Ever since I was a child, I’ve always loved packing a rucksack for a trip out and about. Could be an hour or two, could be the whole day – it doesn’t matter. The point is, every little trip was / is an adventure of some kind.
The process of picking a few choice items, knowing that everything I need for a successful and comfortable experience is right there on hand, is something that I still relish to this day.
Of course, with experience comes refinement – and in turn, a series of questions we must ask ourselves in order to find the best solution. Questions such as:
Maybe a smaller bag will do the job?
Perhaps my cooking equipment can be kept to a minimum by choosing a smaller, lighter system on this occasion?
Is a second camera really necessary or would my iPhone do as a backup if push came to shove?
Do I really need to carry a tripod, or is there likely going to be somewhere I can prop up my camera?
The list goes on, if we care to explore it at length.
Whatever the scenario, there’s an infinite number of tweaks, combinations and preferences that come into play. It really is an ever-evolving process of learning.
But it’s not just about the kit we pack, is it?
It’s about the experience, the way we feel, how packing more or fewer items can change our mindset and perception of the outing – even before we head off.
When I think about where I like to wander and ponder, I also find myself (re)considering how my enjoyment can sometimes be skewed at the hands of the ‘necessary baggage’ I take with me. And herein lies the conundrum – ‘necessary’ is purely subjective!
Over the years, there have been countless times when I’ve packed this or that because it is deemed essential. On other occasions, I include things ‘just in case’… knowing full well that, if I’m honest, the only thing they will likely end up adding to my trip is additional weight.
For what it’s worth, here are my parting thoughts:
Almost always, less is more… and invariably, less kit = less distraction = more fun.
Overthinking will kill your adventure even before it has started.
Ever heard the expression “all gear and no idea”? Uh, yeah, that. Just throw a few basic items in a bag and head out that door!
