Craig, if you're willing to try cordage that is not 550 cord here is an option I ran across today.

Gearward Technora cord is stronger than 550 but more compact. It comes on an innovative little spool that would make for easy carry. I don't know how well (or even if) the ends can be melted after cutting. And its certainly not dirt cheap.

No affiliation, just saw it a few minutes ago online and thought of this thread.