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The Fundamentals of Cutting Backpack Weight
By Gregory E. Rouse | May 23, 2009
Your plans for that great adventure are set. A remote destination is awaiting. You’ve invited your best friends and the food has all been purchased.
The problem is where are you going to put all that food? Not to mention the other gear.
The recommended weight for a beginner’s backpack is 25% of their bodyweight and for some people that’s even pushing it. So how can we lighten your load?
Let’s look at the 6 fundamentals to cutting pack weight:
Fundamental #1 - Look at the biggest and heaviest things first. Replacing a 5 pound pack with a 1 pound pack saves you 4 pounds! Replacing a 7 pound tent with a 1 pound tarp saves you 6 pounds! By picking just two of the heaviest items of gear you’ve already shaved over 10 pounds and we’ve only just begun.
Fundamental #2 - Multi-function. Using one piece of gear for more than one purpose will allow you to leave other gear behind.
Fundamental #3 - Smaller and lighter. Manufacturers are making new gear in smaller packages everday. They still have all the same features, just in a smaller and lighter size. Little saving do add up.
Fundamental #4 - Use a smaller backpack. We have a tendency to use the space if we have it, but if theres no room than you wont bring as much. I remember when I finally stopped use the big multi-day packs and how much easier it was to pack. Basically, I started using only one pair of clothes and socks became by only extras.
Fundamental #5 - Forget it at home. Everyone has forgotten something before, it’s always amazing how you were able to get along without it. So ask yourself, do you really need those extras?
Fundamental #6 - Analyze what you take. Finally, take time before, during, & after each hike to inventory your gear and packing habits. Keep equipment lists and analyze what you used and didn’t use at the end of every trip. You may be surprised at the amount of unnecessary weight that you carry. In time, you will see patterns and ways to shave weight, but keep in mind it is a process and takes some time to get the hang of it.
I used to have a buddy that I backpacked with that would be bring everything and some spares. His backpack weighed a ton, but he always had extras. Then it hit me, why not just forget more at home and borrow all those extras, he’s bringing them anyways.
He always had an extra spoon, etc It almost got to the point where I thought of just putting a pillow in my pack and then borrowing the rest of his stuff, but by then he had caught on and decide to start going lightweight (all good things must come to an end).
Well, here’s to lightening your load.
Topics: Travel |
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