What Is Fastpacking?

Sitting somewhere between trail running, backpacking and travel, fastpacking is a relative newcomer to the outdoor scene. The discipline has existed in some form for a number of years, but the term was only introduced to the UK from the US a handful of years ago.

With its increasing popularity and wide range of fastpack specific gear now available, we thought we would dig a little deeper into the discipline and offer some guidance on how to get started.

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What is fastpacking?

Fastpacking is a combination of trail running and backpacking – effectively a multi-day running adventure. An example of a fastpacking trip would be running the length of the South Downs Way over the course of multiple days.

However, it doesn't have to be an all-out test of endurance. When fastpacking it is quite common to hike the uphills, jog along the flat and run downhill. Depending on your trip, most fastpackers will aim to carry less than 7kg in their backpack with the amount varying depending on the time of year and specific needs of the trip.

Purists will camp or bivvy, although if available, staying in overnight huts/bothies is also absolutely fine.

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Why go fastpacking?

Fastpacking is a fantastic way to cover big distances in quick time. A trail that may take 4 or 5 days to hike might only take you 2 or 3 days to fastpack.

Whilst there are plenty of similarities with ultra-lightweight hiking, one of the main differences is that for fastpacking your day clothing and equipment is geared towards running. Carrying less and lighter equipment allows you to travel easier and faster than you would usually when hiking with a full pack. Even though you may spend time walking over the most technical uphill and terrain, being kitted up for running opens up the potential to travel further and explore areas you may not usually reach.

For those that like to push themselves, it’s also a fantastic workout. Running over technical terrain, summiting mountains and moving quickly through remote landscapes whilst carrying all the gear you need for a couple of nights away is a fantastic challenge, and a great way to get your endorphin kick.

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Picture Credit: Brian Erickson/Unsplash

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What To Take Fastpacking?

Lightweight equipment is key for fastpacking. The lighter your overall load, the easier and faster you can travel. When running, the last thing you want is a heavy, swaying backpack that's full of kit you probably don't need.

The key essential equipment for fastpacking would usually be as follows:

• Lightweight Backpack – Stability is key. Look for packs that will help to minimise movement when running.
• Lightweight Tent/Bivvy – Ensure your tent/bivvy is lightweight and packable.
• Sleeping Bag – Down bags are usually the lightest and most compressible option.
• Sleeping Mat – Lightweight and compressible is key again here.
• Cooking Stove – Dehydrated food pouches are the most common food source for fastpacking, so quick boiling times from a small and lightweight burner is ideal.
• Trail Shoes – Fit is crucial, as is finding the right compromise of weight, grip, and support.
• Waterproof Running Jacket – Look for a jacket that is both fully waterproof yet breathable. Depending on where and when you are fastpacking, you may prioritise waterproofness over breathability.
• Base Layer – Useful to wick sweat in warmer climates and provide additional warmth in colder weather.
• Shorts/Running Tights – Having running friendly legwear is crucial for fastpacking. You want lightweight and unrestricted movement.
• Waterproof Running Trousers – Crucial to keeping you warm and dry if the weather turns for the worst.
• Lightweight Insulated Jacket – Down jackets are typically the best option for packability and warmth although synthetic jackets offer more warmth when wet.
• Spare Running Tights and Base Layer – Key to a good nights sleep in colder weather.

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Picture Credit: Peter Mason/Unsplash

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Where to go fastpacking?

Fastpacking is a great way to tackle hiking routes in a short period of time. So whilst you might not be able to grab a week off work to hike the West Highland Way, if you fastpack it, you should be able to cover the distance over a long weekend.

National trails in the UK are a great way to get into fastpacking, as the terrain and difficulty is often less intense than you may find abroad, allowing you to enjoy your journey and work on your technique. The South Downs Way, Cumbria Way, and as previously mentioned, West Highland Way are all great routes to introduce you to the sport.

Other UK fastpacking options include:

• Hadrian’s Wall Path
• The Spine Race
• Land’s End To John O’Groats
• The Pennine Way

For further details on fastpacking, the routes mentioned above, and trails further afield, the Cicerone Fastpacking guidebook is a fantastic resource.

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