> Having done my own share of hikes, though, I will say that going ultralight right from the beginning has been a gift that has kept on giving. Seeing people carry heavy tents and stainless steel cooking gear and ridiculously heavy sleeping bags makes me quake in my shoes. I just couldn't do it.

I agree but as soon as you cross one week of autonomy, food starts to be the bulk of your pack and you just can’t be that light for the first few days.