Fastpacking explained: How to travel light and fast outdoors

Fastpacking blends the minimalist spirit of backpacking with the intensity of trail running. It’s the perfect pursuit for those who want to cover long distances quickly while staying immersed in nature. With the rise of ultra-light gear and high-performance food options like REAL Meals, fastpacking is growing fast among endurance athletes, thru-hikers, and weekend adventurers alike.

How fastpacking combines speed, endurance, and simplicity

At its core, fastpacking is about carrying just enough gear to stay safe and self-sufficient while moving at a pace faster than traditional backpacking. You alternate between hiking and running, depending on the terrain, your energy levels, and your goals for the day.

The key differences from backpacking are:

• Ultralight gear: Total base weight (without food/water) is usually under 5–7 kg.
• Higher daily mileage: 30 to 50 km per day is common.
• Shorter trips: Most fastpackers plan 1–5 day routes.
• Self-supported: You carry your own food, shelter, and essentials.

Essential gear for fastpacking

The success of a fastpacking trip hinges on smart gear choices. Every gram matters. Here are the must-haves:

• Ultralight pack (20–35L)
• Shelter: Lightweight tent, bivy, or tarp
• Clothing: Breathable, moisture-wicking layers
• Sleeping system: Compact quilt + inflatable pad
• Navigation tools: GPS, map, compass
• Water purification: Filter or tablets
• Trail food: High-calorie, low-weight meals like REAL Turmat or REAL Field Meal

Easy backpacking food ideas: Why REAL Meals are perfect for fastpacking

When every gram in your pack counts, REAL Meals deliver on all fronts. Lightweight, compact, and nutritionally dense, they take the guesswork out of packing food for backpacking. Each meal is designed to provide lasting energy without adding unnecessary bulk or complexity to your load.

REAL Meals are sealed for durability, easy to prepare with just hot water, and require no cleanup — perfect for fastpacking, thru-hiking, or any trek where efficiency matters. With a variety of options that keep your meals satisfying and your pack light, they’ve become a dependable choice for backpackers who want simplicity without compromise.

Planning a fastpacking route: Tips for success

Before heading out, you’ll need to carefully plan your route and logistics:

• Distance and elevation: Keep it realistic, especially for your first trip.
• Resupply or carry-all? For multi-day trips, consider if there are huts or towns to restock.
• Water sources: Know where to refill and purify.
• Weather: Be prepared for rapid changes, especially in mountain regions.
• Emergency backup: GPS beacon or tracking app recommended.

Who fastpacking is for?

Fastpacking attracts those who want to move with purpose and cover ground without slowing down. Trail runners use it to reach deeper, wilder places. Backpackers take to it when they’re ready to trade weight for speed. Endurance athletes see it as a way to push distance and build resilience, while minimalists are drawn to its focus on efficiency and simplicity in nature.

Go far, go fast, eat REAL

Fastpacking is about keeping things simple. You move quickly, carry less, and stay focused on the experience. With ultralight gear and reliable meals like REAL Turmat and Field Meals, covering long distances becomes easier and more enjoyable.

When your next fastpacking trip comes around, pack meals that hold up to the pace. REAL makes it easy to stay fueled without slowing down.