Even experienced backpackers can't seem to break their worst habits. And according to a thread on r/backpacking, the most common mistake is packing the same useless item on every trip—despite knowing better.
The original poster confessed: "I bring a backup layer... I never actually wear. Every trip, I convince myself I'll need that extra fleece if the weather turns. It lives in the bottom of my pack the entire time. I don't touch it once. But I still carry it over every pass."
Thirty-two commenters shared their own repeated packing sins, revealing a fascinating psychology: we're not packing for the trip we'll have—we're packing for the disaster we fear.
"Backup shoes," multiple hikers admitted. "I've never once needed them. My primary boots have never failed catastrophically on a trip. But I keep bringing sandals 'just in case' and they add a full pound to my pack."
Another confessed: "Extra socks. I already pack enough for the trip plus one backup pair. Then I throw in two more 'just in case.' When have I ever gone through seven pairs of socks on a four-day trip? Never. Do I still pack them? Every time."
The pattern reveals that experienced backpackers aren't over-packing from ignorance—they're over-packing from anxiety.
The most commonly admitted "security blanket" items:
The backup fleece or puffy jacket. "What if it gets cold?" You already have layers. You've checked the forecast. You know you won't need it. You pack it anyway.
Extra fire-starting materials. Lighters, waterproof matches, AND a ferro rod. One commenter admitted carrying three fire-starting methods despite never having a single one fail.
Too many meal options. "I pack like I'm opening a backcountry restaurant," one hiker wrote.
