Trying to make your backpacking trip as easy and carefree as possible? You need to learn about ultralight backpacking! While the idea has become increasingly popular in recent years, a lot of backpackers still haven’t hopped on the ultralight backpacking bandwagon. If you are curious about it but not really sure how to get started, here is a quick and easy guide to everything that you need to know.
What is ultralight backpacking?
Ultralight backpacking is all about bring the lightest and simplest pack possible. Traditional backpacks have a weight from 14 kg/ 30 lbs up to 27 kg/ 60 lbs. Before we go into too much depth about pack weight, it’s important to know that pack weigh usually refers to a “base” weight. The base weight is the weight of the pack without its consumables like food and white.
Typically, light packs are defined as backpacks weighing under 10 kg/ 20 lb while ultralight bags are any packs under 5 kg/ 10 lbs. Needless to say, there is a massive difference between tradition, light and ultralight. There is also a big difference in the experience of the backpacker with the different size packs!
How does it work?
Ultralight backpacking is all about looking for alternatives. Each item is weighed before it’s put in the pack and it’s important to make every little bit count. Can some items be shared with other backpackers rather than having each person carry their own? Do you really need electronic gadgets or coffee? What is the true minimum that you can get by on? Often simple swaps like wearing hiking shoes instead of hiking boots can make a major difference in weight.
Why bother?
When you are backpacking over challenging terrain or travelling a long distance, weight is critical. Every little bit of equipment that you have on your back is going to affect you. In fact, even the weight on your feet matters! Heavy boots take up to six times the amount of energy to lift off the ground as lightweight shoes. While these sort of things might not matter if you are backpacking through the hostels of Western Europe, it will definitely transform your experience when you are carrying your pack all day.
Where to get started?
While every little bit counts, most ultralight backpacking devotes are focused on what they call the “big three.” The big three is the pack itself, your sleeping gear and your overnight shelter. If you want to get started with ultralight backpacking, you need to customise your gear to your destination then focus on finding the lightest possible material. It might be work but you’ll be glad you did!
