Jim’s Hunting and Camping

Within the range of people who designate themselves as backpackers exists a more specific designation known as ultra lightweight backpackers. These people are true naturalists, preferring to live in the wild with few of the modern comforts. Most ultra lightweight backpackers don’t bring cookware, backpacking tents, or even water on their trips, instead vying for dry food, a tarp, and a water filter. Unlike most backpackers, ultra lightweight backpackers tend to have a broader knowledge of nature and much better survival skills. Just about anyone who can walk can attend a backpacking expedition, but only the true survivalist can be an ultra lightweight backpacker. In addition to their more honed wilderness survival skills, ultra lightweight backpackers have the added benefit of being able to cover more ground because of the reduced weight of their packs. Ultra lightweight backpackers are more like hikers who have the equivalent of a day pack and depend more on the wilderness for sustenance.

For aspiring ultra lightweight backpackers, it’s important to start with regular backpacking to ensure the basics are known before moving on to more advanced survival. There’s no shame in beginning with backpacking tents, lightweight cookware, and down sleeping bags.

When it comes to backpacking, there are a number of specialized products designed for light travel and extended outdoor expeditions.  For example, you can reduce the weight of your load significantly by purchasing a backpacking pack.  These packs are often made of nylon with just a few plastic fasteners, and can weigh as little as 16 ounces and carry a lot of equipment.  Purchasing a backpacking tent can also reduce your load significantly, as these tents weigh just a fraction of the amount of a regular camping tent.

Despite all the supplies available for backpacking, the easiest way to pack light is to reduce the amount of gear you bring.  This means limiting cookware, avoid carrying excess water, and make sure you don’t bring a lot of clothes.  Sacrificing unnecessary hygiene products can also help to save some weight.