If you have been backpacking in the past you may be able to use things that a new backpacker would not be able to use. One thing which comes to mind is being able to sleep under a tarp instead of in a tent.

Another thing to remember is that you can escape only a few miles from the parking lot. It is not necessary in many areas to walk 20 miles to get away from it all. You probably can handle a heavier load for just a couple of miles.

I am a firm believer in using what you have and do NOT get bogged down in gear. You can even wear your cotton jeans if you are sure you are not going to have wet weather and you can bail out easily.