The Best Ultralight Backpacking Gear for 2026
Tested and trusted ultralight backpacking gear for everything from overnight trips to long distance thru-hikes
If you’re planning a backpacking trip in 2026 and want to keep your pack as light as possible without sacrificing comfort or function, this gear guide is for you. I’ve tested a lot of ultralight backpacking gear over the past few years, from minimalist shelters to the lightest camp shoes, and in this post, I’m sharing my favorite picks for the best lightweight backpacking gear of 2026. Whether you're thru-hiking, section hiking, or just trying to lighten your load for weekend trips, here’s the gear that’s worth the weight (and often, the price tag).
With over a decade of backpacking experience, and a huge focus on ultralight backpacking gear, my base weight is down to just 9 pounds. That means everything I carry, except food and water, fits in a compact, efficient setup that’s been refined through hundreds of miles on the trail. All of the ultralight gear I recommend here is gear I’ve personally used and carefully researched, and it’s what I’d pack again and again for any trip in 2026. Let me help you lower your base weight and get your gear upgraded to the best of the best.
*This guide was updated for the 2026 backpacking season, with new gear just added in.
Disclaimer: This blog post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a small commission of every purchase made with my links at no additional cost to you. Sometimes there is even a discount code for my readers which I specify next to the links.
Table of Contents
Hyperlite Unbound 2 tent on the Wind River High Route in Wyoming
Why Go Ultralight?
Going ultralight isn’t just about chasing a lower base weight, it’s about making backpacking more enjoyable. When you reduce your pack weight, you can hike farther with less fatigue, move more freely on technical terrain, and actually look forward to putting your pack back on each morning. Ultralight backpacking gear can also help reduce the strain on your knees and back, making it easier to stay comfortable on longer hikes or thru-hikes. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or just getting started, cutting weight from your setup is one of the most effective ways to improve your experience on trail.
How to Use This Gear Guide
You don’t need to swap out every piece of gear overnight to go ultralight, trust me, it took me a few years to dial in my ultralight setup. The key is to make smart upgrades over time where you’ll get the biggest weight savings. If your tent weighs five pounds or your sleeping bag is bulky and heavy, switching those out for lighter alternatives (like a quilt and trekking pole tent) can make a huge difference in how your pack feels on day two of your trip. Start with the heaviest items in your pack—often called the “big three”: shelter, sleep system, and backpack, and work your way down from there.
Use this guide as a jumping-off point. I’ve highlighted the ultralight backpacking gear I’ve tested and trust, but it’s not a complete checklist of everything you need to hit the trail. Instead, it focuses on the high-impact gear categories where going lighter really pays off. If you’re looking for a full packing list that includes clothing, electronics, and small essentials, check out my full backpacking gear checklist.
Upgrade Backpacking Gear Over Time
You don’t need to have all the lightest gear to enjoy backpacking, upgrading your gear over a few years can help with your budget. Use what you already have, upgrade as you go, and keep learning what works best for your style of hiking. If you're upgrading over time, start with your sleep system and tent, those changes will make the biggest difference. Once your core gear is lighter, then it makes sense to switch to an ultralight pack, which is designed to carry lighter loads more comfortably.
Hyperlite Southwest 55L pack
Backpacks
Selecting the perfect ultralight backpack is crucial for any backpacking trip, whether it's a weekend outing or a multi-day thru-hike. When choosing lightweight backpacks, focus on key factors like volume capacity, maximum load recommendation, and pack weight to match your base weight and hiking style. Ultralight backpacks typically range from 28 to 55 liters, ideal for hikers aiming for a base weight under 10-15 pounds. Brands like Hyperlite Mountain Gear and Zpacks specialize in durable, water-resistant materials like dyneema that keep pack weight low without sacrificing functionality. Lightweight backpacks such as the Hyperlite Southwest 55L, Hyperlite Aero 28, and Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 50L are designed specifically for ultralight backpacking enthusiasts who want comfortable, ergonomic support on long-distance hikes.
