Good point, I totally agree if it means getting out or sitting at home. My perspective is also skewed because I have only one child and he is a pretty dedicated hiker already at the age of 9. So for me it makes since to spend 200 on a great bag he will use for years to come. Making his journey as pleasant as possible will only encourage further outdoor exploration. For that means lighting his pack as much as comfortablely possible. Do I spend too much on him, you bet but I regret none of it!