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The Secret of Lightweight Backpacks
Anyone who has ever hiked over 20 miles in a day while carrying a backpack will know that weight is a really significant factor. Most experienced backpackers will know that you can reduce your weight by concentrating on the three most important items: your backpack, your sleeping bag and your shelter.
So you will want to leave your huge 10 pound tent and snug 5 pound sleeping bag at home and get yourself the lightest backpack you can find.
You may find it hard to believe but there are some really good lightweight backpacks that weigh less than four ounces. That’s no exaggeration. Most bags like this will have a capacity of around 1500 to 1800 cubic inches which will enable you to carry about 15 pounds of equipment. This should be enough for your lightweight sleeping bag, a tarpaulin for some shelter, a basic first aid kit and some energy food. And of course an adequate amount of water.
When packing for a lightweight trek you’re likely to find that the water you need is the heaviest item you need to carry. You can reduce the amount of water that you need to carry with you by planning your route to take you via locations where you can refill.
Another excellent benefit of going lightweight is that much of the gear is significantly cheaper than the heavier, tougher versions. For example, you can find some perfectly usable lightweight backpacks sold in bargain discount stores for only a few dollars. They can be a very simple in desgn with only a few, if any, external pockets. They may be cheap but they can be excellent for lightweight hiking trips.
If you are trying to go lightweight it’s worth paying some attention to your choice of clothing and hiking boots. Forget your all weather outdoor clothing and instead go for an ultra lightweight rain and wind proof fold-up cagoule and some light weight sports shoes rather than heavy walking boots.
When kitted out with only light weight clothing and equipment you’ll find that 20 miles over hills and through valleys will seem like no distance at all.
Day Hiking : Day Hike Clothing Tips