There’s a special kind of joy that comes from hiking with a pack so light you almost forget it’s there.
That’s the beauty of ultralight camping.
Whether you're heading out for an overnight hike, a weekend wild camp, or just trying to trim unnecessary weight from your backpacking setup, getting your base weight under 5kg can completely change the experience. You move faster, climb easier, and honestly enjoy the trail more.
Here are three lightweight camping essentials that can seriously cut pack weight without sacrificing comfort.
Best Overall: Ultralight Rodless Pyramid Tent
£48.30 £97.53
Why We Like It
This ultralight pyramid tent skips traditional tent poles entirely and uses trekking poles as the support system. That means one less bulky item in your pack, and if you already hike with poles, you’re carrying zero extra structure weight.
Its pyramid shape isn’t just sleek-looking—it’s naturally stable in windy conditions and surprisingly roomy inside for solo camping. The ripstop nylon shell helps block light rain and wind, while the inner mesh keeps airflow moving and bugs out where they belong.
Packed down, it compresses incredibly small, which makes it easy to slide into a backpack side pocket or stash next to your sleeping bag.
Activity Use
Perfect for backpacking, thru-hiking, and bike touring where every gram matters. The compact packed size fits easily in a pack.
Packing Or Gear Tip
Pair with a lightweight trekking pole to use as the center support. The included pegs and ropes are adequate, but upgrading to titanium stakes can save a few more grams.
Ultralight Sleeping Pad with Foot Pump & Pillow
£79.93 £125.72
Why We Like It
This inflatable camping sleeping pad manages to stay lightweight while still feeling genuinely comfortable. The built-in pillow is a huge win, you save space by not packing a separate one, and setup is quick thanks to the integrated foot pump. No extra pump bag. No blowing until you’re dizzy. Just a few presses with your foot and you’re done. The raised air-cell design gives good support and helps keep pressure points off your hips and shoulders. Plus it adds insulation from the cold ground underneath, which makes a big difference during chilly nights. Packed away, it rolls down small enough to tuck into the outside pocket of a hiking backpack.Activity Use
Ideal for backpacking, car camping, and overnight hikes. The ability to connect two pads makes it useful for couples or family trips.
Weather / Durability Note
Made from 40D nylon and TPU, the pad is abrasion-resistant. The two-layer valve prevents air leaks.
Packing Or Gear Tip
Deflates in one second for quick pack-up. Rolls down to about water-bottle size. The valve also allows manual inflation if the pump fails.
Editor Favorite: Ultralight Camping Cookware Set
£33.90 £52.88
Why We Like It
This lightweight camping cookware set includes nesting pots made from hard-anodized aluminum, which heat efficiently and don’t add unnecessary grams to your load. The folding silicone handles are a smart touch—they stay comfortable to grip, fold inward neatly, and keep the whole set compact when packed. It’s great for boiling water for coffee, making oatmeal at sunrise, heating soup, or throwing together a quick trail dinner after a long hike. Because the pieces stack together, you can even store a stove or fuel canister inside to save even more space.Activity Use
Suitable for camping, hiking, backpacking, and picnics. Designed for 1-2 people. Use with a small camping stove or over a campfire.
Weather / Durability Note
Aluminum construction is rust-resistant and easy to clean. Hand washing recommended to maintain the non-stick anodized surface. Not dishwasher safe.
Packing Or Gear Tip
Stores the smaller pot inside the larger one, with the lid secured by the mesh bag. Add a lightweight stove and spork for a complete cooking system.
Ultralight isn’t about roughing it—it’s about being smart with every gram. A lighter shelter, a more packable sleeping pad, compact cookware, a foldable pack, and one comfort item that makes camp feel like home. Cut the non-essentials, keep what matters, and the trail suddenly gets a whole lot easier. Your knees will thank you. If you’re aiming for a sub-5 kg base weight, these three pieces are a solid starting point.
Ultralight Camping Gear FAQ
What does 'ultralight' mean in camping gear?
Ultralight gear minimizes weight and packed size without sacrificing essential functionality. Typical ultralight items weigh less than 2-3 pounds per piece. This allows hikers and backpackers to carry lighter loads over long distances.
Can I use a rodless pyramid tent without trekking poles?
Yes, but you'll need some kind of pole or stick to prop up the center. Most users pair it with adjustable trekking poles, but you can also use a tree branch or a dedicated tent pole. The tent is designed to be supported by a single center pole.
How do I clean and maintain an inflatable sleeping pad?
Wipe it down with a damp cloth after use, and store it partially inflated with the valve open to prevent mold. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. If it gets dirty, use mild soap—never harsh chemicals.
