Backpacking is an increasingly popular form of outdoor recreation that involves carrying all the gear and supplies that one needs for a multi-day trek in the wilderness. As such, the amount of gear that one carries is of paramount importance for a successful and enjoyable trek.
The weight of the gear you carry will have a significant impact on your overall experience. Too much weight can lead to fatigue, back pain, and other issues, while too little can leave you unprepared for unexpected conditions.Therefore, it’s important to strike a balance between carrying enough essentials while still keeping the total weight down.
How Much Should Backpacking Gear Weigh?
The general rule of thumb when it comes to backpacking gear weight is to keep it as light as possible without compromising safety or comfort. A good Target weight is 30-40 pounds (14-18 kg) for men and 25-30 pounds (11-13 kg) for women, including food and water.
This does not include additional items such as cameras or other electronics which can add significantly more weight. When packing, think about what items are absolutely necessary and which items can be left behind.
Every ounce counts when carrying your gear over long distances!
Essential Gear
In terms of essential gear, it’s important to understand what items are necessary for your specific trip. Be sure to check the forecast ahead of time and pack accordingly; this includes extra clothing layers for cold weather or rain protection. Other necessities include a shelter, sleeping bag, stove/fuel, first aid kit, navigation tools (map/compass/GPS), sunscreen/sunglasses/hat, knife/multi-tool/firestarter.
Non-Essential Gear
In addition to essential items there are plenty of non-essential items that can be added depending on the trip length and difficulty level. These may include additional clothing layers (fleece jacket), books or an entertainment device like a Kindle, extra food beyond minimum requirements, luxury items like a hammock or camp chair.
Backpacking gear weight should be kept to a minimum so that you don’t become overwhelmed with fatigue during your trek. The ideal weight range is 30-40 pounds (14-18 kg) for men and 25-30 pounds (11-13 kg) for women including food and water; any additional items should be carefully considered before packing them along. Remember that every ounce counts in the backcountry!