I understand Skippy's point and I go light where I can so that I can carry the specialized gear that Jim mentioned.

It makes the trip much more enjoyable. Some of the new cameras are really helping to lighten up photography. I'm not much of a backpacking fisherman in this area. It's more canoeing around here so you can carry heavier gear if you want.

My challenge is getting my Scouts to "lighten up".
Of course, I do put rocks in some of their packs.