Well the day has finally come and I’m about to head for the airport in 6 hours.  I just finished packing and I am carrying a small Camelbak day pack and a larger Osprey backpack.  Together they weigh in right at 29 lbs.  This is not including water.  I think this is considered pretty light, but given that there is no food or water, I think it’s sort of heavy.

To be honest, alot of the weight is my camera equipment.  I have a Nikon SLR, 2 lens, 2 camcorders and a small point and shoot.  I also am bringing a Netbook and a GPS and of course an Ipod and a shuffle.  It’s technological overkill but I would hate to have any equipment misfunction and lose any chances of taking great photos while I’m in Africa.  I’m also bringing two books and a notepad.  I plan to read the books on the plane and discard them when I’m done.

As for clothing, I am not bringing alot.  I have 3 sets of inner clothing and 1 set of outer wear.  In between I have a medium thickness fleece jacket.  I am renting my sleeping bag, sleeping pad and down jacket and trekking poles.

It feels weird that for two weeks I have everything I need in 2 backpacks.  Actually it’s just one because the other one has only techy gear.

My next post will be from another country!