. Are you looking for specific model recommendations?