My Top Picks for Ultralight Backpacks
Hyperlite Southwest 55L (30.3 oz), unisex - This is my go to pack for every backpacking trip and it was recently updated at the end of 2025. I’ve used it on one night trips up to 8-9 nights on the O-Circuit in Patagonia and the Wind River High Route. It is super comfortable and was the first backpacking pack to not bruise my hips/waist. It can comfortably carry up to 30 lbs, but I have carried 40 lbs in it in the Wind Rivers and it did well. Get all the details and specs.
Hyperlite Aero 28 (17.8 oz), unisex - Hyperlite’s version of a minimal trail pack, it is a cross between an ultralight backpack and a trail running vest. Designed with a close-to-body vest-style harness, it gives you easy access to food, water, and gear—so you can keep going longer and farther. Personally, I love this as a day pack, but without a padded hip belt, it is not my favorite for carrying weight over 5-10lbs. But I highly recommend it for thos looking for a cross between pack. Get all the details and specs.
Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 Ultralight Backpack (17.6 oz without hip belt, 31.2 oz with), unisex - A great ultralight pack with some fun added features like the back panel doubling as a removable sit pad. You also get really great external pockets and a fold-over lid to hold extras for easy access. I love that these packs come in colors! Get all the details and specs.
Gossamer Gear Fast Kumo 36 Fastpack (20.7 oz), unisex - This is the best fastpacking pack on the market. It has so many pockets, on the hip belt and built in shoulder strap pockets, so you can access snacks, sunscreen, your phone, and anything else you need on the go. It has a vest like fit that is perfect for backpacking, or trail running with a very light overnight set up. If you are looking to upgrade to a fastpacking set up, this is it. Get all the details and specs.
Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 50L (20.3 oz), unisex - Minimal, no frills design in a comfortable and super light pack. It can comfortably carry up to 35 lbs. There are multiple styles of interchangeable shoulder straps are available to choose from so you can fully customize this pack to exactly what you want or need. Get all the details and specs.
Hyperlite Unbound 40L (30.2 oz), unisex - The Unbound is my husband’s go to pack that he uses for all backpacking trips. He absolutely loves it, but personally I found it not as comfortable as the Southwest for myself. It has a different outer pocket system which honestly seems better than the Southwest. Get all the details and specs.
Zpacks Triplex tent
Tents and Shelters
Choosing the right ultralight tent or shelter can drastically reduce your pack weight and enhance your backpacking experience. Lightweight tents are designed to provide reliable weather protection while weighing just a fraction of traditional shelters. Important factors to consider include tent weight, ease of setup, ventilation, and weather resistance. The ultralight backpacking tents featured here, like the Zpacks Triplex Tent, Hyperlite Unbound 2, and Big Agnes Fly Creek UL2, are among the best in 2025 for hikers who want a balance of durability, protection, and minimal weight. These shelters are perfect for backpackers or minimalist adventurers looking to keep their packs light without compromising safety.
Top Picks for Trekking Pole Tents
Trekking pole tents and tarp tents are the lightest on the market since there are no tent poles involved in the set up. Instead you use your trekking poles which you are already backpacking with. They hold up amazing in wind and rain, we took our Zpacks Triplex to Patagonia and it held up well in gale force winds, and the Hyperlite Unbound came with us on the Wind River High Route where it kept us protected in rain, wind, and even hail. When pitched correctly, these tents honestly hold up better in the backcountry than their free standing counter parts.
Zpacks Triplex Classic Tent (21.4 oz) - This is by far my favorite tent of them all, and I’ve tried a lot of tents over the years. This is a three person tent, but we like it for the two of us so we have extra space to move around and store all of our gear inside. It’s lighter than most 1-2 person tents so you can splurge on the larger size without adding weight. It also comes in smaller sizes if you are backpacking solo. I love that Zpacks tents come in multiple colors. We have blue and orange, and I would say that the orange is less see through.
Hyperlite Unbound 2 (22 oz) - This is very similar to the Zpacks tent above but Hyperlite’s version. It is a two person tent but you don’t feel too squished in it, I still really like it for two people and it is very lightweight. It only comes in white and light green so can be a little see through, though not too much.
