When out on a backpacking adventure, it is essential to know what your base weight should be. Your base weight is the total weight of all the gear and supplies you will need for the trip, not including consumables like food, water and fuel.
It also includes any extras like clothes and personal items. Knowing what your base weight should be will ensure that you have enough supplies but not too much, so you can stay safe and comfortable without over-burdening yourself.
Calculating Your Base Weight: There are several methods for calculating your base weight. One popular method is to add up the weights of all of your gear and supplies, then subtract the consumables you plan to bring along with you. This will give you an estimate of what your overall base weight should be.
Another way to calculate your base weight is to use a gear calculator. These calculators can help you determine what items are necessary for your trip and how much they weigh. This can help narrow down the list of items that are essential for your trip, which can help you save time and money.
Tips For Reducing Your Base Weight: There are several ways to reduce your base weight when backpacking. One way is to pack only the essentials that you need. Ditch any items that are not necessary for completing the task at hand or for ensuring safety or comfort during the trip.
Consider Multipurpose Items: Another way to reduce your base weight is by incorporating multipurpose items into your packing list. Look for items that can serve multiple purposes so you don’t have to lug around extra gear.
Opt For Lightweight Gear: Finally, opt for lightweight gear when possible. Many companies now offer lightweight versions of their backpacking gear which can help reduce overall pack weight significantly.
Conclusion:
Knowing what your base weight should be before going out on a backpacking adventure is essential in order to stay safe and comfortable while on the trail. Calculate it using either a gear calculator or by adding up all necessary items minus consumables, then consider reducing it further through packing only essentials, incorporating multipurpose items into your list and opting for lightweight gear whenever possible.
What Should Your Base Weight Be For Backpacking?
The answer depends on several factors such as how long the trip will last, how many people will be going along with you, as well as how much food, water and other supplies need to be packed in order to sustain everyone throughout the duration of the journey.
However, as a general rule of thumb, aim for a base weight between 10-30% of your bodyweight depending on individual fitness abilities and preferences. Doing so will ensure that you have enough supplies while not over-burdening yourself unnecessarily.