The Simplicity Of Lightweight Backpacking

Taking the plunge from traditional backpacking to lightweight backpacking can mean having a more enjoyable trip, due to not having to carry an extra 30 pounds or so. Those who choose to carry traditional backpacks may be carrying between 30 to 50 pounds of gear, while lightweight backpackers' loads are on average 12 to 20 pounds. This is a considerable difference and can be seen as a nice alternative.

Heavier backpacks can cause serious problems for many people. If a person is consistently packing 30 to 50 pounds of gear, then over a period of time they may experience exhaustion, increased chances of injuries, the chance of falling by making poor foot placement and of course being tired and cranky. The elimination of some of the weight can allow individuals to have more fun on their trip and have more fun to do the exciting things that have been planned, instead of being tired from carrying all of the heavy backpacking equipment. Lightweight backpacking is being practiced by more and more individuals who are far less worried about the amount of backpacking equipment that they bring and more interested in what they gain from the experience itself.

When backpacking hiking with less gear, simply do not take more than what you know you will need. Many people tend to pack duplicate equipment just in case, but many people never need the duplicate gear. Believe it or not, packing your everyday 12 ounce tube of toothpaste or your ultra mega bottle of sunscreen can add to the weight content of your backpack very quickly, yet you will never need those amounts of products for a weekend or even a week long trip.

Instead, try packing trial size bottles of products so that you are more comfortable when traveling. Another item that can significantly add to your backpacking weight is packing unnecessary food. This is where deliberate food planning comes in. Many lightweight backpackers have found that packing food consistent with a 2,000 calorie a day diet relieves them of a lot of weight. This averages out to about 1.5 pounds of daily food and can actually reduce the average backpacker's weight by over 5 pounds, in food alone. While there are other items that can be deleted from your backpack to drop weight, starting with items like these can get you off and running.

While backpacking can be very enjoyable, the weight of backpacking equipment can sometimes be a burden, making for a weary traveler on the trail. Lightweight backpacking is a way for many individuals to enjoy the activity, while not having to tote around all of the heavy equipment. Lightening the load of the equipment can cause less stress on the body and allow for a more enjoyable hike.

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