There’s a real thrill in getting ready for a backpacking trip. Planning your route, checking out the map, and packing your gear all add to the excitement. But once you strap on that heavy backpack, the excitement can quickly fade, making you feel like someone filled it with rocks and bricks.
A heavy pack can really ruin an otherwise amazing backpacking experience. If your gear feels too heavy to handle, don’t give up on your trip just yet. Here are seven ways to lighten your backpacking load:
1. **Use Multipurpose Gear**: Choosing items that can serve multiple functions is a great way to reduce weight. Think about using things like duct tape, trekking poles, phones, bandanas, and stainless steel cups that can work in various roles. For example, a stainless steel cup can be used for drinking, measuring, and disinfecting.
2. **Limit Extra Clothing**: It’s tempting to pack extra clothes, worried about getting wet or smelling bad. But remember, everyone on the trail will be a bit dirty and smelly. Extra clothes are heavy and take up valuable space, so pack only what you really need.
3. **Rethink the Tent**: Tents are often the heaviest items in your pack. If the weather forecast is clear and warm, consider using a tarp instead of a tent, or skip the shelter entirely if you’re confident about the conditions.
4. **Lighten Entertainment**: After a full day of backpacking, you’ll likely be too tired to read that book you brought. Leave the physical book at home and use a lightweight solution like a library app on your phone or a tablet.
5. **Choose a Lightweight Sleeping Bag**: Not all sleeping bags are the same. Opt for a lighter sleeping bag, especially if you expect warm weather, to cut down on unnecessary weight.
6. **Repack Your Food**: One of the easiest ways to reduce weight is to repack your food. Ditch the cardboard boxes and wrappers and pack only the food itself. Your back and feet will thank you.
7. **Manage Water Supply Smartly**: Water is crucial but also heavy. Instead of carrying your entire water supply from the start, check for refill points along your route and plan accordingly.
Overpacking often stems from preparing for the worst-case scenario. Be as rational as possible and think twice before adding that extra raincoat or other non-essentials. These seven tips will help lighten your load, making your next backpacking trip more enjoyable. Remember, you’re a backpacker, not a pack mule.
