Cool, I do demonstrations for the boyscouts too. I take in all the gear I used to take, and my current gear, and let them try it all on. I also load up one of their leaders with 70 pounds or so, and one of the smaller scouts with my current pack, then get them to race. It's good for a laugh!

I don't give them any brand suggestions or tell them to buy new gear, but I think it's cool to get them thinking about pack weight when they're young. I wish somebody had done that for me! I know scouting is part of what got me into being a backpacker, but I can also see it discouraging youngsters due to the lack of information.

I also show them photos of some of my trips, and explain to them how easier it is to enjoy the scenery when you're not weighted down. I'd love to hear about how you work with the scouts, I'd like some fresh material.