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Writer's pictureAaron Schmaus

7 ways to lighten your backpack

When it comes to outdoor activities such as hiking, camping or hunting, a heavy backpack can weigh you down and make your journey less enjoyable. But with a few simple strategies, you can easily lighten your backpack and make your outdoor experience more comfortable. In this blog post, we'll go over some tips on how to lighten your backpack and make your outdoor journey more enjoyable.

  1. Minimize the number of items: One of the easiest ways to lighten your backpack is to minimize the number of items you bring with you. Go through your gear and eliminate any items that you don't really need. When in doubt, leave it out. You can search "minimalist camping gear" to find ideas.

  2. Use lightweight gear: Look for lightweight gear such as backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, and other camping equipment. These items are specifically designed to be lightweight and easy to carry. You can search for "ultralight camping gear" or save yourself some time and go to www.viamoutdoors.com. My entire camping setup and sleep system from VIAM Outdoors weighs in under 10 lbs and that includes a wood stove. They have a ton of amazing, lightweight backpacking and hunting gear that is guaranteed for life. Use Promo code TPR to save 5%

  3. Use a multi-purpose item: Instead of bringing multiple items, try to find a single item that can serve multiple purposes. For example, a bandana can be used as a headband, a scarf, a towel, and more.

  4. Choose the right clothing: Clothing can take up a lot of space in your backpack. Choose clothing that is lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. Avoid cotton clothing as it takes a long time to dry. Instead, choose synthetic or merino wool fabrics. Also, don't bring too many clothes. No one is going to smell you in the backcountry so bringing too many clothes just takes up room. Just bring essentials!

  5. Pack smart: When packing your backpack, put the heaviest items in the middle and close to your back. This will help distribute the weight evenly and make your backpack more comfortable to carry. Your lighter, more bulky gear like clothing or your sleeping bag/quilt, should go on the bottom and other easy to get to and regularly needed items should be on top.

  6. Quilts vs. Sleeping bags: Some people prefer a sleeping bag because they think that they will move around too much in their sleep and become uncovered by a quilt. They also think that they will receive more insulation value from a sleeping bag. Nothing could be further from the truth. Quilts save you 25% in weight and when paired with a set of pad straps and an insulated pad, keep you just as warm as a sleeping bag. I have personally used a VIAM Outdoors quilt in subzero weather and am just fine. Just choose the correct R value rating for your desired excursion.

  7. Use compression bags: Compression bags are a great way to reduce the volume of your gear and make more space in your backpack. They can be used to compress clothing, sleeping bags, and other items.

Lightening your backpack for the outdoors is all about being mindful of the items you bring, choosing lightweight gear, finding multi-purpose. Buying good gear once will save you time, money and misery.


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