---
title: "Home on your back: how to choose an ultralight backpack"
description: "Is your head spinning from our range and you have no idea how to choose the ideal ultralight backpack for treks? Then we wrote this article about backpacks exactly for you."
canonical_url: "https://gramino.com/blog/how-to-choose-an-ultralight-backpack"
last_updated: "2022-03-30"
---

# Home on your back: how to choose an ultralight backpack

Authors: Tomáš Roztočil

Date: 2022-03-30

Is your head spinning from our range and you have no idea how to choose the ideal ultralight backpack for treks? Then we wrote this article about backpacks exactly for you.

Backpacks have always been indispensable companions on every mountain adventure – no trip into the unknown can do without one, from a polar expedition to a routine walk along a ridge. Over the past few decades packs have gone through an accelerated evolution that turned huge, heavy, shapeless leather sacks into specialized pieces of gear in many shapes, made from all kinds of materials and fitted with all sorts of technical extras.

How much you enjoy your chosen trek often comes down to the weight, comfort and durability of your backpack. There's nothing worse than having to think about sharp straps digging mercilessly into your shoulders instead of looking at the views, or unpacking your [sleeping bag](/c/sleep/sleeping-bags) for the first time only to find that a key zipper has come apart for good, or even discovering in horror that your backpack has turned into a handbag with a single shoulder strap.

These are exactly the problems and risks that plenty of more traditional hikers associate with [ultralight backpacks](/c/backpacks). In this article we'll try to set the record straight on whether those worries are justified, and we'll look at the **pros and cons of ultralight backpacks** as well as the specs that will help you pick one that fits your body and your style like a glove.

## **Is an ultralight backpack right for you?**

Ultralight backpacks fit perfectly into the concept of trekking without unnecessary weight. At first glance many people would argue that **their main drawback is lower capacity and load capacity**. In this case, though, the list of pros and cons depends entirely on your point of view. Fans of a light step and long treks appreciate that a lightened pack forces them to think about packing a little differently and more sparingly, while campers who never head into the woods without a billy can and a few tins just shake their heads in disbelief. [An ultralight backpack](/c/backpacks) certainly wouldn't enjoy a load of around 30 kg… and neither would you. So before you read on about choosing an ultralight backpack, it's worth pausing for a moment to consider [whether minimalism is actually for you](/blog/lightweight-hiking-benefits). Your backpack should always be the last of the big items in your kit that you replace or buy, because the choice (volume, load capacity, material…) depends on everything else on your trekking gear list.

If the change of approach and of backpack appeals to you but you're worried your gear isn't light enough yet, don't despair – switching to ultralight doesn't mean you have to replace your whole wardrobe and all your mountain gear right away. **What matters most isn't everything you take to the mountains, but above all what you leave at home**. We covered packing tips [in one of our earlier articles](/blog/how-to-lighten-your-backpack-7-tips), but if you don't have time to read it now, just know that minimalism isn't about a collection of expensive kit – it's above all about your approach and the art of living without the unnecessary. If you've made up your mind, or you've already felt for yourself what it's like to move through the mountains with ease, don't hesitate and dive headfirst into the world of ultralight backpacks.

## **Are ultralight backpacks durable enough?**

First let's clear up the most widespread myth about ultralight backpacks and gear in general – the favorite argument of fans of giant army packs is the endlessly repeated: "If it's light, it won't last." In today's world of technical materials that superstition obviously has no place.

The durability of [ultralight materials](/blog/technical-glossary-of-outdoor-materials) of course doesn't mean that every backpack will handle the same load – each one is built for a different purpose and has a different load capacity. **Among ultralight backpacks you'll find "monsters"** that handle loads around the 20 kilogram mark (the [SD Flex Capacitor 40-60](/p/sierra-designs-flex-capacitor-40-60-l), for example), **but also almost translucent "greyhound" packs** with a quarter of that load capacity, ideal for day trips or weekend crossings. Let's now go through the individual features and specs you should focus on when choosing a lightweight backpack.

[Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor 40-60 L](/p/sierra-designs-flex-capacitor-40-60-l.md)

## **Ultralight backpack materials**

Every ultralight backpack has to combine the almost incompatible – durability, minimal weight, comfort and functionality. And manufacturers manage to hit exactly that combination by using the most modern materials, such as the waterproof multi-layer laminates [**X-Pac**](https://www.x-pac.com/product/vx21/), [**Ultra**](https://www.challengesailcloth.com/ultra-collection) or even [**Dyneema®**](/blog/dyneema-fiber-and-its-fabrics) (which isn't stretchy, but easily resists water and is very tear resistant), or traditional **polyamide** (nylon) in its various improved versions (Robic, Gridstop, Cordura, etc.)

Sometimes it's best to just google the material in question – materials and their properties often hide behind trade names that tell you nothing on their own. **The denier value will give you a sense of how tough the fabrics and materials are** (marked with the letter "D"; the higher the value, the more durable and usually the heavier the material). You can read more about the materials themselves in one of our [earlier articles](/blog/technical-glossary-of-outdoor-materials).

- [Liteway Biggie Pack Ultra 45 L](/p/liteway-biggie-pack-ultra-45-l.md)
- [Liteway Elementum Pack Ultra 50 L (2024)](/p/liteway-elementum-pack-ultra-50-l-2024.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Junction 40 (2025)](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-junction-40.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Junction 55 (2025)](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-junction-55.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 55](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-unbound-55.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Waypoint 35](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-waypoint-35.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Contour 35](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-contour-35.md)
- [Liteway Elementum Pack 50 L (2024)](/p/liteway-elementum-pack-50-l-2024.md)
- [Sea To Summit Lightweight Dry Bag](/p/sea-to-summit-lightweight-dry-bag.md)

As with every other spec, when it comes to durability always keep in mind that the end justifies the means – if you're planning shorter pushes onto mountain ridges, for example, you can reach for **the most stripped-down models** with finer zippers and mesh.

But if you're heading out on **a months-long expedition somewhere beyond civilization**, go for tough, bombproof backpacks made from materials that won't be fazed by much. And don't forget to factor in how far along you are in lightening your gear, and how light or packable the rest of your kit is.

In fact, if you've actively started or are about to start [lightening your whole gear list](/blog/how-to-build-an-ultralight-gear-list), it's wise to leave **the backpack for last – you'll have a far better idea of the load capacity and volume you need.**

Designers save weight not only by carefully selecting fabrics, but also by placing them functionally. **At the bottom of the pack you'll usually find the toughest materials** and weight is saved in the less stressed areas.

Besides durability and low weight, some backpacks can also boast varying degrees of waterproofing, which you'll appreciate especially in rainy regions. That can be provided by at least **a water-repellent DWR coating**, as on the [backpack we reviewed here](/blog/review-granite-gear-crown2-60), the Granite Gear Crown 60 (an improved [3rd version](/p/granite-gear-crown3-60) is available today) or the [Mountainsmith Scream 55](/p/mountainsmith-scream-55-2023), or by the nature of the fabric itself. That's the case, for example, with **the completely waterproof and exceptionally durable Dyneema® material**, which you'll find on backpacks from [Hyperlite Mountain Gear](/b/hyperlite-mountain-gear), on the [Montane Trailblazer LT 28](/p/montane-trailblazer-lt-28), which is built **from siliconized nylon fabric**, or on backpacks from the Ukrainian [manufacturer Liteway](/b/liteway). If you want a waterproof backpack, then besides the material it's worth checking whether it has **taped seams**. Fabric durability in backpacks is usually reinforced with ripstop technology, which stops a snag from running, and all critical seams tend to be doubled up as well.

[Take a look at our range](/c/backpacks) and you'll see for yourself that we've picked only manufacturers who don't take the weight-to-durability ratio lightly.

- [Montane Trailblazer LT 28](/p/montane-trailblazer-lt-28.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Junction 40 (2025)](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-junction-40.md)
- [Granite Gear Crown3 60](/p/granite-gear-crown3-60.md)
- [Liteway Gramless Pack 35 L](/p/liteway-gramless-pack-x-pac-35-l.md)
- [Liteway Elementum Pack 50 L (2024)](/p/liteway-elementum-pack-50-l-2024.md)
- [Liteway Biggie Pack X-Pac 45 L](/p/liteway-biggie-pack-x-pac-45-l.md)
- [Liteway Urban Pro Pack 18 L](/p/liteway-urban-pro-pack-18-l.md)
- [Granite Gear Virga3 55 Women's](/p/granite-gear-virga3-55-womens.md)
- [Montane Trailblazer LT 20](/p/montane-trailblazer-lt-20.md)
- [Sea To Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Day Pack](/p/sea-to-summit-ultra-sil-dry-day-pack.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 55](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-unbound-55.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Junction 55 (2025)](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-junction-55.md)
- [Liteway Gramless Pack Ultra 35 L](/p/liteway-gramless-pack-ultra-35-l.md)

## **Framed or frameless backpack?**

A backpack's load capacity, and its overall weight too, depends not only on the materials used but to a large degree on whether the pack has a frame (a back stiffener) or not.

