Brady
Be reasonable. Give yourself a chance. Socks that stuff into shoulder pads etc etc is a really bad idea. What if you have to wear that sock and the other is wet and needs to dry? Maybe your first pack sould look like a normal pack and your clothes still need to fit inside it - think about it. Even if your tee shirt goes against your back, it still has the same volume. On the other hand if you want a 5 pound pack and don't care if you freeze, starve, or get soaking wet - go for it. Since this is you first post I'll say - camping is about getting out and enjoying the out of doors with enough gear to keep you warm dry and fed, not about assembling a lighter pack than your friends. Cute UL packs are nice on the trail but lacking in camp.
Jim
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These are my own opinions based on wisdom earned through many wrong decisions. Your mileage may vary.