When it comes to backpacking, any experienced backpacker knows that cutting down on the weight is essential.  Backpackers go to extreme lengths to remove even a few ounces from their packs because backpacking becomes much more difficult with a heavier pack.  When backpacking, it’s important to carry as little weight as possible, and this often means shying away from the standard camping equipment.  For example, two person backpacking tents might weigh as much as ten pounds less than a standard two person camping tent because a backpacking tent will have plastic poles and lightweight fabric. 

When backpacking it’s also important to leave behind those items that weigh too much.  Cookware and dishes, for example, are items that backpackers prefer to remove from their packs.  Food and water is essential outdoors, but both can add a lot of weight.  Backpackers tend to eat a lot of powdered food like humus, and instead of having a potable water supply, backpackers often use a portable water filter and carry just a single bottle of water for each person.