Fastpacking blends the speed of trail running with the endurance of backpacking. It appeals to those who want to cover more ground without sacrificing multi-day adventures. The goal often involves reaching distant alpine lakes or compressing a two-week hike into a week.
The basics of fastpacking
Fastpacking involves carrying overnight gear while moving quickly. Some use it to complete long-distance routes in fewer days, such as finishing the Tour du Mont Blanc in four instead of ten. Others extend their range on familiar trails, turning a 40-mile loop into a two-day trip.
The John Muir Trail, usually a two- to three-week journey, can be completed in a week. Even ultramarathon courses like Colorado’s Hardrock 100 become manageable over four days, earning the nickname “Softrock” among enthusiasts. A lighter pack can make remote campsites feel more accessible.
Gear that balances speed and comfort
There’s no single approach to fastpacking. Some track every gram in a spreadsheet, while others prioritize speed by leaving nonessentials behind. Gear choices adapt to terrain, weather, and personal preference.
A 30-liter pack often works well. The Mountain Hardwear Lickety Split 20L suits quick overnights when packed light. It fits all the essentials with ease, and has a bit of extra space for more food or clothes if headed out for a multi-day mission.
Shelter depends on conditions. Minimalists may opt for the Outdoor Research Helium UL Bivy, which weighs just 18 ounces but protects against dew and bugs.
Sleep systems emphasize efficiency. The Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt is popular for warmer trips, packing small and eliminating cold spots. For colder climates, the Western Mountaineering UltraLite Sleeping Bag uses 850-fill down and compresses tightly. A sleeping pad like the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT, with its 4.5 R-value, provides warmth without bulk.
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Clothing must handle shifting temperatures. A sun hoody, such as the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Zip Hoody, protects against UV rays and works as a layering piece. A packable down jacket is essential for mountain trips where weather changes rapidly.
Fastpacking requires trade-offs. A heavier tent might improve sleep, but a lighter pack could allow more miles. The right balance depends on the trip and how much discomfort someone tolerates. Some carry a paperback novel, while others focus on shaving grams to set a personal best.
Safety and navigation essentials
When cell service disappears, a satellite communicator becomes vital. The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a compact option for emergencies, particularly on remote trails where injuries or altitude sickness can escalate. A reliable headlamp, like the Petzl Bindi, is small but powerful, with a variable-angle lens for hands-free use.
A GPS watch with long battery life, such as the Garmin Enduro 3, assists with navigation. Its solar charging extends runtime to 320 hours in GPS mode, and the built-in flashlight serves as a backup. A lightweight first aid kit, like the Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7, covers basic needs without adding weight.
Preparation makes trips smoother. Testing gear and refining setups helps, but even well-planned outings can face unexpected challenges. Weather shifts, washed-out trails, or early fatigue may require adjustments. Staying adaptable means knowing when to slow down, reroute, or end the day.
For those who enjoy running but want the depth of backpacking, fastpacking provides a solution. It allows people to see more of the backcountry without rushing. Trail runners often share insights on the best gear for these adventures.
Former rangers like Melisa Dalley have also contributed to the sport by leading rogue tours that blend speed with exploration.
