Phlatulance said:
Has anyone recently simulated dropping it all and leaving on foot? I had a small painfull reminder on my recent trip. That reminder was in the shape of a pair of blisters on my feet. After 2 days of walking around Vegas, I had some blisters. On the 3rd day, it was almost untolerable. No bandaids would stick, no pain killers helped.
Anyways, although it wasn't a 'bugout' i carried about 15# of extra goodies and such, in the hot (dry) city. That simulates a small pack with limited supplies. Might have only put on about 20 miles or so (new shoes-slightly worn socks) but it was enough of down-to-earth kick to make me think.
I might do some more testing with my actual pack in the future to see how I hold up.
Thoughts?
Phlatulance, you need the proper gear.
First of all, new shoes...ouch! You need shoes that are
well broken in and socks that are made to walk for a while. You might search REI for walking socks--there are some that you wear with liners (so you can use the same socks each day of walking, dry them at night and change the liners in the morning) and some that don't--it's a personal preference, but the aim is to keep your feet dry and comfy. They also come in different lengths. Whichever you choose, keep them in your BOB, perferably in a plastic baggie in case it rains...they're light. You might consider packing some powder in a plastic baggie, too, to help keep your feet from sweating. Again, a personal preference, based upon how much you sweat.
Bandaids don't stick on, but usually duct tape does. Keep an almost-used-up roll in your BOB...in fact, if you can keep it on the outside of the pack, that's even better. Use it for hot spots BEFORE the blister develops. Also keep some mole skin in an outer pocket if you get a blister before you realize it.
Second, even the smallest amounts of extra weight add up. For example, if you've got a roll of toilet paper, take out the cardboard. If you have a toothbrush, break it in half. If something comes in a heavy carton, box, can, etc., see if it's feasible to repack it in a plastic baggie (but watch for overheating).
Third, pack it correctly. The weight should be on your hips and the heavier stuff should be packed on the side of the pack that will be closest to your body (so it's not pulling the pack away from you). Make sure the pack fits you, too--size from top-to-bottom, but also that the straps are adjusted for your body.
Hmmm...I can't think of anything else, but I'm sure there's more. Anyway, hope it helps.
JPM, who helps Boy Scouts pack for backpacking...and always has at least one who comes back after the very first time and says, "I should have listened to you!"