How Much Does the Average Backpacking Pack Weigh?

By Anna Duncan

Backpacking is a great way to get off the beaten path and explore the outdoors. But before you head out on your next adventure, you need to know how much your backpacking pack should weigh.

The average backpacking pack weight varies depending on the type of trip you’re taking and the gear you’ll be carrying. For a weekend trip in fair weather, you can probably get away with a lightweight backpack that weighs around 25-30 pounds. This should include all of your essential equipment, such as food, water, shelter, clothing, and cooking and hygiene supplies.

For extended trips or trips in more extreme climates, your pack weight will increase significantly. For example, if you’re going on a multi-day hiking trip in cold weather, you’ll need heavier layers of clothing and more insulation for your sleeping bag. This means your pack may end up weighing 40-50 pounds or more.

When packing for a backpacking trip, it’s important to remember that every pound counts when it comes to comfort and ease of movement. Try to keep your pack weight as low as possible by carefully considering each item that goes into it. Eliminate any unnecessary items and replace heavy items with lighter alternatives whenever possible.

How Much Does the Average Backpacking Pack Weigh?

The average backpacking pack weight depends on the type of trip you’re taking and the gear you’ll be carrying. For weekend trips in fair weather conditions, 25-30 pounds is typically sufficient. However, for extended trips or trips in more extreme climates, your pack weight may increase significantly – up to 40-50 pounds or more – depending on what gear you bring along.