Lighten Your Pack, Improve Your Hike
If you’re carrying too much gear, your hike might feel harder than it needs to be. Over the years, I’ve trimmed down my pack and discovered which items actually earn their place—and which ones just add bulk.
Here are 10 common backpacking gear items that aren’t worth the weight (and what to use instead).
Want a complete gear breakdown? Grab my free Printable Backpacking Packing List.
1. Dedicated Camp Pillow
Comfortable, yes—but your puffy jacket stuffed in a stuff sack does the same job. Save the weight and leave the pillow at home.
2. Backpacking Towels
I carried one for years—and barely used it. A buff or bandana works better, weighs less, and has multiple uses (sweat rag, pot holder, pre-filter).
3. Camp Lanterns
They’re bulky and unnecessary. Your headlamp does a better job for less weight and is more versatile.
4. Plastic Spork-Spoon-Knife Combos
These snap, feel awkward, and the knife part is useless. A titanium spoon is all you need.
5. Extra Utensils
Spatulas, stirrers, forks—none of them matter. One spoon rules the backcountry kitchen.
6. Big Pot Sets
Unless you’re cooking for a group, one pot is plenty. Most backpackers just boil water anyway.
7. Water Bottle Shoulder Holsters
They bounce, get in the way, and are harder to refill. Side pockets or shock-cord mods are simpler and lighter.
8. Heavy Knives / Fixed Blades
Bushcraft? Maybe. Backpacking? Overkill. A mini Swiss Army knife or razor blade is plenty.
9. Fire Starters / Ferro Rods
Fun for survival practice, but impractical on trail. Just carry a Bic lighter—it’s lighter, easier, and reliable.
10. Solar Chargers
Seem smart, but real-world hiking conditions (shade, clouds, movement) make them unreliable. A power bank is a better choice.
Final Thoughts
Every piece of gear has a purpose—but not every piece is worth carrying. By cutting out non-essentials, you’ll hike lighter, feel better, and enjoy your trip more.
What gear have you ditched over time? Share in the comments below—I’d love to hear what’s made your pack leaner.