If you want to build your load, raise the pack weight by 2.5 per cent to 5 per cent each week.

Consequently, reducing the weight of these will reduce overall pack weight.

Proponents of ultralight backpacking argue that long lists of required items for multi-day hikes increases pack weight, and hence fatigue and the chance of injury.

In order to reduce their hiking time, and thereby increase their chances of completing the trail, many hikers try to substantially reduce their pack weight.

Instead, they recommend reducing pack weight, in order to make hiking long distances easier.