Whether you’re a die-hard minimalist or a weekend warrior just looking to lighten the load, ultralight backpacking gear has come a long way. You don’t have to give up comfort or durability to shave pounds off your pack. In fact, some of the lightest gear on the market today is just as effective – if not more so – than its bulkier counterparts. Even if you’re not going full ultralight, a few smart swaps can dramatically improve your trail experience.
Here are 10 ultralight gear picks that backpackers (and their backs) absolutely swear by:
1. Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt
Traditional mummy bags can feel like straightjackets for side sleepers and tossers. That’s where the Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt comes in. It’s not just lighter – it’s liberating. With a 20°F rating and customizable sizing, this down quilt straps directly to your sleeping pad and lets you sleep more like you do at home. You can easily stick a leg out, loosen the footbox, or wrap it around you like a cocoon. It also packs down small and weighs far less than a comparable sleeping bag, making it an excellent all-season sleep system upgrade.
2. Gossamer Gear Thinlight Pad + Sit Pad Combo
One of the easiest ways to ruin a night in the backcountry is a punctured sleeping pad. That’s where the ultra-thin 1/8” Thinlight Pad shines – it acts as a protective layer beneath your inflatable pad while adding insulation and barely registering on the scale. Pair that with a lightweight foam sit pad, and you’ve got a versatile combo that serves as ground insulation, a meal prep cushion, a kneeling pad, or even a backrest. At only an ounce or two, it’s a no-brainer addition to any pack.
3. Ultralight Backpacking Umbrella
At first glance, it seems unnecessary – an umbrella in the wilderness? But once you hike with one, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. These ultralight umbrellas are a godsend for sunny, exposed trails or surprise storms. They provide instant shade, double as windshields while cooking, and even act as makeshift privacy shields. While not ideal in high winds or tight brush, they’re excellent for desert hikes, alpine ridgelines, or even just sitting out rain at camp without hiding in your tent.
4. Sawyer Squeeze + Adapter Cap + CNOC Water Bags
If you’re still squeezing water through a tiny bottle opening or fussing with fragile reservoirs, it’s time to upgrade. The Sawyer Squeeze filter, paired with a CNOC Vecto bag and adapter cap, turns into a gravity-fed water system that’s fast, compact, and simple. Fill the Vecto with dirty water, attach the Sawyer filter and cap, then flip it upside down into your clean bottle – gravity does the work for you. No more awkward squeezing, and no more broken filter bags. It’s a smart system that’s saved countless trail miles of frustration.
5. Apex Torrid Jacket
When warmth, weight, and cost all matter, synthetic insulation shines. The Apex Torrid jacket is a synthetic puffy that rivals down in warmth but outperforms it in wet conditions. It’s lighter than most down jackets, packs small, and dries quickly – ideal for unpredictable backcountry weather. With adjustable cuffs, a roomy hood, and enough loft to cut evening chills, it’s become a favorite for hikers who don’t want to baby their gear. Plus, it’s a solid option for layering or throwing on over damp base layers at camp.
6. Soft-Sided Bottles and Water Storage
Hard-sided bottles might feel reliable, but when it comes to weight savings and packability, soft-sided water bottles win. A 1-liter soft bottle tucks into your hip belt and folds flat when empty. Combine it with a CNOC 2L dirty water bag, and your hydration system becomes lighter, more compact, and easier to manage. The wide mouth on the CNOC makes it a breeze to scoop from streams or lakes, even in shallow spots. For those looking to ditch bulk and still stay hydrated, this is a key switch.
7. Trail Runners + Gaiters
Say goodbye to blisters and sore ankles. Trail runners offer flexibility, breathability, and a huge weight savings over traditional boots. Pair them with ultralight gaiters to keep out dirt, pebbles, and pine needles, and you’ve got a low-maintenance, high-mileage setup. The gaiters clip to your laces and velcro to the heel – simple and secure. Whether you’re flying down switchbacks or trudging through desert sand, your feet stay drier, cooler, and less beat-up. For many hikers, this combo is a literal game-changer.
8. Ultralight Pack Liner
Forget rain covers – pack liners are where it’s at. Lighter, cheaper, and more effective, a 50L waterproof liner keeps your gear dry from the inside, no matter what your backpack is doing. Roll-top liners are incredibly durable, and they help you organize your gear better too. Unlike flimsy Nylofume liners, high-quality liners from ultralight brands resist tearing and keep out water even in downpours. If your trip includes any chance of rain, this one small switch makes a massive difference.
9. Dyneema Stuff Sacks
If you’re a fan of staying organized (and dry), switching to Dyneema stuff sacks is a simple but effective way to reduce pack weight. These ultralight sacks weigh next to nothing but are still weather-resistant and durable. Whether you’re storing electronics, toiletries, clothing, or snacks, Dyneema bags make it easier to stay sorted without adding bulk. Over time, swapping your standard nylon ditty bags for ultralight options can shave serious ounces off your base weight.
10. Ultralight Trowel
The humble trowel often gets overlooked, but if you’re hiking somewhere with leave-no-trace guidelines, it’s essential. The ultralight trowel from BoglerCo is a standout—tough, effective, and featherlight. It digs cat holes effortlessly in hard-packed soil and weighs only a fraction of traditional plastic or metal options. You’ll barely notice it in your pack, and it spares you the embarrassment of trying to dig with a tent stake or your boot heel. Practical and necessary—this is one piece of gear every backpacker should carry.
Cutting Serious Weight
You don’t have to go full ultralight to appreciate what these gear pieces can do for your comfort and endurance on the trail. Just by swapping out a few bulky items, you can cut serious weight from your pack and still sleep warm, stay dry, and eat in peace. Whether you’re new to backpacking or just looking to refine your loadout, these 10 items are well worth the switch. Your knees, back, and sanity will thank you.
Ed spent his childhood in the backwoods of Maine, where harsh winters taught him the value of survival skills. With a background in bushcraft and off-grid living, Ed has honed his expertise in fire-making, hunting, and wild foraging. He writes from personal experience, sharing practical tips and hands-on techniques to thrive in any outdoor environment. Whether it’s primitive camping or full-scale survival, Ed’s advice is grounded in real-life challenges.