Ultralight Backpacking Tips
Packing light can have a range of benefits. However, it can seem as though there are certain sacrifices and tradeoffs needed. Ultralight packing is based on having a minimalist approach that focuses on the essentials. Instead of carrying around heavy things, there are some which can be left behind. It is essentially a mindset/philosophy, rather than a rigid set of rules. The emphasis is on packing as light as possible. You may be surprised to learn the things you can go without for a few days. In this article, we will go through the six exclusive tips that you help you in your ultralight packing efforts.
- Be Smart with Your Backpack Choice
Every single pound matters, and therefore you should ensure that your backpack s making the best use of the weight. Usually, backpacks tend to weigh around 3 to 4 pounds with a volume of around 65-liters. However, you can choose to go with something that is frameless as this has minimal padding which will save you a few pounds in weight.
- Be Efficient With Food & Water
A key consideration for backpacking will be food and water. Both of these items are essential, but they can be heavy. Instead of carrying it around, you can do some research about local streams and lakes that may come across in your path. You can then use through a mini-filter. Also, you can carry a few purification tablets just in case. A soft collapsible bottle should also be used to save space.
In terms of food, every individual will have specific calorie requirements. Food requirements will also depend on how strenuous your activities are. In general, covering around 3500 calories a day is recommended. However, many people can get by on less. Water is more important than food for survival. It can be worth packing some “instant” foods as these usually do not take up much space. You should focus on foods packed with calories and fat, as these will keep you full during the day. Protein bars, nuts, dried fruits, and powder supplements can all be fairly lightweight. You can also dehydrate your food before packing to save even more space.
- Pack The Essential Toiletries
Toiletries are another essential type of item that will be packed in your bag. However, not every toiletry is essential. You can use travel-sized items to make more efficient use of your space. A tiny bottle of hand sanitizer will be enough to last the whole trip. We also recommend cutting down the size of your toothbrush. You can cut your toothbrush in half, or buy a child-sized one. A travel-sized tube of toothpaste will suffice alongside this. In terms of toilet paper, you can get by with a few squares of the heavy-duty stuff. You should make sure that you keep toiletries to the bare essentials. Fancy shampoos and conditioners aren’t a necessity for a few days. If you pack storage bags, you should make sure they are light and efficient. There is no need to keep things in bulky bags, as this will take up unnecessary room.
- Go With Electronic Alternatives
One way to save space is by going with electronic alternatives. For example, an e-reader is far lighter compared to bringing along a physical book. However, there will be charging considerations to take into account. The battery life of an e-reader can last for a few days, which means no additional battery packs or cables are needed. You can also benefit from useful applications. Ultralight backpacking doesn’t mean you have to give up all luxuries. Bringing along one electronic item can be a great way to get some luxury without taking up too much room. Every backpacker can take an item to make the trip more exciting.
- Choose Lightweight Clothing
Clothing and shoes can be some of the heaviest things in your backpack. The choice of shoe will depend on a number of factors. High-intensity activities will require sturdy shoes. However, you can strengthen your feet to get them more prepared for hiking. By performing some exercises before you set off, you can increase the endurance of your feet. Light hikers and trail-running shoes can be sufficient for many treks, and you can save some significant weight.
Outerwear will also be an important consideration. You can benefit from super-lightweight outerwear, which is available in a range of styles. These outdoor jackets provide water resistance, but also save a lot of weight and space. You only need to take one piece of outerwear with you.
- Get Rid of the Overpacking Mindset
The final tip for being a better packer is to fully embrace the new mindset. This approach to packing is not merely a rigid list of packing requirements. It is a lifestyle and ideology that you embrace. The mindset is about realizing that certain things may not be as essential as you think. It means going without them for a few days, which means you will need to be able to adapt. Therefore, it is important to properly engage with the concept of living without some luxury items before setting out. When you are packing, you should ask yourself how much you really need an item. Overpacking tends to be a habit that can be broken. It requires taking a realistic approach in which you consider the full use of every single item.
By following these tips, you can have a much better experience. You may realize now that certain items may not be as essential as you think. Additionally, many items can be replaced by lighter alternatives. The best way to go forth with this method of storing is by changing your mindset and making the most efficient use of space. Instead of focusing on your items, you can then focus on making the most out of the exciting activities you intend to do. It may even come as a surprise to you when you learn just how many things aren’t essential for a few days.
If Kuhl’s staff is not running a trail or hiking through the great outdoors, they are in Salt Lake City, Utah – designing sustainable, top-performance outdoor clothing for people like us.
