Fastpacking: What is it and how to prepare for it?

If you've ever packed for a trip to the countryside, you'll agree that it's not easy. Especially since you need to pack sparingly and have all the necessary equipment with you for such a trip. And if you're planning to go on a trip for several days, then packing quickly and efficiently is even more important.

It makes a difference if you carry 10 kilos more or less. Moreover, when you have to walk 30 kilometers or run 50 or more a day with such a backpack on your back. Well – you don't have to, you want to, because you certainly like to overcome your own limits. And if you want to lure a teenager into the forest, the 25 kilo backpack you are currently packing for those three days in nature will definitely not add to your persuasive skills.

In the following article, we will talk about so-called fastpacking and how to not have to take more with you on adventure trips than necessary. You can walk and run lightly and still have everything you need for a multi-day hike.

What is fastpacking

Fastpacking (really) literally means “fast packing”, but it is not exactly possible to pack quickly. What is important is to pack efficiently. This method of packing is designed for one-day and multi-day treks away from civilization and, in addition to tourists, it is also used by ultramarathon runners who not only do not want to, but cannot, carry more than 20 kilos of weight on their backs.

Planning a trip using fastpacking

When planning a trip using the fastpacking method, you need to take into account some factors that, in addition to packing your luggage, will also help you plan the most suitable route that matches your strengths and experience.

Enough experience and skills

And let's start with this point. It is not good to overestimate your abilities at the planning stage, it can even be dangerous. The route should therefore be chosen based on your previous experience. As a beginner, you should also stick to the established tourist routes – in national parks, it is even mandatory.

Complexity of the terrain

Especially if you are going on a trip for several days, you should know something about the terrain in advance. And not only that. Given that you need to pack economically, plan your route so that you regularly come across natural sources of water. A liter of water is an extra kilogram. And if you are expending more energy, count on at least three liters per day. Even in Czech conditions, it is not always possible to get down to fill a water bottle in civilization. Naturally, adapt the terrain to your current health condition.

Length of the trip and what else needs to be taken into account

Plan your first adventure trip using fastpacking for about two nights. Beginners will survive it and at the same time test whether the fastpacking system they have set up suits them. However, definitely do not go on your first trip alone, but at least in two. If only because we tend to underestimate the easier terrain and thus cause unwanted injuries. And more people can share things that you only need to have once (such as a first aid kit). We should also take into account the time of year we are going on a trip and the current weather forecast.

What to keep in mind when packing for a fastpacking trip

The needs of every hiker, runner or mountaineer are different, however, there are certain principles that everyone should follow in their efforts to lighten their trips. Let’s try to summarize them.

Gradually buy lighter and lighter equipment

If you already own a sleeping bag, tent, hiking jacket or even a sleeping mat, replace them with their lighter versions as they get closer to the end of their lifespan. Be a minimalist in this regard too – buy fewer things, but at the same time don’t be afraid to invest more money in them and buy things of higher quality… and lighter.

Look for multi-purpose equipment

Some equipment doesn't have to have just one purpose. For example, if you have a lightweight windbreaker with suitable insulation, you can use it as an insulating layer in your sleeping bag. Thanks to this, you won't have to lug around a heavy sleeping bag designed for extremely low temperatures, but a lightweight and, most importantly, foldable option. And you can use hiking poles as tent poles for a tarp, for example. There are a whole host of similarly imaginative solutions. It just depends on your creativity.

Try to get rid of every gram

It may sound like a waste to you before the trip, but try to get rid of every gram. Cut unnecessary straps, shorten your toothbrush, take dehydrated food with you (and one that doesn't spoil quickly), protein bars, dried meat. Just a lot of energy in a small space. And think about the weight of the package. If a product has a heavier package, feel free to repackage it in a lighter one.

Limit the number of clothes changing

And one last tip – you’re not going to a fashion show, but to nature, where no one will really mind if you smell a little. Apart from underwear and socks, only take one set of clothes with you. And maybe one spare T-shirt, but that’s really all.