Ultralight Backpacking Gear List 9 Pound 2026
Last Updated: February 10, 2026
By Alan Dixon
By Jaeger Shaw
The Adventure Alan & Co. 9 Pound Ultralight Gear List
Less than ten pounds of equipment is all you need to be safe, warm, and comfortable in the backcountry, and this ultralight backpacking gear list is fully optimized. It’s been evolving and improving for over two decades, and we’ve tested it from Alaska to Patagonia, and everywhere in between. If you want to carry less weight while increasing the quality and functionality of your kit, then you’ve come to the right place. Simply put, this is best-in-class gear.
This ultralight backpacking gear list is a base from which to build off. Modify it based on trip-specific needs and desired luxuries. The sub-10-lb base weight counts the backpack and everything carried in it while hiking. It excludes worn, held, optional, and situational items, as well as consumables like food, water, fuel, and sunscreen.
Scroll down to browse featured gear. Or, if you’re packing for a trip and would prefer a complete item-by-item checklist including consumables, jump to the bottom where you’ll find the 9 lb ultralight gear list in table format, including a few items that aren’t pictured. Lastly, don’t miss our ultralight day hiking list, super ultralight fastpacking list, or hyper sustainable backpacking gear list.
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ULA Equipment ULTRA Circuit
36.8 oz | $380
Thanks to Challenge UltraX fabric, the most popular pack on the PCT, ULA Equipment Ultra Circuit, it is now lighter, more water-resistant, and more durable than ever before. It meets or exceeds all of our preposterously high backpack standards in every regard, except that it’s a smidge heavier than the average ultralight backpack. The ULTRA Circuit has exceptional weight transfer thanks to its workhorse frame comprised of an aluminum stay plus a carbon fiber and plastic U-shaped suspension hoop. The full suite of massive, best-in-class external pockets grants easy access to gear, including the expansive UltraStretch Mesh front crisscrossed with shock cords.
Zpacks Pivot Solo/Duo/Trio
13.5 | $649 or 18.6 oz | $849
Featuring three vertical mesh walls, exceptional headroom, and a massive interior-volume-to-weight ratio, the Zpacks Pivot Duo is the lightest tent that can fit two wide/long pads, and the larger sibling to Pivoto Solo. These tents are made with a best-in-class Dyneema fly and floor fabric that doesn’t absorb water or sag, and decked out in all the best features including peak vents, L-shaped doors, and magnetic toggles. We’re particularly keen on the double-wall foot end, which prevents wet footboxes, and makes the Pivot Duo feel longer than other comparably sized single wall tents. You can comfortably sleep with your head at the foot end! Note, Duo is the most versatile for its ability to flex between 1-2P. Choose the Pivot Trio for dedicated 2P sleeping because it only weighs a few extra ounces and adds massive space.
Enlightened Equipment Enigma 30
15.4 oz | $400
Quilts are the most effective way to sleep in the backcountry, and the Enlightened Equipment Enigma 30 with 950 fill power down and 7d nylon is the single best tool for minimizing total weight while maximizing warmth-to-weight. It is our pick for best quilt to use in a super ultralight fastpacking kit. The innovative U-shaped continuous baffle help prevent cold spots. A-grade materials, and a flawless minimalist design make this a near perfect quilt.
NEMO Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated
14.1 oz | $200
With an R-Value of 5.4 and weighing only 14.1 oz, NEMO Tensor All-Season UL Insulated clocks the highest R-Value-to-weight-ratio among 3-season pads. What’s more, the surface has pleasantly comfortable “Spaceframe Baffles” that help disperse shoulder pressure, all while delivering a quiet sleep experience and responsibly durable face fabric.
Pillow Strap + Inflatable Pillow
1.8 oz | $39 (Pillow Strap, Small)
1.9 oz | $50 (Sea to Summit Aeros UL)
Pillow Strap is the best housing for a hybrid pillow system, which consists of a pillowcase, an inflatable pillow, and a puffy jacket. Combine these three elements and you get adequate support and comfort for most sleeping positions, but especially side sleepers. The Pillow Strap by itself is a stretchy and soft fabric pillowcase with an elastic band that secures the pillow to your sleeping pad to prevent drift. The best inflatable pillow to pair with it is the Sea to Summit Aeros UL.
