Ultra light hiking is the latest wave in hiking. It is the revolution of hiking equipment to meet the demand for lighter weight and more versatility. If you are looking to do a long distance hike it is well worth the extra cost to invest in some new lighter equipment.

My first pack was an old army frame backpack that weighed seven pounds or more. The new styles include an internal frame pack that weighs five pounds and is much more comfortable. Of course you can get a go-light pack that weighs less than a pound but I'm not sure of how long it would last. The new backpacks have rain covers which are light weight and easy to pack.

Gortex is great but costly so for clothing I prefer the innovative dri-star cloth that is a polyester blend and dries almost instantly compared to the traditional cotton that stays wet and leaves you chapped.

Mess kits have become more simple with titanium sporks taking the place of a fork and spoon. When it comes to pots and pans I still prefer my old army mess kit for cooking though because it is durable and last forever but they have some with copper bottoms that are lighter weight.

Tents have come a long way. My first tent weighed 13 pounds the new one I have is a diamond brand tent that weighs about six pounds and sleeps two. However there are others that are three or four pounds depending on how many people they sleep.

Sleeping bags are important if you want to camp in a variety of weather and altitudes. The best sleeping bag I ever owned was an army arctic degree bag but it was heavy and bulky. So I opted for a newer Coleman bag that is rated for 15 degrees and weighs about four pounds. They make some that are only one pound so shop around for what you like. A compressor bag makes it easier to carry your sleeping bag outside the backpack and keeps it from getting wet too.

Food is one of the heaviest things a hiker carries. Although if you plan well it will all disappear over the course of the hike meaning on the return trip your pack will be lighter. Freeze dried food is the lightest but you could opt for the meals ready to eat, or dehydrated meals depending on what you like.

Of course you can go even lighter by leaving all the equipment behind. There are tour groups now that offer to deliver your bags to a camping spot already set up so all you have to do is just hike the trail. The other option is to go to the hike inn. You won't need to carry as much gear if you stay there. No matter what be careful choosing your new gear because it adds up fast. So before you buy you should learn more about the equipment at www.backpacker.com or www.rei.com.

Learn more about this author, Sadonna Kimberly.
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