Die großen 4

The Big Four

March 1, 2022
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If you are new to ultralight hiking and are wondering what to start with, you will quickly come across the "big 4": backpack, tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad.

Here you can quickly and relatively easily save a lot of weight...

BACKPACK:


Backpack: Depending on its size, it should weigh around 1-1.5 kg. A classic trekking backpack often weighs a good 2 kg or more! If you are new to the topic, we recommend not taking the lightest models, they work well if you know what you definitely don't need, meaning your base weight should not exceed 5kg.
Reference model: ULA Circuit

TENT:


For tents, at least for 3-season use, there are excellent tents for 2 people weighing about 1 kg. You have the choice of tents with or without poles. For beginners, models with poles are a bit easier to set up and more forgiving if you have chosen your spot incorrectly.
Even lighter are models without poles, which are usually pitched with trekking poles, work very well, but require more practice to set up.
Reference model with poles: Big Agnes Tiger Wall
                                 without poles: Sixmoon Lunar Solo, Slingfin Splitwing

SLEEPING BAG / QUILT

For sleeping bags, down is almost always the right choice. Much smaller and lighter than comparable synthetic models. A good down sleeping bag weighs about 800g if the comfort rating is around 0°C. You can go even lighter with a quilt. These are open at the bottom and are secured to the sleeping pad. Tip: Always consider the comfort rating when choosing; if you tend to get cold easily, choose a warmer option. On classic long-distance hikes, you often get cold faster than on "normal" tours at home, so it's better to plan for a little more reserve. A sleeping bag must fit your body size.
Regarding quilts: Not everyone is suited for a quilt. My recommendation is that quilts are more for warm sleepers and experienced users. With a quilt, you always need a really warm, insulated sleeping pad!
Reference model sleeping bag, 3-season: Rab Neutrino 400, Pajak Core 400 / 550
Reference model quilt: Cumulus Quilt 350, Thermarest Vesper

SLEEPING PAD:


Even for sleeping pads, there are now very lightweight models that still allow for a great night's sleep. Depending on size and insulation, about 400g. Minimalists only need a foam pad. Advantage: indestructible and more comfortable than you think. Disadvantage: a bit uncomfortable for side sleepers, not for quilt sleepers. How warm pads are is indicated by the R-value. Good foam pads should have an R-value above 2, inflatable versions between 3 and 4; above 4, these pads are also suitable for winter.

 Reference model inflatable: Nemo Tensor insulated, Thermarest Neo Air X-Lite
Reference model foam: Nemo Switchback