Just wanted to thank you guys! My first backpacking trip was a great success. I learned a lot! REI was great in that they went through our packs with us before we left so we didn't take anything we didn't need. My pack ended up weighing 37.9 and appx 18-19 lbs of that was camp share/food. I can get it lighter on my own but it was fine. My only regret is that I didn't take an extra day to see more of Shenandoah on my own...what a beautiful place.