THE ULTIMATE ULTRALIGHT CAMPING KIT LIST

For fast and light adventures, it’s all about having the right gear. Gear that will keep you dry, comfortable and safe, but that won’t weigh you down when you want to pick up the pace. But what you need comes down to what your trips will look like. Are you planning short one-day fast hikes or looking to do some more challenging multi-day treks? For shorter, fast-paced, one-day adventures, you’ll only need the essentials to keep you hydrated and fuelled up for the challenge whereas for multi-day trips, you’ll also need to carry a tent or shelter and gear to keep you warm and comfortable for the entire night. If that all sounds a little overwhelming, don’t worry, we've got you. In this guide, we'll take you through the essentials and share our tips for shaving grams off your pack weight. 

Choosing the right backpack is crucial for any ultralight camping adventure. Your pack needs to strike a balance: it must be large enough to fit all your essential gear, yet remain lightweight so it doesn’t become a burden as you cover ground quickly. The size of your pack should match the length and demands of your trip.

For one-day trips, a pack in the 10–25L range is ideal. This capacity gives you enough room for the basics:

• Water bottle or hydration system
• Snacks and food
• Spare clothing layers
• Map or GPS device
• Emergency kit

If you’re heading out for an overnight adventure, you’ll need a bit more space. Packs in the 30–40L range are typically best, giving you room for:

• Sleeping gear
• Extra clothing
• Cooking equipment
• Additional food and water

No matter the length of your trip, there are a few features to prioritise:

• Adjustability: Look for packs with multiple adjustment points. These help stabilise the load and prevent the pack from bouncing as you move quickly.
• Pockets and Compartments: Quick access to your gear can be a game-changer when you’re racing the clock. However, keep in mind that more pockets usually mean more zips, and every extra gram counts in ultralight setups.

For the best fit and comfort, head to your local Snow+Rock store for a professional pack-fitting service. This ensures your chosen backpack matches your body and adventure style, helping you move faster and more comfortably on the trail.

No matter how long your adventure, food and hydration are non-negotiable essentials. Packing the right items can be challenging, but making smart choices will keep you fuelled, energised, and safe throughout your trip.

When selecting food for your ultralight camping kit, focus on high nutritional value and long-lasting energy.

• Dehydrated meals: Lightweight and easy to prepare—just add boiling water and stir. They offer a nutritious, hot meal without taking up much space or weight in your pack.
• Snacks for sustained energy: Choose options with slow-release carbohydrates and a mix of nutrients to keep you going.
  • Nuts, seeds, and dried fruits are compact, nutrient-dense, and won’t weigh you down.
  • Fresh fruit can be included, but pack it carefully to prevent bruising and spoilage.
• Packaging tip: Remove unnecessary packaging before you set off. This reduces waste and saves space, so you don’t have to carry empty wrappers once you’ve eaten.

Staying hydrated is even more critical than eating regularly, especially during strenuous activity.

• Daily water needs:
  Aim for two to four litres per day to maintain hydration.
• Carrying water:
  For day hikes, bring enough water in a bladder pack or bottles to last the day.
• Topping up:
  On longer trips, plan to refill en route:
  • In populated areas, use cafés or refill stations.
  • In remote areas, be prepared to collect water from natural sources.
    • Always carry water treatment options (filters or purification tablets) to ensure any water you collect is safe to drink.

By planning your hydration and nutrition carefully, you’ll stay energised and healthy, no matter how light you’re packing.

Selecting the right clothing is key to staying comfortable and protected during any ultralight camping adventure. The goal is to pack lightweight layers that match the conditions you’ll face, without sacrificing functionality or comfort.

For warm climates, your clothing should:

• Provide coverage to protect you from the sun.
• Be made from breathable fabrics that wick sweat away from your skin, keeping you cool and dry.

For chilly mountain conditions, prioritise:

• Warmth with minimal weight by choosing natural fabrics like merino wool base layers and down jackets. These materials offer excellent insulation while remaining lightweight and easy to pack.

No matter your destination, always include a lightweight waterproof jacket in your kit. This is essential for staying dry if you encounter rain. When choosing your waterproof, consider:

• Waterproof rating: Opt for a higher rating if you expect wintry or wet conditions.
• Breathability rating: Prioritise this feature for warmer climates to prevent overheating.

By focusing on adaptable, high-performance layers, you’ll be prepared for changing weather while keeping your pack as light as possible.

