A place to chat about gear and the philosphy of ultralight. Ultralight bushwalking or backpacking focuses on carrying the lightest and simplest kit. There is still a good focus on safety and skill.
Forum rules
Ultralight Bushwalking/backpacking is about more than just gear lists. Ultralight walkers carefully consider gear based on the environment they are entering, the weather forecast, their own skill, other people in the group. Gear and systems are tested and tweaked. If you are new to this area then welcome - Please remember that although the same ultralight philosophy can be used in all environments that the specific gear and skill required will vary greatly. It is very dangerous to assume that you can just copy someone else's gear list, but you are encouraged to ask questions, learn and start reducing the pack weight and enjoying the freedom that comes.
Common words Base pack backpacking the mass of the backpack and the gear inside - not including consumables such as food, water and fuel light backpacking base weight less than 9.1kg ultralight backpacking base weight less than 4.5kg super-ultralight backpacking base weight less than 2.3kg extreme-ultralight backpacking base weight less than 1.4kg
Hi, looking to get a light weight pack mainly for use when packrafting. Main criteria is for dry weight = wet weight (ie doesnt soak up the water like my current pack) around 70L and needs to be able to be comfy with 15-20 kg external straps for raft/paddle able to cope with being thrown around/bush bashing/ bouncing of rocks
The ULA range look good - If anyone has the CATALYST or Circuit I could have a look at in Sydney of the Blue Mountains drop me a line Any other suggestions?
The HMG 4400 Porter ticks all those boxes. The only thing that might soak up water is the hip belt padding. If you seam seal them they see as good as any dry bag.
The ULA or SMD packs are good choices to carry ~15 kg. I would be looking for a more serious pack if you want it to be comfy with 20 kg, probably not very light.