How Do I Figure Out My Backpacking Base Weight?

By Alice Nichols

Backpacking is a great way to get outdoors and explore nature. But before you can head out into the wilderness, you need to figure out your backpacking base weight.

Your base weight is the total weight of all the gear you take with you on a backpacking trip, excluding food, water, and fuel. Calculating your base weight is important because it gives you an idea of how much weight you will be carrying on your back. It also helps you determine what type of pack you should use and how much food and water to bring.

The first step in figuring out your backpacking base weight is to take inventory of all the gear that will be necessary for your trip. This includes items like your tent, sleeping bag, clothing, cooking equipment, and any other items that are essential for survival.

Once you have gathered all the items that are necessary for your trip, weigh each item individually. Take note of each item’s individual weight so that you can add them all up at the end.

Next, add up the weights of all the items in your inventory to get an estimate of your total backpacking base weight. This number will give you an idea of how much total weight you should expect to carry on your trip. It’s important to note that the actual base weight may vary slightly depending on what else you decide to bring along.

Finally, consider investing in a lightweight backpacking pack or bag that can accommodate your total base weight comfortably. If possible, try on different packs with weights similar to yours so that you can get a better idea of what might work best for your body type and size. Additionally, look into different types of materials (such as canvas or synthetic fabrics) that might help reduce the overall load.

Conclusion:
Figuring out a suitable backpacking base weight is essential for any successful outdoor adventure. To do this accurately, take inventory of all necessary gear pieces and weigh them individually before adding them up for an estimated total base weight. Investing in a lightweight backpack or bag with enough capacity for all items is also recommended for maximum comfort throughout the journey!