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Backpacker: 5 Ultralight Gear Hacks Using Nothing More Than Cordage

From headlamp straps to trekking pole holsters, these hacks are cheap and (nearly) weightless.

Backpacker: 5 Ultralight Gear Hacks Using Nothing More Than Cordage

Last updated:
September 4, 2025
|  5 min read
A man with hiking gear.

Backpacker: 5 Ultralight Gear Hacks Using Nothing More Than Cordage

Backpacker: 5 Ultralight Gear Hacks Using Nothing More Than Cordage

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From headlamp straps to trekking pole holsters, these hacks are cheap and (nearly) weightless.

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Backpacker: 5 Ultralight Gear Hacks Using Nothing More Than Cordage

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5 Ultralight Gear Hacks Using Nothing More Than Cordage

Most dedicated ultralighters know the standard hacks: Bring a foam sit pad. Switch to Smartwater bottles. Cut your toothbrush in half. But for saving weight, there are few techniques so versatile and cheap as grabbing a few lengths of cord and a trusty guide to knots. Some hacks are best with static cord, while others require the elasticity of shock cord. Cut a couple yards of each to solve some of backpacking gear’s most annoying imperfections.

Continue reading to learn more about ultralight gear hacks, written by Nathan Pipenberg.

Backpacker: 5 Ultralight Gear Hacks Using Nothing More Than Cordage

5 Ultralight Gear Hacks Using Nothing More Than Cordage

Most dedicated ultralighters know the standard hacks: Bring a foam sit pad. Switch to Smartwater bottles. Cut your toothbrush in half. But for saving weight, there are few techniques so versatile and cheap as grabbing a few lengths of cord and a trusty guide to knots. Some hacks are best with static cord, while others require the elasticity of shock cord. Cut a couple yards of each to solve some of backpacking gear’s most annoying imperfections.

Continue reading to learn more about ultralight gear hacks, written by Nathan Pipenberg.

Photo thumbnail Blog Author
Writer
Nathan Pipenberg
Nathan’s work focuses on travel, the outdoors, and environmental issues.
Media Mentions

Backpacker: 5 Ultralight Gear Hacks Using Nothing More Than Cordage

5 Ultralight Gear Hacks Using Nothing More Than Cordage

Most dedicated ultralighters know the standard hacks: Bring a foam sit pad. Switch to Smartwater bottles. Cut your toothbrush in half. But for saving weight, there are few techniques so versatile and cheap as grabbing a few lengths of cord and a trusty guide to knots. Some hacks are best with static cord, while others require the elasticity of shock cord. Cut a couple yards of each to solve some of backpacking gear’s most annoying imperfections.

Continue reading to learn more about ultralight gear hacks, written by Nathan Pipenberg.

Photo thumbnail Blog Author
Writer
Nathan Pipenberg
Nathan’s work focuses on travel, the outdoors, and environmental issues.
Media Mentions
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