Bounce boxing it

imported
#1

I’ve been debating whether I should bother with working with a bounce box. Some supplies that might find their way into the box would be: batteries (lithium AAs for zip stove, and those rare watch batteries for photons), laundry detergent (Scruffy Sleeper, I noticed that you suggested this in first aid, but I doubt it would actually be put to use on the trail), xtra duct tape, xtra epson salts (for off trail infection fighting, repair), floss, vitamins, etc…

Are these bounce boxes beneficial? I was thinking of just sending these supplies in smaller appropriate amounts in each maildrop, but it would be hard if not impossible to tell when you’ll need more duct tape, battery juice… Should I even bother sending/carrying detergent- or just pick it up at laundromats? -Sweep

Sweeper

#2

Hi Sweeper, I’m afraid I can’t give you much advice on the bounce box…but, I have the same concern…I’m beginning to get the point that “bounce box” items are usually something you took on the trail to begin with and just don’t use on a daily basis…i.e…instead of carrying the whole roll of duct tape…you keep a certain length with you…and “bounce” the big roll. NOW, How do you determine how far the “BOUNCE” is? :slight_smile:

Sharon Shoemaker

#3

Hmmmmm… Really got me thinking. I guess this is something you decide on at the maildrop. I would probably aim bounces to the addresses of the next bounce boxes. In case you ever get ahead of the bounce, here’s one trick to save your roll of duct tape, batteries, and quilted TP (just kidding): Keep a stack of mail address relo cards that you can get for free at a post office that are already filled out for your maildrop addresses. When you move on, just give the slip to the post office or address so the late mail can catch up. A good tip from the Weasel himself… -Sweeper

Sweeper

#4

correction: I would probably aim bounces to the addresses of the next maildrops. I realized the last post did not make sense. Whoops. -Sweeper

Sweeper

#5

You’ll find that after a while the luxury of a 35mm can full of baking soda will help with alot…mainly the boot stench, your stench, not to mention uses as detergent and toothpaste.

maybe more of a toiletrie than 1st aid, but i keep my soda there

SS
game 3/1/01

Scruffy Sleeper

#6

I sent my bounce box to every “big” town. Meaning everytown that was of enough importance that I had planned zero days for in advance. I planned about 15 Zero days and ended up taking almost 50. But I started a bounce box in Hot Springs, bounced it to Damascus, then to Troutdale, and Parisburg, and so on. You’ll figure it out once you get out there. I think it was probably about every two maildrops. I would not use one again. It was more trouble than it was worth. But it was nice when I wasn’t sure that I wanted to send home my whisperlite yet, or that fleece jacket, I had that extra bit of security, if you know what I mean…

Freedom is Walking -Hungry Howie

Hungry Howie

#7

I read on the “other site” that it was a good idea to insure every box which gets you a tracking # so if it disappears as all things do you can find it. Yogi '99 lost a whole box of picture she sent home…pooof! A little extra postage for a lot of peace of mind. I’m doing it.

Bushwhack

#8

typo, sorry

Bushwhack

#9

I started using a bounce box, but gave it up after the first two months on the trail. The thing just kept growing and getting more and more expensive to mail ahead. Then there was the time when I forgot where I sent the damned thing. Too much time in the woods I guess. I found there was always someone else who needed some of the extra stuff I had, so I found it easier just to give it away than to ship it ahead. Made a lot of friends that way too.

Single Malt 99