You should also remember that there is no prize for having the lightest pack--pareticularly when you are cold, wet, or unhappy. So use these principles to evaluate what you are taking, and make smart decisions based on what you will need and how you will use things.

When i travel, I take a small roller suitcase that holds far less than my backpack...but I also take at least one shirt that is no-iron and nice looking...just so I can pretend to be civilized when invited to certain functions...