If you’re after a speedy adventure out in nature, then you might want to try fastpacking.
Fastpacking is the ultimate combination of fitness, wild camping, and backpacking. It’s all about going ultralight on your gear and being able to cover backpacking trails much faster.
Here’s everything you need to know to understand fastpacking and get started with it.
What is Fastpacking?
Fastpacking is a combination of trail running and ultralight backpacking. It involves running, jogging, and sometimes power hiking over long distances while carrying only the essentials needed for a multiday trip. The goal is to move quickly and cover a lot of ground, allowing you to explore deeper into the wilderness.
When fastpacking, you carry a lightweight kit, which usually includes a small tent or bivvy bag, a sleeping bag, minimal cooking gear, food, and some safety equipment. Because your gear is light, you can move faster than traditional backpacking, but you also carry enough to stay out for several days.
The main appeal of fastpacking is the ability to see more in less time. You can venture further into remote areas and experience more of nature’s beauty.
It’s about pushing yourself both physically and mentally, enjoying the freedom of the outdoors, and finding empowerment in covering large distances on foot.
Whether you’re setting up camp at the end of the day or waking up for another long run, fastpacking offers a unique and challenging adventure.
Why Go Fastpacking?
Fastpacking is a great way to cover long distances in a short time. A trail that might take 4 or 5 days to hike can be fastpacked in just 2 or 3 days.
One big difference from ultralight hiking is that your gear is designed for running. This means you carry less and lighter equipment, making it easier to travel faster. Even if you walk over tough terrain, having running gear lets you go further and see more.
Fastpacking is also an excellent workout. Running over rough ground, climbing mountains, and moving quickly through remote areas while carrying your overnight gear is a tough but rewarding challenge.
It’s a fantastic way to push your limits, enjoy nature, and get a great endorphin boost.
How to Get Started Fastpacking
Ready to go fastpacking? While anyone can do it, the more prepared you are the more fun you’ll have.
Here are the main things to focus on before you go fastpacking.
Focus On Your Fitness
Start by getting comfortable with trail running without a pack. Running long distances over rough terrain is tough, so build your endurance through regular hiking and trail running.
Do back-to-back hiking or running days to get used to being on your feet for extended periods. Try to match the elevation changes of your planned trips during your training.
Even if you’re an experienced trail runner or ultralight backpacker, training for longer and more challenging adventures is beneficial.
Narrow Down the Right Gear
Choose lightweight gear that works well for running.
Test your equipment on overnight hiking and camping trips to ensure everything is in order. Practice hiking and running with the pack you plan to use.
Familiarize yourself with lightweight backpacking gear to make your fastpacking experience smoother.
Partner Up With Someone Experienced
If you’re new to fastpacking, consider going with someone who has done it before. This makes the experience more enjoyable and safer. You’ll also learn valuable tips from their experience.
Start Small and Work Up to Bigger Adventures
Begin with local routes using the same backpack and weight you plan to take on longer trips.
This helps you identify and fix any gear issues. Start with out-and-back trips close to home, sticking to familiar or well-traveled paths.
Once you’re comfortable, explore more remote areas and consider travelling to different regions or countries.
Be Realistic About Your Pace
Understand that carrying a pack will slow you down. Adjust your expectations and accept a slower pace when running with a loaded pack, especially in mountainous terrain.
Consider Safety
Always let someone know your itinerary and where you’re going.
Take an emergency messaging device if you’re heading deep into the backcountry. Understand your route, and have a backup plan in case anything goes wrong.
By following these steps, you can start fastpacking confidently and safely, enjoying the thrill of covering long distances and exploring new areas.
What to Take Fastpacking
A massive part of fastpacking is getting the right gear. After all, the gear you choose is what allows you to fastpack instead of simply go backpacking.
Here’s what you need to take on your fastpacking adventure.
Backpack
Your backpack is crucial. Choose one that fits well and stays comfortable over long distances.
Some prefer hydration vests or running backpacks that don’t bounce and cause chafing. Test it by loading it with gear to ensure it works for you.
Clothing
Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking trail-running clothes.
Bring a waterproof, packable jacket, and pack an extra pair of socks, a shirt, and shorts. A lightweight insulated jacket is essential for warmth in cold weather or high altitudes.
Trekking Poles
If you use trekking poles, practice running with them first. They help balance your load and provide stability, especially on downhill sections.
Water
Know where water sources are on your route and plan accordingly.
Carry a water filter or purifier. Options include squeeze-style filters, water filter bottles, chemical treatments, and straw filters. Consider carrying a backup filter if you’re going far into the wilderness.
Food
Choose easy-to-digest foods for the trail, like energy bars. Experiment during training to find what works for you.
Minimalists might skip the stove and eat no-cook foods, while others may prefer to boil water for freeze-dried meals.
Shelter
Your shelter choice depends on weather, comfort, and budget. Minimalists may use an ultralight tarp or bivvy. Others might prefer a full ultralight tent for better protection. Make sure you understand how to choose the right tent to help you get the best ultralight option.
Sleep System
A backpacking quilt can save weight compared to a traditional sleeping bag.
Quilts are designed for use with a sleeping pad and lack hoods, bottom insulation, and zippers. If comfort is more important, opt for an ultralight sleeping bag.
Be Patient With Gear
Building your gear collection can be expensive. Start with one or two key items and upgrade gradually as your budget allows. Over time, you’ll assemble a complete set of fastpacking equipment.
How to Plan a Fastpacking Trip
Once you’ve got all the gear ready, it’s important that you take the time to carefully plan your fastpacking trip. Here are some essential considerations to make.
Research Routes
Start by asking friends who have fastpacked about their favourite routes. You can also connect with others online to get recommendations.
Contact local ranger districts for information on wild areas nearby. Look for established backpacking routes that can be adapted for fastpacking.
Check out our guides to the best walking trails in the UK and the best backpacking routes in Europe for some inspiration.
Match the Route to Your Skill Level
Choose a route that fits your fitness and experience level.
If you’re new to fastpacking, start with familiar terrain. Plan daily distances based on how many hours you can run each day, especially on consecutive days. Allow extra time for routes with significant elevation changes.
Source Your Water
Minimize the amount of water you carry by refilling at natural water sources like streams, creeks, and rivers.
Study topo maps to identify these sources and talk to rangers about their reliability. Make sure you have a method to purify water.
Plan for Permits
Check if any permits are needed for your trip. Contact the relevant land management agency to understand the permit requirements and secure them in advance.
Check Weather Conditions
Because you’ll be carrying minimal gear, it’s crucial to know the weather forecast. This helps you pack appropriately and ensures you’re prepared for the conditions you might encounter.
Use Guidebooks and Websites
Consult guidebooks and online resources for route ideas and recent trip reports. Hiking and backpacking guides often provide valuable information that can be adapted for fastpacking.
By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to plan and enjoy a successful fast-packing trip.
Conclusion
The more you fastpack, the better at it you’ll get. As long as you’re fit, well-prepared, and carefully plan your route, you’ll have an amazing time on fastpacking trails.
Whether you’re focused on building your fitness, or simply don’t have the time for a traditional backpacking route, then going fastpacking is an excellent option.