Ultralight Backpacking Information

Much of this information and doctrine was either originated or inspired by Ray Jardine. His first book on the subject was "The Pacific Crest Trail Hiker's Handbook" (© 1992 - 1997 by Ray Jardine). His second book was really and expansion and generalization of the first and is "Beyond Backpacking" (© 1992, 1996, 2000 by Ray Jardine). Beyond Backpacking is available from AdventureLore Press at www.AdventureLore.com. Ray is a seasoned long-distance backpacker having done most of the classic long-distance routes (The Pacific Crest Trail, The Appalacian Trail, etc.) multiple times. His information comes from true experience and not just some pontification from an armchair outdoors person. If you plan to backpack I suggest that you obtain and read a copy of the book.

General Themes:

Eliminate anything / everything that you can
If you must bring it cut it down to size and trim off all excess stuff
Think in grams and ounces, not just pounds
Cheap is often lighter and better (eg, water bottle)
The more weight you cut the more you can cut weight (smaller, simpler items)
Weight on your feet has a big multiplier (avoid every ounce possible)
Walking generates heat therby reducing the clothes that your will need
Use resupply points for long trips (don't carry what you can mail)
Emergencies are just that, improvise if/as needed (eg, use spleeping bag as jacket for really cold weather)

Items List:

Main Gear
Pack	lightweight sack, use pad or similar for pack "frame"
Umbrella	Modified, Used for rain or sun (include mylar cover)
Sleeping pad	trim to fit torso only, closed cell foam
Sleeping Bag	use quilt approach if able, use lightweight bag and wear cloths if needed for extra warmth
Tent	if able: eliminate / tarp / bivy / no poles (use sticks or twine)
Ground Sheet	mylar (space blanket)
Water Bottle	use cheap soad or water bottles
Stove & Fuel	if able: eliminate / gas can with direct burner / Sierra Stove (Lithium battery doubles as backup for light)
Other Items
Cookwear	single mug / pot (titainium ?) ~1-2 Qt
Flatwear	single spoon (spork?), plastic or lexan (use pocket knife if/as needed)
Can opener	P-51
Head cover	brimmed hat / umbrella (modified, with mylar)
Shoes	Lightweight!! sneakers / "walking shoe"
Toothbrush	small, cut / trim, bring / use minimal paste/powder, minimal floss (no box/roll)
Pocket Knife	very small and simple, eg) Victorinox Classic
Flashlight	7g microwonder lithium cell and white LED, single AA/AAA cell unit if needed / backup
Towel	quick-dry, cut to washcloth size, for all needs
Lighter	simple cheap lighter
Bug Repellent	bring only what you'll need in small bottle
Lip balm	with SPF factor
Sunscreen	small bottle, high SPF factor
Sunglasses	as appropriate
Meds	Advil, Excederin, Vitamins, etc
First Aid	Betadine, hydrogen peroxide, Amoxicillin, Antibiotic, zinc oxide, salt, ...
Foot Care	adhesive strips, moleskin, 2nd skin, white tape, clear first aid tape, ~3 Q-Tips, molefoam
Windex	small bottle and small cloth for cleaning glasses & camera lens
Compass	simple but reasonable unit
Cord	for misc use, paracord or similar
Sewing Kit	heavy thread, 3 safety pins, 3 needles
Emergency Fire Kit	small lighter, stick matches, birthday candles
Valuables	cash, credit card, driver's license
Toilet Kit	toilet paper, Dr, Bronner's soap
Notes & Nav	Notepad, map, pen, pencil
Clothes
Clothes	synthetics - lightweight and dry easily, dry yesterday's clothes while you hike (at most 2 per item), wear any/all as needed for warmth (even when sleeping)
Hat	fleece
Jacket Shell	Nylon or similar
Mittens	fleece
Shell Pants	Nylon or similar
Socks	2 Pair (+1 worn), synthetic

Created and maintained by Wes Irish, email: wirish@coyotehillconsulting.com