Weight reduction of your pack/gear

[Shawn]

How often do you try to reduce the weight in your hiking backpack, gear, and even clothing?

It is said that a lighter load will help make hiking easier and less painful. Do you try to do this? Do you take stuff out? Wear lighter or even less clothing? Get lighter footwear?

Or has weight never been an issue for you on your hikes?

 

[Driftwoody]

Efforts to reduce weight has progressed along with my age, as my ability to go long miles with a heavy pack has diminished. Fortunately, as I've gotten older I can better afford better gear. I've found that return on investment has diminishing returns as prices escalate for high end ultralight. Durability, protection from the worst weather you may encounter, and comfort also have value. Can't beat a good night's sleep.

When I started out I always compromised for low price, then wanted something better. I still have older gear in serviceable condition that I replaced with something better. In other words, it can cost less in the long run to spend a little more on something you'll be satisfied with until it wears out. Also, examine the functionality of everything you pack. Identify items which can do more than one thing. Weigh the stuff in your kit; sometimes you can find a lighter alternative that's pretty cheap. Be creative, and have fun.

 

[Shawn]

Your best advice above is "be creative"!

So many people feel they need to buy a $$$ piece of gear because it's ultralightweight. But they can often go to the Dollar Store and get an alternative which weighs the same but is $ instead.