Why Go Ultralight? 4 Big Reasons from Our Founder

Hi! I’m Sarah Berkeley, founder of Symbiosis Gear, and I want to talk about something that completely changed the way I hike - and just might change the way you do too: going ultralight.

There’s a common stereotype around ultralight hikers: 30-something, bearded, spreadsheet-obsessed. But the truth? Ultralight backpacking isn’t just for them. In fact, the first ultralight hiker I ever met was a silver-haired, retired woman absolutely crushing miles on the Vermont Long Trail.

Her pack wasn’t even ultralight, she’d hired someone to retrofit it to fit her body. But the rest of her kit was dialed, and it completely reshaped how I thought about backpacking. At the time, I was carrying a six-pound pack and a five-pound sleeping bag from the '90s. I’ve come a long way since then.

Here are four reasons I believe ultralight backpacking makes trail life better - for everyone:

1. It’s Easier on Your Body

Hauling 50+ pounds over miles of trail is tough on anyone but especially on joints, backs, and knees. A 20-pound load (or less) makes hiking feel easier, not harder. And the impact isn’t just about one trip - it’s about staying active and injury-free for years to come.

2. It’s Safer

Picture this: you’re on a ridge and a lightning storm rolls in. Your best move is to get off that ridge, fast. A heavy, bulky pack slows you down when it matters most. A lighter load gives you better mobility and more options in the moment.

3. It Opens Up More Possibilities

Heavy gear = less mileage, more fatigue. With an ultralight setup, you can decide what your day looks like. Want to crank out big miles? You can. Want to chill and hike short? That’s on the table too. Less weight means more freedom.

4. It’s Just More Fun!

If you’ve ever bent under a massive pack, sweating through switchbacks, you know: it’s not fun. A lighter pack lets you move more naturally, enjoy the views, and actually breathe. Joy matters. And ultralight makes more room for it.

Ultralight backpacking doesn’t have to be extreme, and it’s not about cutting your toothbrush in half. It’s about dialing in your gear so your hike feels better, lasts longer, and keeps you safe.

Curious to give it a try? Check out my recommended gear list here, and feel free to reach out with questions anytime.

 

See you on the trail,
Sarah “Mellow!”