Originally Posted by
Niles H.
One approach would be to find someone whose load is working well, and is where you want yours to be, and then match his packing list. Adjust from there if necessary.
Touring in pleasant climes can also help lighten the load in several ways, including psychologically.
I like this advice, because I've done it myself here in Europe. When I first started touring, I'd talk to other "veterans" at campsites, and they'd let me take a look at how they packed, what they brought. Helped a lot!