My Ultralight Backpacking
Gear List
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Shelter | Sleep System | Backpack | Cook & Water | Electronics | Hiking Gear | Clothing | Essentials
- Base weight: 10 lb
- Seasons: 3-Season
- Number of nights: 2 to 4
- Updated: November 2025
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Shelter System
Tarptent ProTrail
I personally use the older Tarptent Contrail (now discontinued), but the ProTrail is the latest in that solo-trekking-pole lineage. It weighs around 24 oz (680 g), supports a full 84″ length and a 30–42″ width, and delivers a fast, four-stake pitch that’s trail-ready.
Lightweight one-person, three-season single-wall tent with integrated bug-netting, front vestibule, trekking-pole compatible design, approx. 24 oz packed in a 12″ × 4″ size.
Vargo Titanium Shepherds Hook Stakes
The Vargo Shepherds Hook Stakes are the ultralight tent pegs I bring along on most trips. At just 0.3 oz (8 g) each, they’re easy to stash and carry when weight matters. Their titanium construction gives them durability and shape retention, and the fluorescent orange heads make them easy to spot in the grass or low light.
Homemade Polycro Ground Sheet (0.7 Mil)
An ultralight, durable ground sheet made from polycro (branded as “Window Film” on Amazon) to protect your tent floor from moisture and abrasion. Packs down small and weighs next to nothing—perfect for minimalist backpacking.
Sleep System
Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt (20°F)
This quilt is the one I reach for when I expect cool to cold nights but still want to keep pack weight down. Its versatile design, open like a blanket or cinched into a cocoon, pairs well with my sleeping pad. The 20°F rating gives me confidence for typical shoulder season trips or when I sleep cold and bring slightly warmer gear.
Ultralight down sleeping quilt rated to 20°F with 850 fill duck down, lightweight shell fabric, pad attachment system, and an adjustable footbox with zipper and shock cord closure.
Therm‑a‑Rest NeoAir XLite NXT
The NeoAir XLite NXT is the pad I use on most multi-day back-country trips because it balances comfort, warmth, and packability. Its 3-inch thickness and 4.5 R-value keep my hips and shoulders supported while staying warm enough for shoulder-season nights. The updated construction is noticeably quieter than previous models. I prefer the Large (77″ × 25″) size for the extra length and width.
FlexAir Pillow
The FlexAir Inflatable Pillow (Small) is the ultralight head support I pack for backpacking trips. It weighs just 0.5 oz and inflates to a simple, supportive shape that works well when I’m keeping my kit minimal.
Ultralight inflatable pillow small size, inflates to 13 × 9 × 3 in (33 × 22.9 × 7.6 cm), weighs approximately 0.56 oz (16 g), features a soft non-woven poly exterior and a self-sealing valve for adjustable comfort.
Backpack
Gregory Optic 48
I personally use the older Gregory Optic 48 (now discontinued), but the Gregory Focal 48 is the newest iteration in the series. The medium size weighs 2.9 lbs and offers 48L of capacity, making it ideal for 2-day to 4-day adventures. The FreeFloat suspension and ventilated mesh back panel keep me comfortable on trail, and front-facing side pockets make grabbing water bottles super convenient.
ZPacks Shoulder Pouch
The ZPacks Shoulder Pouch provides ultra-light access to essentials like my phone, sunscreen, or headlamp on trail. It weighs about 0.63 oz (18 g), attaches securely to shoulder straps, and keeps the items I reach for most within arm’s length.
Ultralight shoulder-pouch accessory constructed from waterproof Dyneema® Composite or Ultra 100 fabric, with elastic loops and toggle attachment for shoulder straps; approx. 1L capacity | 0.63 oz.
Cook + Water System
“Fancy Feast” Alcohol Stove
A DIY favorite, this ultralight alcohol stove is made from a cat food can and designed for simplicity and efficiency. Weighing less than an ounce, it’s a great budget-friendly option for minimalist cooking setups.
Popularized by Andrew Skurka, this homemade alcohol stove costs less than $5 and can easily be made with a cat food can and a hole-puncher.
HEET Antifreeze (Alchohol Fuel)
Heet (in the yellow bottle) is a popular fuel choice for alcohol stoves because it’s inexpensive, widely available, and burns clean. It’s ideal for minimalist setups where weight and simplicity truly count.
TOAKS Titanium 550 ml Pot
The TOAKS Titanium 550ml Pot is the ultralight solo cooking pot I carry on most backpacking trips. It weighs 2.6 oz (72 g) with lid, and features heat-resistant folding handles plus internal ml/oz graduations for precise water measurement. Its titanium build nests neatly inside my pack for minimalist cooking.
