Ultralight hiking and backpacking are practical – there is no waste


When Ray Jardine first introduced his lightweight hiking ideas to the outdoor world, he was met with mixed reviews.

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 Some hikers praised his new philosophy, believing that this new lightweight concept not only saved long-distance hikers and backpackers from carrying unnecessary weight, but also prevented further injuries and discomfort. 

 

Others in the outdoor world saw this as a foolish notion, believing that too much security and safety was sacrificed just to carry lighter loads. This light form of tourism soon became known, as it is today, as ultralight tourism.

 

Ultralight hiking and backpacking is not just about going "light and best day hiking backpack fast", a slogan that I find misleading and not indicative of what the ultralight philosophy is. UL hiking isn't just about going as fast as you can. You want to enjoy where you go and what you go through, 

 

right? UL backpacking isn't just about cutting as much weight out of your pack as you can, it's about being a practical hiker and backpacker with common sense.

 

I met a lot of good people on the AT last year. Some people I'd like to see again, some others well, you get the idea. I learned some things from both groups of people. I learned that UL is a relevant term and that it is translated in different ways. 

 

What works for one does not work for another. What helps one, hinders another. Go on your own hike, be a practical hiker and backpacker with common sense. Be resourceful and take care of your gear. Respect your fellow hikers and always be ready to help.

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