From the prior post it may seem like I'm obsessing about weight, but the sad truth that has slowly dawned on Bob and me as we've trained over these past few months is that every ounce counts. It is SOOOO much harder to get yourself up a hill (and, let's face it, there are actual mountains where we're going) when you're carrying extra weight. So, after a few test rides (I was literally cycling around with barbells in the panniers), my new mantra for packing was "lose the weight, baby."
Which made some of the decisions difficult. Bob and I intend to do a "credit card" tour -- i.e., we'll be looking for a hotel, motel or B&B each night -- primarily for a warm shower and a comfortable bed. But should we nonetheless bring a sleeping bag -- which, at minimum, is a 2 lb investment? A tent? A tarp? Bob and I went back and forth a few times about this: and were we planning for contingency only or for actual planned outdoor pleasure? We each ended up getting a light, 55+ bag from REI, so I guess we still don't know.
But for those of you who are interested in such things, here's my evolving packing list. So far, I've kept it under 20 lbs, an accomplishment of sorts (I think):
Which made some of the decisions difficult. Bob and I intend to do a "credit card" tour -- i.e., we'll be looking for a hotel, motel or B&B each night -- primarily for a warm shower and a comfortable bed. But should we nonetheless bring a sleeping bag -- which, at minimum, is a 2 lb investment? A tent? A tarp? Bob and I went back and forth a few times about this: and were we planning for contingency only or for actual planned outdoor pleasure? We each ended up getting a light, 55+ bag from REI, so I guess we still don't know.
But for those of you who are interested in such things, here's my evolving packing list. So far, I've kept it under 20 lbs, an accomplishment of sorts (I think):
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