Teragon Pioneer Torque Stake
.32 oz | $30 (per stake)
To be very clear, whatever stakes you already have on-hand will work just find. These Anygear 7075 aluminum, notched Y-stake are great and inexpensive. That being said, if you want to splurge on a best-in-class upgrade to eek out every bit of kit optimization possible, we recommend the helical-shaped, Teragon Pioneer Torque. These incredibly durable, 7.7″ Norwegian-made, 3D printed titanium stakes, topped off with Dyneema pull loops, have a better holding-power-to-weight ratio than anything we’ve ever seen before, and can take limitless abuse from a poundy rock.
Zpacks Down Jacket
Zpacks Down Jacket
6.8 oz | $375
The Zpacks Down Jacket blows the hubcaps off competitors like the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer. In particular, it’s almost two times warmer for the weight. This is because it’s filled with top-tier 900 fill power down (and more of it) vs mid-tier 800 fill. And they didn’t skimp on features either. The Zpacks Down Jacket still has a drawcord hood, two pockets, full front zipper, and drawcord hem to seal out drafts. It isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s still a great performance to value ratio costing only marginally more than Ghost Whisperer. Read more in our full-length Zpacks Down Jacket Review.
Zpacks Vertice Rain Jacket
5.6 oz | $299
The Zpacks Vertice Rain Jacket is one of the best and most breathable super ultralight hard shell, and it blows mainstream outdoor brands out of the water in terms of pure performance. The Vertice membrane comes with a whopping 56k breathability rating (Gore-Tex varietals score 15-20k). And despite that, it maintains a waterproof rating of 20k – only a bit lower than most Gore-Tex. The Vertice even has pit-zips, a remarkable feature-add, considering it weighs so little! Perfect to reduce the weight of an ultralight backpacking gear list.
Zpacks Vertice Rain Pants
Zpacks Vertice Rain Pants
3.2 oz | $149
Fully waterproof, preposterously breathable, and only three ounces, the Zpacks Vertice Rain Pants are top tier rain pants for minimizing weight. Vertice has a breathability rating of 56k, that’s more than than triple Gore-Tex, perfect for high intensity movement. True, this isn’t the most durable pair of rain pants, but we find them to be sufficient for on-trail use and are the current best option for an ultralight gear list.
Alpha Direct Hoodie
~5.0 oz | ~$100
A hoodie made with Alpha Direct fleece is lighter weight, has a higher warmth-to-weight ratio, higher breathable, less water absorption, and a faster dry time than any competing alternative. However, it is also far less durable than average and has zero wind resistance. But they’re basically perfect for fastpacking and super ultralight backpacking. Use it respectfully and pair with a UL windbreaker or breathable rain shell for maximum modularity, versatility, and surprising warmth. Read more in our guide to the Best Alpha Direct Hoodies.
TrailHeads Convertible Running Mitts
2.4 oz | $38
TrailHeads Convertible Running Mitts flawlessly execute the flip top and flip thumb concept, without any floppiness or excess fabric bulk. They are comfy, warm dexterous, soft, stretchy, and one of the versatile items in our kit. Flip the mitt and thumb down to pitch your tent or operate a stove. Flip them back up when temperatures drop.
Zpacks Octa Fleece Beanie
.6 oz | $30
Two major factors differentiate the Zpacks Octa Fleece Hat from a crowded field of warm beanies. Firstly, it’s made with brushed Octa, one of two best-in-class ultralight fleeces (see also Polartec Alpha Direct). Octa is soft, hyper breathable, ultralight, and high warmth-to-weight ratio thanks to the hollow core yarns and brushed interior surface that trap dead air to hold heat. Secondly, this is a really thoughtfully designed beanie! Zpacks gave us a double layer fleece around the circumference of the crown to keep your ears warm, and a single layer on the upper half to encourage breathability. Furthermore, it is asymmetrical, with elongation over the middle and back half to ensure the entirety of your ears are always protected. Going forward, this will be our default warm hat!
Sawyer Squeeze + Cnoc VectoX 2L
5.8 oz | $65
Sawyer Squeeze + Cnoc VectoX 2L is the number one filter-bladder combo on the PCT! Cnoc VectoX 2L is durable, leak-proof, and easy to fill bladder that increases max capacity without adding much bulk. Sawyer Squeeze may not be the smallest or fastest filter, but is the most reliable when accounting for longevity, durability, filtration lifespan, and responsiveness to backflushing.