The most important factor in choosing footwear for ultralight camping is a fit that’s comfortable for long days on the trail. However, when every gram counts, it’s worth considering the weight and construction of your shoes as well.

Key Considerations for Ultralight Footwear

• Weight vs. Support:
  • Walking shoes are typically lighter than walking boots, making them a popular choice for those aiming to reduce pack weight.
  • However, walking shoes generally offer less ankle and foot support. If you expect rough terrain or are carrying a heavier pack, it may be worth accepting a bit of extra weight in exchange for the added stability of boots.
• Material Choices:
  • Leather walking shoes are usually heavier than synthetic options.
  • Some hikers prefer leather for its durability and long-lasting wear, while synthetics often appeal for their lighter weight and quicker drying times.

Ultimately, prioritise comfort and fit above all else. Blisters or sore feet can quickly ruin any trip, so make sure your chosen footwear is well-suited to both your feet and your planned route.

At Snow+Rock we offer free footwear appointments, where our experts not only measure your feet, but they also get to know about your adventures so they can make suggestions that they know will be right for your trip. Find your nearest store and get your appointment booked.

No matter your route—whether you’re following a well-marked trail or venturing into remote terrain—navigation is a critical part of any ultralight camping kit. Being able to find your way, especially if conditions change unexpectedly, ensures both safety and peace of mind.

Modern GPS devices are now the go-to choice for many campers. You can opt for either a handheld GPS unit or a GPS watch. A watch is lighter and keeps your hands free, while a handheld device may offer a larger screen and more robust features.

• GPS devices and watches:
  • Provide route tracking and accurate location data.
  • Can be invaluable in emergencies, helping rescuers pinpoint your position.
  • Offer various features, from breadcrumb trails to waypoint marking.

Despite the convenience of digital navigation, it’s essential to carry traditional tools as a backup:

• Map and compass:
  • Don’t rely on batteries or signal.
  • Serve as a fail-safe if your GPS runs out of charge or loses reception.

By combining modern technology with classic navigation skills, you’ll be prepared for any situation—ensuring you can always find your way, no matter what the wilderness throws at you.

Even if you don’t plan to be out after dark, a head torch is an essential item in any ultralight camping kit. Unexpected delays, changing weather, or navigational errors can quickly turn a day trip into a night-time challenge. Having reliable hands-free lighting ensures you’re prepared for any situation.

• Hands-Free Illumination: A head torch keeps both hands free, allowing you to maintain balance on tricky terrain or grab support if needed.
• Versatility:
  • Useful for pitching your tent in the dark.
  • Makes nighttime tasks—like finding gear or heading to the toilet—much easier and safer.
• Safety: Provides essential visibility if you’re caught out after sunset, helping you avoid hazards and navigate confidently.

Packing a lightweight, reliable head torch means you’re ready for the unexpected, ensuring safety and convenience no matter how your adventure unfolds.

While you don’t need to bring a full medical kit on ultralight trips, carrying a few first aid essentials is strongly recommended. Accidents and minor injuries can happen, and having the right supplies means you can deal with issues quickly and keep moving.

You have two main options:

• Specialist ultralight first aid kits: These are designed for fast and light adventures, offering a compact selection of the most useful items.
• DIY essentials: You can assemble your own kit with just the basics, such as:
  • Wound closure strips
  • Dressings and gauze
  • Bandages
  • Gloves
  • Plasters (adhesive bandages)
  • Pain relief tablets
  • Antihistamines

By packing only what you’re likely to need, you’ll stay prepared without adding unnecessary weight to your kit.

For overnight adventures, you’ll need to carry a bit more gear, but by making informed choices you can keep your pack weight to a minimum.

When it comes to ultralight camping, your tent is likely to be one of the heaviest items in your pack, so weight should be a top priority. However, it’s equally important to match your tent to the conditions you’ll face. For instance, the lightest tent won’t be much use on a winter mountaineering trip if it can’t handle harsh weather.

• Weight: Always check the packed weight of your tent, as even a few hundred grams can make a big difference over long distances.
• Weather suitability: Choose a tent that’s built for the conditions you expect.
  • For summer or three-season trips, ultralight models are often sufficient.
  • For winter or exposed environments, prioritise durability and weather resistance over minimal weight.
• Transverse hoop tents: These are a popular choice for fast-moving adventures.
  • Typically weigh just a couple of kilos.
  • Offer a good balance of lightweight design and stability, making them reliable when the weather turns.

