John Aebi-Magee
May 30, 2007

My pack weighs 4 ounces. The technology and materials are readily available for making backpacks that are less than one pound, yet the leading backpack manufacturers continue to make 3 to 6 pound packs . The reason, of course, is that people keep on buying the heavy packs. Most people are hooked on features. But, do you really need a separate compartment for your compass and a special web pocket for your water and a map case and three main compartments?

Take a look at some of the features of one of North Face’s best selling weekend packs: carbon fiber frame, 4 pockets plus main compartment, dual-density padded shoulder straps, load lifter straps, cranial cavity (to make room for your head!), front bungee, tool loops, twin side water bottle pockets, removable lid doubles as a lumbar pack, interchangeable hip belt with fit zone, adjustable sternum strap with integrated whistle. Total weitht: 6 pounds 9 ounces. That is 7 ounces less than my pack when it is fully loaded for a two-day trip!

Going with an ultralight pack is the easiest way to start reducing weight. You only need one compartment in your pack. Place your things in a few plastic bags. When you want something, pull out the bag you need. It is a relief, actually, to give up on all those compartments, pockets, zippers, thick padded straps, carbon frame and pounds of extras.

When you go the ultralight route, your total pack weight will be less than 10 pounds. With such a light load, your pack can be like mine – a simple ultralight nylon sack. The news keeps getting better. If you are only carrying 10 pounds, you don’t need hiking boots either. They were designed for the olden days when packs were 40 plus pounds. Ultralight trail running shoes are a pleasure to wear.

My 4-ounce pack is the Gossamer Gear Whisper Uberlight Pack. There is no frame for this pack. You make a frame by first loading your tent in the bottom. You place your folded sleeping pad so it rests against your back and that gives structure to the pack. If you use folding tent poles, they are inserted inside the folds of the pad to give more structure. On top of the tent goes your sleeping bag. Then you add a couple of zip lock bags on top of that for your food and other belongings. I put my water containers in the outside flap. Then you simply roll the top a few turns and fix it with the velcro straps. There are no zippers, no heavy belts or straps, no compartments, pouches or other extras.

If you want to go with a cheaper alternative, you may be able to find a light day pack that is big enough for 2-3 day trips. Just remember to count every ounce because it all adds up quickly.

photos courtesy of Gossamer Gear