Many Scout backpackers try to lighten their loads by counting ounces on smaller cheaper things in their pack or they try leaving extra clothing, food, and equipment at home. This is a nice idea but you can’t make a big weight difference with small sacrifices. The only way to significant lower your pack weight is to replace your backpack, tent/shelter, or sleeping system – often called the “Big Three of Backpacking.”
Many Scout families struggle with the concept of high adventure outings. Some parents believe that backpacking, snow camping, and cycling are just too dangerous for today’s youth. The parental and peer pressure that used to propel boys out of the living room and onto the trail is getting weaker and weaker. As a result, outings are becoming less adventurous and boys are challenged less and less. Read what the Free Range Kids website has to say about this trend.