Zpacks Water Bottle Sleeves (x2)
1.1 oz | $59 (total for both)
Water bottle sleeves allow for on the go hydration without resorting to fail-prone drinking tubes, and Zpacks makes the lightest water bottle sleeves on the market. This model is particularly great because it’s easy to attach to just about any shoulder straps, and the rim is stiffened for easy in/out. Bottle sleeves are not to be excluded from any ultralight backpacking gear list!
HydraPak UltraFlask Filter 500 ml
2.3 oz | $50
Front-mounting a soft flask filter makes it possible to treat water without taking your pack off, and makes hydrating in the backcountry much more efficient. HydraPak UltraFlask is the best tool for the job because the bite valve allows for one-handed direct-to-mouth filtration. By frequently topping off your front-mounted soft flask filter as you pass by sources, you can carry less total water in other vessels, which more than offsets the added weight of the hollow fiber filter head.
HydraPak Tempo 525 ml
1.8 oz | $1.8
The HydraPak Tempo 525 ml is the best hard-sided bottle to front-mount, which encourages hydrating without stopping. The high-flow sport cap can be easily opened and closed with just your teeth, allowing for one-handed operation without taking packs off or setting poles down. Its 42 mm threaded opening accommodates filters if you want it too, and is wide and easy to filter into. Use this vessel for mixing electrolyte drink powders.
Igneous NOBO Bottle
2.3 oz | $22
Meet the Igneous NOBO Bottle – healthier and more ethical than Smartwater; half the weight of Mazama x M!GO, more squeezable than CNOC ThruBottle. And of course, the 28mm threading is compatible with most filters and bidets. Igneous is notable for their plastics expertise, and NOBO’s HDPE composition resists microplastics shedding, slows bacterial growth, and holds up to UV and a lifetime of squeezing.
MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe
2.9 oz | $85
The MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe is one of the two best stoves money can buy, and our editor’s choice award winner. It features a cupped head for wind resistance, pressure regulation for use in cold and with near-empty canisters, a built in ignitor, fold out arms with good balance, and high BTU output for quick boil times. Combine PRD with a heat exchanger pot to assemble a SuperStove system.
Firemaple Petrel G2
7.2 oz | $35
Firemaple Petrel G2 is the current best cookpot on the market for 1-2 people. Yes, it’s about three ounces heavier than a comparable sized titanium pot, but aluminum transfers heat better, and the heat exchanger ring literally increases the fuel economy of your stove, speeds up boil time drastically, and also adds wind resistance. Four quick notes (1) the slotted base fits either of the two best stoves MSR PRD Deluxe or Soto Windmaster Triflex; (2) it holds four and eight ounce fuel cans; (3) it’s marketed as 750ml to the fill line, but actually holds 1L if filled to the rim, (4), the handle hinges are a bit sharp and we recommend filing them down a bit.
MSR Titan Double Wall Titanium 375ml
3.2 oz* | $50
We love the MSR Titan Double Wall Titanium insulated mug because it’s lightweight and extremely durable, keeps your drink warm for longer, and comes with its own lid (*which adds 0.9 oz). Furthermore, its slightly lower-than-average 12 oz volume saves pack space compared to standard 16 oz options.
TOAKS Titanium Spoon
0.7 oz | $11
It’s hard to imagine any backcountry spoon scoring better user ratings than the TOAKS Titanium. At time of publication it averages 4.7 out of 5 stars on 145 reviews at REI Co-op. The $11 price point is lower than we expect to see relative its ultralight and ultra durable titanium construction. Plus, it features an upward tilted bowl for ease of lifting food out of a meal bag.
Benchmade 533-04 Mini Bugout Grivory Knife
1.5 oz | $180
The Benchmade Mini Bugout is lightweight and made with extremely high quality CPM-S30V stainless super steel. Yes it’s spendy, but it stays sharper for longer in the backcountry, making quick work of food prep with a 2.8″ blade that is also travel-friendly. The Grivory handle is lightweight and grippy, and has a secure locking mechanism for sure-fire cutting. Also great as an everyday carry.
