Ultralight Backpacking
Packing Light on the Trail
Every backpacker has experienced the agonizing pains caused by a weighty pack. The body moans with every step, feet cry out in agony and shoulders beg for mercy. Traditional backpacking can often lead to frequent injuries, restrained freedom of movement and turn a once pleasant trip sour.
Developing ultralight backpacking skills does not equal sacrificing comfort; instead it means looking for ways to decrease the weight in necessary gear. In addition to the reduction of weight backpackers will find that their travel time will increase while the chances of minor injuries diminish.
Getting Started with Ultralight Backpacking
Ultralight enthusiasts can “trim the fat” off their pack weight by analyzing frequently used gear. Cutting out unnecessary items such as excess clothing, thick reading material and bulky camp stoves will produce quick results. Sticking to gear that has an ability to serve several functions will greatly reduce pack weight and physical stress.
Adventurers can also toss expendable commercial packaging and divvy up medicines, sunscreen, toilet paper and other bare necessities into smaller containers. Backpackers using batteries during their outings can cut the weight of each battery in half by replacing alkaline with lithium. Ditching the fork, knife and spoon for an all-encompassing spork will also shave off ounces. Reducing weight on small items may seem insignificant at first, but can often lead to an abatement of a couple of pounds.
Investing in a lightweight backpack, sleeping bag and tent will cut down weight and provide long lasting comfort when cared for properly. The average weight of an ultralight backpack is 3 pounds and should adequately carry a packed weight up to 35 lb.
When it comes to sleeping bags down fill used to be the only answer for ultralight adventurers. These days manufacturers are producing synthetic filled bags that are just as lightweight and compressible as down fill.
Backpacking tents come in an array of sizes and designs. Most three-season ultralight tents are made primarily of mesh and weigh an average of 3 lb. Four-season single wall tents are also available and generally weigh around 5 lb. The choice in tent will depend on the environment in which an ultralight adventurer intends on traveling in most.
Additional Tips for Reducing Weight
Titanium products equal remarkable decreases in weight. Pots, stoves, backpack stays, tent pegs, just about anything metal. Backpackers should compare the weight between standard stainless steel and titanium when shopping for new cookware.
Although the initial investment in lighter weight gear may cost a little more, the benefits will far outweigh the difference for any avid backpacker.
Reduce Weight with an Ultralight Tent
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