Hyperlite Flat Tarp (10.6 oz) - If you want to go as light as possible and don’t care about bug protection, this is it. 100% waterproof Dyneema Composite Fabrics with fully bonded seams, it’s designed to stay sag-free even in rain. You should add a ground cloth as to protect your sleeping pad and quilt from the ground.
Top Picks for Free Standing Tents
If trekking pole tents are not your thing, or you don’t normally backpack with trekking poles, these are awesome options that are free standing with their own tent poles. Hyperlite just launched their first free standing tent and though it has a hefty price tag, it is well made and ultralight despite having poles.
Hyperlite Crosspeak 2 (34 oz) - The CrossPeak 2 is a fully enclosed, freestanding ultralight tent made with durable Dyneema Composite Fabric for reliable weather protection. It’s quick to pitch on rocky or uneven ground, and adjustable vents help manage condensation when you’re stuck inside during rough weather.
Big Agnus Fly Creek UL2 (34 oz) - This was my first ultralight tent and it lasted for years. It’s a little smaller than the others, but still works well for two people. It also is great for solo backpacks when you are not sharing a tent. My only complaint is that if you are sharing the tent with someone, you both have to go in and out via the single door at your heads. It also does not hold up as well in wind as all the others.
Tent Accessories (yes, you need these)
Most ultralight tents do not come with tent stakes, so you will need to pick up some ultralight stakes to go with your new tent. I also recommend a ground cloth or footprint to go under your tent to help protect the delicate material from sharp rocks or sticks, they also can help keep your tent bottom dry when camping on snow or on wet ground. Though you can go without it if you are counting every single ounce.
Hyperlite Ground Cloth (3.7 oz) - Works with Hyperlite tents or on its own for cowboy camping.
Zpacks Flat Groundsheet (2.1 oz) - Works with just about any tent, this is what I use with my Zpacks Triplex.
Zpacks 6" Sonic Stake (.32 oz) - These are the best stakes I have tried and use them will all of my tents.
Therm-A-Rest Parsec 0F Sleeping Bag
Quilts and Sleeping Bags
Your sleep system is one of the most critical components of your ultralight backpacking gear, impacting comfort, warmth, and overall pack weight. Ultralight backpacking quilts offer versatile insulation options that pack down small and weigh significantly less than traditional sleeping bags. I will always recommend switching to a quilt for summer backpacking. They are just as warm as traditional sleeping bags but so much lighter. Whether you need a 20-degree quilt for cold weather or a lighter summer quilt, choosing the right ultralight sleeping gear can improve your trail comfort while minimizing bulk. Recommended options like the Hyperlite 20-Degree Quilt, Zpacks Summer Quilt, and Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt are highly rated for their lightweight materials, compressibility, and temperature ratings, making them top choices for 2025 ultralight backpackers.
Top Picks for Ultralight Quilts
Switching to a quilt for backpacking is one of the easiest ways to cut weight and bulk without sacrificing warmth. Since the insulation under your body gets compressed and doesn’t provide much heat anyway, quilts skip the underside and focus warmth where it matters, plus they still have a foot box for cozy toes, and offer way more freedom of movement and ventilation than a traditional mummy bag.
Therm-A-Rest Vesper 20F Quilt (19 oz) - This is my go-to quilt for summer and fall trips when 20 degrees is the right weight and warmth. I’ve been using it since 2022 when I was a Therm-A-Rest ambassador and just keep using it because I love the size of it. It’s not the lightest of the light, but I really like the size and loft of it. For cold weather backpacking I will usually switch to a 0 degree bag. Update: This quilt has been discontinued but Therm-a-Rest is releasing a Corus Quilt 20 that I’m excited to try!
Zpacks Summer Quilt (8.6 oz) - The lightest of them all, this is perfect for summer trips when it won’t get too cold at night. It’s the best ultralight option and comes in different colors. It is a very minimal model but will still keep you comfortable.
Zpacks Summer Twin Quilt (14.3 oz) - Perfect for couples who like to cuddle and share warmth at night. My husband and I actually prefer a double quilt when it is light enough like this one. We can spread out a little more and share warmth on chilly nights. You will need to either have a double sleeping pad or get two of the Zpacks pad straps to connect your sleeping pads together.
