Zero grams

Submitted by geoff on Sat, 27/08/2011 - 21:34
in
The less you carry the less you have to 'hang' off your pack.

The easiest way to loose pack weight is to leave it behind. You don't just save a small percentage by getting a light alternative but you save the whole weight of that item. It's far easier than cutting off the edges of your maps.

So do you really need it?

  • That chair kit? - NO
  • Your multitool? - NO (when was the last time you absolutely needed something on it that you couldn't do with a lightweight knife or razor blade?
  • A spare day's food? - NO (you could live on just water for an extra day if you need to)
  • A pillow? - NO
  • A Carabina? - NO While it may make you feel like you're on some epic adventure unless you plan on using it leave it at home.
  • 20m of rope (para cord/spectra) - NO there are other ways to dry your washing unless you need to pack haul.
  • Spare clothes? - NO one top and one pair of pants is enough.
  • Your camp crocs (or shoes)? - NO barefoot is awesome.

So on your next overnight hike or epic multiday hike try leaving a few things at home. Apart from being lighter you will enjoy the simplification.