How many miles have you hiked with the load you currently have, and was it comfortable for you?

I wouldn't go five nights without first going one. The answer to your question is not something anyone else can give you.

Personally, I will cut out anything and everything I can to get the load below 20 lbs before food. Right now I am planning a nine day trip. That will probably mean 15 lbs of food and fuel for the stove. My gear weight is hovering at 13 lbs.

Really debating the fishing gear.... minimizing lures I might get it to about a pound.
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"In the beginner's mind there are many possibilities. In the expert's mind there are few." Shunryu Suzuki

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