backpacking

I got a selection of new outdoor kit for Christmas – which has lightened my backpack even further, taking nearly 500g off the total.

Blacks Camp Pillow

I have hopefully got the solution to my pillow problems. Having used three different types of inflatable pillows over the last couple of years I think I may now have a durable, lightweight solution.

It is not inflatable so it cannot fail like the other pillows, having tried it out at home it is very comfortable.

Although it looks large it compresses well and rolls back into a fitted pocket. If I then pack this with my spare clothes and sleeping bag in a compression sack it takes up far less room in my backpack than the previous Vango pillow. This pillow is also much lighter then the Vango pillow – something lighter is always a good idea.

---

Craghoppers Kiwi Convertible Trousers

I needed a new pair of trousers for outdoor use and having looked at a variety of lightweight outdoor trousers I still went back to my favourites the Craghoppers Kiwi Convertible Trousers. I have several pairs of these, in various states of repair – good ones for work and two battered pairs that I have been using for camping and backpacking for a number of years, one of these I had to repair in the summer where the cloth had frayed through use, hence the new pair.

One improved feature of the latest design is a larger second pocket in the cargo pocket that will now hold my mobile phone.

Unfortunately Blacks offered these trousers in only two colours, as I use dark blue ones for work I bought the tan ones – I would have preferred something a bit darker for outdoors use.

---

Blacks Turbo Gas Lighter

This item is a bit heavier then the refillable Bic lighter I was using, but this lighter has a very strong flame that does not blow out in windy conditions – that’s why it earns a place in my cooking kit.

The webbing strap I thought was useful, but it was secured to the lighter with a bit of useless Velcro, so I have stitched the strap onto the lighter.

---

Gadget Gloves

I had been planning to buy some lightweight gloves this winter to wear under my larger thermal gloves and to use in the summer when the winter gloves are a bit extreme. Diana bought me these, the light coloured finger tips work on the screen of my iPhone so I do not need to take them off to take a photo or check the map.

---

Helly Hanson Lifa Dry Thermal Underwear

Diana had bought me a Helly Hanson under shirt for my birthday – and completed the set for Christmas and added a second set (usefully in another colour).

This underwear is state of the art in keeping people warm. Having tried it out, it is very comfortable and warm.

click on the above image for a larger version

This base layer is significant lighter in weight than the previous set I was using.

---

Including my new headlamp I have yet again reduced the weight of my walking backpack.