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The original was posted on /r/Ultralight by /u/Puzzleheaded-Goal342 on 2025-06-23 20:49:31+00:00.

After having lumbar spine surgery a few years ago I committed myself to getting as light as I could, but as time passes I find myself making more compromises (a chair, my camera, a few luxury food items). It’s manageable, and I don’t think about it much.

On day 1 of a 3-day backpacking trip with my son yesterday he hurt his ankle and we needed to turn back and retrace 4 miles to the trailhead. I took maybe 3-4 pounds from his pack and he said it made the return on an injured ankle SO MUCH easier.

It reminded me why I went ultralight in the first place. I’m planning a 7-day solo on a section of the PCT later this summer. I am rededicating myself to eliminating all unnecessary weight - especially since I’ll need to carry 7 days of food.

It’s really not that difficult. It’s just a shift in mindset. Am I willing to give up the “comfort” of a 1 pound chair for the comfort of carrying one pound less all day. In the past I’ve opted for the luxury items. This time I’m going light.

Thanks to all who post here for the support and inspiration.