At the moment, hikers are advised to stay close to home, but it is still possible to go backpacking on a road less traveled by.

Ultralight backpacking refers to backpacking with a minimal number of items in order to prevent straining your back. You have to stick to the essentials. No exceptions. There is less weight to carry as a result, with most hikers sticking to a goal base weight of just 10-15 pounds.

This gives you the freedom to move around without the load of a heavy bag slowing you down.

If you’ve been hiking for many years but haven’t tried ultralight backpacking, it’s time you give it a shot! You’ll be surprised at the sort of survival skills you’ll learn along your trip.

So how do you shave weight off your backpack?

The easiest way to lighten the load is to pack lighter versions of the four major items you need, which includes your backpack, shelter, a sleeping pad, and a sleeping bag.

1. Ultralight Backpacks

Ultralight backpacking requires a backpack that was made for ultralight hiking.

These look similar to regular hiking backpacks, but their frames are very different (if they have one at all). The material used for these backpacks and the type of load they carry are also different.

They’re made out of thinner materials, weighing just a couple of pounds.

2. Shelter

The shelter you pick for ultralight backpacking is substantially lower than what you’d take for traditional backpacking. A typical tent weighs around seven pounds, but an ultralight tent only weighs a couple of pounds.

These shelters have simplistic designs and are made of materials that are lightweight but durable.

Keep in mind that these tents aren’t the most comfortable to sleep in, however.

3. Sleeping Bag

The sort of sleeping bag you take will depend on the climate. If you’re expecting cold weather, you may be tempted to take a warmer sleeping bag, but keep in mind that this will increase the weight you’re carrying.

Ultralight hikers go for a light sleeping bag with liners and wear warm clothes to sleep instead of carrying a heavy bag.

4. Sleeping Pads

Sleeping pads provide you with the warmth you need when you’re trying to get some sleep. Again, the thicker the pad, the more comfortable you’ll be. If you’re a fussy sleeper, you may not want to compromise on sleeping pads.

You can choose from foam pads and air-filled pads. Air-filled pads are definitely lighter, but they’re also prone to punctures, so you’re going to have to take a repair kit with you.

To make sure you have a trouble-free trip, invest in Light Hiking Gear’s high-quality UltraLites. Each one of our ultralight backpacks has been designed after years of research.

Note: We’re sterilizing all our backpacks before we send them out. Our items are packed by Rich & Genie. You can rest assured that our items are coronavirus-free.

Check out our selection online and place your order.