**Framed backpacks** most often have an aluminum (or sometimes plastic) stiffener along the back panel. It transfers the load better into your hips, so the pack carries better even under a heavier load. **Framed backpacks tend to use beefier materials and offer a larger overall volume**, they're simply built on the assumption that you'll carry more in them. Unless you're a true ultralight fanatic, we recommend choosing a framed backpack for longer trips. On many packs you can take the stiffener out if you need to. Framed backpacks include, for example, the [Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor 40–60](/p/sierra-designs-flex-capacitor-40-60-l), [Mountainsmith Scream 55](/p/mountainsmith-scream-55-2023), [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Junction 40](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-junction-40) and [Montane Trailblazer 44](/p/montane-trailblazer-44-2024).

**Frameless backpacks** have no back stiffener whatsoever. You can literally fold them in half or roll them up. That comes in handy when you need to use the pack as carry-on luggage and it's right at the size limit – you simply "deform" it. **The lightest backpacks on the market are the frameless ones**. Just don't forget that they won't be as comfortable under a heavier load, because you'll carry most of the weight on your shoulders. Many of them have no hip belt or back padding at all (or they do, but in a very minimalist form), so packing well matters much more here, so the contents don't press into your back. Foam sleeping pads are often used as padding in frameless backpacks, for example the [Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol](/p/therm-a-rest-z-lite-sol) or [EVA 3 mm](/p/eva-foam-pad-3-mm).

**We'd recommend frameless backpacks mainly to true ultralight enthusiasts, or for shorter (weekend) trips**. Frameless backpacks include, for example, the [Granite Gear Virga3](/p/granite-gear-virga3-55), [Granite Gear Virga 26](/p/granite-gear-virga3-26), [Liteway Elementum Pack Ultra 50L](/p/liteway-elementum-pack-ultra-50-l-2024), [Liteway Gramless Pack](/p/liteway-gramless-pack-x-pac-35-l) and [Montane Trailblazer LT 28](/p/montane-trailblazer-lt-28).

- [Gramino Ultralight Sit Pad](/p/gramino-ultralight-sit-pad.md)
- [EVA Foam Pad 3 mm](/p/eva-foam-pad-3-mm.md)
- [Tyvek 75x230 cm (for 1 person)](/p/tyvek-groundsheet-230-x-75-cm.md)
- [Therm-a-Rest Z Lite](/p/therm-a-rest-z-lite.md)
- [Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol](/p/therm-a-rest-z-lite-sol.md)
- [NEMO Switchback](/p/nemo-switchback.md)
- [Big Agnes TwisterCane BioFoam Hiking Seat](/p/big-agnes-twistercane-biofoam.md)

It's also worth mentioning that some brands, such as [Granite Gear](/b/granite-gear), [Montane](/b/montane) and [Mountainsmith](/b/mountainsmith) also offer **dedicated women's models**. These are usually built for a smaller frame and have differently shaped shoulder straps so the pack sits better on women's curves.

Another important element, mainly in terms of practicality, is the **design of the lid** (how the pack closes). Some ultralight backpacks have a **roll-top closure** – its key advantage is that you can simply extend the pack's volume upward. With a roll-top you usually won't find the zippered pocket you may be used to from classic backpacks (though a fanny pack replaces it nicely). If you can't do without a classic lid, go for more traditional models such as the [Granite Gear Crown3 60](/p/granite-gear-crown3-60), and over time you can get rid of the lid by unclipping it. Are you mainly after low weight, simplicity and unbeatable durability? Then don't hesitate and go for a pack from [Hyperlite Mountain Gear](/b/hyperlite-mountain-gear).

*Liteway Elementum Pack ultralight frameless backpack*

## **Features worth looking for**

**Always start by thinking about what you need from a backpack, how you pack your things and where you plan to carry it**.

