Lightening the Load

If you have back problems, or you just don't want to carry all that weight, you should reconsider what you carry in your hiking backpacks. Usually, most hikers fill their hiking packs with too much stuff, period. Here are some ways to give your back a break: • Lighten up your sleeping bag. Buy a ultra-light model that weighs in at two pounds or less. • Don't carry a tent and poles, use a tarp instead. Don't use a tarp for a ground cloth under your tent, use a lightweight footprint designed to fit your tent. • If you don't want to use a tarp as a tent, look for a lightweight model that weighs in at just around four pounds. • Don't carry as many cooking utensils, you may not need them. • Go through your hiking checklist and see what you use and what you don't use, and lighten hiking packs that way. Hiking backpacks don't have to weigh a ton, even if you're heading out for an extended hike. Cut weight in the essentials, and you'll have a healthier, happier hike.