Big Agnes Fly Creek UL Zip Quilt (15 oz) - Summer quilt (50F limit) that provides both a sleeping bag and quilt option with a body length zipper. While not the lightest in the line-up, it’s worth including because of the sleeping bag option. It’s nice to be able to zip up your quilt if you plan to sleep on any grimy alpine hut beds or backpacker hostels on your trip.
Hyperlite 20-Degree Quilt (18.6 oz) - One of our favorites and a go to quilt for every kind of trip. Hyperlite also makes a 40 degree option for warm summer nights in lower elevation or for costal trails and beach camping. We absolutely love this one and the weight to warmth ratio is the best.
If You Really Want a Sleeping Bag…
I want to convince you otherwise, but if you are set on needing a full sleeping bag, these are great and lightweight options. They will take up more space in your pack, but will still be a little lighter than most sleeping bags.
REI Co-op Magma 30 Sleeping Bag (24.4 oz) - The older version of this was one of my first backpacking sleeping bags and it was great. It’s light for a sleeping bag and gives a good warmth to weight ratio.
Sea to Summit Spark 45F Down Sleeping Bag (12.8 oz) - I haven’t personally tried this bag, but the weight is very light and it has really good reviews. It is a warmer temperature bag so may not be the right fit for high alpine adventures.
Therm-A-Rest Neoair Xtherm Sleeping Pad
Sleeping Pads
Ultralight sleeping pads balance packability, comfort, and insulation to keep you rested. The Nemo Tensor Trail, Nemo Tensor All Season, and Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol offer a range of weights and warmth ratings for different seasons and backpacking styles, making them essential for lightweight sleep systems.
Nemo Tensor Trail (13.9 oz) - The most comfortable sleeping pad for its weight. After years of always using a mummy style pad because it seemed lighter, I’ve realized I sleep so much better with a rectangular pad. The weight savings isn’t enough for me to compromise comfort, and this is a great pad.
Nemo Tensor All Season (14.1 oz) - The thermal version of the Tensor Trail above, at just a tiny bit heavier, this pad offers a 5.4 R value to keep you warm on cold nights or when camping on snow. This is the best option for high alpine backpacking, fall and winter camping, and for mountaineering.
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT Sleeping Pad (15.5 oz) The warmest of them all with an R value of 7.3, this will keep you the warmest on chilly nights. If you sleep cold, this is the pad for you.
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol (14 oz) - A lightweight closed cell foam pad for those who want to be as minimal as possible. It’s light but can be a bit bulky on the outside of your pack. This is a great option to double up under an inflatable pad for extra warmth on snow.
Pilllows
Lightweight backpacking pillows add comfort without extra bulk. Options like the Hyperlite Stuff Sack Pillow, Sea to Summit Aeros, and NEMO Fillo Pillow pack down small and provide supportive sleep on the trail, perfect for ultralight hikers prioritizing both comfort and minimal weight.
Hyperlite Stuff Sack Pillow (1.7 oz) - The most ultralight of the bunch and actually very comfortable with the right jacket in side. Pros for stuff sack pillows are that they are super light, double as a stuff sack in your pack, and can be adjusted based on what you put in them at night. Turn the stuff sack pillow inside out to reveal a soft fleece side for your face while sleeping. Personally I love this pillow with a good down jacket inside. The cons are mainly that if its cold and you need to sleep in your jacket for warmth, you may not have a pillow. So it’s great for trips where you know your quilt will be warm enough.
Sea to Summit Aeros (2.8 oz) - Of all the pillows I’ve tried this is the most comfortable and supportive inflatable pillow. The fleecy fabric on the outside feels nice on your face, and holds the pillow in place on your pad. A little heavier than a stuff sack pillow but it packs down tiny.
NEMO Fillo Pillow (2.8 oz) - A comfortable cross between a foam and inflatable pillow with a soft exterior. It does inflate but has foam around it for added comfort. I think the loft of the Aeros is better for me as mainly a side sleeper, but I’ve used this one too and it is comforable for how light it is.
