There’s a point on every hike where you regret what you brought. Ultralight packing is about cutting the excess so you can walk further, feel better, and actually enjoy the trail. Here are some tips that work in the real world.
Start With the Big Three
Pack, shelter, sleep system. That’s where most of the weight is. Choose a lightweight pack (under 1.5kg), a compact down sleeping bag, and a tent that’s actually built for hikers, not car campers.
You don’t need to go extreme. But you do need to be realistic about what you’ll actually need—and carry.
Make sure your tent and sleeping bag are suited to the conditions. Do you need a 2-season or 3-season setup? Will you face cold nights or just the occasional drizzle? Don’t guess—check the forecast and plan accordingly.
An insulated, R-rated sleeping mat can also make a huge difference in warmth, meaning you don’t need to bring as many bulky layers to stay comfortable at night.
Cook with Less. Choose What Works.
Your cooking setup is one of the easiest places to cut weight—as long as you choose gear that actually works. You don’t need a full camp kitchen. Just the essentials that get the job done.
One mug. One spork. One pot. That’s enough.
Titanium is ideal because it’s light, durable, and built to last without adding bulk.
Our go-tos:
- Compact Mug – drink straight from it, can hand outside your pack, clean it fast
- Spork (long handle) – one tool for eating, stirring, and scraping
- 2-piece Pot & Pan Set – boils water fast, cooks actual food, nests together
Lose the Gas Canister (If You Can)
Gas is convenient, but a twig stove means no fuel to carry, no waste, and you can cook anywhere there’s dry wood. Pair it with a pot and you're sorted.
That said, always check the rules for your hike. Some tracks—like Tasmania’s Overland Track—only allow gas stoves due to fire restrictions. Make sure your setup matches the conditions (and the regulations).
Clothes: One to Wear, One to Sleep
Skip the wardrobe. Bring a layering system that works:
- One set for hiking
- One for sleeping
- A down jacket or an insulated layer that works for both
Merino wool will be your best friend - it dries fast and doesn’t stink as much.
Bring Hiking Poles.
You won’t always need hiking poles, but when you do, you’ll be glad you packed these. Foldable poles are strong enough to take the weight off your knees on tough descents and help balance a heavy pack, but light and compact enough to disappear into your bag when you don’t need them.
No clunky attachments, no bulk. Just smart backup for when the trail gets rough.
Repack Everything
Most pre-packaged items and food come with extra plastic, bulky bottles, or boxes you don’t need. Transfer what you can into smaller containers or zip bags. Tear off unnecessary labels or cut down packaging to just what you’ll use.
Keep Electronics Minimal
Skip the gadgets you won’t use daily. Bring a headlamp, a phone, maybe a power bank—and that’s it. If you’re not navigating with GPS, turn off your phone and save the battery for photos or emergencies.
Use a Sit Pad Instead of a Chair
Chairs are great—until you’re carrying one for 20km. A small foam sit pad gives you comfort at camp, keeps you dry, and doubles as a back pad or extra insulation under your sleeping mat.
Know Your Comfort Level
Ultralight isn’t a competition. It’s personal. Some people leave out the camp chair, others bring a book. You get to choose what matters—just make sure you’re choosing on purpose.
Dry Bags Double as Pillows
No need to bring a separate camp pillow. Stuff your clothes into a dry bag and you’re done. It’s comfortable enough, and you’re already carrying it.
Final Tip: Weigh Everything
Use a kitchen scale. It sounds obsessive, but it’s the only way to know what’s worth carrying. Better yet, log your gear list on LighterPack to see what’s slowing you down. It’s a free tool and makes it easy to track where the weight is coming from.
Want to lighten your load?
Check out the Terran Titanium Range. Built to last. Actually light. No gimmicks.