This thread also reminded me of wisdom that only experience can provide.
I was once backpacking into Duck Hole via Ward Brook Truck Trail very early in my backpacking career, I was still using my old boy scout gear, external frame, sterno stove and the likes, and old cotton clothing. I came across 2 much older gentlemen (mid 70's) wearing the cotton nylon blend "Dickies" type blue work clothing. It was pouring rain and they were enjoying themselves. I decided to slow down and hike with them a while. They were obviously very experienced in the 'daks.
We got to Blueberry Lean-To and there were 3 guys there dressed to the 9's in gaitors, nice newfangled internal frame packs and clothing sporting The North Face Logo - Very nice stuff.
I was first to approach the L/T. 2 of the 3 guys stood on the edge of the platform hands on hips and upon my greeting one said gruffly, "There's another Lean-to about a mile further, it might be empty". I shrugged my shoulder and said thanks but I was continuing on anyways. It was obvious that they did not want to share the L/T on this very rainy day.
Of the 2 older guys right behind me, one stepped right up into the lean-to, pack and all and said to his friend "See!! I told you these lean-to's easily sleep 8!!!" He then looked over to the 2 surprised gruff-like guys and said, very firmly "which side were you boys planning on taking tonight?"
They moved their stuff very quickly and were very quiet for the next 15 minutes that I was there.
To this day, I still smile when I think of how those nice older gentleman's approach very pleasantly took all the air out of their gruff sails.
