Ultralight Backpacking Gear List

Ultralight backpacking is all about minimizing weight while maximizing efficiency and comfort. Carrying less means you can move faster and enjoy the experience without the strain of a heavy pack. However, trimming weight requires smart choices when it comes to gear. Here’s a complete ultralight backpacking gear list that will keep you prepared while keeping your load light.

1. Backpack

Your backpack is the foundation of your gear, so it’s essential to choose one that’s both lightweight and fits well.

Recommended Weight: Under 2 pounds

Capacity: 35-55 liters (depending on trip length)

Suggested Gear:

• Zpacks Arc Blast (21 oz)
• Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest (30 oz)

Look for packs with minimal padding and frames that help distribute weight efficiently. Compression straps help stabilize the load.

2. Shelter

A lightweight shelter can significantly reduce your overall pack weight. Ultralight shelters include tarps, bivy sacks, and compact tents.

Recommended Weight: Under 1.5 pounds

Suggested Gear:

• Zpacks Duplex Tent (19 oz)
• Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL2 (28 oz)
• MSR Carbon Reflex 1 (19 oz)

Opt for shelters suited to the weather and terrain. In mild conditions, a simple tarp setup with trekking poles can save significant weight.

3. Sleeping System

Your sleeping system—sleeping bag, pad, and any accessories—should be lightweight but warm and comfortable.

 

 

• Sleeping Bag or Quilt: Go for ultralight down quilts or sleeping bags that provide warmth without bulk.

  • Recommended Weight: Under 1.5 pounds
  • Suggested Gear:
    • Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt (19 oz)
    • Western Mountaineering SummerLite (19 oz)

• Sleeping Pad: Foam pads are the lightest, but inflatable pads offer better comfort and insulation.

  • Recommended Weight: Under 1 pound
  • Suggested Gear:
    • Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite (12 oz)
    • Gossamer Gear Thinlight Foam Pad (5 oz)

4. Cook System

A compact cook system ensures you stay well-fed without adding unnecessary bulk. Some ultralight backpackers go stoveless, but for those who prefer a hot meal, here are ideal options.

Recommended Weight: Under 8 oz for the entire setup
Suggested Gear:

• MSR PocketRocket 2 (2.6 oz)
• Snow Peak LiteMax Titanium Stove (1.9 oz)
• Toaks Titanium 750ml Pot (3.6 oz)

Stoveless hikers can cold-soak their meals in lightweight jars, further reducing the need for a cooking system.

5. Water Filtration and Storage

Water filtration is a must for backpacking in remote areas. Choose lightweight, portable solutions that allow easy access to clean water.

Recommended Weight: Under 3 oz
Suggested Gear:

• Sawyer Squeeze (2 oz)
• Katadyn BeFree (2.3 oz)

Collapsible water bladders, like the CNOC Vecto, are lighter than traditional bottles and take up less space when empty (2.6 oz).

6. Clothing

Packing versatile, multi-use clothing helps reduce weight. Opt for moisture-wicking, fast-drying fabrics.

• Base Layer: Lightweight and moisture-wicking top and bottom.
  • Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight (3.4 oz)
• Insulation Layer: A down jacket provides warmth without adding bulk.
  • Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer 2 (7.8 oz)
• Rain Jacket: A lightweight rain shell also doubles as a windbreaker.
  • Outdoor Research Helium II (6.4 oz)
• Pants/Shorts: Choose lightweight nylon or polyester pants that dry quickly. Convertible pants offer versatility.
  • Prana Stretch Zion (10 oz)

Trail runners are a good alternative to heavy hiking boots for ultralight hikers, offering speed, comfort, and quick drying.

7. Camera and Carrying System

For photographers who want to document their adventures while minimizing the weight of their gear, choosing a lightweight camera and a reliable carrying system is essential. Cotton Carrier offers two ultralight camera holsters that ensure your camera stays secure and easily accessible while hiking.

Recommended Weight: Under 20 oz (for both camera and carrying system)

 

Suggested Gear:

• Camera: For ultralight backpackers, mirrorless cameras such as the Sony Alpha a6400 (14 oz body) or Canon EOS M50 (13.7 oz body) provide a great balance between portability and performance. These cameras offer excellent image quality in compact, lightweight designs, making them perfect for hiking photography.

• StrapShot Tethered Camera Holster (3.5 oz): This ultralight holster attaches securely to your backpack strap, allowing quick and easy access to your camera without the hassle of a bulky camera bag. It features Cotton Carrier’s patented Twist & Lock system and a quick-release safety tether, keeping your camera safe during rugged hikes.

• Wanderer Side Holster (5.6 oz): For those who prefer to carry their camera on their hip, the Wanderer Side Holster offers a secure and convenient solution. It attaches to your belt and also uses the Twist & Lock system, ensuring your camera stays in place but is always ready for action.

By combining a lightweight camera with either the StrapShot or Wanderer holster, you can capture stunning photos while keeping your gear secure and adding minimal weight to your overall load.

 

If you're carrying more than just a mirrorless camera—such as additional lenses, a DSLR, or other gear—consider using the Camera Gear Load and Carrying Tool. This tool helps you determine the best carrying solution based on the specific weight and configuration of your gear, ensuring that you stay comfortable on the trail while keeping your equipment secure.

8. Food

Ultralight food options are high-calorie, nutrient-dense, and easy to prepare, ensuring you stay fueled without carrying excess weight.

Suggested Foods:

• Dehydrated meals (Mountain House, Backpacker’s Pantry)
• Energy bars, trail mix, nuts, dried fruit, and jerky

A good rule of thumb is to aim for around 120-130 calories per ounce.

9. Miscellaneous Ultralight Gear

A few extra items are essential for safety, comfort, and convenience, but keep them minimal.

• Headlamp:

  • Petzl Bindi (1.2 oz)
  • Nitecore NU25 (0.99 oz)

• Trekking Poles:

  • Gossamer Gear LT5 Carbon Poles (10.6 oz)

• First Aid Kit: A customized kit with only the essentials, such as band-aids, blister care, and ibuprofen.

• Multi-tool:

  • Swiss Army Classic SD (0.7 oz)

• Toiletries: Only pack the basics: a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and sunscreen. Consider biodegradable soap and a small quick-dry towel.

 

The key to ultralight backpacking is packing only the essentials while maximizing the versatility of each item. From choosing lightweight materials to utilizing multi-use gear, you can enjoy the freedom of the trail without the burden of a heavy pack.

 

Always test your gear on shorter trips to make sure everything functions well before embarking on longer adventures. By packing smart, you’ll enjoy more miles, more comfort, and more unforgettable moments.