essential items

Ditch the Bulky Toiletries

Let’s face it, those full-sized shampoo bottles and lotions are space hogs. Travel-sized containers are a good start, but even better are solid toiletries. Solid shampoo bars, conditioner bars, and even deodorant sticks take up significantly less space and weight than their liquid counterparts. You can also find solid lotion bars and toothpaste tablets, making your toiletry bag surprisingly lightweight and compact. Remember to check airline regulations regarding liquids in carry-on luggage, though, as solid toiletries don’t always completely eliminate that concern. Plus, you’ll reduce your plastic waste which is a win-win for the planet.

Roll, Don’t Fold, Your Clothes

Folding your clothes might seem the most logical way to pack, but rolling them actually saves a surprising amount of space. Rolling compresses your clothing, eliminating air pockets and creating a more efficient packing system. This method also helps to minimize wrinkles, and it allows you to see everything you’ve packed at a glance. Experiment with different rolling techniques to see what works best for you and your clothing types. Tightly rolled items are usually more compact. Think of it as Tetris for your backpack.

Embrace the Power of Compression Sacks

Compression sacks are your best friend when it comes to packing light. These nifty little bags allow you to squeeze the air out of your clothing and other compressible items, significantly reducing their volume. You can find them in various sizes, so you can tailor them to your specific needs. Use separate compression sacks for different categories of clothing (shirts, pants, etc.) to stay organized. This will also make accessing what you need much simpler whilst on the trail.

Layer Your Clothing Strategically

Instead of packing separate layers in different compartments, strategically layer your clothing items directly into your backpack. For instance, place heavier items like your boots at the bottom, followed by bulkier clothing, then lighter items closer to the top. This not only helps distribute weight evenly but also makes it easier to access frequently used items. Plus, layering eliminates the need for extra packing cubes or organizers, saving precious space and weight. Think about the order you’ll use your clothes – the things you’ll need on your first day should be readily accessible.

Utilize Every Nook and Cranny

Don’t let those small spaces go to waste. Stuff socks and underwear into shoes to fill up empty spaces and protect your shoes from getting scuffed. Use the gaps between items to squeeze in smaller accessories. Even seemingly insignificant spaces add up when you’re trying to maximize your packing efficiency. It’s about thinking outside the box and fully utilizing the three-dimensional nature of your backpack.

Choose Lightweight Gear

This might seem obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing: invest in lightweight gear whenever possible. Lightweight backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment can make a huge difference in overall weight. Look for gear made from lightweight, durable materials like ripstop nylon or carbon fiber. While it might be a more upfront investment, the benefits of carrying