Backpacking requires backpackers to travel light, bringing with them only essential items which would come of value once out on a backpacking trail. As backpacking is the combination between hiking and camping, it really isn’t a wonder why the need to travel light is given emphasis when it comes to backpacking vacations.

Given this, a number of ultralight backpacking gear options are readily available for ones next backpacking vacation. From ultralight backpacking stoves to portable water purifiers, the roster of ultralight backpacking gear goes on and on. Included in this list of gear options would be ultralight backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, tarps, multipurpose clothing, as well as all-in-one survival knives and first aid kits.

Most professional backpackers would advise interested parties to consider purchasing these ultralight backpacking gear types for their next backpacking vacation, but also note certain household items which could actually be of value as backpacking gear. Here are two common household items which actually shine during a backpacking vacation.

Garbage Bags

Garbage bags are quite multifunctional as backpacking gear. They are light, and some are made strong enough to withstand rips, to a relative degree. In a backpacking vacation, garbage bags could serve a number of purposes like: emergency bags for backpack failure, an ash bucket, a water bucket, an earth pad, a tarp, a bandage, a stuff sack, and as a garbage bag.

Garbage bags are relatively cheap, depending on the type of garbage bag one would purchase. They come in quite handy in a backpacking vacation, serving a number of purposes, and being light items which are of value once outdoors.

Take the time to bring a roll of garbage bags on your next backpacking vacation. Itll be bound to come in very handy.

LED Flashlights

LED Flashlights are lighter and produce brighter light compared to regular flashlights. Any camper is aware of the value of a strong light source once outdoors, and would hold particular value to LED Flashlights.

They ideally fit the bill as backpacking gear, being light in terms of weight, small in terms of size, yet powerful in terms of illumination. These days, LED Flashlights are integrated into other items light cigarette lighters and survival knives. This integrated aspect of LED Flashlights save backpackers the hassle of having to bring two useful items, instead bringing only one which already has a LED flashlight installed, as well as the item they are integrated to.

All in all, these two commonly found household items prove to be quite effective in a backpacking vacation, further enhancing the economic concerns backpackers would have, with regards the cost of backpacking gear.