During my last trip, I felt like I only had the essentials during my last trip but still ended up carrying nearly 40 lbs. I made a few other mistakes in my prep and ended up having to cut my trip short. I'm heading back next month to Colorado and trying to set myself up for success.

What are your essentials for a backpack and what are your favorite foods to bring?

My pack isn't high end at all, but I think I'd only safe 1 lb by spending $300+ for a new one. Similar story with sleeping bag. I'm not really sure how people end up solo packing for 2-3 nights with low weight.