Ultralight Backpacking Gear: What to Pack for Ultralight Hiking

In ultralight backpacking, hikers attempt to minimize their pack weight as much as possible without sacrificing necessary equipment or supplies. A thru-hike or multiday backpacking trip can cover miles of rough terrain and challenging elevation gain. This backcountry backpacking technique requires every ounce of weight savings you can manage to spare your body from the extra strain.

Ultralight backpacking might be a useful strategy for accomplishing such long-distance hikes as the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), the Appalachian Trail, and other highly demanding routes. Also, it’s possible to enjoy these grueling trails more without the additional challenge of having to lug around heavier traditional backpacking gear.

Individual ultralight hikers will have personal preferences, but here are some of the most common items you will find on an ultralight backpacking gear list:

• Durable footwear: You can choose a pair of waterproof hiking boots if you plan to cross rough or uneven terrain; however, most ultralight backpackers prefer trail running shoes, which are lighter. A sturdy pair of running shoes can provide some of the traction and waterproof qualities of traditional hiking boots while also helping you remain agile.
• First aid kit: You should always prepare for the worst and bring enough bandages, medicines, sunscreen, and bug spray to keep you safe in the field. Bring more supplies than you might need for just your own camping party. For example, even if you are backpacking solo, it’s advisable to pack enough supplies for two people, as it’s always possible to come across an injured person who needs your help.
• Frameless ultralight pack: The average base weight of an ultralight pack is roughly nine pounds. The majority of this total pack weight should be consumables and gear. Research gear reviews and test several pack models to find a durable backpack that will meet your specific needs and preferences.
• Headlamp: You might not find a suitable campsite until nightfall, so keep a headlamp in an easily accessible pocket of your pack. A headlamp can provide hours of hands-free light to increase trail visibility in failing light and reduce the chances of you walking into unseen terrain hazards or nocturnal predators.
• Propane stoves: Collecting firewood and building a fire every night will require time and energy you might not have after a long day of hiking. You might benefit from purchasing a pocket stove to make quick meals in the field. Propane canisters and pocket stoves are compact, reliable, and lightweight.
• Sleeping system: Rest is a vital aspect of ultralight hiking, so you need a sleeping bag, foam pad, or hammock setup to recover for the next day. If the climate and weather permit, you might be able to cut pack weight by choosing a camping tarp and sleeping pad shelter. Hammocks are typically the lightest option, but note that they also facilitate the loss of body heat throughout the night.
• Three-season tent: Most backpacking tents have superfluous poles, rain fly awnings, or bulky tent stakes. Ultralight tents are more minimalist and often sacrifice comfort and weatherproofing in their design to minimize the product’s gross weight.
• Trekking poles: These multiuse tools can help you improve your balance, clear a path of heavy vegetation, or support the roof of a tarp or bivy shelter. Perhaps best of all, trekking poles will add little weight to your load.
  
• Water source: Whether you prefer an antimicrobial water bottle, a hydration pack, or a trail runner’s hip belt, you must pack a water vessel to stay hydrated during your journey. You could also reduce your pack weight further by purchasing a filtration system. This will enable you to process the water from natural streams and lakes, reducing the amount of water you must carry between stops.
• Waterproof rain gear: Conditions can change quickly in the field, so you should prepare for worst-case scenarios, especially when traveling alone on long-distance trails. Bring a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof stuff sacks to keep your gear dry. This will also help to decrease your chances of falling ill while on the trail.

Certain outdoor activities carry an elevated risk of serious injury. Wilderness scenarios require extensive survival gear, including but not limited to food, water, maps, protective clothing, and first aid, along with mental and physical fortitude. This article is for educational and informational purposes and is not a substitute for hard skills and expertise.

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