Quote Originally Posted by Poorlaggedman View Post
I normally don't get involved in the historical minutiae but wouldn't these guys frequently drop their packs somewhere before going into combat? Obviously not on the way there
The problem with dropping it, is that there is a very real risk of loose it if things go badly. And even if you attack and push the enemy back. You entire regiment can't just drop out of line to go a mile or maybe even more true terrain they do not know to hopefully find their dropped stuff.
And after a day of fighting having your blanket, dry socks and a dry shirt would likely be a nice thing to have. just like having the tools to do a bit of cooking.

So It entirely depend on the situation. What is the advantage? What is challenges of doing it?