BoglerCo Ultralight Trowel
.5 oz | $18
BoglerCo makes an exceptional ultralight trowel; superior to our previous top pick, the Deuce #2. BoglerCo’s is longer, lighter, stronger, digs better, and is more comfortable to press down on thanks to its plastic top. The serrated edge easily cuts through small roots. This trowel is miles ahead of the classic orange Coghlan’s design.
Sea Turtle Bamboo Toothbrush
.3 oz | $2
Ultralight, 100% biobased toothbrushes, like this Sea Turtle Bamboo brush, are readily available. They’re most commonly made with bamboo handles and brushes of either castor oil-derived nylon or boar bristles.
Nitecore NU27 600
2.0 oz | $45
Nitecore NU27 is the new best-in-class headlamp, due to an unmatched combination of high lumen output, warm lighting options, long lasting battery life, low weight, good ingress protection, good headband, and a USB-C charging port. It is a noticable upgrade over its predecessor, the NU25 400 series.
Garmin inReach Mini 3 Plus
4.4 oz | $500 + Subscription
Garmin inReach Mini 3 Plus is the current best SatCom device, offering users super fast messaging over the Irridium Messaging Transport System, the ability to send/receive voicemail and photos, and its best in class full color touch screen. All said and done, it has better standalone operability and more features than any other competing option.
Gaia GPS App
Gaia GPS App
0 oz | $60
Available on iPhone or Android, Gaia GPS offers a Google Maps-like experience, but pinpoints you on topographic maps with trails and routing. No cell service or internet is required, so long as you download the maps in advance. It’s much lighter, more affordable, and user-friendly than dedicated GPS units. Gaia GPS is our primary backcountry navigation tool, backed up by paper maps. Considering that phone apps are weightless, we think this is some pretty great ultralight backpacking gear.
Nitecore NB10000 Gen 3
5.3 oz | $60
What matters most is that the Nitecore NB10000 Gen 3 has better mAh-to-weight ratio than any other power bank. It offers two or more complete phone recharges for only 5.3 ounces with battery indicator lights. It’s the most ultralight unit in the 10k mAh-class, and certainly the best overall performer in the genre. It made with a carbon fiber case to reduces cold drain, rubberized corner bumpers, and even an IPX5 rating!
Suunto M-3D Compass
Suunto M-3 D Leader Compass
1.6 oz | $65
The Suunto M-3D is a simple and durable lightweight compass with all of the essential features, including declination adjustment. Should always carry along with paper maps as a backup to GPS.
Paper Topo Map
Paper Topo Map
.5 oz | Variable
A paper topo map is still important! We prefer printed topographic quadrangles at 1:24.000. Store in a Ziploc bag. High quality prints can be purchased on waterproof paper. You can also use online mapping software like Gaia GPS or CalTopo to print your maps freely. Nat Geo maps are nice, but heavy.
HMG Roll Top Stuff Sack 25L
1.6 oz | $69
The HMG Roll-Top Stuff Sack in the 25L size capacity is our preferred workhorse dry bag for backpacking quilts and sleeping bag storage. The DCF11 construction is super durable and waterproof, and HMG has paid every attention to detail. The 25L volume is likely a bit overkill for summer, but only weighs .4 oz more than the 10L model, and easily flexes into the colder months without requiring you to buy a larger dry bag to store a 0 degree sleeping bag. If you’re going to splurge on a Dyneema dry bag, choose this one, at this size, because you can use it all year long for many years to come without ever over-compressing your down.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Drawstring Stuff Sack
.7 | $50
For storing, organizing, and protecting accessories that you need to keep in exterior pack pockets, we recommend the HMG Drawstring Stuff Sacks. While not truly waterproof due to the drawstring closure, the DCF fabric is waterproof, and the system is protective enough in all but the wettest of conditions. The 4L is slightly larger than a one gallon Ziploc bag, and the 9L is great for storing a heap of accessories.
LOKSAK OPSAK Odor-Proof Barrier Bag 12×20
LOKSAK OPSAK 12×20
0.8 oz | $16 MSRP
Nesting perfectly in an Ursack Major Bear Bag, this giant, ultra-heavy-duty-Ziploc-style bag called LOKSAK OPSAK will keep your food dry when it rains, and prevent smells from escaping when properly closed. A necessary pairing to fully protect your food from the elements and animals. Each bag lasts 1-2 hiking seasons, depending on use.
