You're gear isn't heavy, so the clothes and food, as you said, must be the culprit. I can fit 5 days of food (I weigh 200) in a 10l bag. I carry extra gear, so my wife carries less, and still make it with a 50l pack. Do you bring lots of extra warmth layers , as your bag is only rated for 38 degrees? They look like great bags, I'd be interested to hear your take on the bag and the tent if you'd be so kind as to share your thoughts on them.