How to Hike With a Light Backpack

Hiking is a very popular activity. It can be done for exercise, taking in the scenery, photography or even relaxing mediation. However, people sometimes make this activity less pleasant by taking more than they actually need in their backpack. Even a little extra weight can have quite an impact as you walk. Hiking is not intended to be a major expedition (although you may be sleeping in a tent) and you do not need the same amount of stuff.

Instructions

    • 1

      Choose the smallest and lightest equipment you can. For example, if you hike alone, you don't need a huge pot to cook in, since a small foldable pan is enough. Also, use a lightweight backpack.

    • 2

      Distribute the weight of supplies and equipment among several hikers if you walk in a group. And, if two or more can share a tent, this also reduces the collective weight you have to carry.

    • 3

      Take no more clothing than you need. One change of socks often suffices, although you may want extra clothing if the weather gets colder.

    • 4

      Pour small quantities of things you need, such as sunscreen or liquid soap, into smaller containers to take with you, so you avoid carrying the whole container.

    • 5

      Pack things that everyone should take on a hike, such as a compass and a way to make fire. However, even in this case, you can reduce weight by taking smaller devices rather than large ones.