Homemade First Aid Kit
First Aid Kit
2.5 oz | Homemade
The best first aid kits are homemade. Ours typically include some combination of the following: Leukotape, Ibuprofen, Tylenol, benzoin tincture, assorted bandages in different sizes, gel blister cover, 4×4″ gauze pads and gauze roll, neosporin, Benadryl, nitrile gloves, alcohol wipes, Pepto-Bismol, Imodium, caffeine pills, heavy duty pain killer, personal prescriptions, nail clippers, tick removal, safety pin.
If you’re unable or unwilling to make your own first aid kit, these “ultralight watertight” bundles will do in a pinch.
Homemade Backpacking Repair Kit
Repair Kit
1.5 oz | Homemade
Our homemade repair kit includes duct tape, Therm-a-Rest glue dot and patch kit, Tenacious Tape, Krazy glue, alcohol wipes, zip ties, safety scissors, needle, and a spare sawyer gasket. Use floss for thread, and safety pins from first aid kit. We find this is all we need to make small fixes to ultralight backpacking gear.
HOKA Challenger 8
20.2 oz | $155
New-for-2025 HOKA Challenger 8s are the cushiest trail runners we’ve ever hiked in; perfect for shrugging off foot pain on high mileage days. Now with a 42mm stack height, widened forefoot, and more aggressive chevron lugs, version eight is the comfiest Challenger yet. Note, for technical terrain, mud, scree, excessively steep slopes, or off trail travel, we still recommend the maximum traction choice of HOKA Speedgoats. Read more in our comprehensive HOKA Challenger 8 review.
Paka Trail 3/4 Crew Socks
1.7 | $24
For the ultimate blend of comfort and functionality, pull on a pair of Paka Trail 3/4 Crew socks, our editor’s choice award winning model for hiking socks. They have all of the right features, and are made with a dreamy blend of alpaca wool, Tencel, recycled nylon, and spandex that keep your feet comfortable, thermo-regulated, dry, blister-free, and less smelly, all day long. We’re even prepared to say that alpaca wool is superior to merino. A quarter height version is also available.
CMT Carbon Ultralight Poles
11.2 oz | $65
We scored 30 pairs of trekking poles for strength-to-weight ratio, and the inexpensive CMT Carbon UL tied for second place. They were the 4th stiffest and 5th lightest, outperforming most poles costing 3x as much. A non-traditional 2-part telescoping shaft differentiates them from their peers. The dead-center placement of a single flip lock reinforces the middle to minimize deflection, while also reducing the number of moving parts and failure points. The drawback, of course, is that they have the taller-than-average minimum collapsed height; though still short enough to store on your pack.
Path Projects Saguaro
2.4 oz | $38
The Path Proejcts Saguaro is our preferred cap thanks to the hyper ventilated mesh side panels, UV protective top, and extra wide brim. If you’re still hiking in a trucker cup, this represents a sizable performance upgrade.
Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie
5.2 oz | $75
For a majority of three season hiking, we recommend the Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie. This sun hoody is incredibly light, stretchy, comfortable, breathable, airy, quick drying, moisture wicking, and rated to UPF 15-20 (depending on color). This shirt does it all, and is perfect compliment to an ultralight backpacking gear kit. Pack a sun hoody and you’ll find that you will save weight carrying less sunscreen and also get less sun burns. We’ve worn this shirt around the world and are always impressed. What’s more, it’s built with eco-friendly recycled polyester!
Men’s Kuhl Renegade Pants
15 oz | $99
There’s so much to like about the Men’s KUHL Renegade Convertible Pants. But most importantly, tons of discreet cargo pocket storage, immaculate durability for bushwhacking and scrambling, UPF 50, roomy fit, quick-dry fabric, and a dash of stretch for comfort. Our only knock is that they’re a bit heavier than average, but it’s not a huge deal since you wear them rather than carry them.
Womens Kuhl Freeflex Roll-up Pants
14 oz | $99
The Women’s KUHL Freeflex Roll-Up Pants offer spandex-free stretch, which doesn’t sag or bag. But more importantly, they have much sought-after dual cargo pockets on the thighs for handy storage of knickknacks like lip balm or a small tube of sunscreen. As the namesake implies, they have mid-calf snaps for converting into a capri. A functional and flattering design from KUHL. There’s no question as to why these pants get rave reviews.
