To each his/her own as it should be. Please repeat this first line over and over as you read on. I have camped in dirt, sand, mud, with logs and without logs so I have not traveled without a stool for years (personal comfort preference). I am the camp cook and I prefer to do it from a sitting position that is not ground level. I don't do the telescopic, lightweight trekking poles because the ones I tried were not sturdy enough and noisey. I'm sure they are better since I used them and a bit more expensive as well. Plus I take lots of pictures while I hike which means two poles is a hassle. I bought them to travel because of the ease to pack them. Now I have a product that suits me (see line one). I have removed weight from my pack and the weight of my stick has not changed. Life is good.