What Is Ultralight backpacking?
August 8th, 2009
Anyone who has backpacked before has probably considered finding ways to lighten the load. Ultralight backpacking is simply doing that systematically. Many people think this means chopping off half of a toothbrush handle and finding other ways to cut an once or two of weight. That’s a good start, especially if you do it in ways that don’t affect your comfort or safety.
However, the real savings in pack weight are to be found in the larger items. Cutting the weight of the “big three” - the backpack, sleeping bag and shelter - can add up to far more weight savings than dozens of small reductions. For example, if you replace a seven-pound tent with a two-pound one, a six-pound bag with a two-pound one (yes, it’s possible - mine weighs 17 ounces), and a six-pound backpack with a two-pound one, you just eliminated thirteen pounds.
Entry Filed under: Travel