Pillow Strap (2.3 0z) - A soft and stretchy trifold pillowcase securely holds your camp pillow, puffy coat, or extra clothing to your sleeping pad with an adjustable elastic strap.
Having breakfast while backpacking in the Idaho Sawtooths with the JetBoil Stash, Snowpeak mug, and Fozzils bowl, photo taken for Injinji
Camp Kitchen
An ultralight camp kitchen setup maximizes efficiency while minimizing pack weight. From the Jet Boil Stash cooking system to the MSR Titan Long Spoon and Snowpeak Ti Double 450 Mug, these gear essentials help you cook and dine comfortably without carrying extra bulk. Bear protection with the Ursack Major Bear Sack 10L and dishes like the Fozzils Camp Dish Set round out a minimalist kitchen kit.
Jet Boil Stash Cooking System (7.1 oz) - This is the lightest JetBoil and the best backpacking stove and pot set that I have used. It boils water insanely fast since it’s a JetBoil, but is still ultralight and a good size for two people. Can’t recommend this enough!
JetBoil MiniMo Cooking System (14.6 oz) - Not ultralight but a great option for high alpine trips when wind can be an issue. This is a smaller version of the original JetBoil Flash that is a little lighter. I only use this on mountaineering and alpine climbing trips.
Snowpeak Ti Double 450 Mug (3.6 oz) - An ultralight mug that lasts for years. I’ve had this same mug for at least 8 years now and it’s still going strong.
Snowpeak Titaniun Spork Long (0.7 oz) - A long spoon is necessary for eating out of backpacking meal bags. There’s a lot of ultralight versions on the market, and this one is worth bringing along for meals.
Fozzils Camp Dish Set (1.4 oz) - This is a three pack of snap dishes including a cup, bowl, and plate. I normally just eat out of my dehydrated meal bag, but when I make my own meals I like to use either the plate which is more like a bowl, or the bowl. I would never bring all three pieces, but these also are great for road trips/vanlife.
Ursack Major Bear Sack 10L (7.6 oz) - This is our bear bag and it works so well. Its a lot lighter and less bulky than a bear bin, and just as strong. Most areas are allowing these now in place of a bear bin, but some National Parks still require a bin, so check regulations before you go. We have used this just about everywhere and the 10L size is big enough for two people’s food over a 1-4 night trip. When we did the Wind Rivers over 9 days, we both carried our own bag.
Hyperlite Rock Bag Kit (2 oz) - This is a tiny add on that helps you hang your bear bag in a tree. We just used it on our last backpacking trip and it was amazing to help get the bear bag higher in a tree. Just add rocks into the tiny bag and throw it over a tree limb.
Wearing Outdoor Research Echo Hoodies and Altra trail runners while backpacking the O-Circuit in Patagonia
Clothing, Shoes, and Accessories
Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing and versatile accessories are key to staying comfortable and prepared on the trail. Ultralight hikers benefit from quick-dry shirts, durable shoes, and handy extras like shoulder pockets, kula cloth for the ladies, Loop ear plugs for sleeping, and compact toiletries to keep pack weight low without sacrificing functionality.
Clothing - What to Wear While Hiking
I recommend only bringing one set of hiking clothes if you really want to save on weight. For one to two night trips, one sun hoodie and one pair of shorts is plenty. For longer trips I will bring a second sun hoodie or a tank top. I also usually bring two pairs of hiking socks to alternate, and pack the second pair. I’ve been wearing all of this clothing for years now and love it all. For sun hoodies, my favorite for summer backpacking is the Outdoor Research Astroman since it is soft, super lightweight so doesn’t feel hot, and is a little roomier to catch a breeze. The OR Echo is a close second and my first choice for fall backpacks when it’s a little cooler. It’s also light weight and quick drying, but not as airy as the Astroman fabric.
Injinji Socks - Toe socks that help prevent blisters. Their Ultra Run collection is my go to for backpacking.
