Re: the newbie ?

Just a personal opinion and observation, but I feel extremely safe with a sensible selection of gear that is both comfortable for me and light. I think one reason for this sense of safety is that when the gear is light enough, I can have ALL my gear with me at all times. 

Need to climb up a hill to look out at the terrain? I can take my pack, and if I see a good bushwhacking route, I don't need to go back down to where it was left and retrieve it, it's on my back. Need to descend a gully to collect water? Same thing. This really gives me a sense of freedom as well as safety and security. 

Incidentally, one thing that makes an outing enjoyable for me is to be able to sleep well, it recharges my personal batteries and refreshes me for the next day's activities. So, my shelter and sleep systems need to be light but dependable. Just my $0.02 worth.  :^)  Don L.