Lightweight Backpacking Tips

Nothing takes the fun out of a beautiful hike like a heavy pack! Here are 5 lightweight backpacking tactics to lighten your pack so you can hike further, faster, and more comfortably while still having everything you need to be comfy and safe (really!) 

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DITCH UNNEEDED GEAR

What do pillows, towels, and trowels have in common? You don't need them while lightweight backpacking! Learn how to make the most of multi-use gear and stop "packing your fears."

PLAN A PRECISE MENU

Food is heavy! Optimize your lightweight backpacking menu by choosing calorie-dense dehydrated foods, packing no more than you need, and removing extra packaging.

LIGHTEN YOUR "BIG 3"

If you can, upgrade your shelter, sleeping bag, and backpack to modern lightweight versions. Consider weight-saving alternatives like a sleeping quilt and minimalist single-wall tent, or even a tarp. 

EMBRACE THE DIRT

You're backpacking, not going to the office, so don't stress about personal grooming. Items like a spare t-shirt, deodorant, lots of soap, and a camp towel are all unnecessary weight in the wilderness.

TRY LIGHTWEIGHT SHOES

An often overlooked source of energy-sapping weight: your feet! Try backpacking in trail running shoes to save energy with every step and help keep your feet dry and blister-free.

Because backpacking is supposed to be fun, not painful.

Find these and other actionable tips at Exploring Wild's guide to

This interactive trip planning guide is packed with checklists, key questions, and recommendations to take the worry out of planning your first or biggest backpacking trip.