Quick Answer
You've packed too much weight if you experience difficulty walking uphill or notice that your pace has slowed significantly, indicating that your load is impacting your energy levels.
Weight Distribution Signs
When packing out elk, signs of excessive weight can be subtle but telling. Pay attention to your ability to maintain a comfortable stride on uneven terrain. If you’re forced to take shorter, more labored steps, it’s a sign that your pack is too heavy.
Physical Indicators
Weight-related fatigue often manifests physically. Look for signs of muscle strain in your lower back, shoulders, and hips. If you feel like you’re carrying a ‘heavy’ load with every step, even on relatively flat ground, it’s a sign that you need to redistribute your weight.
Pack Weight Guidelines
As a general rule, a pack should weigh no more than 20-25% of your body weight for day hikes and 15-20% for longer excursions. For a 180-pound (82 kg) hunter, that translates to a max pack weight of 36-45 pounds (16-20 kg). To gauge your pack’s impact, try the ‘30-minute test’: If you feel exhausted after 30 minutes of walking uphill with your pack, it’s too heavy.
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