Hi Abe,

Thanks for the input.

I'm shopping for locking folder this weekend. Don't know if I'll necessarily buy this weekend, but it sure is fun to look around! <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

I guess the fact that most of my "adventure" clothing is synthetic and the water containers are soft reflect the fact that backpacking is my primary leisure pursuit, where, as you probably know, things that are quick-drying and lightweight are highly desirable. Its hard to make lightweight rain gear out of cotton! <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> So, what types of non-synthetic outer layers would you suggest? Cotton-canvas BDUs come to mind, or perhaps ye olde Carhartt coverall.

I actually used the Esbit exclusively for 2 nights on the Appalachian trail (Dick's Creek to Unicoi), and also used it exclusively for a 4-night trip to Cumberland Island. I do have an MSR Whisperlite and 22 oz. fuel bottle for heavier camping. That might be something to consider for a bug-out scenario.

Its kind of funny. I use Nalgenes around the house and in the car to have a refreshing beverage on hand, but they don't seem to find their way with me backpacking. Car camping is another story, however. Again, your point is well taken about enhanced durability being desirable for bug out gear.

We do have family plans in place for various scenarios, all the way up to making our way to a family member's house who has a huge generator, stocks of supplies, and, um...multiple personal defense items. I'd definitely be interested in hearing what sort of plans other parents/spouses have made for their troop.