Think Light

Everyone understands the value of packing light. You can go faster or farther or both, or simply enjoy a little more comfort. But it’s all too easy to focus on gear—literally the stuff you carry—and forget that there’s so much more than pounds and ounces when it comes to cutting weight. For starters, there’s your mindset: How do you think about adventure?

Your attitude is the most important piece of gear you carry. That’s something Meghan Young, a hiker, climber, mountaineer, and Fjällräven ambassador, knows all too well. Weather happens. Trail closures happen. Plans change. A nimble attitude can help you prevent a rainy day from becoming a canceled trip and turn it into a different kind of adventure. Young, who explores in the Pacific Northwest—where the weather can be, um, temperamental—understands the power of thinking light as much as anyone.

“Adaptability is key for planning adventures in the PNW,” Young says. “You have to shift your perspective: Weather changes are a feature, not a bug.”

Seeing the constantly shifting weather as an asset to adventure, not a hindrance, opens up a whole new realm of possibilities, Young says. She says there are two key elements to thinking light:

1. Have a backup plan. There are a million reasons why you might not make your first objective and weather is just one of them. Downed trees on roads, permits sold out, overcrowding, gear forgotten… If you already have a plan B it’s easy to switch and still have just as much fun.
2. Go anyway. You won’t always get clear views from a summit, but you might get a completely different sight, like a thick mist draping over a lush valley. “With the right gear and hot drink, even the gloomiest day can be a win and I always feel better when I’ve spent some time outside,” Young says.

Gear Picks

As for what constitutes “the right gear,” Young prioritizes solid rain protection, quick-drying layers, and a leakproof tent. She relies on the Bergtagen GTX Lite Jacket as her daily rain jacket because the three-layer Gore-Tex construction can handle the elements but doesn’t have to be babied like some less-robust two-layer options. And the Abisko Hybrid Trail Trousers have become her go-to pants because they’re light, moisture resistant, stretchy, and durable enough for “bushwhacky” situations. The integrated ventilation zippers on the thighs make them super breathable, too.

Bergtagen GTX Lite JacketFjällräven

Bottomline: Go ahead and cut ounces where it makes sense. But don’t compromise on critical performance features or durability that will ensure you’re getting out when and where you want to. Because if you think light, your gear will follow.

In 1960, Åke Nordin founded Fjällräven in his basement in the town of Örnsköldsvik in northern Sweden. Today the company’s timeless, functional and durable outdoor equipment enjoys a global presence and can be found in over 70 countries. Fjällräven’s product range comprises outdoor clothing and accessories for men and women as well as backpacks, tents and sleeping bags. As a company, Fjällräven makes every effort to act responsibly towards people, wildlife and the environment and to encourage people to take an interest in outdoor life.