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Packing Tips
*Note: A suggested, detailed equipment checklist will be sent out or emailed to you with your confirmation package after you've booked your KWT trip. Please contact us if you have any more specific questions in the meantime.
Packing Your Gear Efficiently
PACKING FOR any trip can sometimes be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be if you keep in mind the basic shape of your pack. The main filling spaces are generally square or square-like. Not many items we take with us, however, are squares, but while folding clothes (rolling works well too, in order to cut down on crease marks), or packing other items, it is good to think of it as piling up square layers on top of each other. So, while packing, instead of just putting one thing on top of the other, look sideways first and fill in the empty spaces around the bottom item to fill out your pack with a “square”. This will efficiently maximize the capacity of your backpack; filling available air pockets, will work wonders when trying to fit the last few items in.
Also, keep in mind when you might be using each item you're packing. For example, don’t pack your outer shell layer jacket at the bottom of your pack, because it is probable you will need it sooner than, say, your sleeping bag. This saves tons of time in unpacking and packing on the trail. Also, if possible, it is worth using lighter synthetic clothing, and lighter, smaller-packing gear (such as down sleeping bags), as these will save you lots of room, and be a lot less weight to carry.
Lastly, a cardinal rule in packing a backpack is to keep in mind the weight of what you’re planning on carrying. Don’t skimp, bring what you think you’ll need to be comfortable and safe (our suggested list is just a guideline), but remember, our experience shows that most people don’t use all the clothes and extra items they bring along. There is no need to fill your whole pack if you don’t need to. In fact, the less you carry, the more energy you’ll have to explore and enjoy the views!
Waterproofing
KEEPING THINGS dry while you’re in the outdoors is paramount to your comfort, and maybe even survival. There is always the chance of rain in the mountains so it is best to be prepared for it while packing too. Commercial waterproof stuff sacs are available at most outdoor gear stores and work quite well. If you do not want to go to the added expense of waterproof stuff sacs, you can also pack your gear in a heavy duty plastic garbage bag inside another general stuff sac, such as a sleeping bag stuff sac. Get a nylon stuff sac, push a plastic garbage bag down inside so you have a bag inside a bag. Then stuff your gear into the bag, push out all the excess air, tie the neck down, and pull the string tie on the stuff sac. An even more durable option is to put another stuff sac inside the plastic garbage bag, in order to protect the plastic bag from rips and holes while packing.
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