Ultralight backpacking generally indicates using gear that weighs under 12 pounds (not counting food, water, and fuel) as your base weight; some dedicated ultralighters reduce this further to as low as five pounds. Companies like Gossamer Gear, Zpacks, and ULA Equipment lead a growing cottage industry focused on crafting lighter gear. These small businesses are committed to a philosophy of “by the people, for the people.”
Packing Tips
Evaluate your gear and clothing carefully for items you might easily forgo, such as battery-operated toothbrushes or adaptable clothing layers for varying weather conditions. This evaluation can significantly impact your packing efficiency, avoiding the burden of carrying an unnecessarily large wardrobe.
When backpacking, a well-stocked first aid kit is essential for handling unforeseen incidents during your outdoor adventures. Chopping onions might inadvertently result in burns, bug bites can occur while traversing remote areas, and cuts from falls require antiseptic treatment. Having a variety of solutions conveniently grouped in a comprehensive first aid kit helps you manage these situations effectively and minimize the need for local medical assistance or hospital visits.
To keep pack weight manageable, buying equipment from a local outdoor store is a great option. This allows you to try on different packs and ensure a proper fit. You may discover a pack that feels comfortable on your broad-shouldered friend might not be suitable for you.
Packing the Right Way
An optimal backpack enables you to carry heavy loads without feeling weighed down. It should fit your body well with comfortable straps and include features that save space and weight, like side pockets for smaller items (such as phones), a small sack that can double as a pillow or blanket, and a compression system that helps streamline its shape. Additional loops or lash points for securing tools, cooking equipment, or extra clothing are also advantageous.
Once you’ve chosen a suitable pack, plan your gear accordingly. Outdoor adventure guide Elizabeth Paashaus advises starting with the essential items for your trip: “Think about what you really need: your sleeping bag or quilt, tent, hiking boots, and a lightweight backpacking pad are just a few key items.”
Take into account the season and location of your trip when deciding what to pack. “If your destination has a moderate climate, it might be more practical to rent gear upon arrival,” Ms. Doe suggests, especially for items like trekking poles that are widely available in developed areas.
Opt for clothing that can be worn multiple times, such as wool or odor-resistant fabrics, to save both space and weight.
Organizing Your Pack
As you venture into lightweight backpacking, having organization tools for your gear can enhance efficiency and ensure everything is easily accessible.
Specialty pockets in high-quality hiking backpacks allow for quick access to items like waterproof rain gear or trail snacks. Many packs have daisy chains, small loops sewn into the front, which can securely attach gear like your Garmin inReach or camp mug using lightweight carabiners.
Furthermore, many backpacks come with straps to secure poles and other long items to the side or top, making these items easier to reach when needed. This feature can save space and facilitate quicker access to gear in emergencies.
Establishing a lightweight backpacking setup requires careful consideration, but remember that not every piece of gear needs to be absolutely essential—if you won’t use it daily, consider leaving it out of your pack!
Clothing
A thorough backpacking kit should include a sturdy tent, sleeping bag, base layers, and clothing suitable for a three to four-day journey. Ideally, a fully packed backpack with this gear should weigh between 50 to 70 liters; exceeding this can lead to cumbersome loads on the trail.
Your backpacking clothing should prioritize comfort, breathability, and quick-drying properties for optimal performance. The best fabrics for this purpose hug the skin and effectively manage sweat, including socks, underwear, and t-shirts made from merino wool or similar odor-resistant materials, which require washing less frequently than cotton, keeping you dry and comfortable on your journey.
Many backpackers carry lightweight wind shirts as an extra layer, particularly in windy conditions or as a substitute for long-sleeve shirts, to help retain body heat. Additionally, durable hiking gloves and polycarbonate sunglasses with glare-reducing lenses are practical and cost-effective alternatives to standard sunglasses, providing essential protection against the elements.
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