The Ultimate Ultralight Backpacking Gear Guide
The Ultimate Ultralight Backpacking Gear Guide

The Ultimate Ultralight Backpacking Gear List

Alex “GPS” Brown contributed significantly to this ultralight backpacking gear list.

Ultralight backpacking is a polarizing subject. Some think the ultralight movement is a little extra—I mean, what well-adjusted person spends thousands of dollars on gear that’s less comfortable and less durable, am I right?

But those who embrace the ultralight lifestyle know that it doesn’t have to be a wallet-and-soul-crushing exercise in austerity. While some high-end ultralight gear is very expensive (think of all the ounces you could save by getting rid of your extra Benjamins!), it is still possible to go ultralight on a budget. A simple, minimalist setup can actually save you money while freeing you up to focus on the adventure rather than your aching knees or your inexplicably complicated tent setup.

Continue reading details behind the full gear list here.

Photo thumbnail Blog Author
Media Mentions from the Trek
The Trek

Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and everything in between. We are dedicated to serving long distance backpackers.

We are All Things Long-Distance backpacking.

Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and everything in between. We are dedicated to serving the thru-hiking and long distance backpacking community.

Media Mentions

It all starts with Sawyer Squeeze + Cnoc VectoX 2L, the best and most reliable filter-bladder combo and the core of my backpacking water storage and filtration system.

Jaeger Shaw
Owner & Managing Editor

Media Mentions

Our top water filter for thru hiking, the Sawyer Squeeze, is 15% off.

Naomi Hudetz
Chief Operating Officer & Online Editor

Media Mentions

People with alpha-gal syndrome show allergic symptoms such as rash, nausea and vomiting after eating such meat.

Stephanie Soucheray
Reporter