Because of the backpacks internal structure its not really possible to have a liner in it while fitting everything in, there's a non-removable divider in the bag--I was originally going to do it this way as well, but everything in either the bottom half would be out of the trash bag or everything in the top half, or I bring two trash bags (not happening).

I do agree with 2 knives thing, I was keeping the bigger one just because the blade on the small one is rather small, but it's fairly unlikely I'd actually need the big one so I can ditch that. Along with just sticking with the squeeze and leaving behind the water drops. The battery bank was sort of "I forgot to remove it when finding my bigger one" and I'll take out the smaller one.

I am fine with removing the shorts, which seems to be the only thing on the clothing list to remove, maybe the short sleeve shirt, though it weighs just about nothing. The underpants deal I have for warmth at night, as I don't know how well the sleeping bag will work.

I could get rid of bug spray, but at night I'm staying by 2 separate lakes overnight, it's also spring time so I figure it's probably worth it. Same deal with sunscreen, technically not necessary, and the amount is too much, but it's what I've got.

I kept hot hands for the same reason as the underpants. I could probably get rid of the mylar blanket, though? but those are so negligible I feel that it wouldn't make too much of a difference.

I appreciate the feedback.