just the way it works out..... said 3 nites anyhow not days. that would mean 4 days...... i could do a week if i had more food. that pack is actually like 4600 and can expand to 5600. i try for minimum things on my solo outings but will not use a bivy i use a msr hubba 1 man tent. that really is the only item i bring that is more weight than it could be. my pack currently for that situation is 50 pounds and it kills me. 40 would be more ideal for long hikes. i could add more things due to space available but do not need more stuff nor weight. just that pack is 8 pounds and change, add water 7 pounds with 100 oz bladder, spotter, tri pod camera gear, and minimum clothe food, sleep system, stove etc..... it is full. is what it is..... not sure how to make it less weight, one who has a slower metabolism and less muscle and or cares less of what they eat probly saves weight with different foods and could sustain more time out. food is really my largest consumption of space. so yes i was wrong making that comment. you could stay out there for infinity if you had enough food and a solar panel.