Stio CFS Drifter Short - Women’s
OR Men's Swift Lite Shorts - 5" - Men’s
Clothing - What to Pack
Packed clothes should include base layers for sleeping, a pair of sleep socks that you don’t hike in to keep them fresh, a fleece or mid layer for chilly days and to wear around camp, a down jacket that can also double as your pillow, and an ultralight rain jacket just in case. To keep weight down, try to pack only things for sleeping and at camp. I promise, you don’t need outfit changes, it won’t make you smell better.
Sleeping base layer top - Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Crew Base Layer Top - Men’s | Women’s
Sleeping base layer bottoms - Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Bottoms - Men’s | Women’s
A fleece mid layer - Arguably the most important layers. My favorite mid-layer that I always bring is an Alpha Direct style hoodie for it’s weight to warmth ratio. I recommend taking the time to take a deeper dive into mid-layers and you can learn more about them and why they are the best ultralight mid-layer in my Fleece Mid-Layer Gear Guide.
Ultralight Down Puffy - Outdoor Research Helium Down Hoodie - Men’s | Women’s
Hiking Shoes - Trail Runners, Sandals, Camp Shoes
If you’re going ultralight and hiking long miles, I always recommend and prefer trail runners over boots. Listed below are my favorite hiking and camp shoes and sandals. I’ve recently fallen in love with Luna Sandals for hiking and as backpacking camp shoes since they are so lightweight. And if you already are using Injinji socks for hiking in, they work great with Lunas as well.
Trail runners - Altra Timp | Altra Lone Peak - My favorite are the Altra Timps, but my husband Garrett really likes the Lone Peak which is a little wider and a true zero drop.
Hiking sandals - Luna Sandals Oso Flaco Winged Edition (click here for 15% off) - These are by far the best sandals to hike in, and I have tried multiple versions from Luna, Teva, and Chacos. The Oso Flaco is light weight but the vibram megagrip sole is burly for on trail. They have the best grip on creek and river crossings, wet rocks, and walking up slabs. I can’t recommend them enough.
Camp sandals - Luna Sandals Venado 2.0 (click here for 15% off) - These are the lightest Luna makes and they are super small and minimal to pack, which makes them the perfect camp shoe. You can also hike in them if needed, though their soles are not as grippy as the Oso Flaco. And if you want warm and cozy socks to wear with them at camp, Luna sells some that are awesome and work with the sandals. Click here to get 15% off your Luna order!
Camp shoes - Zpacks Camp Shoes - If sandals aren’t your thing, Zpacks makes uber ultralight slip on camp shoes that pack down tiny.
Toiletries - Hygiene Items for on Trail
For backpacking I bring a very tiny and very minimal toiletries kit with me, including a tiny bit of soap/cleanser and moisturizer in a contact lens case, a mini travel toothbrush, travel toothpaste, floss, shower wipes for body, and face wipes. I also always keep a tiny bottle of hand sanitizer with me as well in my toilet kit.
Shower wipes - Duke Cannon Cold Shower Wipes - These are the best and so worth it after long days on the trail. They’re individually packaged which makes them easy to carry and use.
Face wipes - Ursa Major Essential Face Wipes - They are individually packaged which makes them perfect for backpacking.
Hyperlite Drawstring Stuff Sack 1 L - To put all of my toiletries in.
Organization and Packing Cubes
With ultralight packs, organization is key. I always using Hyperlite packing cubes to organize my gear inside my pack, they also add more water resistance as well. For my first aid kit and toilet kit, I use the drawstring stuff sacks in a 1L size, and then for clothing I like both the zipper pods and side entry pods.
Pods (with zipper)
Using the Hyperlite Bottle Pocket and small sized Camera Pod, photo taken for Hyperlite Mountain Gear
Backpacking Accessories
Hyperlite Bottle Pocket (shown above) - For those who don’t like hydration bladders and would rather have a Smartwater bottle easily accessible for access on trail.
Hyperlite Shoulder Pocket - This is a game changer and everyone needs one! I use this on all trips and love having the extra pocket to stash sunglasses, SPF lip balm, and extra snacks or my phone.
Hyperlite Sun Umbrella - For super hot and sunny trips, this ultralight umbrella makes a huge difference. It works in the rain too!
