Re: [at-l] GSMNP Proposed Itenerary redux

["W F Thorneloe, MD" <thornel@attglobal.net>]

The first aid kit _is_ important, but often can be Tuckerized by looking at 
quantities and packaging, as well as at items that have duplicate 
functions. For instance, PolarPure or similar iodine can work like Povodine 
or antibacterial cleaner in a pinch. Duct tape covers a variety of wounds.,....

Regarding water, I like to carry an emergency liter of fluids in the bottom 
of my pack. I like to carry only 2 liters in my Platypus, with the plan to 
pump whenever the opportunity arises. Carrying a gallon or more increases 
weight and work, and might add to dehydration risk. With a heavy pack, you 
will sweat and dehydrate quicker than someone with a lighter pack (unless 
they are running and working up sweat in some other way). Of course, the 
Gatorade thread could be cited here.

A handy place for a set set of scales can be your local grocery store. When 
they are not busy, head over to produce and weigh away.

OrangeBug
Atlanta, GA

At 09:04 AM 6/16/2000, Denise Hluhan wrote:
>I have a fairly extensive first aid kit, but after talking with some 
>people that have thru-hiked it, they carried almost nothing.  To me this 
>seems like an important precautionary thing and worth carrying in the 
>event that something would happen.  Am I off base here?
>
>And I have this question.  I dehydrate VERY easily - and I've always had a 
>tendency to carry a lot of water - too much I'm sure.  We usually carry 2 
>½ gallons for the two of us.  Having listened to everyone here, that seems 
>really excessive, but if I would run out of water and dehydrate, I get 
>REALLY sick. So what would be a good safe amount of water without being 
>excessive?
>
>I would like to post the contents to the list for input if nothing 
>else.  I am out of $$ at this point, but I would like to know what 
>recommendations you have for when I do have some extra.  Does anyone know 
>where I can get a scale?

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