By packing items that has multiple use, you will definitely reduce the number of the items required to pack. In the end, you will also reduce the weight of your pack. This is great for someone who simply can not handle the weight or who is suffering from back problems due to the weight of their backpack.



It is actually quite easy to figure ways to get more than one use out of some typical gear. You can likely use many of the items you already carry and be able to eliminate the use of other items you carry. Additionally, there are other pieces of gear that have multiple uses, too. In fact, you probably already are using pieces of your gear in more than one way without even realizing it.

You may not be parachuting on your backpack trip but a parachute cord is a usefully piece of gear is lightweight and offers a few different uses. It can be used as a clothesline or to tie your food bag up when camping overnight. You can also use it in case of an emergency to tie a splint in place. To pack it you loosely wind it up and hook it to the outside of your pack.

You may have brought candles along just for a little extra lighting, but candles do more than provide light. A candle can be useful as it can assist in starting a fire as well as a waterproofing agent. They are lightweight and you will barely even notice if you add them to your pack. In addition they are better than to carry a lantern, which is heavy.

Duct tape is commonly know around the house as the ultimate 'do-it-all' tool. Duct tape is strong and durable. A roll can last you a long time and it has many helpful uses. It can be used to insulate, as a wrap for a bandage and repairing tents, backpacks and almost everything else. Duct tape should always be a part of your backpacking gear.

Safety pins are another great item to pack as it is light and easy to pack. Safety pins can come in helpful to secure bandages, act as clothespins or hooks to hang items and as a stand in fish hook.

Plastic placemats are also lightweight and easy to pack. Plastic placemats can be used in a variety of ways. Instead of sitting on blankets and getting them wet, use a placemat. Use it to set your shoes on, so you do not get dirt and mud in your tent. You can also invent other uses, like a fly swatter or to prepare food on.

You may find that you can cut your gear down by several pieces by simply using multifunctional gear. You can also take out items that the multi-use gear is replacing. The key is to find items that are light and the item can be used in many situations. It takes some creative thinking, but you will be able to do it.