TOAKS Titanium Long‑Handle Spork
I carry the TOAKS Titanium Long-Handle Spork on every trip because the 8.6-inch handle reaches deep into my pot or meal pouch without smearing my fingers, and at just 0.65 oz (19 g) it hardly adds weight.
LOKSAK Food Bag (12″×20″)
I keep the LOKSAK Food Bag (12″×20″ size) in my pack for organizing my trail food and snacks. Its odor- and vapor-proof barrier keeps smells locked in, and the large size allows me to fit up to 4 days of food.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
My favorite filter of all time, the Sawyer Squeeze is ultralight (around 3 oz) and filters 0.1 micron hollow-fiber to remove bacteria and protozoa. It screws onto a pouch or bottle and lets me drink directly, squeeze water into my bottles, or use as a gravity system.
Sawyer 32 oz. Water Bag
I use the Sawyer 32oz Squeezable Pouch to carry water from sources into my filter, or as a spare bladder. The collapsible pouch is light, easy to pack, and perfectly sized for one or two person outings.
Smartwater Bottle
Lightweight and durable water bottles that fit easily into side pockets and pair well with many water filters. A reliable and affordable choice for staying hydrated on the trail. Available in multiple sizes (I prefer 700ml).
Electronics
Garmin InReach Mini 3
I carry the inReach Mini 2 on every backcountry trip for peace of mind, especially as a solo backpacker. Its compact size and global satellite messaging give me a reliable lifeline when cell service disappears. The newer Mini 3 builds on that with improved battery life and connectivity, making it an even better option for staying connected in remote areas.
Anker PowerCore 5000
The Anker PowerCore 5000 is the lightweight backup power I throw into my pack for multi-day trips. At just 4.8 oz and compact enough to slip into a hip-belt pocket, it gives me a solid phone top-up without dragging down my load.
Nitecore NU25 MCT
The Nitecore NU25 MCT is my go-to headlamp for the backcountry. At around 50 g it’s nearly weightless, yet it delivers a 400-lumen beam with selectable warm, neutral or cool white light plus red modes. The USB-C recharge and optional shock-cord version make it ideal for ultralight setups.
ThermoDrop Thermometer
I clip the ThermoDrop Zipper-Pull Thermometer to my shoulder strap so I always know the current, minimum and maximum temps on trail without pulling my phone out. It’s light, compact and weather-resistant.
Compact digital clip-on thermometer with a temperature range of -13 °F to 122 °F (-25 °C to 50 °C), auto-rotating display, backlight, min/max tracking, IP67 water-dust resistance, CR2025 coin-cell battery and lightweight form for outdoor use.
Hiking Gear
Black Diamond Cork Trekking Poles
I use the Trail Cork Poles from Black Diamond on nearly every backcountry trip for their blend of strength, comfort and versatility. The cork grips wick moisture and feel great after hours on trail, while the FlickLock adjustable aluminum shafts adapt easily to downhill or incline. Durability is solid, lasting me over 5 years so far.
Salomon Sense Ride 5 Trailrunners
I pick the Sense Ride 5 for my go-to trailrunners because the 8 mm drop and moderate cushioning give a stable yet agile ride. The Quicklace system is perfect for tightening and loosening my shoes without having to deal with tying shoelaces, and the Contagrip outsole grips well on mixed terrain.
Buff Neck Gaitor
A versatile Buff (SPF protection recommended), perfect for backpacking. I use it as a neck gaiter, headband, face cover, or sunshade. Lightweight, quick-drying, and essential for any trail conditions.
Darn Tough Socks
I exclusively use Darn Tough socks when I’m logging long miles because their midweight merino blend cushions just the right spots underfoot and around the Achilles. I prefer the quarter height, which keeps the fit snug under my trailrunners, and their lifetime guarantee is legendary.
Dirty Girl Gaiters
A favorite of mine. Lightweight, breathable gaiters designed to keep dirt, sand, and debris out of your shoes. Perfect for protecting your feet and staying comfortable on rugged trails.
Lightweight ankle gaiters designed to attach to low-cut shoes; made of stretch fabric with front lace-hook and rear adhesive Velcro strap; keeps dirt and trail debris out of your shoes.
Clothing
Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer
I use the Ghost Whisperer Hoody in chilly conditions when I need high warmth with minimal weight. With 800-fill RDS down insulation and a recycled ripstop shell, it packs down small, weighs around 8.8 oz, and fits easily in my pack for cold evening stops.
Quarter-Zip Tech Shirt (similar to this one)
A lightweight, moisture-wicking quarter-zip shirt ideal for warmer backpacking trips. Comfortable and breathable, it’s perfect as a base layer or standalone top on the trail.
