Ultralight Backpacking

Most 40-60L ultralight backpacks now weigh between 2 and 3 pounds. The ones we list below all have frames or frame stays.

The number of ultralight double-wall backpacking tents with a trail weight of 3 lbs or less that are available today has grown significantly

The best ultralight backpacking packs for thru-hiking. Lightweight and minimalist backpacking requirements, cuben fiber, dyneema, nylon material. Hyperlight, Gossamer, Osprey, Granite, SWD, MLD, ZPacks, Katabatic, ULA and more. A true ultralight backpacking pack will weigh under 2 lbs and should not weigh over 3 lbs.

We tested and reviewed the best ultralight backpacking gear to round out your kit and cut ounces, or even pounds, from your kit.

Gear guide to the best ultralight backpacking tents. Ultralight 1 person, 2 person, nylon, cuben fiber, dyneema, freestanding and non-freestanding tents tested by Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail thru-hikers. Your backpacking tent is one of the biggest items in your pack and a big opportunity to save weight.

Gear guide to the best ultralight backpacking tents. Ultralight 1 person, 2 person, nylon, cuben fiber, dyneema, freestanding and non-freestanding tents tested by Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail thru-hikers. Your backpacking tent is one of the biggest items in your pack and a big opportunity to save weight.

The best ultralight backpacking packs for thru-hiking. Lightweight and minimalist backpacking requirements, cuben fiber, dyneema, nylon material. Hyperlight, Gossamer, Osprey, Granite, SWD, MLD, ZPacks, Katabatic, ULA and more. A true ultralight backpacking pack will weigh under 2 lbs and should not weigh over 3 lbs.

If you're ready to travel lighter and easier, keep reading to discover the best ultralight backpacks and add one to your shopping list!

Keeping up with my evolution into traveling light, I'm looking for a new ultralight backpacking tent. Here are my top five picks so far.

Make your own gear (or "MYOG" for short) is exactly what it sounds like – making your own backpacking gear. This do-it-yourself minimalist ethic has been an integral part of backpacking, especially ultralight backpacking. We cover a list of the common ways to make popular gear items.