How to Pack an Ultralight Frameless Backpack: Tips for Balance, Comfort & Efficiency

Packing a frameless backpack the wrong way can leave you with chafing, shoulder pain, and a wobbly bag that throws off your balance. I’m Sarah Berkeley, founder of Symbiosis Gear, where we design ultralight packs for people with boobs. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to pack any ultralight frameless backpack—like our Aspen pack—so it’s comfortable, efficient, and trail-ready.

 

✅ The 3 Rules of Packing an Ultralight Frameless Backpack

Whether you’re prepping for a thru-hike or just a weekend trek, these are the three most important things to get right:

1. Weight Distribution
   Heavier items should go in the middle of your pack, close to your spine. This keeps the center of gravity stable and helps avoid strain.
   
2. Accessibility
   Items you need during the day—snacks, sunscreen, bathroom kit—should go in your outside pockets so you don’t have to unpack everything.
   
3. Shape and Size
   Soft, smooth items go against your back to prevent poking, chafing, or awkward bulges.
   

🏕️ How I Pack My Ultralight Backpack for the CDT

I hiked half of the Continental Divide Trail in 2024, and while my packing method shifts slightly depending on the weather and terrain, this setup is my go-to base:

Step 1: Use a Dry Bag or Pack Liner

I use a 35-liter dry bag inside the pack. You can also use a trash compactor bag. If there’s any chance of rain or water crossings, a waterproof liner is essential.

Step 2: Bottom Layer – Lightweight, Compressible Items

• Sleeping Bag: Stuffed all the way down to fill every corner.
  
• Clothing: Extra layers, sleep clothes—anything soft and fluffy goes in next.
  

This creates a cushiony base and saves space.

Step 3: Middle Layer – Heaviest Gear

• Food Bag: 4 days of food in an Opsak (odor barrier) or other food bag. I pack it so the smooth side faces my back.
  
• Pot & Stove: Tucked beside the food. It’s bulky and awkward, so I wedge it where it fits securely toward the front of the back and away from my back
  
• Diddy Bag: Toiletries, cork ball, and small items in a 2.4L Granite Gear sack.
  
• Electronics: In a Ziploc bag on top of the ditty bag. If heavy rain is coming, this goes inside the dry bag.
  

Step 4: Top Layer – Lighter Fillers

• Tent & Sleeping Pad: Both in stuff sacks for a bit of extra protection.
  
• Rain Gear: If I don’t expect to use it during the day, I pack it inside to fill awkward gaps. Otherwise, it rides on top.
  

Step 5: Smash It Down & Check the Fit

Once everything is inside, I press down to compact the load and eliminate lumps. If I feel anything poking through the back panel, I rearrange until it’s smooth. Pro tip: do a little smashy-smash to get a snugger fit.

🧦 Outside Pockets: Daily Essentials

Front Pocket

• Lunch
  
• Spoon
  
• Multi-purpose cloth
  
• Bug net
  
• Bathroom kit
  

Bottom Pocket

• Sunscreen
  
• Bug cream
  
• Snacks
  
• Water bottles
  

These are things I want access to while hiking—no need to open and dig through the main compartment.

🔁 Recap: The 3 Keys to Packing a Frameless Pack

• Accessibility: Daily-use items in outside pockets
  
• Weight Distribution: Heaviest gear in the middle, close to your back
  
• Shape and Size: Softer items go against the back panel
  

🎒 Want to See My Full Gear List?

View my thru-hiking gear list and get a closer look at everything I carry.

💬 Final Thoughts

Ultralight frameless packs can be incredibly comfortable if you pack them right. Following these steps will help you avoid back pain, stay organized, and keep your load stable on trail.

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Happy trails!