Ultralight Backpacking Camping Gear

Ultralight Backpacks

The first thing you will need to choose is your pack. If you hike long distances you will especially appreciate having one that is very light. Even for short distances, a light pack is less of a burden.

Ultralight backpacking camping gear will, of course, include a backpack to carry your camping gear. There are internal frame backpacks and external frame backpacks. Each one has certain advantages and many people feel strongly about one or the other. Ultimately, the choice is yours, but the choice will be easier to make if you know a few things about each type. You may decide to get both so you can use one or the other depending on the type of hike you have planned. Here are a few things to keep in mind while shopping for your ultralight backpack:

Internal Frame

Advantages of an internal frame backpack include:

• It will hold your pack closer to your body, evenly distributing the weight. This can mean less fatigue with more of your body carrying the load instead of your shoulders.

• It allows you more agility as you navigate through difficult trails. You won't be as likely to get hung up on low branches with an internal frame.

• The plastic frames are more flexible.

Disadvantages of an internal frame are that they aren't as easy to pack and you will have a tendency to walk hunched over. This can not only get uncomfortable, but you may miss out on some beautiful sights when you are looking down at the trail.

External Frame

There are also several good points for using an external frame backpack for your gear. Some to consider include:

• An external frame doesn't rest against your body so you will be cooler while you are hiking.

• Because they are more rigid, they are easier to pack.

• Many are lighter than an external frame because they have less padding.

• An external frame can make it easier to carry a heavy load.

• You will walk straighter with the weight of your load being carried higher on your body.

• You may be able to carry more by hanging things on the outside of your pack.

One disadvantage of an external frame is that you cannot be as agile. You may have a bit of difficulty navigating an overgrown trail.

Sleeping Equipment

You can also reduce the weight of your backpack by packing lightweight sleeping gear. A warm sleeping bag doesn't need to be bulky and heavy. Of course, weight will depend on the conditions that you will be sleeping in. A sleeping bag designed for cold weather camping in Alaska will be heavier that a summer weight sleeping bag. You can, however, find a good, three season sleeping bag that is light and easy to carry.

Sleeping pads can also be light-weight. You have a choice here between closed-cell or open-cell sleeping pads, air mattresses,cots and self-inflating pads. Cots, air mattresses and self-inflating pads tend to be a bit heavier, so you may not want those if you are trying to lighten your load.

Open-cell pads are inexpensive as well as being light and comfortable. They are, however, a bit difficult to pack because they are bulky. Also, they tend to absorb moisture which is a definite down-side.

Closed-cell pads are more durable and provide a better value than open-celled pads do. They are also not absorbent, which is good, but they are not as cushy, which may not be good.

To save some weight with your sleeping pad, consider a three quarter length pad. Don't forget to make sure it will fit correctly in your tent!

Tents

Speaking of tents, you can shave some weight off here as well. If you want to go super light, consider making your own shelter with a good tarp or sleep under the stars. If you don't want to rough it quite that much, consider some of the many light-weight tents available.

How many people will be using this tent? If it is only you, something very small should be sufficient. Solo tents or bivy sacks and shelters are perfect for one person to rest for the night, but if you want to spend a bit more than sleep time in your tent, or if you have a companion, you'll want something a bit bigger. Whichever you choose, be sure that the poles and stakes are made of a light-weight material as well.

Boots

Having light hiking boots is a sure way to increase your mileage. The type of boot you select will depend on the type of use it will see. Short day hikes require less durable footwear than more extensive, off-trail hiking.

This is definitely not a product that you will want to purchase off the Internet. Proper fit is essential. An uncomfortable shoe will make for an unpleasant hike. Try on various styles and brands with the same kind of socks that you will be wearing for your hike.

Nylon mesh and split-grain leather will be your lightest weight shoes. Many of them also have a waterproof barrier to keep your feet dry and comfortable. Other materials are not as light, but will give you a longer lasting boot.

Purchase Ultralight Backpacking Camping Gear

There are several great places to shop for the ultralight backpacking camping gear that you need. Here are a few:

• REI.com has a great selection of products for all your hiking and camping needs.

• Western Mountaineering makes fantastic light-weight sleeping bags. You can find a retailer near you by looking here.

• Campmor.com has a terrific selection of ultralight packs as well as anything else you will need for your backpacking adventure.