Patagonia Capilene Thermal Hoody
I rely on the Capilene Thermal Hoody for cold-weather layering because its lofted Polartec® Power Grid® fabric provides warmth without bulk. The smooth-face finish lets it slide under my shell easily, and the offset shoulder seams help prevent chafing from pack straps.
Lofted, breathable hoody made of Polartec® Power Grid® fabric with HeiQ® Pure odor control, featuring offset shoulder seams, gusseted underarms, and a pass-through front pocket—designed for layering in cold conditions.
Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pants
I use the Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pants for trail days when the weather could swing. Zip-off legs let me switch to shorts when it warms up, the Omni-Shade UPF 50 fabric protects from strong sun, and moisture-wicking material keeps me dry.
Frogg Toggs Rain Jacket
I carry the FROGG TOGGS Rain Jacket on three-season trips as my go-to shell for unexpected downpours. The ultralight non-woven polypropylene material is waterproof and wind-resistant, and it packs into its own stuff sack to stay out of the way until needed.
Reebok Sports Underwear (long inseam)
I wear the Reebok Men’s Boxer Briefs with a 9″ inseam for hiking and travel because the longer leg helps prevent thigh chafe and keeps everything in place, and the stretch fabric keeps comfortable on long days.
North Face Beanie
I bring a North Face Beanie on cool-weather trips for its sleek fit and reliable warmth. It’s cuffed and made of 100% recycled polyester, fits easily under a hood, and stays comfortable whether I’m hiking, hitting town, or relaxing camp-side.
North Face Trucker Hat
I wear the North Face Trucker Hat when hiking or exploring because the classic trucker fit and mesh back keep air flowing and the adjustable snapback ensures a secure fit. It’s durable enough for trail days yet casual for everyday wear.
Bandana
A simple yet versatile piece of gear, a bandana is perfect for backpacking. Use it as a sweat rag, head covering, sunshade, or even a makeshift water pre-filter. Lightweight and endlessly practical.
Minus33 Wool Fingerless Gloves
These are one of my all-time favorite backpacking items. I bring the Minus33 Merino Wool Fingerless Gloves on chilly mornings when I still need dexterity to tie my boots, swap gear, or snap pics. The merino blend keeps my hands warm without overheating, and the fingerless design means I don’t lose precision.
Achiou Wool Winter Gloves
I keep these simple Achiou Winter Gloves in my pack for three-season hikes. They’re perfect when I need touchscreen access and light warmth. On colder outings, I’ll layer them with my fingerless merino gloves for added insulation.
Essential Items
Suunto Clipper Compass
I clip the Suunto Clipper Compass to my chest strap so I always have a quick bearing when I’m moving. It weighs just 5 g and has a rotating bezel plus luminous markings for easy use in low light.
Emergency Whistle
I keep this emergency whistle clipped to my shoulder pouch so I always have an audible signal option if I need it. As a solo backpacker, it’s a low-weight yet critical safety tool that stays within reach during the deepest treks.
Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bags
These Dry Bags from Sea to Summit keep my gear dry and organized, and the white-interior polyurethane coating makes it easy to spot small items in low light. I use various sizes to color-code my gear.
Sunscreen, Banana Boat SPF 60
A compact and mess-free sunscreen stick that provides high SPF protection. Easy to apply and perfect for protecting your face and exposed skin on sunny trails.
Lip Balm, Blistex SPF 15
Moisturizing Blistex Lip Balm with SPF 15 to protect your lips from the sun and wind. A small but essential item for all-day comfort on the trail. Carrying lip balm is an absolute MUST on any backpacking trip.
DutchWare Deuce Scoop
I carry the “Deuce Scoop” from DutchWare as my go-to ultralight trowel for back-country catholes. It’s made from Grade-5 aerospace titanium, weighs just about 22 g (0.75 oz), and the curved profile gives solid leverage on compacted soil. The smooth edges are more pack friendly than cheaper tools.
Dr. Bronner’s Soap (unscented)
I bring Dr. Bronner’s Soap on every trip in tiny dropper bottles for washing my hands and face. Since it’s concentrated it only needs a few drops, it uses only plant-based oils, and has no added fragrance (ideal to avoid attracting wildlife).
Lighter – Bic Mini
The Bic Mini is a classic, compact and reliable lighter designed for starting fires or lighting stoves on the trail. I carry one in my cook kit, and a backup in my repair kit. Lightweight and easy to carry, it’s an essential tool for backpacking in any season.
Basic First Aid Kit
While I typically make my own personal first-aid kit, the ultralight Adventure Medical First Aid Kit is what I’d chose if buying a pre-maid kit. At just 2.6 oz it adds minimal weight, yet covers blisters, cuts, and minor meds.
This kit changes a little each season as I test new gear. I update this page whenever something becomes a permanent part of my loadout.
If you want to see how I pack in different scenarios, you can also look at:
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