dont overdo it though (meaning frequency, there was a fellow who wrote a thread of how he proofided his 5 or 6 times, which is really overdoing it)
and from what is suggested, recommended and my experience, once per season should be ok. Do have a store plastic bag or two with you in case you get caught in a downpour, its not good for them to get soaked (just put the bag over it and tie a knot, it will stay on fine)
as for wideness, I am a slim fellow (5'10.5, 140lbs) and it is not too wide for me.
also, as for your trip, isnt it going to be very cold still in Indiana?