Traveling Ultra-Light By Crystal Stewart At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

Lugging heavy and unnecessary supplies throughout the wilderness can put a damper on your outdoor enthusiasm faster than a raccoon ripping through your lunch. So before you try to make a go of it, consider what you want to bring and what you need to bring.

Downsize your pack
A smaller pack will save you money and deter you from shoving in unnecessary items. The pack should weigh no more than two pounds and have an extension collar for extra supplies. Strapping extra gear (ground sheet, tent, canteen, etc.) to the outside ensures efficient packing. And to save yourself buying a cover, purchase a backpack made from waterproof material.

Toss that tired old tent
While it’s reasonable to assume a heavier tent will provide more stability, many new models stand up to the elements and weigh less than a few pounds. What’s more, they roll up smaller than a football. Look for silicone-impregnated nylon fabrics, carbon fiber poles and titanium stakes. If you don’t need a new tent, upgrade with high-tech poles and stakes. Some models use hiking poles in lieu of tent poles, a bonus if you’re already utilizing them. If you don’t need a tent, a tarp or a waterproof bivy sack will protect your sleeping bag.

Buy a new bag
You shouldn’t have to sacrifice comfort for weight. Buy a lightweight bag and a silk liner (or double-up with a second bag) for winter campouts. Goose down is top of the line insulation, providing more warmth per ounce than anything else. And since down is about 30 per cent lighter than synthetic fill, extremely compressible and more durable than synthetic, it’s our favorite.

Lose your clothes:
You may not think there’s much downsizing here, but choosing the right attire can really pay off. From ponchos to jackets and pants, light-weight rainwear is not just for wet weather. Wear it layered for warmth and wind protection. Silk or synthetic materials are lighter and dry quickly, and nylon weighs less than natural fibers. Polypropylene gloves are warm and weigh only about an ounce. Even hats and socks can be trimmed down, but if your feet are prone to blisters, a little extra padding might be worth the weight. Ditching hiking boots for sneakers can save a lot of heavy lifting. They dry quickly and won’t leave you feeling fatigued by the end of the day.

Regardless of what you pack and wear, practice carrying your supplies before setting out on your adventure. Better to find out while strolling through the park that you need to downsize than when you’re in the woods.

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