Most experts agree that the maximum pack weight for a beginner should only be about 25% of their body weight.
For an ultra-light backpacker that would be punishable by death.
So if you're the kind of person who agrees with the last statement or it even peaks your curiosity than this article is for you.
So, for the fanatics out there here are 5 suggestions in the ounces category.
To save on backpack weight you can: 1.
Cut off handles and drill holes.
Cut the head of your toothbrush in half and then cut off the handle.
For your spoon, cut off the handle and drill holes in the spoon.
Or, better yet don't bring either and use a stick instead.
2.
Eliminate Map Edges.
Cut off map edges (leaving just enough room for bearing points).
3.
Shorten nylon webbing straps and laces.
Cut off lengths of cord and extra laces.
4.
Eliminate cord locks.
If garments have cord locks, replace them with small doubled-up patches of light-weight leather with two slits.
5.
Alter your clothes.
Cut off pockets, cords, tags, unneeded linings, etc...
6.
Remove manufacturer's labels.
Remove labels & apply a light bead of seam sealant onto the needle holes.
Potential sites are on tents, packs, bags, clothes, even on boots.
Finally, I remember a mountain biking partner I had, who was always trying to shave ounces off his bike for those long hill climbs.
One day I said to him, "you spent all that time and money just to lose 1 pound off your bike, what if you just lost 5 pounds of body weight, wouldn't that be a little more significant and a heck of a lot cheaper?" Drop those 5 extra pounds and that's a lot less you'll have to carry.