Fastpacking sits somewhere between trail running and ultralight tramping.
The idea is simple: move quickly, carry less and cover more ground over one or more days without giving up the gear you genuinely need to stay safe and self-sufficient.
That does not mean sprinting through the bush with half a toothbrush and a muesli bar.
Good fastpacking is about making smart choices, keeping weight down and finding the balance between speed, comfort and safety.
Keep your gear light
Weight matters more when you are trying to move quickly. Fastpackers usually choose compact, lightweight gear such as:
- ultralight tents, bivvies or tarps
- lightweight sleeping bags
- compact sleeping mats
- minimalist cooking gear
- soft flasks and collapsible water storage
- lightweight clothing layers
The goal is not to leave important gear behind. It is to avoid carrying items you do not actually need.
Choose trail running shoes
Traditional tramping boots can feel heavy when you are moving quickly over long distances.
Many fastpackers prefer trail running shoes because they are lighter and more flexible, making it easier to run or move quickly across suitable terrain.
What works best will depend on the route, conditions and your own feet.
Carry less, but carry smart
Fastpacking rewards gear that can do more than one job.
A lightweight jacket can provide wind and weather protection. A buff can become a hat, neck warmer or sun cover. A collapsible reservoir can carry extra water when needed, then pack down small once empty.
Every item should justify the space and weight it takes up.
Plan your hydration carefully
Water is essential, but it is also heavy.
Before heading out, work out where reliable water sources are located and whether you will need to carry everything from the start.
Soft flasks and lightweight reservoirs work particularly well for fastpacking because they are easy to drink from while moving and take up very little space once empty.
If you plan to refill from natural water sources, make sure you also have a suitable way to treat the water.
Move efficiently
Fastpacking is not about running every kilometre.
Most people switch between running, jogging and fast walking depending on the terrain.
Run the easier sections, hike the climbs and slow down when the track becomes technical.
The aim is steady progress rather than exhausting yourself in the first few hours.
Keep camp simple
At the end of a long day, camp should be quick and uncomplicated.
Fastpackers often use lightweight shelters such as tarps, bivvies or compact tents and keep their sleep system as simple as conditions allow.
Just remember that lighter does not mean unprepared. Your shelter and sleep gear still need to suit the weather and temperatures you are likely to encounter.
Build your fitness gradually
Fastpacking can be demanding.
Carrying a pack while moving quickly over uneven ground requires more strength and endurance than an ordinary trail run.
Start small.
Try a longer day run with your fastpacking gear before attempting an overnight trip. Then move to an easy overnight route before committing to something remote or multi-day.
This gives you time to work out what gear you actually use, how much food and water you need and how your body handles the extra load.
Is fastpacking for you?
If you enjoy trail running but want to explore further, or you love tramping but wish you could cover more ground, fastpacking might be the sweet spot.
You do not need to be an ultrarunner or own the lightest gear on the market.
Start with a manageable route, keep your kit simple and learn what works for you.
The whole point is to move efficiently, travel light and spend more time exploring.
FAQ
What is fastpacking?
Fastpacking combines trail running with lightweight overnight or multi-day travel. Fastpackers carry the essentials needed to remain self-sufficient while moving faster than traditional trampers.
What gear do you need for fastpacking?
Typical fastpacking gear includes a lightweight pack, trail running shoes, compact shelter, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, food, weather protection, navigation gear and lightweight hydration.
What is the difference between fastpacking and tramping?
Fastpacking generally involves lighter gear and a faster pace, often mixing running with brisk walking. Traditional tramping usually prioritises comfort and steady travel over speed.
How much water should you carry fastpacking?
That depends on your route, conditions and available water sources. Plan refill points before leaving and carry enough water to safely reach the next reliable source.
Can beginners try fastpacking?
Yes. Start with a familiar route and a short overnight trip before progressing to longer or more remote journeys.