A great feature on most ultralight backpacks is the **mesh pocket on the back** of the pack – it's perfect for carrying and drying wet things, a rain jacket, a [trowel](/p/sea-to-summit-pocket-trowel) and anything else you want quickly at hand or don't want to put in the main compartment.

If you like to keep moving and want to avoid constantly taking the pack off to hunt for things, look for **large hip belt pockets**, or for **additional** [**pockets on the shoulder straps**](/p/liteway-lite-pocket).

If you want to use the pack for weekend trips as well as longer journeys, it helps to be able to adapt it a little. The already mentioned **roll-top lid** is great for that, and so are **compression straps** on the sides of the pack, which also work for attaching gear.

Finally, it's worth watching details like the option of **attaching** [**trekking poles**](/c/gear/trekking-poles) **and compatibility with** [**hydration bladders**](/p/platypus-big-zip-evo).

- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-versa.md)
- [Liteway Lite Pocket Ultra](/p/liteway-lite-pocket-ultra.md)
- [Liteway Lite Pocket](/p/liteway-lite-pocket.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Shoulder Pocket](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-shoulder-pocket.md)
- [Liteway Fanny Pack](/p/liteway-fanny-pack.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Pods](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-pods.md)
- [Sea To Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Bag](/p/sea-to-summit-ultra-sil-dry-bag.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Bottle Pocket](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-bottle-pocket.md)
- [Platypus Softbottle 1.0 L Platy Logo Closure Cap](/p/platypus-softbottle-1-l-platy-logo-closure-cap.md)
- [CNOC Hydriam 500 ml 28 mm](/p/cnoc-hydriam-500-ml-28-mm.md)

## **What backpack volume do you need?**

Another hugely important factor when choosing a backpack is its volume, which again ties closely to the intended use. **The advantage of many ultralight backpacks is their versatility and flexibility**. Manufacturers often design them quite deliberately so that you can easily pack for a weekend and, a few weeks later, for a trip around the world without much trouble.

Perhaps the best example of such a versatile "expandable" backpack is the [Flex Capacitor](/b/sierra-designs) from Sierra Designs, which we stock in two volumes: [40–60](/p/sierra-designs-flex-capacitor-40-60-l) and [60–80](/p/sierra-designs-flex-capacitor-60-80-l) liters. Thanks to a clever strap system you can expand this model by up to 20 liters in a matter of moments, turning a slim two-day pack into a proper hauler that swallows a weekend's worth of climbing gear or a full week of gear in the mountains.

If you're clear on sizes, you can probably guess that year-round use calls for at least two backpacks. You'll need one for quick, single-day pushes to the ridge and shorter adventures.

If you're looking for a well-fitting pack for **full-day trips** that won't get in your way even when you're moving fast or running, reach for the [Montane Trailblazer](/p/montane-trailblazer-18-2024) in 18 or 25 liters, which we also stock in a [women's version](/p/montane-womens-trailblazer-24-2024).

If you're drawn to a slightly **more classic cut with a roomy, easy-to-organize compartment**, try the durable, comfortable and beautifully thought-out [Dagger 22](/p/granite-gear-dagger-22) from [Granite Gear](/b/granite-gear).

- [Montane Trailblazer 18 (2024)](/p/montane-trailblazer-18-2024.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Contour 35](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-contour-35.md)
- [Montane Trailblazer 25 (2024)](/p/montane-trailblazer-25-2024.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Aero 28](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-aero-28.md)
- [Montane Trailblazer 32 (2024)](/p/montane-trailblazer-32.md)
- [Granite Gear Dagger 22](/p/granite-gear-dagger-22.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Daybreak Ultralight Daypack](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-daybreak-ultralight-daypack.md)
- [Montane Trailblazer 44 (2024)](/p/montane-trailblazer-44-2024.md)
- [Montane Trailblazer LT 28](/p/montane-trailblazer-lt-28.md)

**The second pack comes into play on longer journeys** – here the volume you choose depends on how minimally you manage to pack and how long your trips actually are.

If you're only starting out with ultralight backpacking or heading for longer trips where there isn't a supermarket in every valley, we'd rather recommend a bigger **pack with a higher load capacity** that stays comfortable even when you throw in some extra supplies or a few luxuries.

