A Checklist for Ultralight Backpacking

The gear is packed, the straps are strapped and you are ready to alight into the wilderness. From the comfort of your living room, a 45-lb. pack feels fine—but you will sing a different tune when struggling up a never-ending switchback 10 miles into your trek. Halve your pack weight by going ultralight. Ultralight backpacking requires a minimalist attitude and some backcountry creativity. Leave the luxuries at home but be sure to pack some essential items, as advised by REI.

  1. Sleep System

    • Instead of a hauling a tent, poles and stakes, consider bringing a bivouac (bivy) sack, bivy shelter or just a tarp. Bivy sacks, originally invented for climbers lacking space to pitch a tent, are like waterproof breathable slipcovers for the sleeping bag. A bivy sack often weighing less than a pound, protects the user from the elements. A bivy shelter is a compromise between a bivy sack and the traditional one-person tent. In favorable weather conditions, a well-pitched tarp can make an effective shelter; tuck in underneath, with a seasonally appropriate sleeping bag.

    Nutrition

    • Because food often accounts for up to a quarter of your pack’s weight, plan meals carefully. Take dehydrated food such as beans and pasta. For short trips, leave the stove behind and take only high-energy, no-cook foods, such as jerky, granola bars and trail mix. To avoid packing too much water, bring a filter system and use backcountry water sources. Ensure that you bring a bear bag, a water bottle, a combination utensil, such as a spork, and a bowl.

    Clothing

    • Clothing should be carefully selected, depending on the length of your trip and the expected weather conditions. At a minimum, bring convertible pants, a long-sleeve layer, wicking tee shirt and underwear, and insulating fleece layers, including a jacket or vest and pants. Take sunglasses, a bandanna, a warm hat and gloves, wool or synthetic hiking socks, and an emergency poncho. Instead of heavy-duty hiking boots, try trail-running shoes.

    Safety and Navigation

    • Bring a map and compass and know how to use them. Do not forget the necessary permits and a pen. Take a basic first-aid kit with sunscreen, insect repellent, headlamp, waterproof matches and a lighter, a knife or multitool, and a length of nylon cord to string up your bear bag or your tarp. For quick, temporary repairs, bring strips of duct tape. Always bring your cell phone to use in an emergency.

    Personal Items

    • You do not have to neglect all personal items to go ultralight. Take along a charged camera. Consider toilet paper, medication, tampons, hand sanitizer and baby wipes for washing your face.