I usually don't post but your topic for backpacking caught my eye.? I am a 2021 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker, completed all 2,002 miles including the approach trail from Springer Mountain in Georgia.? I say this because I know what I'm talking about when it comes to hiking and keeping my base weight as low as possible.
After my hike I wanted to get into Parks On The Air (POTA) as I can do the things I love the most, hiking and playing radio in the woods.? My go kit for POTA is comprised of two (2) QCX-Minis for 40 and 20 Meters.? My battery is a 12V 3 Ah Bioenno which will hold power for several POTA activities at and hour or so an outing.? ?My speaker is a cheap Bluetooth speaker I use with a 1-meter audio cable I purchased from Monoprice.? I have two (2) paddles I bought from members of the NAQCC club.? Finally, last year I used an EFHW from KM4ACK, which worked very well for me on both 40 and 20M.? I have recently bought a tri-band vertical for 40, 30 and 20 Meters from QRP Guys.? This antenna requires a tripod and some other support equipment which I use this winter for POTA but work from the car.? When the spring comes around and I start up hiking again I will ditch the tripod and use as a vertical suspended from the trees.?
Other miscellaneous items in my backpack is;
Nano VNA
Zip lock baggie for cables
Throw bag
Hardware bag from my AT thru-hike
Note pad & pen for QSO's
Camp chair
Tarp from my AT thru-hike
First Aid kit
Food Bag from my AT thru-hike
Headlamp
Sweat Towel
Trowel and Toilet paper
All the above equipment fits in my Osprey Day hike backpack at 12 pounds.? I'm not a digital person, I like the old fashioned way of communicating but what ever floats your boat, get out there and have some fun.? GL & 73.
