I've been having the same problem has JimShaw. I have a bunch of friends that enjoy day hikes and quick overnighters....but when it comes to backpacking for more than 2 nights its a different story. A lot of the times when I generate plans to do a > 2 night trip it almost always falls through for various reasons. I am left by myself. Although I have to say the few that didn't really have the appropriate gear have built up there backpacking gear repertoire this year and seem more in to it. So we will see what this year holds. It's still very enjoyable though, but I love enjoying the great outdoors in good company.