Lightweight hiking: how to save weight

If you hike frequently and over long distances, you know that every kilo you carry makes a difference. Especially on multi-day long-distance hikes, where it’s necessary to pack a stove and sleeping bag, the equipment can be heavy. There are plenty of ways to optimise the weight you carry on your back, as well as lightweight versions of the same equipment. Here, you’ll find a brief overview of lightweight hiking.

What is lightweight hiking?

Lightweight hiking means walking with the lightest possible backpack. Lightweight equipment helps keep the weight on your back to a minimum for long hikes or stages. Reducing weight not only makes hiking more comfortable, but also reduces the physical strain. When lightweight hiking, you only pack the essentials – and what you do pack is made of lightweight material. High-quality lightweight equipment is therefore primarily used for multi-day hikes. We often refer to the ‘big four’, i.e. the four products that carry the most weight outdoors – or rather don’t:

1. Sleeping bag

2. Sleeping mat

3. Backpack

4. Tent/tarp

But how much does a lightweight backpack or a lightweight sleeping bag actually weigh? A 55-litre backpack from Hyperlite Mountain Gear starts at a weight of just 907 grams. Other trekking backpacks with this volume usually weigh more than two kilograms. The lighter material and slim design without lots of extra compartments make the difference. A lightweight sleeping bag like the Mont-Bell down sleeping bag weighs just 677 grams. The down makes the sleeping bag as light a feather – literally. Synthetic sleeping bags with a comparable comfort temperature usually weigh twice as much. And you can optimise more than just the ‘big four’ – there are also differences for smaller products: For example, there are ultralight headlamps weighing just 35 grams.

Your packing list for lightweight hiking:

I have several recommendations for your packing list. Before embarking on your tour, think carefully about what you really need. Are there things that you can leave at home? The big four should definitely be part of your packing list:

Lightweight hiking: how to save weight without buying everything new

Truthfully, why wouldn’t you just want lightweight gear? Lightweight products aren’t cheap, but are often an investment that pays off for extended long-distance hikes. Still, you might already have a sleeping bag and mat and don’t want to accumulate more equipment. For newbies to lightweight hiking, there are a few tips on how to save weight without having to buy new gear.

Two for one

Think about whether you can use certain items in more than one way. For example, you can also use your hiking poles to stretch out your tarp in the evening. Or you can use a foldable pan that also functions as a plate. That way, you’ll not only save weight but also space in your backpack.

Plan ahead

You can also save weight with careful planning. When packing, take a close look at the weather and the surroundings and think about what you really need. If it’s a warm summer night, you might be able to keep your down jacket at home, and instead pack a foldable emergency blanket.

Safety always comes first

However, you should never compromise on your personal safety equipment to save weight. Never go without necessary equipment. Your personal safety always comes first, and the same goes for your health.

Water filters

Instead of carrying water bottles, you can also pack a water filter. There are also very light models available. Careful planning is essential: find out in advance if and where you’ll find water, so that you can get enough fluids on the go.

Buying second-hand

Maybe you can’t stretch your budget for ultralight equipment, or maybe you prefer to buy used. In either case, have a look at our second-hand platform. With a bit of luck, you might find your next lightweight backpack or a lightweight sleeping bag there. 

For the advanced

The lightweight pros dig deep into the box of tricks and optimise every gram of their luggage. Sawing off toothbrushes or cutting off all labels – here you can get creative as long as you don’t leave out the most important things.