Ultralight Principles

Ultralight backpacking is more than a set of gear. In order to be a successful ultralight backpacker, you must adopt an ultralight philosophy, which means committing to weight-saving principles and techniques. There are four criteria to constantly keep in mind: light, simple, multi-functional, and adequately-durable. Good ultralight gear meets all of these criteria. Don’t compromise your gear with a “one size fits all” approach. You must choose specific gear for a specific purpose. And don’t get seduced by all the “nice to have” bells and whistles—keep it simple. When evaluating the options within a gear category, look at weight first. If it’s heavy, it’s an automatic reject; if it’s light, then further evaluate it. Sometimes it's prudent to choose a gear option that is slightly heavier, especially if it’s multi-functional and more durable. Most ultralight gear is less durable than conventional gear and requires greater care. The trick is to select gear that is light and sufficiently durable so it will last with reasonable care. It doesn't have to be bomb-proof (and heavy), like most conventional gear, so it will survive extreme abuse. Purchase a postage scale, and don’t be reluctant to take it to the local outdoor store to weigh gear you are interested in. So, here are the principles:

1.  Choose the smallest, lightest gear suited to the purpose.

• When selecting from gear you already own, weigh the items you have and take the lightest option that serves the function. With clothing, this will usually be the items with the least zippers, snaps and pockets.

• When purchasing new gear, compare the weights of your options by taking your scale to the store. Select gear that is matched to what you actually need, avoid overkill. 

• When purchasing gear from a catalog or online, insist on knowing the weight before you purchase it.

• Remove parts that aren’t functional—tags, the drawstring from pants with elastic and a drawstring, extra length on draw cords of packs and stuff sacks, extra length on pack straps.

2.  Take gear that serves multiple uses, examples:

• Pack—sleeping pad or pillow

• Bandana—hot pad, handkerchief, bandage, washcloth, towel

• Poncho—ground cloth, tarp, pack cover

• Sleeping pad—back pad in pack

• Rain suit—wind suit, outer shell layer in camp

• Hiking poles—tarp poles

• Cook pot—cup

• Jacket—extra insulation in sleeping bag

3.  Eliminate “nice to have” and “not needed” items—such as paperback, change of clothes, towel, and pillow.

4.  Take only the amount needed—clothing, food, fuel, water, insect repellent, sunscreen, etc. Take the lightest sleeping bag for the temperatures expected. Use a ¾-length sleeping pad. Eliminate all food packaging and repack food in thin plastic bags.

5.  The more you reduce weight; the more you are able to reduce more weight—for example, going to lightweight gear allows you to use an ultralight rucksack instead of a frame pack, and you can use trail runner shoes instead of heavy backpacking boots.

These principles will become more clear as you read the other pages on our website, and visit other websites.