The one that's proven itself for us here is the Granite Gear Crown2 in 60 liters, which we've already [tested thoroughly](/blog/review-granite-gear-crown2-60) on two longer treks in Norway (take a look at its newer version, the [Granite Gear Crown3](/p/granite-gear-crown3-60)). You also won't go wrong with the [Perimeter 50](/p/granite-gear-perimeter-50) from Granite Gear or with the waterproof backpacks from Hyperlite Mountain Gear – the [Junction 55](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-junction-55) or [Unbound 55](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-unbound-55-2026). What's more, these packs **compress easily** thanks to well-designed straps, so they won't flap around on your back at the end of a trek once you've eaten through your supplies.

**More experienced minimalists and fans of shorter weekend outings** will appreciate models with a volume of around 40 liters. A comfortable and beautifully thought-out backpack in this category is, for example, the [Montane Trailblazer 32](/p/montane-trailblazer-32), [Montane Trailblazer 44](/p/montane-trailblazer-44-2024) or the clever and comfortable [Mountainsmith Zerk 40](/p/mountainsmith-zerk-40), which won't flinch at even the wildest adventures.

**And to make choosing between backpack volumes a little easier, we've split our range into 3 groups:**

- [backpacks up to 25 liters](/c/backpacks/backpacks-up-to-25l),
- [backpacks from 25 to 50 liters](/c/backpacks/backpacks-25-50l),
- [backpacks over 50 liters](/c/backpacks/backpacks-over-50l).

## Backpack accessories

Beyond the basics, some manufacturers also offer clever [organizers](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-pods) or [dry bags](/c/gear/drybags-and-organisers), which let you organize the contents of your pack far better.

Don't be afraid to reach for a shoulder strap pocket such as the [HMG Shoulder Pocket](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-shoulder-pocket) or the [Liteway Lite Pocket Ultra](/p/liteway-lite-pocket-ultra) for the gear you need constantly at hand (a phone, say), or for the [versatile Versa pocket](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-versa), which works as a modular pocket for expanding your pack's volume and at the same time as a light fanny pack for short trips out of base camp.

If your backpack isn't waterproof, you can protect it with a light, packable rain cover or a [waterproof pack liner](/p/gramino-ultralight-waterproof-backpack-liner).

- [Liteway Fanny Pack](/p/liteway-fanny-pack.md)
- [Liteway Lite Pocket](/p/liteway-lite-pocket.md)
- [Sea To Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Bag](/p/sea-to-summit-ultra-sil-dry-bag.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Bottle Pocket](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-bottle-pocket.md)
- [Liteway Pokkie Pack](/p/liteway-pokkie-pack.md)
- [Patizon Stuff Sack](/p/patizon-stuff-sack.md)
- [Sea To Summit Mesh Stuff Sack 2023](/p/sea-to-summit-mesh-stuff-sack-2023.md)
- [Liteway Litebag With Dyneema®](/p/liteway-litebag-with-dyneema.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Shoulder Pocket](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-shoulder-pocket.md)

## **Time to hit the hill!**

Your head may be spinning a little from our range right now. But picking your chosen backpack won't be that complicated in the end! Pack your usual gear, head for the mountains and, on the way up the first hill, take stock of what kind of trips actually draw you in and what annoys you about your current pack. The answer won't keep you waiting long, and soon you'll be striding uphill with a much lighter load and a much wider smile.

- [Sea To Summit eVac Compression Dry Bag UL](/p/sea-to-summit-evac-compression-dry-bag-ul.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Roll-Top Food Bag](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-roll-top-food-bag.md)
- [Sea To Summit Lightweight View Dry Bag](/p/sea-to-summit-lightweight-view-dry-bag.md)
- [Sea To Summit Ultra-Sil Stuff Sack](/p/sea-to-summit-ultra-sil-stuff-sack.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-versa.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Camera Pod](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-camera-pod.md)
- [Sea To Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack](/p/sea-to-summit-ultra-sil-day-pack.md)
- [Sea To Summit Lightweight Dry Bag First Aid](/p/sea-to-summit-lightweight-dry-bag-first-aid.md)
- [Sea To Summit Field Repair Buckle](/p/sea-to-summit-field-repair-buckle.md)
- [Sea To Summit Field Repair Buckle 2 Pin](/p/sea-to-summit-field-repair-buckle-2pin.md)

This post is also available as [HTML](/blog/how-to-choose-an-ultralight-backpack).

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