Arcade Belts
Arcade Belts
2.5 oz | $35
Arcade Belts could be a big upgrade for most hikers. They’re made of a polyester webbing that is soft to the touch and stretchy, so it doesn’t dig into your skin or bite, even when you have it pulled taut. Adjusting this belt is straightforward, the clasp is very secure, it holds tightness, and does an excellent job of keeping pants up. Highly recommended if you’re still using something old, heavy, leather, or otherwise uncomfortable. Oh yeah, and these elegant designs are great looking; you’ll want to use them for everyday wear too.
Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear SwitchPack
4.6 oz | $55
Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear (CTUG) makes many of our favorite ultralight accessories, and their SwitchPack fanny packs are no exception. Available in two sizes and a myriad of fun color combos, the 1.0L and 2.5L models are made with highly water-resistant and durable X-Pac fabric, featuring a spacer mesh back panel for comfort and breathability. This versatile storage unit can be configured in multiple ways, including as a fanny pack, check pack, cross-body bag, or strapped directly to your pack.
Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts
4.0 oz | $79 M’s | $69 W’s
We love the wearing the Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts because they offer the best blend of stretch, comfort, breathability, and zippered pocket security. This is a great all-purpose pair of shorts that’s particularly good for hiking, but also great for trail running and athleisure. Pro tip – cut the liners out and use your preferred underwear. Read our full-length Patagonia Multi-Trails Shorts Review.
Boderry Voyager Watch
2.6 oz | $97
Boderry Voyager offers the most bang-for-your buck of any field watch, and nothing else even comes close. This watch combines extremely accurate SEIKO automatic movement with a rugged, Bertucci-inspired titanium case with four o’clock crown, and has nearly all of the most desirable features and performance traits with very few drawbacks. Most major brands would sell a watch of this quality for $300-400, but Boderry, a relatively new Chinese company, offers it for just under $100 on Amazon.
iPhone 16 Pro
7.0 oz | $999+
We have nearly two decades of experience with Apple iPhones and find the battery life, app reliability, user-friendliness, durability, and cameras to be top notch. For hikers, the titanium casing and emergency satellite network SoS feature are great bonuses. The iPhone 16 Pro series is worth investing in over the base model because it offers a 5x optical telephoto zoom, upgraded from 2x. This is important for capturing wild life, faraway hikers, and plenty of other scenes you’re likely to encounter in the backcountry.
CTUG Ultralight Wallet
0.5 oz | $18
For storing cards, cash, permits, and other valuables in a reusable, highly water-resistant, slim, zippered case, choose the Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear Ultralight Wallet. We used to use Ziploc bags, but this is wasteful, and they’re prone to breaking. While highly durable and water resistant, this wallet is not submersible.
Tifosi Rail Photochromic
1.0 oz | $89
When it comes to sunglasses, we highly recommend photochromic shield lenses, and specially the Tifosi Rail. The adaptive light filtration mechanism darkens in bright light and clears in low light, allowing you maintain great visibility while keeping your eyes protected from wind, dust, debris, and UV all day long. Photochromic lenses are normally quite expensive, but Tifosi’s are shockingly affordable. We specifically love the Rail because of the fully rimless frames that maximize peripheral vision and comfortably adapt to the shape of your head.
Glacier Gloves Ascension Bay Sun Gloves
1.7 oz | $27
The Glacier Gloves Ascension Bay are our editor’s choice best sun gloves for hiking as they’re the most durable, longest lasting, and least expensive pair in the round-up. The entire Adventure Alan & Co team prefers this model, and we recommend it very highly. It comes in a basic light gray colorway, as well as a cool water camo print with thru-hiker fashion appeal and fisherman functionality.
Flextail Zero Pump
2.2 oz | $53
A pad inflator converts a bit of extra weight into time and effort savings, which can be especially important at high altitude when breath does not come easily. Compared to pump sacks, inflator devices like the FlexTail Zero Pump are a smidge heavier, but cut out all of the effort. For us, the choice is between either an electric pump, or no pump at all. While lighter options exist, the Flextail is more durable and has a bigger battery. Note the device weighs 1.2 oz sans battery, 2.2 oz with battery.
