Tip 1: Strategic preparation

Use an accurate scale (a kitchen scale is enough!) and open an Excel file on your computer. Start by taking the weight of each of the items you will be taking on the hike. You'll get a first glimpse of how your weight is distributed per item. Make the ratio in percentage: weight of the item / total weight. 

Understanding the weight distribution and percentage in the backpack is the first step in making strategic choices.

Tip 2: Disposal of unnecessary items

You and I are the same. We always want to take an extra item "just in case". However, there is a difference between bringing equipment to plan for plausible scenarios (for example, first aid kit) and bringing items without thinking (4 pairs of socks). 

You must base your thinking on your past experiences, the type of hike you are planning and your needs to make your hike a safe and successful one. Preparing your equipment list and reviewing it at each outing will help you eliminate or change your equipment at your own pace. 

Tip 3: One object, two uses

To minimize the weight of your backpack, you must have a good knowledge of your equipment and its use. It is perfectly possible to use the same equipment for different purposes. 

Here are a few concrete examples:

-Use a waterproof bag or storage bag as a pillow, 

-Use a saucepan as a plate (even for two people), 

-Use a home stove (example: P3RS), 

-Use your floor mat as a frame for your backpack, 

-Etc. 

Tip 4: Reducing the "big three" sound (sleeping bag, tent, backpack)

The three heaviest items in your backpack are the sleeping bag, the tent and the backpack. Weight reduction requires a strategic purchase of these 3 items. You will save a lot of weight by taking the time to shop for them! 

However, the disadvantage in reducing the weight of the "big three" is the cost. The materials used by companies that rely on ultralights are different from those used by "mainstream" outdoor companies. It is an investment that must be made in a well-considered manner.

Tip 5: Food weight

The choice of meals and foods is very important. Strategic thinking is required in order to maximize the calorie/weight ratio. 

This ratio will allow you to reduce the weight of food while giving you energy on the hiking trail. This ratio is even more important for long hikes.

Tip 6: Lighten your equipment

Be smart! With the elements around you, you can reduce the weight of your bags.  

Why bring a spoon when you can eat with a piece of wood? Why bring deodorant on a hiking trail? Why use toilet paper? Every gram counts!

Take the time to analyze every part of your backpack. Try to replace it with a lighter one. This reflective exercise will allow you to think critically about your choice of equipment. 

Tip 7: Read and learn from your friends

You will find a lot of very useful information on the internet. There are blogs, articles, videos, but also forums and social networks (Facebook). You will find many tips and advice from these sources of information, without forgetting your family and friends who also go hiking.  

However, take a step back from what you can read. Every hiker gives tips that work for themselves, but not every tip is good for everyone. On forums or Facebook pages, you will find some useful tips, but sometimes some can be dangerous to follow. So take the time to learn about them and get informed!

Also, when you meet outdoor enthusiasts, don't hesitate to ask them for their strategy. Hikers like to share their experiences, their stories, but also personal techniques to reduce the weight of the backpack. Be inspired by your outdoor companions!

Every hiker is unique and everyone has different needs! Ask the experts to advise or help you.