I totally agree! I hardly know anyone who does not add a thing or two not on his "ideal list", before heading down the trail. I do think that a lot of people do not count all that "little stuff". All my misc little stuff adds up to about a pound.

It is good to work on going lighter. I have been doing that for years. But it is not a contest. You take what you need to be safe and enjoy your trip. I DO give myself a limit of about one pound for "goodies". Sometimes it is a book, sometimes fishing gear, sometimes a down vest (not necessary but just nice to have on cold mornings), sometimes wine! The point is I have to pick and choose, cannot take ALL my goodies ALL of the time.