I have been day hiking, my goal was a several day section hike of the AT next summer. I have been collecting, reading and talking to any hiker I see on my trails about what their experiences, tips and contents are for the event. I joined REI two weeks ago for the classes and trips. After really understanding long section hiking.....I do not feel I could do it. I resolved I am a day hiker I love heading out and seeing how far I can go. My day pack is light and has now items I know I will use. It is not because I do not have the endurance to hike all day for days on end. It is the bathroom issue The thought of no outhouse even did me in.