What clothing should an ultralight backpacking list include?
Wear and carry the right base layers
Plan one hiking outfit and one set of camp clothes, rather than a full change for each day. Synthetic or merino base layers dry faster than cotton, which holds moisture and feels cold. Socks and underwear should match your trip length and washing plans.
- One hiking top and bottom
- One warm layer for camp
- Rain jacket and rain pants
- Hat, gloves, and sun protection
Plan for warmth and rain
A lightweight insulated jacket is useful in camp, when temperatures drop quickly after sunset. A rain shell protects you from wind and wet conditions and can double as a windbreaker. Layers you can add or remove help you manage sweat during a long climb, so pack for the coldest night rather than the warmest afternoon.
Avoid bulky extras
Cotton jeans, extra shirts, and heavy boots add weight without much benefit on most trips. Wash one set of clothes on the trail if you need to, and let it dry while you rest. Keep the clothing list short enough that you can see every item in one pile.
Common mistakes
- Packing cotton clothing that stays wet and makes you cold.
- Bringing a full change of clothes for every day of the trip.
- Ignoring nighttime temperatures and packing only for daytime hiking.
