The ultimate guide to ultralight backpacking: how to choose your kit

Ultralight backpacking is about carrying less so you can walk further, move faster and actually enjoy the trail instead of fighting your own pack. But going light doesn't mean going without — it means choosing kit that's smart, durable and suited to the terrain you're tackling. Your backpack sits right at the centre of that decision, since it's the one piece of gear that has to carry, organise and protect everything else you own for days at a time. Below, we've broken down three of our favourite backpack brands so you can find the right fit for your next adventure.

Osprey: trail-proven ultralight backpacking for every distance

Osprey has been refining hiking backpacks since 1974, and it shows in every stitch. For multi-day expeditions where you need to carry a full shelter, sleeping system and several days of food, our Osprey Aether Plus 85 is a genuine workhorse. It uses Osprey's AirSpeed suspended mesh back panel to maximise ventilation on tough climbs, a Fit-on-the-Fly hipbelt you can adjust mid-hike, and a dedicated sleeping bag compartment for quick access at camp.

If speed matters more than capacity, the Osprey Exos delivers an exceptional ultralight carry without sacrificing comfort, thanks to its ExoForm 3D-moulded back panel and thoughtful pocket layout. And for travellers who want one bag that works as a carry-on and a daypack, the Osprey Farpoint 40 is one of the most versatile packs we stock. You can read more in our guide to Osprey backpacks built for every trail or check out our roundup of great hiking backpacks from Osprey.

Exped: Swiss-engineered ultralight backpacking built for the long haul

Designed in Switzerland and trusted by adventurers who demand lightweight, packable gear without compromising on durability, Exped brings genuine backcountry engineering to its pack range. Our Exped Lightning 60 is built for hikers who want a technical, minimalist pack that still holds up on demanding multi-day routes, while our Exped Ridgeline 65 offers a little more structure and organisation for those who prefer a more traditional load-carrying frame.

Both are excellent options if you're chasing a pack that won't weigh you down before you've even left the car park, and they pair beautifully with Exped's equally well-regarded sleeping mats and sleeping bags if you're building out a complete ultralight system.

Fjällräven: ultralight backpacking - rugged Scandinavian style that lasts

If you want a pack built to handle decades on the trail rather than just one season, Fjällräven's Scandinavian design philosophy is hard to beat. Our Fjällräven Keb 72 Litre Hiking Backpack is a serious multi-day option, with a durable frame and generous capacity for extended trips into remote country — and it's currently one of our best value packs in this range.

For lighter days out, the Fjällräven Skule 28L Backpack brings the same rugged construction down to a daypack size, perfect for day hikes or as a reliable travel companion. If you're deciding between a full overnight pack and something smaller, our guide to day pack hiking backpack bags in Australia walks through exactly what to look for.

Why hikers choose PAST Outdoors for their kit

Pack fit isn't a one-size-fits-all decision, which is why so many hikers search for a camping goods store near me before committing to a purchase. Torso length, hipbelt shape and load capacity all matter more than most people expect, and getting them wrong can turn a great trip into an uncomfortable one. Our team can talk you through fitting, sizing and load distribution so you're not guessing — whether you shop with us online or visit us in person, we treat every fit the same way we would if you were standing in front of us in Helensburgh.

We're a family-owned Australian hiking, camping and travel business, and we've built our reputation on genuinely knowing our gear — not just selling it. With over 2,195 customer reviews and a 94% five-star rating, our community consistently tells us the same thing: real advice, quality kit, and support that doesn't stop after checkout. We also donate a percentage of every sale to environmental charities through 1% for the Planet, because we care about the trails as much as you do. If you're ready to build a kit that will actually carry you the distance, shop with us today and let our team help you get it right the first time.