Selecting the right tent means balancing weight, stability, and weather protection—ensuring you stay comfortable and safe without carrying unnecessary bulk. Check out our tent buying guide for more info.

Selecting the right sleeping bag for ultralight camping is all about maximising the warmth-to-weight ratio—how much insulation you get for every gram you carry. This is especially important for fast hikes, where every bit of weight matters.

If you’re not camping in warm climates, you’ll likely want a sleeping bag that offers more warmth without adding bulk. Here’s what to consider:

• Down vs. Synthetic Fill:
  • Down sleeping bags generally provide the best warmth-to-weight performance, making them a favorite for ultralight setups.
  • The main drawback: down loses its insulating properties if it gets wet. To avoid this, always store your down bag in a dry bag inside your rucksack.
  • Down bags also tend to be more expensive.
  • Synthetic fibre sleeping bags are a good alternative if you’re on a tighter budget or expect wet conditions. While they’re typically heavier for the same warmth level, they retain insulation even when damp.
• Key Tips:
  • Always compare the warmth rating and packed weight before buying.
  • Prioritise a bag that matches the lowest temperatures you expect to encounter, but don’t overpack for warmth if you’re heading somewhere mild.
  • Use a dry bag to protect your sleeping bag from moisture, especially if you choose down.

By carefully weighing warmth, weight, and weather resistance, you’ll find a sleeping bag that keeps you comfortable and your pack ultralight. 

A sleeping mat might seem like a luxury on an ultralight trip, but it’s actually an essential piece of kit. While it’s tempting to cut weight wherever possible, sacrificing a good night’s sleep can leave you tired and less able to enjoy or complete your adventure. A quality mat ensures you wake up rested and ready to go again.

Today’s options go far beyond the old rolled-up foam mats. Modern mats are designed to be lighter, more compact, and much more comfortable.

• Self-inflating mats:
  • Offer superior cushioning and insulation compared to traditional foam mats.
  • Pack down smaller and are often lighter, making them ideal for ultralight setups.
  • Provide a better barrier between you and the cold ground, helping you stay warmer through the night.
• Weight vs. comfort:
  • Look for mats that balance minimal weight with enough padding for restful sleep.
  • Consider the mat’s packed size and insulation rating, especially for colder conditions.

Investing in a lightweight, high-quality sleeping mat is one of the best ways to ensure comfort without adding unnecessary bulk to your pack.

For any trip lasting more than a single night, a stove becomes an essential item in your ultralight camping kit. The latest lightweight, one-pot stove systems are designed to add minimal bulk and weight, yet deliver the comfort of a hot meal or drink after a demanding day outdoors.

• Lightweight one-pot stove systems:
  • Compact and efficient, these stoves are ideal for ultralight setups.
  • Most systems come with a cup-like pot that attaches directly to the stove, maximising fuel efficiency and saving space.
  • After use, the stove and fuel canister often pack down inside the pot, making storage simple and streamlined.
• Cooking limitations:
  • These stoves excel at boiling water quickly, making them perfect for preparing dehydrated meals and hot drinks.
  • Their design means you’re mostly limited to simple, boil-in-the-bag or rehydrated foods, rather than more elaborate camp cooking.

By choosing a lightweight, integrated stove system, you ensure you can enjoy hot food and drinks with minimal impact on your pack weight—an important boost for morale and recovery on any ultralight adventure. 

Now we've covered the basics we thought we'd get some expert advice from someone who loves nothing more than getting out there. Will, from our buying team, is a hardcore lightweight camper and has given us some insight into the little extras that will help you make the most of your trip. 

“If you’re not planning to camp overnight, it’s a good idea to pack some form of emergency shelter like a bivi bag, just in case things don’t go to plan.”

“When you’re trying to cut down weight, you don’t want to carry lots of different cutlery. With a spork, you can stir and eat all with one implement.”

“Buffs can be worn in so many different ways and are a great addition to your pack. Worn around your neck, they prevent cold air from blowing in down your jacket and worn around your head they help keep your ears warm without you overheating. You can even use a Buff as a makeshift sling for any unexpected arm injuries!” 

“Having a pencil and some paper means you can leave behind a message if you get into any trouble on the hill or need to write something down. I usually keep these within my dry bag to make sure that they don’t get wet."

“It may seem a bit odd, but elastic bands are incredibly useful. You can use them to stop things rattling around when you’re running, to keep clothing rolled up neatly in your pack and even to keep your map folded in the right place.”