Hot take: the ranger at Pinckney only changed my mind after one lousy night
I used to think you needed a full framed pack with every strap and pocket for a weekend trip, until I got caught in a downpour at Pinckney Recreation Area with mine and spent an hour wringing it out. A ranger there looked at my setup and said most people carry 15 pounds they never touch, and I proved her right when I dumped half my bag the next morning. My back and shoulders felt fine with just a 30 liter pack and a trash bag liner. I know people will fight me on this, but what is the one thing you refuse to leave behind even on a short trip?