First off, I want to make it very clear that this article is NOT meant to trash people who choose ultralight hiking. I have had multiple backpacking buddies who subscribe to that method. I am a huge believer in not telling anyone else how they should hike. Having said that, I will talk about my hiking philosophy and why ultralight backpacking is not for me.
I don’t really like to categorize myself. However, gun to my head, I would probably say I’m a lightweight backpacker. I often employ ultralight tactics and carry ultralight gear, but I have never put any pressure on myself to reach that sub-10 lb base weight. I understand that weight is something to pay attention to so as not to go to risk injury. However, I’ve never felt like I needed a sub-10 lb base weight to maximize the quality of my experience.
The reason that I carry ultralight gear is so I can cut weight in the areas that are less important to my enjoyment. This allows me some flexibility in the areas where I would like to carry more. This trade-off helps to keep my overall weight reasonable.
For me, the most important thing on trail is good quality sleep. Nothing will kill the joy of hiking for me faster than being exhausted and sleep deprived. as a rersult, I put most of my weight into my quilts and my hammock set up. In turn, I cut weight in other places that are not as important to me. A few examples include:
- Using an alcohol stove instead of carrying a canister stove
- Ditching the stuff sacks for my quilts
- Using a bidet instead of carrying toilet paper.
- Sitting on my rainskirt instead of bringing a butt pad
- Carry short 4″ electronics cords
- Carry 15ml squeeze bottles for toiletry Items
This is not a comprehensive list, but these are all things that don’t involve me cutting the handle off of my toothbrush. They don’t detract from my experience, so it makes sense for me to cut weight in these areas. I’m typically sitting at a 12-14 lb base weight, which is totally acceptable for me to enjoy a 15-20 mile day without feeling burned out or risking injury.
Everyones journey is different though. What’s works for me may be completely different from what works for you. The extra things you pack may not even be about “necessity” in the traditional sense.
Years ago, I met a girl on trail who carried a teddy bear on trail . She shared with me that she couldn’t get a good night’s sleep without it. To her, the weight of the teddy bear and getting a good night’s sleep were more important to her than being ultralight.
I also have a hiking friend who carries a miniature Pink Panther figurine with her on her hikes. She likes to take pictures of that figurine amidst cool scenic backdrops from the trail. Is that an essential piece of gear? Of course it isn’t. However, it adds to her happiness on the trail, which is the whole point.
Perhaps having a sub-10 lb base weight and skipping down the trail like an unburdened gazelle is what makes you happy. If that is the case, great, embrace it. Just don’t leave essential pieces of gear at home that will put you and others at risk.
In the end, this is your hike. It’s for your enjoyment. Is weight a concern? Sure. We want everyone to be safe and make good decisions, but you shouldn’t feel pressured to reach a certain mark or else be made to feel that you’re doing it wrong. Don’t put base weight in front of what gives you an enjoyable and fulfilling experience on trail. If you do that, what’s the point of even going? Don’t pack your fears, but don’t be afraid to pack your joys.
