How to Build an Ultralight Kit for Under $500

You can have a gram-counter’s backpacking setup without dropping a load of cash.

It's no secret that going ultralight can be expensive. Whether it's 1000-fill-power down jacket or carbon fiber tent poles, there's no shortage of ways to lighten your wallet as you lighten your pack. that's enough to put many backpackers off the idea altogether. But hidden among all the high- end products are dependable, low-cost options that are decidedly lightweight. Here are our top picks, starting with an ultralight "Big Four"-tentbackpack, sleeping bag, and pad--that clocks in at about six pounds and less than $500.

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