Ultralight Backpacking? Getting Started

OK, so that last post pretty much said "you've got to go ultralight if you know what's good for you."  I am such a hypocrite on this too, because my gear is nowhere near ultralight.  But let's get started anyway, with this post from Section Hiker: Ultralight Ultra-Fast Backpacking Makeovers.  Their sensible method is to start with the heaviest components a backpacker usually carries: pack, tent, and sleep system.  Minimize the weights there and the work is mostly done.

In that article, the writer at Section Hiker puts together three sets of basics: inexpensive, 6 lbs for $623; moderate, 4.6 lbs for $1017; and expensive, 4 lbs for $1435.  Even the inexpensive option is a chunk of change, but comparing to say getting started in mountain biking, these are all bargain prices.  What's more, I don't think that even the money for the expensive option here would get you past the initial consultation for knee replacement surgery.  It's something to keep in mind.

BTW, the same items from my gear total out to 9.5 lbs.  Not ultralight, but on the flatlands around here it's working pretty well and I'm not having any particular difficulties.  However, I do need to sweat down the total weight of some of the other items before backpacking season starts again next fall.

Anyway, go read that article at Section Hiker and read Nutall's book.  Those two will get you started in the right direction.  Alright, enough of this backpacking and camping business until fall.

ps, 5/13: Before you run out and go buy some wonder-fiber ultrasuperduperlight backpack, it's worth reading these three reviews of Osprey's new sub-2 pound Levity backpack: GearJunkie | Section Hiker | Outside   As appealing as dropping two pounds automagically may be, ultralight packs have some drawbacks in durability and haul weight.  Something to think about if you want to throw in an extra five pounds of radio gear and go bushwhacking.  On the whole, glad I got what I got.