Shamma Sandals Elite Warriors
7.0 oz | $95
Shamma Sandals Warriors are our editor’s choice best ultralight sandals. They really have it all from tread to Vibram rubber soles, to a secure fit. And they’re also lightest-in-class aside from the Mayfly design, which is much less functional than Shamma’s. This is an impressive sandal to behold in every possible way. We also recommend picking up a pair of power straps, which you may wish to add at your discretion for more intense walking or fording. They add an additional connection point looping around the front of the ankle.
Outdoor Vitals Highline Thermal Leggings
3.5 oz | $80
Thanks to their exceptionally low total weight and high warmth-to-weight ratio, the sub four ounce Outdoor Vitals Highline Thermal Leggings have become our preferred camp legwear for cool weather use. The brushed interior surface of these ultralight fleece tights makes them soft, cozy and warm. The TORAY fabric is 100% polyester, which has sufficient stretch and zero elastane to slow down dry time. Their only feature is the gusseted mesh crotch, but that’s fine by us! Note, these run small, so size up if in between.
Sea To Summit Mosquito Head Net
1.0 oz | $17
Weighing only one oz and totally bug-proof, you barely notice the Sea to Summit Mosquito Head Net. Yet in early summer, it might be the hardest working piece of ultralight backpacking gear you carry. It’s comfy see through, and outperforms bug repellent sprays and lotions. We like the version treated with InsectShield permethrin to further ward off mosquitos. This is a must-bring in June and July in the mountains.
Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent
Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent
0.5 oz | $10
The efficacy of DEET without harsh chemicals. Sawyer Picardin Insect Repellent is our go-to skin protection against mosquitos and ticks. We prefer the lotion to the spray-on, which lasts 8-14 hours. And you don’t need to carry much, since you’re only applying once or twice per day. Buy the 4 oz container and decant half an ounce into an empty hand sanitizer bottle. That’s more than enough for an entire hiking season.
Adotek Ultralight Food Locker, Grizzly Bear Resistant
6.7 oz | $155
The Adotek Ultralight Food Locker Grizzly Bear Edition is a moderate upgrade to Ursack Major bear sacks in basically every way, and the new best IGBC-Certified, soft-sided bear resistant food storage solution on the market. Compared to a 15L Ursack Major XL, the 14L Adotek is $30 more expensive, 2.1 ounces lighter, and made with waterproof and non-absorbent DCF fabric. Its white color improves visibility of contents, and the wider shape fits into packs better and makes rummaging around inside easier.
Counter Assault Bear Deterrent Spray
Counter Assault Bear Deterrent
11 oz | $48
Much like first aid, bear spray is one piece of gear you never want to have to use. Counter Assault Bear Deterrent has been the gold standard in scaring off curious ursine for decades now, and we trust this product. The lock mechanism is very secure.
Kahtoola MICROspikes® Ghost
6.8 oz | $104
Kahtoola MICROspikes® Ghost represents a huge upgrade over the base model, offering comparable steel spike traction in a 43% lighter weight package. This is due to this use of a majority TPU base that replaces heavy steel chains. As original MICROspikes® were already the default choice and Ghost is seemingly even better, we are one season of testing away from crowning them the new best-in-class snow traction accessory.
C.A.M.P. Corsa Ice Axe
7.1 oz | $120
For periodically ascending steep-but-non-technical snowy passes and peaks, the ultralight C.AM.P. Corsa Ice Axe is all you need. It serves the primary purposes of self arrest and acting as balance point, while also saving more pack weight than any other ice axe when stowed. We think it’s the best ice axe for hiking and backpacking.
Bonus Material
Want to see more recommendations per item? Check out our Staff Picks Guide to the Best Backpacking Gear.
Want to go even lighter? Check out our 5 Pound Super Ultralight Backpacking Gear List.
Carry your weight comfortably with our guide to the best backpacks for backpacking.
Stay dry with our guide to rain jackets for hiking.
Stay warm with our guide to down jackets and pants for backpacking
9 Pound Ultralight Gear List Conclusion
As you’ve now read, this is a true ultralight backpacking gear list with a sub 10 lb base weight. From dry storage to first aid, we’ve counted every single gram to compile a true guide for those looking to shave pack weight. While fancy, ultralight gear is a factor in this guide, the ethos of minimalism also drives this list. Everything you need to stay warm, dry, comfortable, and safe while backpacking is included here for 3 season trips.
If you have any questions about any of the ultralight gear listed (or not listed), let us know in the comments below!
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