Loop Dream Ear Plugs (10% off with code SKYE10) - I switched over to these for sleeping in a tent and in the van. They really block out sound and I love that they are reusable so I’m not throwing away disposable ear plugs after each trip. Just wipe them off with a wet wipe and you’re good to go.
Hyperlite Camera Pod - If you are bringing a camera, this is a must. It keeps your camera protected, clean, and is waterproof against rain. The small size fits a Sony a6000 well with some extra space, and the large fits my Sony a7iv with 24-70mm lens.
Kula Cloth - A pee cloth for the ladies that is my 11th essential and comes on all trips with me.
Culo Clean Backcountry Bidet - Finally a travel bidet that actually works well! We’ve tried a few and this is by far the best. Plus it is tiny and fits on any water bottle, so we got a super cheap plastic bottle and will be using it for all trips this summer.
BoglerCo UL Trowel - For digging a cat hole when there isn’t a backcountry toilet available.
Exped Sit Pad - A luxury item, but it really is nice to have at camp.
Nitecore NB10000 Gen 3 Power Bank - For charging phones, watches, and cameras on trail.
Wild Deodorant Mini (20% off with code SKYESTOURY) - Tiny deodorant the size of a chapstick that smells amazing. Why not smell good on your trip when deodorant is this tiny and light?
Dermatone Anti-Chafe Stick - Tiny and fits in your hip belt, don’t let chafing ruin your trip.
Nylofume Pack Linner - A very ultralight, waterproof pack liner. Yes, it’s better than a trash bag, mine has lasted for three years and is still going strong. I only use it on trips when it could rain or snow.
Dermatone Sport Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50 - The best sunscreen on the market and I have tried so many different brands over the years. Disclaimer, I am sponsored by Dermatone but have been working with them for 4+ years now because I truly love their products.
SPF Lip Balm - Also Dermatone, all of their lip balms have SPF 30 and are actually moisturizing. Their medicated lip balm with SPF 30 also helps with rashes and soothes irritation so I always keep one with me.
Trekking Poles
Lightweight trekking poles reduce impact and increase stability on the trail without weighing you down. The Trail Trekking Poles and Distance Carbon Z are both durable, compact, and ideal for ultralight backpackers seeking efficient support on varied terrain.
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles - Ultralight and pack down small, these are great if you do not plan to use them with your trekking pole tent. If you do need to use your poles for your tent, see the option below that are adjustable.
Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles - A great option for using with your trekking pole tent since they are adjustable. These are what I use on all my hikes and backpacks.
Gear Discount Codes and Links
I’ve partnered with a few of my favorite outdoor brands to hook you up with exclusive discounts on trail-tested gear. These are companies I actually use and love, and when you shop through the links below, you’ll get a deal and help support my blog. Win-win!
20% off SkyGOAT (grid fleece) - Click the link and add code SKYEGOAT to your cart at checkout to get 20% off your order.
15% off LUNA Sandals - Click the link and the discount will be added to your cart automatically.
15% off Stio with code SKYE15 - Click the link and enter the code in your cart.
10% off Will and Bear hats with code SKYESTOURY - Click the link and the discount will be added to your cart automatically.
20% off Wild Deodorant with code SKYESTOURY - Must enter the promo code at checkout to receive discount. They make a deodorant mini that is perfect for backpacking, it’s the size of a lip balm.
10% off Loop Earplugs with code SKYE10 - Enter the promo code at checkout. I use their Dream earplugs for sleeping both backpacking and car camping.
Final Thoughts on Ultralight Backpacking Gear for 2026
Ultralight backpacking doesn’t have to be all or nothing, and it definitely doesn’t mean giving up comfort. With a few smart swaps, you can build a lighter, more streamlined setup that makes hiking feel easier and more enjoyable (your knees will thank you). I hope this gear guide helps you take the next step toward dialing in your kit, saving weight, and maybe even having a little more fun out there.
If you're looking for ideas on where to take your new ultralight setup, check out some of my favorite backpacking trip guides below. Happy trails!
Backpacking The O in Torres del Paine, Patagonia
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