Keep in mind the main purpose of a 24hr SAR pack is somewhat different then a hiking/camping pack or BOB. Its role is primarily to a get rescuer/searcher through a 24hr (+) period of time in a self-sufficient manner, to be able to take care of him or herself remotely for the first 24hrs(+) of a SAR mission, possibly provide basic life support for a victim and in some cases technical rescue equipment. Hopefully, the Searcher/Rescuer does not become lost/isolated or a victim himself or herself. Most teams work in groups, where they can pool resources and often have re-supply somewhere in the operation.

Each team/jurisdiction will have parameters, generally similar in nature, for the search/rescue personnel in terms of how often they must return to a staging area for rehabilitation and re-supply. Of course current environment and weather conditions will play an important role in how much to pack, but loading one’s pack with a lot of extras can reduce one’s effectiveness in conducting a search and possible rescue operation. Think light and efficient.

Just my 2 cents-
Pete