How Much Weight Should You Carry While Backpacking?

By Alice Nichols

Backpacking is a great way to explore the outdoors and have fun. It can also be a great workout, as you are carrying your own supplies and equipment on your back for long distances.

Carrying too much weight, however, can take away from the experience and even cause injury. So, how much weight should you carry while backpacking?

The amount of weight you should carry while backpacking depends on a few factors, including your physical strength and fitness level, the length of your trip, and the type of terrain you will be covering. Generally speaking, it is recommended that backpackers only carry between 25-35 percent of their body weight in their packs.

In terms of specific items to include in your pack, consider the “10 essentials” list created by The Mountaineers: map, compass, sunglasses and sunscreen, extra clothing (including rain gear), headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries, first-aid kit, fire starter (matches/lighter), knife or multi-tool, food/water/container for water purification tablets or filter system.

If you are new to backpacking, it is important to start out with shorter trips carrying less weight until you feel comfortable with the sport. Once you gain experience and build up strength over time, you can gradually increase the duration and distance of trips as well as the amount of weight in your pack.

Pack organization is also key when it comes to carrying a heavy load. Make sure heavier items like tents and sleeping bags are packed near your center of gravity (lower middle back), while lighter items like clothing can go at the bottom or sides.

Backpacking can be an amazing adventure but it’s important to stay safe by packing responsibly. Ultimately how much weight you should carry while backpacking depends on your physical abilities as well as the length and difficulty of your trip.

Conclusion: When deciding how much weight to carry while backpacking it is important to take into account factors such as physical strength and fitness level, trip length & terrain difficulty. An ideal range for most backpackers would be between 25-35 percent of their bodyweight in their packs – including 10 essential items such as maps & compasses – while they build experience & strength over time. Pack organization is also key when it comes to carrying heavy loads safely.