Ultralight camping packs

[Bowtie747]

Hey guys, I’m looking for lightweight or ultralight pack suggestions for camping. Mostly looking at packs like the Durston Kakwa 55, Zpaks, ULA, outdoor vitals. Those type brands. There’s many more and any info on any of them is what I’m after.

I’m also looking for your experiences with any of those types packs. What weights were and weren’t comfortable. How they held up.

I didn’t see a thread like this so hope it’s not a repost. I did see one about more hunting style lightweight packs but I’m looking more for camping types. Thanks!

 

[Beendare]

I've tried a couple back in the day- none of the ones you mentioned. One was the UL Kifaru thing under 2# that didn't last long- it wasn't good.

General comments;
IMO, You can go TOO light with a pack and many of these packs under 2# that are only designed to carry 15#. Any more weight and it's like throwing a sack over your shoulder.

The 2 components that suffer most is the straps and suspension if you have any weight in there at all and the pack body Barrels, loses shape. Some of these make it necessary to use a waffle pad to maintain its shape. No matter, stuff them full and they barrel.

I typically carry a 100oz water bladder so thats almost 7# right there. A good lightweight pack that still has a LW frame makes the felt weight less than some of these UL packs that will just hang on you with 15# plus.

as with any pack, actually trying it on with it loaded is critical to seeing how it fits.

 

[Kenai]

Ultralight backpacking is great, you just have to remember to keep it light. You can’t expect these packs to perform like a hunting pack. It’s hard to do if you don’t already have most of the gear.

That said, doing a backpacking trip with a lighter load makes the trip way more enjoyable for me.

To get there though you need to keep your base weight pretty light. If you can keep your base weight (sleep system, tent, stove, water filter and backpack) around 10 pounds it’s a good start. That leaves room for food and a luxury item or two but still be around 18-20 pounds.

Any of those brands you listed are good. I would toss Gossamer Gear and seek outside in there as well. Look for the size the features you want. I am currently running the Durston Kakwa 55. Whatever you choose I would recommend some sort of actual frame over a frameless pack.