Make a list of necessary items. These might include toiletries, food, clothing and tools. Gather all the items, and arrange them in different piles. Decide which items are mandatory, and which can be left behind.
Reduce your wardrobe to the basic necessities; clothing is fairly heavy. Plan on wearing each item at least twice. Pack long pants and underwear for cold weather trips. Cut back on heavier clothes if traveling to a warm climate.
Opt for dehydrated over canned food. Canned food typically adds at least 1 lb. per can to your pack. Dehydrated food takes up much less space; survival and camping stores are well stocked with these items.
Pick lightweight gear whenever possible. The backpack, a sleeping bag and your tent are three of the heaviest items you carry. Skipping the tent is an option if camping in a warm location. Buy a sleeping bag that offers optimum protection without adding extra weight.
Pack bottled water, tools and heavier objects in the bottom of the backpack. Wrap clothing around other items to reduce wasted space. Fill out the top of the backpack with the lightest objects.
