The one thing that I have learned from paling around with Special Forces members (with earned Arctic Expedition Badge) is that they don't aim for "ultra light" when it comes to packing -- they go for preparedness.
Laura is ready to sign up, as her approach is very much like the military folk I have learned from (better to have MORE than LESS)(realizing that what you bring is important, as inexperience may load up the pack with useless items)
