I'm so confused about what to bring and am trying to avoid packing items that won't be used as I progress along the route. Your recommendations much appreciated!
As
@Vacajoe says: layers! layers! layers!
I started from south central France early April and my usual attire to start each day was 1 x short sleeve top plus a buff for the neck. It would take well under 30 minutes to warm up. I had no wish to stop after, say, 10-15 minutes to:
- take off the pack and open it up
- take a top off and put it in the pack
- close the pack and put it back on
My layers "suite" comprises:
- 2 x short sleeve (130 grams each)
- 1 x long sleeve (180 grams)
- 1 x wind/rain proof "parka" - single layer fabric with hood (220 grams)
This is seldom used - and then most often at night, not for walking.
Walking in unpleasant conditions might include:
- long sleeve top; or
- short sleeve top with parka (sleeves pushed up to the elbows, unzipped to breathe)
- rain kilt (80 grams)
For rain beyond light, in addition to the top and parka, I will probably wear:
- acrylic gloves for warmth (25 grams each)
- water proof mittens (15 grams each)
I would not carry a puffy (?padded jacket) as it would take too much space, let alone weight. And it would get almost no use from me.
So,
@Ynotwalk, I say to you kia kaha, kia māia, kia mana'wa'nui (take care, be strong, confident and patient) and would love to hear how to get on.